Ratcheted Support Assembly for Flat Screen Device Top Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flat screen televisions and video monitors lack a flat horizontal surface for placing objects, as they typically have thin horizontal borders instead of a flat top surface, necessitating a stand or shelf that can provide a horizontal surface for mounting and adjusting to accommodate various devices and objects.
Innovation Solution
A support assembly with a stand that extends horizontally, featuring adjustable ratcheted arms and a quick disconnect/reconnect mechanism, allowing for customizable positioning and easy installation on flat screen devices, including wall-mounted units, to create a flat horizontal surface for placing objects like speakers, remote controls, and decorations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a stand is added to provide a flat horizontal surface, then the functionality for placing objects is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support assembly is divided into separate functional components: a stand portion that attaches to the display device, an arm portion with ratcheted adjustment mechanisms, and a support surface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation and adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The arm portion incorporates ratcheted adjustment mechanisms that enable dynamic repositioning of the support surface to various angles and heights. This dynamic adjustability allows the same structure to adapt to different display device configurations and user preferences without requiring multiple fixed designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable ratcheted arms are used to accommodate various devices, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ratcheted arms feature self-locking mechanisms that automatically secure the support surface at the desired position without requiring tools or additional fastening steps. The user simply adjusts the arm to the appropriate angle, and the ratchet mechanism maintains the position through its inherent mechanical locking action.
Solution Approach 2:
The support assembly allows continuous variation of geometric parameters such as arm angle, extension length, and support surface orientation. The ratcheted mechanisms enable discrete positioning within continuous ranges, providing adaptability across multiple device configurations while maintaining mechanical simplicity.
3Ease of operation
If a quick disconnect mechanism is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The quick disconnect mechanism replaces traditional threaded fasteners and multi-step locking systems with a cam-actuated release system. A single mechanical motion simultaneously disengages multiple locking points, enabling tool-free installation and removal while maintaining secure mounting through positive mechanical engagement during normal use.
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 support assembly provides a sturdy, adjustable, and easy-to-install solution for creating a flat horizontal surface on flat screen devices, accommodating various objects and ensuring secure mounting without the need for external tools, while being adaptable to different device configurations and weights.
Implementation Method 1
The ratchet base includes, defines, connects to or mates with a ratchet ring. The arm includes a circular base and a member that extends from the circular base. The circular base includes, defines, connects to or mates with a second ratchet ring. The ratchet ring of the arm is placed in ratchet communication with the ratchet ring of the mount.
Implementation Method 2
A spring is compressed when the ratchet rings lock together to maintain tension on the ratcheted connection.
Implementation Method 3
The torque screw can thread into the mount or extend through the mount and thread into a nut or threaded bracket placed on the opposite side of the mount from its ratchet ring.
Implementation Method 4
The stand at its front end includes a downwardly bent flange that catches the top front bezel of the flat screen device when the arm contacts the rear of the flat screen device.
Data Source
AI summary
A support assembly includes (i) a stand having an underside surface configured to be placed on top of a flat screen device and an upper surface configured to support at least one object; (ii) a mount secured to the underside surface of the stand, the mount presenting a first ratchet ring; (iii) an arm presenting a second ratchet ring; (iv) a fastener positioned and arranged to connect the arm to the mount, causing the first ratchet ring to engage the second ratchet ring, setting the arm at an angle so that a free end of the arm engages the flat screen device while the stand extends at least substantially horizontally from the top of the flat screen device; and (v) wherein the mount is threaded to threadingly engage the fastener.