Non-Penetrating Post Mount Using Frictional Hook Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching devices to vertical columnar structures, such as posts, often require penetrating fasteners that can damage the structure and create unsightly holes, especially when the attachment is temporary, as they allow water to access the interior and cause rot or rust, and are difficult to remove without damaging the surrounding material.
Innovation Solution
A supporting mount that surrounds a vertical post without penetrating it, using a front panel, side panels with hooks, and a connecting element to create frictional contact with the post, preventing sliding and allowing for easy attachment and removal without screws or other fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screws or penetrating fasteners are used to attach the mount to the post, then the mount can be securely affixed to the post, but the post is marred with apertures and water can access the interior causing rot or rust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mounting bracket as an intermediary component that attaches to the post without penetrating it. The bracket uses frictional contact and normal forces against the post surface to achieve secure attachment, eliminating the need for screws or fasteners that would create apertures and allow water ingress.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical fastening system (screws, bolts, penetrating fasteners) with a friction-based mechanical system. The mount relies on frictional contact between the bracket and post surface, combined with normal forces, to achieve secure attachment without penetration.
2Strength
If screws are used to permanently affix the mount, then the attachment is secure, but removal is difficult and damages the surrounding material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic attachment system where the bracket can be easily installed and removed by applying and releasing normal forces. The friction-based connection allows for reversible attachment without permanent damage, contrasting with the static, permanent nature of screw fastening.
3Shape
If the mount is designed to be removable without penetration, then the post appearance is maintained, but achieving secure attachment becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the normal force applied to the post surface to control the frictional attachment. By adjusting the magnitude of the normal force, the system achieves both secure attachment during use and easy removal when needed, while maintaining post appearance integrity throughout.
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 effectively secures devices to vertical posts without damaging the structure, prevents water ingress, and allows for easy installation and removal, maintaining the post's integrity and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
The device as fixed to the mount causes same to pivot into a frictional contact with the back face of the post at the connecting element and with the front face at a portion of the front panel vertically lower than the connecting element. The frictional contact of the mount at the front and back faces of the post resists gravity and prevents the mount with the device from sliding down the post
Data Source
AI summary
A supporting mount mounts a device to a post and is removably fixed to the post without being fastened thereto by any penetrating fastener. A front panel is at the front post face and has the device fixed thereto. A pair of opposing side panels are at respective side post faces. Each side panel has a lower lateral edge connecting to the front panel, an upper lateral portion distal from the front panel, and a hook at about the upper lateral portion. A connecting element at the back post face engages the hooks at the upper lateral portions of the side panels. The mount pivots into frictional contact with the back post face at the top portion of the connecting element and with the front post face at a bottom portion of the front panel.