Ceiling Track Hanger With Hidden Anchors for Flush Moisture-Prone Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hanging and supporting systems for objects like curtains and shower curtains often fail to adequately support the weight, leading to instability and an aesthetically unpleasing flush installation, especially in high moisture environments.
Innovation Solution
A hanging apparatus comprising a track system with a carrier that is laterally moveable, anchored securely to the ceiling or wall, featuring a seamless flush design with adjustable flanges and a moisture barrier to prevent damage from moisture, allowing for easy installation and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a spring-loaded rod is used to keep the rod positioned in the shower, then the rod can be easily installed without structural attachment, but the force provided is insufficient to support the weight of the curtain and the rod tumbles down
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate components: a ceiling-mounted track structure and a carrier that moves along the track. The track is anchored to the ceiling to provide structural support, while the carrier handles the curtain weight and movement, separating the support function from the positioning function.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanical system is replaced with a track-based system where the carrier moves along fixed ceiling anchors. This substitution provides more reliable weight support while maintaining ease of installation through the modular track and carrier design.
2Ease of manufacture
If a traditional rod system is used, then installation is simple, but the rod cannot be positioned flush against the top of the ceiling resulting in an aesthetically unpleasing appearance
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the rod extend outward from the wall or ceiling surface, the track system is mounted flush against the ceiling surface with the carrier moving along the track. This inverts the traditional protruding rod design to achieve a flush, seamless appearance while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a horizontal rod extending outward to a vertical track mounted flush on the ceiling surface. This dimensional change allows the curtain to hang vertically from the ceiling rather than horizontally from a protruding rod, achieving the desired flush appearance.
3Ease of manufacture
If a standard hanging system is used in high moisture environments, then installation is straightforward, but moisture damage occurs to the apparatus
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses materials and components designed to withstand moisture environments, such as corrosion-resistant metals and moisture-resistant finishes. While individual components may need replacement over time, the overall system maintains reliability in high humidity conditions through material selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus utilizes composite construction with materials selected for moisture resistance, combining metals with protective coatings and moisture-resistant finishes to create a system that can withstand high humidity environments while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for hanging an object and apparatus for accomplishing the same. The invention describes an apparatus comprising a track, an upper flange attached to a track, and a carrier disposed in said track. The carrier is laterally moveable along the length of the track. In one embodiment the apparatus comprises a top unit and a base unit. The top unit comprises pins, a track, at least one carrier, and a lower flange. The base unit is affixed to a ceiling, and the top unit is affixed to the base unit via the pins. In one embodiment the anchors are not visible from below. Further, in one embodiment, the lower flange acts as a moisture barrier to protect the anchors.