Claw-Based Coupling Element for Non-Destructive Accessory Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The need to create additional shelf/storage possibilities in sanitary facilities without damaging existing infrastructure, such as backsplashes or drilling into walls, is unmet by existing solutions.

Innovation Solution

A coupling element with claws that can be easily attached to existing structures like shower rods, allowing for additional mounting without destructive intervention, featuring adjustable claws and bearing parts for versatile use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional mounting methods are used to create additional storage solutions, then mounting capability is improved, but infrastructure damage occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting capabilityVSAvoidinfrastructure damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling element serves as an intermediary device that attaches to existing infrastructure (shower rods, handrails) without causing damage. It has claws that grip the existing structure and a bearing part that provides the mounting surface, thereby mediating between the existing infrastructure and the desired storage function without direct attachment to walls or backsplashes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling element is divided into distinct functional segments: claws for gripping the existing structure, a coupling body for connection, and a bearing part for mounting accessories. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling non-destructive attachment to various existing structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If permanent mounting methods are used, then mounting stability is improved, but reversibility is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidreversibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling element employs dynamic claws that can rotate and adjust their position. The claws are designed to be movable relative to the coupling body, allowing the mounting to be easily adjusted along the existing structure and removed when needed, while still providing stable holding when in position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The claws are designed to self-adjust and self-lock onto the existing structure through their rotation mechanism. When the coupling element is placed on the structure, the claws automatically rotate to engage and secure it, providing stable mounting without requiring permanent installation or complex adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If fixed-position mounting is used, then mounting precision is improved, but adjustability is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting precisionVSAvoidadjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling element features dynamically adjustable claws that can rotate along the existing structure. This allows the mounting position to be precisely adjusted to any desired location while maintaining secure attachment, combining the benefits of precise positioning with full adjustability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling element allows change in the positional parameter along the existing structure through rotation of the claws. The claws can be rotated to different angles and positions, enabling the mounting height and location to be adjusted while maintaining precise and secure attachment at each position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 easy and reversible attachment of accessories without damaging existing infrastructure, providing additional storage or mounting options while preventing displacement.

Implementation Method 1

at least one of the gripping fingers of one of the claws has a clamping spring assigned to it

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

at least one of the gripping fingers of one of the claws has a material having an increased friction coefficient assigned to it

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS12595815B2Coupling element
Publication Date: 2026.04.07 SCHWARTZ HANS
  • US12595815B2 patent drawing
  • US12595815B2 patent drawing
  • US12595815B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A coupling element includes two claws which are arranged on a coupling member, are spaced apart from one another in an axial direction, and each have two gripping fingers forming a claw mouth; the free ends of the gripping fingers that delimit the claw mouth point in opposite directions and end on opposite sides in relation to the axial direction.