Apparatus and method for hanging a picture
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for hanging pictures often require multiple attempts to accurately position wall anchors or screws, leading to frustration and unnecessary holes in the wall, as the placement is typically determined by trial and error rather than precise calculation.
Innovation Solution
A picture-hanging tool that includes a deck with a turret for handling, a hook hanger for suspending the frame, and a mechanism to mark the correct location for wall anchoring screws by pressing the frame against the wall, using a punch pin and magnet to create small indentations for precise screw placement without measuring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional trial and error method is used to position wall anchors, then the picture can be hung, but multiple attempts are required leading to time loss and unnecessary holes in the wall
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary positioning action by using the picture frame itself to mark the exact wall anchor location before actual hanging. The punch pin creates indentations at the precise positions where wall anchors should be placed, eliminating the need for trial and error positioning attempts.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces an intermediary marking mechanism (punch pin with magnet) that transfers the positioning information from the picture frame to the wall. This intermediary system accurately communicates the correct anchor positions without requiring multiple guessing attempts.
2Measurement precision
If traditional trial and error method is used to position wall anchors, then the picture can be hung, but multiple holes are created in the wall
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary positioning action by using the picture frame itself to mark the exact wall anchor location before actual hanging. The punch pin creates indentations at the precise positions where wall anchors should be placed, eliminating the need for trial and error positioning attempts.
3Measurement precision
If a punch pin and magnet system is used to mark anchor locations, then precise screw placement is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple functions into a single integrated tool: the deck serves as both the handling interface and the mounting surface for the punch pin mechanism. The magnet is integrated into the deck structure to hold the punch pin, combining marking, positioning, and handling functions in one compact device.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to work with both wire hangers and V-notch hangers, providing universal applicability. The punch pin system can mark locations for either hanging method, making the device versatile despite its additional features.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick and accurate hanging of pictures using either a wire or V-notch hanger, reducing the need for trial and error and minimizing wall damage by providing a reliable method to mark the correct screw positions, ensuring the frame is level and securely positioned.
Implementation Method 1
A flat magnet surrounding the flat end of the punch, wherein the flat magnet keeps the punch pin in place in a metal v-notch hanger on a back side of a picture frame
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method are disclosed having a key having a punch pin and a flat magnet keeps the punch pin in place in a metal v-notch hanger on a back side of a picture frame while a user levels a top edge of the picture frame to mark nail locations. A deck, a turret mounted on a top end of the deck, wherein the turret protrudes from the top end of the deck and the turret is gripped by a user as a handle while hanging a picture on a wall using the apparatus; a hook hanger attached to the front side of the deck for hanging a picture frame from a wire on a back of the picture frame; and a hole through the deck for aligning a push pin to pass through the hole and mark a location for an anchor from which the picture frame hangs.