Picture Hanger Bracket With Wall Marking for Precise Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing picture frame hanging systems lack precision in positioning, making it difficult to accurately locate and mount objects like picture frames on walls, especially with larger and bulkier frames, due to the hidden nature of the mounting components.

Innovation Solution

A support assembly and method that includes a bracket with a marking element that creates a visible mark on the wall during installation, allowing for precise placement and secure attachment of the object, using a combination of brackets, support/marker members, and fasteners to ensure accurate positioning and level orientation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional hidden mounting components (nails, wires, brackets) are used to secure picture frames, then the mounting structure is simple and secure, but the positioning precision is poor and requires trial and error

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidmounting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by providing visible marks on the wall before the actual mounting operation. The marks indicate the exact positions where nails or fasteners should be placed, allowing the installer to position the picture frame precisely without trial and error. This preliminary marking step eliminates positioning uncertainty while keeping the overall mounting system simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If visible marking elements are added to indicate mounting positions, then positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemarking precisionVSAvoidsupport assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the marking function with the mounting support structure. The visible marks are integrated into or attached to the bracket or support assembly itself, rather than being separate independent components. This combining of marking and support functions improves positioning precision while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The visible marks serve as an intermediary between the mounting system and the wall surface. They provide visual guidance that mediates the positioning process, allowing the installer to accurately transfer the intended position from the design plan to the actual wall mounting location without complex measurement tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If trial and error method is used to position picture frames, then no additional marking components are needed, but the installation time increases and positioning accuracy decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

By providing visible marks before installation, the patent eliminates the need for trial and error positioning during the actual mounting process. The marks are prepared in advance to show exactly where fasteners should be placed, allowing the installer to proceed directly to secure mounting without repeated adjustments, thereby improving both speed and accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7836604B2Picture hanger assembly and method
Publication Date: 2010.11.23 PICTURE PERFECT
  • US7836604B2 patent drawing
  • US7836604B2 patent drawing
  • US7836604B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A support assembly to secure a stereo component to a wall includes a bracket secured to the component. The support assembly further includes a marking element that is received within an opening provided in the bracket. The marking element extends away from the component when positioning the marking element within the opening of the bracket. The arrangement is such that when positioning the marking element within the opening of the bracket, the marking element forms a mark on the wall in response to positioning the bracket against the wall. The support assembly further includes a fastener to secure the bracket to the wall. The fastener is received within the opening of the bracket so that the fastener is aligned with the mark on the wall. Other embodiments of the support assembly and methods of supporting components are further disclosed.