Device for attaching items to surface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for attaching items like papers, cards, and photographs to surfaces often cause damage, require two-handed operation, and lack aesthetically pleasing designs or the ability to hold items in non-coplanar arrangements.

Innovation Solution

A device with pressure components featuring an upturned lip for one-handed operation, using various attachment methods such as adhesives, magnets, or suction cups, allowing items to be held in non-coplanar positions and featuring decorative designs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional attachment devices (nails, pushpins, tape, adhesives) are used to attach items to surfaces, then the attachment function is achieved, but the items may be damaged or irreversibly altered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment functionVSAvoiddamage to items
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a removable attachment device as an intermediary between the item and the surface. This device attaches to the surface through mechanisms like adhesives, magnets, or mechanical fasteners, and holds the item through a夹持 structure with pressure components, preventing direct contact between traditional damaging attachment methods and the item itself

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment device features a self-clamping mechanism where the pressure component with the upturned lip automatically grips the item when inserted, eliminating the need for additional fastening steps that might damage the item while maintaining secure attachment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If traditional attachment devices (tape, nails, hooks) are used, then items can be attached to surfaces, but only in substantially co-planar arrangements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment functionVSAvoidholding positions
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional co-planar attachment to three-dimensional spatial arrangement by designing the attachment device with a thickness that allows items to be held at various angles and distances from the surface, enabling non-coplanar configurations while maintaining secure attachment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If traditional attachment devices (pushpins, tape) are used, then attachment is achieved, but two-handed operation is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment functionVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment device incorporates a self-clamping mechanism where the pressure component with the upturned lip automatically grips the item upon insertion, eliminating the need for a second hand to secure the attachment. The user simply inserts the item and the device self-secures it

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The pressure component is pre-configured with an upturned lip that is biased toward the surface, creating a ready-to-clamp state before the item is even inserted. This preliminary positioning of the pressure component enables one-handed operation by automatically engaging the item upon insertion

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Reliability

If traditional attachment devices (tape, nails, hooks) are used, then attachment function is provided, but no stylized designs or shapes are presented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment functionVSAvoidaesthetic design
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the attachment device to serve multiple functions: it provides secure attachment through its mechanical clamping mechanism while simultaneously serving as a decorative element with stylized designs, shapes, or logos. The device body itself becomes both functional and aesthetic

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment device can be manufactured with various colors, finishes, or surface treatments that enhance its aesthetic appeal. The device body may feature stylized designs, patterns, or branding elements that make it visually appealing while maintaining its attachment function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

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

Enables secure, damage-free attachment of items in various orientations with one hand, providing aesthetic appeal and versatility in surface attachment methods.

Implementation Method 1

one or more attachment devices such as an adhesive, adhesive tape, foam adhesive tape, putty, adhesive putty

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

one or more attachment devices such as an adhesive, adhesive tape, foam adhesive tape, putty, adhesive putty, screws, nails, tacks, thumbtacks, pushpins, bolts, rivets, magnets

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Implementation Method 3

one or more attachment devices such as an adhesive, adhesive tape, foam adhesive tape, putty, adhesive putty, screws, nails, tacks, thumbtacks, pushpins, bolts, rivets, magnets, hooks, hook-and-loop devices, and suction cups

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS11788680B2Device for attaching items to surface
Publication Date: 2023.10.17 HIPPELY KEITH
  • US11788680B2 patent drawing
  • US11788680B2 patent drawing
  • US11788680B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is directed to a device for attaching items to a surface, including attachment devices for attaching the device to the surface and pressure components connected to the attachment device, the pressure component having an upturned lip. The device may comprise a rib on a bottom surface to receive the attachment device such as adhesive, putty, fasteners, magnets, suction cups, etc. Pressure components may be biased toward the surface or a plate. Pressure may be applied between the pressure components and the surface or plate due to a curved lip on the pressure component. The pressure component and plate may be biased toward each other. The device may comprise an attachment core configured to receive the attachment device and attach to the pressure components. The device may include promotional designs or markings, and/or may be configured to hold items in a substantially non-coplanar arrangement with the surface.