Bracket system for modular wall system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular wall systems require additional steps and components when mounting accessory structures, as they often necessitate the installation of dual or double track slotted patterns, which widens the spacing between wall segments and adds complexity to the mounting process.

Innovation Solution

A bracket system comprising a first and second bracket member with vertically spaced mounting inserts that interleave with the modular wall system's frame, providing secure attachment points without the need for additional tracks, and includes an anti-dislodging mechanism and bracket member lock for enhanced stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If dual or double track slotted patterns are installed on modular wall systems, then accessory structures can be mounted, but the spacing between wall segments widens and device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket members are nested within the modular wall system's existing frame structure. The first and second bracket members are positioned between the vertical frame members and interleave with each other, utilizing the existing space rather than adding external tracks. This nesting approach enables mounting capability while avoiding the need for additional external dual or double track systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting function is merged with the existing vertical frame member structure. Instead of adding separate dual or double track systems, the bracket members are integrated into the space between vertical frame members, combining the mounting function with the existing structural elements. This reduces device complexity while maintaining adaptability for accessory mounting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If dual or double track slotted patterns are installed, then accessory structures can be mounted, but installation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting capabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket members are designed to be pre-assembled and then quickly installed between the vertical frame members. The interleaved configuration allows both bracket members to be positioned and secured in a single installation sequence, rather than requiring separate installation steps for multiple tracks. This preliminary design reduces installation time while maintaining full mounting capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional wall standards are installed, then accessory structures can be mounted, but the aesthetic integrity is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting capabilityVSAvoidaesthetic integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The bracket members are nested within the existing wall system's frame structure, hidden between the vertical frame members. This nesting conceals the mounting mechanism from view, maintaining the clean aesthetic lines of the modular wall system while providing full mounting capability. No additional protruding wall standards are visible.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Adaptability or versatility

If dual track systems are used, then mounting flexibility is improved, but the spacing between wall segments increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting flexibilityVSAvoidspacing between wall segments
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting solution moves from a horizontal expansion approach (dual or double tracks increasing spacing) to a vertical interleaving approach. The first and second bracket members are stacked vertically between the same pair of vertical frame members, utilizing the vertical dimension rather than horizontal space. This maintains tight wall segment spacing while providing mounting flexibility through the interleaved bracket configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20240417973A1Bracket system for modular wall system
Publication Date: 2024.12.19 FELLOWES INC
  • US20240417973A1 patent drawing
  • US20240417973A1 patent drawing
  • US20240417973A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A bracket system for mounting an accessory structure or an adjacent pair thereof to a modular wall system is provided. A first bracket member and a second bracket member of the bracket system are each configured to be selectively engageable with a vertical frame member associated with the modular wall system and are configured to be interleaved with each other.