Panel Mount System for Non-Penetrative Glass Fastening
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing glass pane mounting solutions are cumbersome due to the need for drilling, are aesthetically unappealing as they protrude above the surface, and do not provide an uninterrupted view, especially in applications like deck railings where an unobstructed view is desired.
Innovation Solution
A panel mount system featuring clamp jaws with elongate slots and adjustable intermediate clamping members, allowing non-penetrative fastening and adjustment of glass panes without drilling, which can be positioned to remain below the edge of the structure for an unobstructed view, using threaded members for precise alignment and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If glass panes are mounted using traditional drilling methods, then secure fastening is achieved, but the glass panes become difficult and time-consuming to install
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a mounting structure with receiving spaces and independent mounting members that can be adjusted and positioned separately before securing the glass pane, eliminating the need for drilling and simplifying installation
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting members are made adjustable along the elongate direction within the receiving spaces, allowing dynamic positioning and adaptation to different glass pane sizes and installation requirements without requiring precise pre-drilling
2Strength
If mounting devices extend above the glass pane surface, then adequate support is provided, but the view through the glass is obscured
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting members are extracted from the traditional above-surface configuration and repositioned to extend below the glass pane surface, with only the necessary portion visible, thereby maintaining support capability while minimizing visual obstruction
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system transitions from a vertical above-surface arrangement to a horizontal below-surface arrangement, allowing the mounting function to be achieved in a different spatial dimension that does not interfere with the view through the glass
3Strength
If glass panes are made thick for impact resistance, then structural strength is improved, but post-production workability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is designed to accommodate glass panes in their finished state without requiring post-production modifications such as drilling, as the adjustable mounting members can adapt to the existing glass dimensions and thickness
Data Source
AI summary
A panel mount for non penetrative fastening of a panel (such as a glass pane) able to be mounted to a structure, and preferably to a vertical or side surface of that structure, which provides a pair of clamp jaws defining an elongate slot in which an edge of a panel can be received and an intermediate clamping member associated with each jaw, each intermediate clamping member having at least one threaded member associated therewith to facilitate adjustment of the position and orientation of the intermediate member within the clamp jaw so as to securely retain the panel within the slot.