Devices, methods, and systems for mounting devices to surface structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vent and venting assembly mounting systems for HVAC systems are aesthetically displeasing as they protrude from walls and ceilings, making them unsuitable for high-end interior designs where a flush and seamless appearance is desired.
Innovation Solution
A vent system with a base plate and cover plate configuration that includes magnetic coupling, allowing the cover plate to be flush with the wallboard surface, and adjustable brackets that fit between joists, enabling a seamless integration with the wallboard and reducing visibility of the vents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional vent mounting systems are used, then the vent structure is simple and easy to install, but the vent protrudes from the wall surface creating an aesthetically displeasing appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The cover plate is received within a recess of the base plate, creating a nested configuration where the cover plate sits inside the base plate structure. This nesting allows the cover plate to be substantially flush with the wallboard surface while the base plate extends behind the wallboard to provide mounting support, thus achieving a flush appearance without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the mounting structure into the third dimension by extending the base plate behind the wallboard surface. The base plate has a rearward extension that mounts to the wallboard背面, allowing the visible cover plate to be flush with the wall surface while the mounting function is performed in the depth dimension behind the wall.
2Ease of operation
If the cover plate is magnetically coupled to the base plate, then the cover plate can be easily removed and reattached for cleaning, but the magnetic coupling mechanism adds complexity to the mounting system
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling mechanism replaces traditional mechanical fastening methods such as screws, clips, or interlocking mechanisms. The magnetically responsive element on the base plate and magnet on the cover plate create a simple yet effective coupling that allows easy removal and reattachment without complex mechanical parts, reducing overall system complexity while improving ease of operation.
3Shape
If the vent assembly is connected to ductwork behind the ceiling, then the HVAC system functions properly, but the vent and ductwork create visible and aesthetically displeasing elements
Solution Approach 1:
The vent assembly is received within the cuff of the base plate, creating a nested configuration where the ductwork connection is hidden inside the base plate structure. The base plate extends behind the wallboard to connect to ductwork while the cover plate provides a flush visible surface, nesting the functional but visually problematic ductwork connection within the aesthetic cover structure.
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
The solution provides an aesthetically pleasing, flush integration of vents with the wall surface, allowing for easy cleaning and replacement of cover plates, while maintaining airflow functionality, thus addressing the visibility issues of traditional vent systems.
Implementation Method 1
At least one magnet supported by the cover plate magnetically is configured for coupling the cover plate to the base plate
Data Source
AI summary
Vent system for mounting to a surface structure such that a cover plate of the vent system is substantially flush with an outward facing surface of wallboard of the surface structure. At least one bracket is disposed between adjacent joists of a surface structure. A base plate includes a flange defining an adhesive bonding surface, a ring portion defining a recess, and a cuff. A cover plate is configured to be received within the recess. At least one magnet supported by the cover plate is for magnetically coupling the cover plate to the base plate. The vent assembly is configured to attach with the cuff. The joints, base plate, and cover plate are configured such that in an assembled configuration an outward facing surface of the cover plate is substantially flush with the outward facing surface of the wallboard.