C-Channel Display Holder with Magnetic Ceiling Mount
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing display mounting systems require users to climb to reach mounting locations, increasing the risk of injury and limiting the size of signs due to necessary gaps between the sign and mounting hardware, especially in facilities with lower ceiling heights.
Innovation Solution
A versatile display holder system that allows for mounting and unmounting of signs without gaps between the sign and hardware, enabling safe and single-motion installation from floor level, using magnetic engagement and gripper mechanisms to attach to ceilings or walls without ladders, and providing options for direct mounting or suspending with adjustable hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mounting hardware is attached to the ceiling with a gap below it, then access to hardware is provided, but the size of the sign is limited and head clearance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting hardware is designed to extend in multiple dimensions: the C-channel provides a vertical dimension for sign attachment while the horizontal arms extend perpendicular to the ceiling surface, allowing hardware access from the side rather than requiring vertical clearance below the sign
2Ease of operation
If mounting hardware is attached to the ceiling with a gap below it, then access to hardware is provided, but head clearance and sight lines are blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting hardware uses an asymmetric C-channel configuration where the open side of the C-channel faces away from the ceiling, allowing the sign to be mounted flush against the ceiling surface while hardware access is provided from the side through the C-channel structure, preventing obstruction of head clearance and sight lines
3Ease of operation
If a ladder or step stool is used to reach mounting locations, then mounting is possible, but the risk of falls or injury increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of ladders or step stools with a magnetic mounting system that allows the sign to be attached directly to the ceiling surface without requiring the installer to climb, using magnetic force to hold the sign in position during installation and to provide secure mounting
4Area of moving object
If the sign is mounted flush against the ceiling, then head clearance and sight lines are maximized, but access to mounting hardware becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting hardware is segmented into multiple components: the C-channel is divided into sections with open sides, and multiple attachment points are distributed along the channel, allowing the sign to be mounted flush while hardware access is provided through the segmented structure from the side
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
The system maximizes sign size and head clearance while reducing injury risk by allowing safe, single-user installation and removal of signs from any vertical or horizontal surface, accommodating various mounting configurations and ceiling heights without the need for ladders.
Implementation Method 1
using magnetic engagement and gripper mechanisms to attach to ceilings or walls
Data Source
AI summary
A display holder includes an extruded member having a top surface from which extends a T-shaped grip portion for engagement by a gripper at the end of a pole. Spaced from the grip portion is a brace on the end of which is a web connected to a C-channel. The C-channel receives a display or sign such as a dowel in a sleeve of the display which allows the user to maximize sign size, head space or lines of sight. The C-channel also can be used to receive a block end hook, a cord suspender, or a clip. A ring may be provided through a hole in the web. The display holder is mounted or un-mounted safely from floor level in one single motion to a ceiling by magnets on the top surface or to a wall by magnets on the brace.