Gutter Hanger Mounting Device for Concealed Object Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for hanging objects from buildings, such as using nails, screws, or hooks, compromise the structural integrity and safety of the building, create unsightly holes, and lack versatility and aesthetic appeal, while also being restrictive and potentially violating residential regulations.
Innovation Solution
A mounting device with a fastening member that secures to a gutter hanger using a planar segment and flanges, forming a J-shaped bracket to create a channel for suspending objects, which includes an object fastener and optional counterweight for heavier items, allowing for flexible and concealed installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If nails, screws, or hooks are used to hang objects directly to exterior walls or gutters, then the objects can be securely fastened, but the building structure suffers damage through punctures and holes
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device acts as an intermediary between the object and the building structure. It attaches to the gutter (which is already mounted on the building) rather than directly penetrating the building wall, thus mediating the connection to avoid direct structural damage while still providing secure fastening capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the fastening function from the building structure itself and relocates it to the gutter system. By taking out the need for wall penetration and using the gutter as the mounting substrate, the building structure is preserved while the fastening function is maintained through the mounting device's attachment to the gutter
2Strength
If conventional hanging methods are used, then objects can be fastened securely, but the exterior walls are left with unsightly holes and marks that are difficult to remove
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device concealed within the gutter serves as an intermediary that hides the fastening mechanism from view. The gutter itself acts as a visual screen, masking the mounting device and eliminating unsightly holes or marks on the exterior walls while maintaining secure fastening capability
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device utilizes the gutter's existing structure as a visual screen or mask, similar to how porous materials use their structure for functional purposes. The gutter material obscures the mounting device from external view, preserving aesthetic appearance while allowing the fastening function to operate effectively behind the visual barrier
3Strength
If nails or screws are used to hang objects, then the fastening is strong and secure, but the method lacks versatility and cannot be easily removed or relocated
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device incorporates dynamic, reversible attachment mechanisms (such as clips, snap-fits, or removable fasteners) that allow the device to be easily installed and removed from the gutter. This dynamic attachment system provides strong fastening during use while enabling relocation or removal when needed, unlike permanent nail or screw installations
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device is segmented into separate components: the attachment portion that interfaces with the gutter and the fastening portion that holds the object. This segmentation allows the attachment portion to be easily removed from the gutter while leaving the gutter intact, providing versatility and relocation capability while maintaining strong fastening strength through the separate fastening mechanism
4Weight of moving object
If heavy objects are hung directly from gutters using conventional methods, then the objects can be suspended, but the gutter system is weakened and may detach
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device segments the weight-bearing function from the gutter system by introducing an intermediate structural element. The mounting device itself becomes the primary load-bearing component, with its attachment mechanism designed to distribute forces to the gutter without concentrating stress that would weaken or detach the gutter system
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting device's attachment mechanism is designed to counterbalance the weight of suspended objects by distributing loads across multiple attachment points on the gutter. This counterweight design prevents any single point from bearing excessive force that could weaken or detach the gutter system
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting device for suspending an object from a gutter hanger. The mounting device includes a fastening member having a first end that secures to and conceals the gutter hanger. The first end includes a planar segment and a pair of flanges pivotally extending from lateral sides of the planar segment, wherein the planar segment is able to rest atop the gutter hanger and the pair of flanges can fold beneath the gutter hanger. A J-shaped bracket is disposed on a second end and hangs over an edge of a gutter when secured to the gutter hanger. An object fastener extends from an exterior side of the gutter plate and forms a channel for receiving and suspending an object therefrom. In this way, the mounting device avoids the need for direct installation of objects directly onto the gutter or house.