Apparatus and methods for hanging objects on a vertical surface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for hanging objects on a vertical surface are cumbersome, require precise alignment, and lack flexibility in size and weight capacity, often necessitating multiple parts and specialized fittings.
Innovation Solution
A hanger with a plate featuring two hooks and an integrated bubble level, along with angled wall contacts and a marking hole, allowing for easy leveling and attachment without the need for elaborate measuring or additional parts, supporting a wide range of object sizes and weights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single nail or screw is used to hang the object, then the apparatus is simple, but the weight capacity is limited and realignment occurs due to gimbal effect
Solution Approach 1:
The hanging system is divided into multiple attachment points (first and second hooks at different locations on the plate) rather than relying on a single attachment point. This segmentation distributes the load and prevents the gimbal effect while maintaining simplicity of the overall apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple hooks are combined on a single plate structure, integrating the functions of multiple attachment points into one unified component. This merging approach provides enhanced weight capacity without requiring multiple separate hanging apparatus.
2Strength
If two attachment means are used on either side of the object, then the weight capacity increases, but precise measurement and placement are required
Solution Approach 1:
The plate with multiple hooks serves itself by providing inherent alignment references through its structure. The hooks are positioned at predetermined locations on the plate, eliminating the need for external measurement and alignment tools. The user simply attaches the object to the plate without requiring precise measurement from floor or ceiling.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment points (hooks) are pre-positioned on the plate during manufacturing at optimal locations for balance and strength. This preliminary action of positioning the hooks eliminates the need for precise measurement and alignment during installation, as the plate itself provides the reference framework.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a French Cleat apparatus is used, then the object is permanently level-oriented, but strict alignment between separate components is required
Solution Approach 1:
The level indicator is merged directly onto the plate structure, combining the hanging function and leveling function into a single component. This eliminates the need for separate alignment components and their strict alignment requirements, as the level indicator moves with the plate itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated level indicator on the plate serves itself by providing real-time feedback on the plate's orientation. The user simply adjusts the plate until the level indicator shows proper alignment, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures between separate components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If customized parts are attached to the frame, then compatibility is achieved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The plate with multiple hooks and integrated level indicator serves as a universal mounting solution that can be attached to various frame types and vertical surfaces. Rather than requiring customized parts for different frames, this single multi-functional plate adapts to different configurations, reducing the number of parts needed.
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 stability and flexibility, reducing the need for frequent repositioning and specialized fittings, while simplifying the hanging process and enhancing the capacity to handle various sizes and weights.
Implementation Method 1
an integrated bubble level fixably coupled to the front face and calibrated to indicate a horizontal orientation of the first hook relative to the second hook
Data Source
AI summary
A hanger for hanging an object on a vertical surface includes a plate with a front face and a back face. The back face is to abut a vertical surface onto which the object is to be hung. The hanger includes a first hook and a second hook protruding outward from the front face and an integrated bubble level fixably coupled to the front face and calibrated to indicate a horizontal orientation of the first hook relative to the second hook. A plurality of wall contacts protrudes outward from the front face. Each wall contact includes an opening through which an attachment mechanism traverses to attach the plate to the vertical surface. The hanger does not require the object to have a specifically shaped counterpart in order to interface with the hanger. The hanger removes the need for elaborate and/or time-consuming measuring, thus saving the user time and frustration.