Fence Hanger Rotation Lock for Lattice and Chain-Link Openings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing removable hanging devices for fences are complex, difficult to install, and often limited to chain-link fences, neglecting lattice fencing which is commonly used for its decorative appearance and privacy benefits, and lack versatility for various outdoor storage needs.

Innovation Solution

A removable hanging device with a retaining element and hanger body designed for easy installation and removal from square openings in various fence types, featuring a shaft connecting the retaining element to the hanger body, allowing for secure and versatile outdoor storage solutions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a removable hanging device is designed with multiple parts made from different materials, then it can be adapted to various fence types, but the device becomes more complex and difficult to manufacture and install

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to various fence typesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional parts (retaining element, shaft, and hanger body) into a single integrated device that can be manufactured as one piece or pre-assembled unit. This merging reduces the number of separate components users must handle and install, while maintaining the adaptability features through design elements like the square retaining element that fits various fence openings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hanging device is designed with universal adaptability to work with multiple fence types (lattice, chain-link, and other fenced structures) through its square retaining element configuration. The device serves multiple functions: securing to different fence types, providing hanging capability, and enabling easy removal and repositioning, all within a single device design.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If existing hanging devices are configured only for chain-link fences, then they are simpler in design, but they cannot be used with lattice fences which are preferred for decorative and privacy purposes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with lattice fencingVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The device achieves universality by designing the retaining element with a square configuration that can be inserted into various opening types found in different fence constructions. The shaft connects the retaining element to the hanger body in a way that maintains functionality across applications, allowing the same device to serve both lattice fences (for decorative/privacy needs) and chain-link fences (for utility needs).

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

3Reliability

If removable hanging devices have complicated installation procedures, then they may provide secure attachment, but users find them confusing and difficult to install properly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidease of installation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into distinct functional zones (retaining element for secure insertion, shaft for connection, and hanger body for article support) that can be understood and installed in a logical sequence. This segmentation allows users to grasp the installation process step-by-step while ensuring each component fulfills its security function properly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS9345343B2Removable hanging device
Publication Date: 2016.05.24 SOBB ROBERT A
  • US9345343B2 patent drawing
  • US9345343B2 patent drawing
  • US9345343B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A removable hanging device configured to be retained within one of a lattice fence and a chain-link fence is disclosed, wherein the hanging device includes a retaining element having a substantially square cross-section configured to be received in a square opening formed in a fence, a hanger body configured to allow an article to be supported thereby, and a shaft connecting the retaining element to the hanger body. The retaining element is aligned with and extended through the square opening of the fence prior to being rotated to orient a top surface of the hanger body parallel to a ground surface. The rotation of the hanging device causes the retaining element to be oriented at 45° with respect to the square opening, causing the retaining element to be secured within the fence as the retaining element is unable to be removed from the square opening without first rotating the hanging device.