Spring Clamp Mounting Plate for Existing Fixture Hole Variations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixture mounting systems struggle to securely mount light fixtures in existing holes of varying sizes, often requiring complex and costly constructions that are prone to malfunctions.
Innovation Solution
A mounting plate assembly with a novel spring clamp structure that is displaceably connectable to the mounting plate without tools, using a simple connecting base assembly with few parts, and includes a spring support bracket with a bottom retention base and a sliding sleeve or retention clip for secure positioning in holes of different sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex mounting structure is used to securely mount fixtures in holes of varying sizes, then mounting reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is divided into a plate body and a separate clamp assembly that can be independently positioned and secured. The clamp assembly includes a clamp arm, spring support bracket, and retaining member that work together as a modular unit, allowing the system to adapt to different hole sizes without redesigning the entire mounting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring support bracket provides dynamic adjustment capability through its displaceable connection to the mounting plate. The spring mechanism allows the clamp arm to exert variable clamping force and adjust to different positions along the guide slot, enabling reliable mounting in holes of varying sizes while maintaining a simple overall structure.
2Ease of manufacture
If a simple mounting structure is used to reduce complexity and cost, then ease of manufacture is improved, but mounting reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spring support bracket and clamp arm form a self-adjusting mechanism that automatically adapts to different hole sizes within the adjustable range. The spring force provides automatic clamping pressure without requiring additional adjustment mechanisms or complex fastening systems, maintaining reliability while simplifying manufacture.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mounting methods are used for existing holes, then compatibility with existing installations is maintained, but adaptability to varying hole sizes is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate with guide slots and retention formations can accommodate fixtures with different mounting hole patterns and sizes. The clamp assembly can be positioned at different locations along the guide slot and secured at various positions, making the same mounting plate suitable for multiple installation scenarios without requiring different mounting structures.
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 a secure, easy-to-assemble, and cost-effective way to mount light fixtures in existing holes of varying sizes, preventing malfunctions and ensuring reliable fixture mounting.
Implementation Method 1
A spring biased clamp arm is secured to the spring support bracket
Implementation Method 2
The spring clamp structure has a spring support bracket
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting plate assembly is disclosed having two or more spring clamp structures each being displaceably engageable with a respective guide slot formed on a rear face of the mounting plate. Each spring clamp structure has a spring support bracket provided with a bottom retention base displaceably retained captive by their guide slot. The spring support bracket may have a securing sleeve slidingly coupled thereto and displaceable along a vertical axis to the mounting plate. The spring support bracket may have a retention spring coupled thereto. The securing sleeve and the retention spring each have one or more arresting formations for retention coupling with selected ones of the two or more spaced-apart retention formations disposed spaced-apart along the guide slot when the support bracket is positioned over selected ones of the retention formations.