Damage-Free Bracket System for Hanging Articles Under Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hanging articles from elevated structures often damages the structure due to the use of fasteners that leave behind holes or other damage when removed.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system comprising a structure engaging portion, a bottom extension portion, and an article engaging portion that secures to a plank without using fasteners, allowing for damage-free installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fasteners are driven into the structure to hang articles, then the article can be securely attached, but the structure is damaged when fasteners are removed
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket serves as an intermediary component between the article and the structure. It distributes the load across multiple planks through its bottom extension portion that spans between planks, rather than concentrating force at a single fastener point. This mediator approach allows secure attachment while preventing damage to the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket divides the attachment function into separate components: a structure engaging portion that contacts the top surface, a bottom extension portion that spans between planks, and an article engaging portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally without damaging the structure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a bracket system is used to avoid damage, then structure integrity is maintained, but the installation mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: structural support, load distribution, and article attachment are all combined in one piece. This reduces the need for multiple separate components while maintaining the damage-free attachment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of driving fasteners into the structure from above, the bracket approaches the structure from below, with the bottom extension portion inserting between planks and the structure engaging portion contacting the top surface. This inverted approach avoids penetrating the structure.
3Reliability
If the bottom extension portion extends below the plank surface, then secure contact is achieved, but the bracket cannot be installed through tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The bottom extension portion is pre-configured with a length that extends below the bottom surface of the plank, allowing it to make contact with the bottom surface before the bracket is fully installed. This preliminary contact provides stability during the installation process and ensures proper positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed towards a system for hanging an article under a structure, the system comprising a structure comprising at least one plank; an article; and at least one bracket comprising a structure engaging portion structured and arranged to contact a top surface of at least one plank; a bottom extension portion structured and arranged to be coupled to the structure engaging portion and having a length that extends below a bottom surface of the plank; and an article engaging portion structured and arranged to be coupled to the article. Also disclosed are methods of hanging an article underneath a structure, and a bracket.