Detector Mounting Rod and Bracket for Flexible Wall Placement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for securing devices like smoke and CO2 detectors on surfaces, especially at optimal locations, are inefficient, often requiring ladders for access and not accommodating the varying effectiveness of detectors based on height, and lack flexibility in placement.

Innovation Solution

A device mounting apparatus (DMA) comprising a rod with a securing bracket that allows devices to be positioned at any flat surface location, featuring a clamping mechanism for secure attachment and a hollow design for power wire management, enabling easy installation, adaptability, and safety.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a detector is placed at an elevated location (near ceiling), then the smoke detection functionality is improved, but the accessibility for maintenance and adjustment deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection functionalityVSAvoidaccessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is divided into separate components: a wall-mounted base unit and a detachable detector unit connected by a flexible stem. This segmentation allows the detector to be positioned at optimal heights for detection while remaining accessible for maintenance by detaching it from the mounting base.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system incorporates a flexible or telescopic stem that allows dynamic adjustment of the detector's position and angle. This enables the detector to reach optimal detection locations while maintaining accessibility through adjustable positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of manufacture

If a detector is placed at a fixed location, then the installation simplicity is improved, but the adaptability to different device types and locations deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidplacement flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting base is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple types of detectors (smoke, CO2, heat detectors) through standardized mounting interfaces. The adjustable stem and positioning mechanisms enable the same base to adapt to various device types and optimal placement locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system includes adjustable components such as telescopic stems, rotating joints, and repositionable brackets that allow the detector to be dynamically positioned at various heights and angles while maintaining a simple fixed mounting base installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Stability of the object's composition

If a detector is securely fixed to the wall, then the stability of installation is improved, but the ease of relocation and adjustment deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation stabilityVSAvoidrelocation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the permanently mounted stable base from the relocatable detector unit. The base provides stable wall mounting while the detachable detector can be easily removed and repositioned as needed, maintaining both stability and relocation ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A flexible stem or connecting mechanism acts as an intermediary between the fixed mounting base and the detector unit. This intermediary provides a stable connection during operation while allowing easy detachment for relocation or adjustment of the detector.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11644148B2Device mounting apparatus
Publication Date: 2023.05.09 FOLLIS GRANT
  • US11644148B2 patent drawing
  • US11644148B2 patent drawing
  • US11644148B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device mounting apparatus that allows a device such as a smoke detector or carbon dioxide (CO2) detector, as well as other device including an alarm, a camera or a light to be selectively positioning at a location on a surface such as a wall. The apparatus comprises a preferably rectangular, hollow rod with rounded corners, and having a first end, second end, and outer surfaces. A device securing bracket that facilitates the attachment of a device to the rod includes a center section with a rod opening, a first side member and second side member, with each member having an angled section and at least one bore. An apparatus to surface securing bracket allows the apparatus to be attached to a surface such as a wall and has a center section with an outward extending first and second side wall, each side wall having a semi-circular segment, with the rod inserted through the space created when the two segments face each other. The apparatus to surface securing bracket also has a rear section with at least one bore through which a screw or other attachment means is inserted. From exiting the bore, the screw enters into the surface/wall, thereby attaching the apparatus to the surface. To maintain the device attached to the device securing bracket, a device mounting pan is utilized. The pan has a rear panel with at least one bore, a center opening for a power wire and a side wall extending outward from the rear panel's perimeter.