Coded Magnetic Attachment Mechanism for Tool-Free Panel Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing panel installation methods for temporary applications, such as storm windows and construction barriers, often damage the base structure, require tools, and wear out quickly, lacking stability and rigidity.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic attachment system using coded magnet structures that allow for precise positioning and easy installation/removal without tools, utilizing multiple magnets in a patterned arrangement to provide strong holding force and easy release, with optional adhesive backing and security features.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If permanent fasteners (nails or screws) are used to install panels, then the panel can be securely attached, but the base structure is damaged or marred and tools are required for installation and removal

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoiddamage to base structure

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical fastening system (nails or screws) with a magnetic attachment system. The magnetic mounting assembly uses magnetic force to securely attach the panel to the base structure without penetrating or damaging it. The magnet structure provides strong holding force while allowing tool-free installation and removal, eliminating the harmful effects of permanent fasteners.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Strength

If permanent fasteners are used to install panels, then secure attachment is achieved, but tools are required for installation and removal

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidease of installation and removal

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical fastening system requiring tools with a magnetic attachment system. The magnetic mounting assembly allows the panel to be easily attached and detached by simply bringing the magnetic mounting near the base structure or removing it, eliminating the need for tools while maintaining secure attachment during use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If hooks or other fasteners are used for longer term solutions, then tool-free installation is achieved, but the desired stability and rigidity are not provided

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of installationVSAvoidstability and rigidity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the attachment system by using strong magnetic fields instead of mechanical hooks. The magnet structure generates sufficient magnetic force to provide both easy attachment and strong, stable holding power. The magnetic attraction force can be adjusted by changing the strength and configuration of the magnets, achieving both ease of operation and structural stability simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

4Strength

If permanent fasteners are used for repeated installation cycles, then initial attachment is achieved, but the fasteners quickly wear out and need replacement causing further damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidservice life of attachment system

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical fasteners that wear out with a magnetic attachment system that has no moving parts or contact wear. The magnetic mounting assembly maintains consistent holding force through repeated installation and removal cycles because magnetic force does not degrade from use. This eliminates the wear and tear problem associated with mechanical fasteners while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 secure, tool-free installation and removal of panels with high holding force and precision positioning, reducing damage to the base structure and extending the life of the attachment system.

Implementation Method 1

The magnet structures comprise magnetic elements arranged in accordance with patterns based on various codes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

The magnet structure can provide precision positioning of the panel to a position on the order of the width of a single component magnet of the magnet structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic field interaction: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS10173292B2Method for assembling a magnetic attachment mechanism

Publication Date: 2019.01.08 CORRELATED MAGNETICS RESEARCH LLC

AI summary

A magnetic attachment system for attaching a first object to a second object. A first magnet structure is attached to the first object and a second magnet structure is attached to the second object. The first and second objects are attached by virtue of the magnetic attraction between the first magnet structure and second magnet structure. The magnet structures comprise magnetic elements arranged in accordance with patterns based on various codes. In one embodiment, the code has certain autocorrelation properties. In further embodiments the specific type of code is specified. In a further embodiment, an attachment and a release configuration may be achieved by a simple movement of the magnet structures. In a further embodiment, the magnetic field structure may comprise multiple structures based on multiple codes.