Foldable Mounting Bracket for Flush-Stowed Deck Accessory Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracket assemblies for deck and patio accessories cannot support both vertically and horizontally disposed items and do not fold flat against the mounting surface, protruding beyond the railing envelope.
Innovation Solution
A foldable mounting bracket assembly that can secure both vertically and horizontally disposed accessories, using two bracket assemblies mounted to the vertical deck railing support post, with a semi-cylindrical tapered wedge to accommodate various diameters, and a securing pin for horizontal accessories, allowing the bracket to fold flat against the post.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional bracket assemblies are used to support deck accessories, then they can provide structural support, but they protrude beyond the railing envelope and cannot fold flat against the mounting surface
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly incorporates a folding mechanism with pivot points that allow the bracket to transition between an operational position (perpendicular to the post) and a stowed position (flush against the post). This dynamic capability enables the bracket to adapt its shape based on functional requirements, resolving the contradiction between providing structural support and maintaining aesthetic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is divided into multiple segments or components that can fold relative to each other. This segmentation allows the bracket to collapse into a compact form that fits within the railing envelope when not in use, while still providing adequate support when deployed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional bracket assemblies are used, then they can support vertically disposed accessories, but they cannot support horizontally disposed accessories
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is designed with universal mounting capabilities that allow it to support both vertically disposed accessories (such as umbrellas and flag poles) and horizontally disposed accessories (such as tables and plant holders). The same bracket structure can be oriented differently to accommodate various accessory types, eliminating the need for separate bracket designs for different accessory orientations.
3Shape
If the bracket is designed to fold flat against the post, then aesthetic integration is improved, but the structural support capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket maintains structural strength in its operational position while achieving a compact folded position for aesthetic integration. The folding mechanism is designed to provide rigid support when deployed, with the bracket extending perpendicular to the post to maximize leverage and support capacity. When folded, the bracket aligns with the post profile, eliminating protrusion and achieving flush mounting appearance.
Data Source
AI summary
A unique foldable mounting bracket assembly for mounting and securing both vertically and horizontally disposed accessories for decks and patios. Both an upper and lower mounting bracket assembly are required when supporting a vertically disposed cylindrical post. These brackets are mounted to the vertical post and when used in conjunction with the railing of a deck the brackets can be mounted below the top railing horizontal support cross member and above the lower support cross member. When mounting in conjunction with a horizontally disposed accessory, only a single bracket is required; which can be mounted below the top railing horizontal support cross member. The bracket can be mounted such that the horizontally disposed accessory can be stored and not be removed. The mounting bracket assembly can support both vertically and horizontally disposed patio and deck accessories simultaneously. This unique foldable mounting bracket when not in use stows flush against the vertical support post not protruding out of the envelope of the standard 2″×4″ railing horizontal members.