Cam-Locked Surface Mount Assembly for Tool-Free Heavy Device Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing surface mounting methods for devices like speakers and cameras require tools, damage surfaces, and often fail to provide sufficient force to secure heavy devices, especially when aligning and finding hidden studs is challenging.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained surface mount assembly with a frame, locking mechanisms, and an actuation mechanism that allows for tool-free mounting without additional fasteners, using biasing elements and cam systems to secure devices to flat surfaces without damaging them, and can be oriented at any angle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If spring-loaded mechanisms are used to retain the device against the mounting surface, then the device can be mounted without tools, but the biasing force is insufficient to properly secure heavy devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static spring-loaded retention to dynamic cam-actuated locking. The cam mechanism allows the locking arm to move from a retracted position during insertion to a locked position against the mounting surface, providing controlled, high-force engagement that overcomes the insufficient biasing force of springs alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism employs periodic action through rotational actuation. As the cam rotates, it periodically applies force to the locking arm, advancing it into the locked position against the mounting surface. This periodic force application enables the system to achieve high securing force through controlled cycles of engagement rather than relying on continuous spring pressure.
2Force
If traditional fasteners are used to mount devices, then sufficient securing force can be achieved, but the mounting surface is damaged and tools are required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arm engages the mounting surface directly through cam actuation without requiring separate fasteners. The cam mechanism self-regulates the engagement force, pressing the locking arm against the mounting surface to create friction-based retention. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external fasteners that would penetrate or damage the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fastening system (screws, bolts, anchors) with a cam-actuated friction-based locking system. Instead of using threaded fasteners that require hole penetration, the cam mechanism converts rotational motion into linear pressing force, creating a non-penetrating, non-damaging mounting solution that achieves equivalent or superior securing force.
3Force
If hidden studs are located using stud finders to support heavy devices, then the device can be securely mounted, but the process is difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the dependency on hidden structural studs by creating a self-contained mounting system. The cam-actuated locking mechanism generates sufficient securing force directly against the surface material itself, eliminating the need to locate and engage hidden studs. This extraction of the stud-finding requirement removes the time-consuming step while maintaining adequate mounting support.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to work with various surface types without requiring specific structural features like studs. The cam system adapts to different mounting surfaces (drywall, wood, masonry) by adjusting the engagement force, providing universal applicability that eliminates the need for stud-specific locating tools and procedures.
4Shape
If devices are leveled and aligned with other structures for aesthetic purposes, then the appearance is improved, but the mounting process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism provides dynamic adjustment capability during the mounting process. As the cam rotates and actuates the locking arm, the system can accommodate slight misalignments and adjust the final position of the device. This dynamic engagement allows for aesthetic alignment to be achieved during the locking process itself rather than requiring precise pre-alignment, reducing the time and difficulty of the mounting operation.
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 solution provides secure, tool-free mounting without surface damage, eliminates the need for leveling or alignment, and ensures sufficient force to hold heavy devices, making it suitable for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing element may be a coil spring, a leaf spring, a torsion spring, a compliant mechanism, or the like.
Data Source
AI summary
A surface mount assembly for mounting a device in a surface opening of a mounting surface includes a frame, a number of locking mechanisms, and a cam ring. Each locking mechanism includes a locking member, a locker, and a coil spring. The cam ring shifts the locker rearward to move the locking member to a deployed orientation when the cam ring is rotated in one direction. The coil spring pushes the locking member to a deployed position against a back side of the mounting surface when the locking member moves to the deployed orientation. The cam ring shifts the locker forward to secure the locking member in the deployed position when the cam is rotated in a second direction opposite the first direction.