Panel Mounting Bracket With Snap-Fit Tabs for Flexible Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bracket systems for mounting panels to carriers are limited in flexibility and positioning options, requiring pre-positioning or additional space for installation and becoming immovable once secured.
Innovation Solution
A bracket design with outwardly protruding tabs that engage the carrier's inner surface, allowing for flexible positioning along the carrier and avoiding the need for external fixation, combined with slots for panel support and optional rotatable elements for angle adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If brackets are screwed into position on the carrier, then the bracket is securely fixed to the carrier, but the bracket becomes immovable and positioning flexibility is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket transitions from a static screwed connection to a dynamic snap-fit connection that allows for easy installation and removal. The resilient flanges enable the bracket to be positioned at different locations along the carrier and securely fixed without screws, maintaining both reliability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection mechanism changes from a permanent mechanical fastening (screws) to a reversible elastic engagement (snap-fit). The resilient properties of the flanges allow the bracket to deform elastically during installation and then maintain a secure fixed position, enabling easy repositioning while ensuring reliable fixation.
2Reliability
If brackets are positioned on the carrier prior to attaching the carrier to the ceiling, then the bracket can be securely attached, but additional space around the carrier is required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed to be inserted within the carrier structure itself, with the flanges engaging the inner surface of the carrier. This nested arrangement eliminates the need for additional external space around the carrier during installation, as the bracket fits inside the carrier's profile.
3Reliability
If brackets use traditional fixation methods, then the bracket is securely fixed, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into functional segments: a base portion for structural support and flange portions for engagement. Each flange can independently snap onto the carrier, allowing for simple, rapid installation without complex assembly steps or multiple fastening operations.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c~2d
AI summary
A bracket for mounting panels to a carrier, the bracket comprising a base and two flanges extending away from the base, the base being located between the two flanges, each flange having an inwardly-facing surface and an outwardly-facing surface bounded by two side edges and a distal end, and wherein each flange comprises at least one outwardly protruding tab for engaging the carrier and thereby securing the bracket to the carrier, and wherein each flange further comprises a pair of slots for receiving a panel, each slot of said pair of slots extending from a different side edge of the flange at a location further away from the base than the outwardly protruding tab. A carrier and bracket assembly and a carrier, bracket and panel assembly are also provided.