Adjustable Compression Mounting Mechanism for Railing Structures

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

In multiple dwelling unit (MDU) installations, users lack authorization to attach objects like satellite antennas to structures using traditional fasteners, necessitating a method to mount these objects to railings without damaging the structure.

Innovation Solution

A pressure mount system using an adjustable compression mechanism that fits between a structure's floor and railing, applying force to secure the object without fasteners or adhesives, featuring a base and adjustable wedges or a scissor jack mechanism to accommodate varying railing heights and secure objects like satellite antennas.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional fasteners (screws, nails) are used to mount the satellite antenna, then the mounting strength and reliability are improved, but the structure (railing, wall, floor) is damaged and permanent attachment is created

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting reliabilityVSAvoidstructure damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a mounting device as an intermediary component that夹持 between the railing and floor without penetrating or damaging the structure. This device uses compression force to create a secure mounting point, acting as a mediator between the satellite antenna and the railing while avoiding direct attachment to the structure itself

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fastening system (screws, nails, adhesives) with a compression-based clamping mechanism. Instead of using threads, chemical bonds, or permanent mechanical fasteners, the system uses adjustable compression members to apply force and secure the mounting device in place

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the mounting device is made adjustable to fit various railing heights and spaces, then the adaptability and versatility are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefitting adaptabilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates adjustable compression members that can be dynamically modified to fit different spacing requirements. The compression mechanism allows for height adjustment and force modulation, enabling the same device to adapt to various railing heights and installation conditions without requiring multiple fixed-design components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in the compression force and dimensional adjustments of the mounting device to achieve adaptability. By varying the compression force applied and adjusting the dimensions of the compression members, the device can accommodate different railing configurations while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure

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 secure mounting of objects to railings without damaging the structure, preventing movement due to external forces while allowing for adjustable fitting to various spaces, applicable to multiple types of objects and structures.

Implementation Method 1

The mechanism includes a threaded member attached to the first plate and the second plate configured to move the second plate relative to the first plate to achieve the selected height and apply the selected force

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded mechanism: Screw

Implementation Method 2

A pressure mount system using an adjustable compression mechanism that fits between a structure's floor and railing, applying force to secure the object without fasteners or adhesives

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression force: Compression

Implementation Method 3

The adjustable compression mechanism may take various forms of devices that are configurable to provide adjustable heights for varying types of railings and provide the securing forces described above

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS8698692B2Apparatus for mounting an object to a railing
Publication Date: 2014.04.15 DISH NETWORK LLC
  • US8698692B2 patent drawing
  • US8698692B2 patent drawing
  • US8698692B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Apparatus are described for mounting an object to a structure having a railing. The apparatus includes a base attachable to the object and configured for placement on the structure proximate the railing. The apparatus further includes an adjustable compression mechanism positioned between the base and the railing configured to secure the base to the structure with a selected force. The mechanism includes a first plate on the base, a second plate movable relative to the first plate for producing a selected height of the mechanism and a threaded member attached to the first plate and the second plate. The threaded member is configured to move the second plate relative to the first plate to achieve the selected height and apply the selected force.