Self-locking device for hanging objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for hanging objects, such as picture frames, often struggle with ensuring proper seating on wall hardware due to visibility issues and risk of dislodgment, and require special tools or hardware for securement.

Innovation Solution

A self-locking device with a sliding locking mechanism along tracks on a mounting bracket that engages with hooks or connectors, allowing secure attachment and removal without special tools, using a design that locks the object onto the bracket and inhibits lateral or downward movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional hanging hardware (nails, screws, hooks) is used to attach objects to walls, then the object can be securely mounted, but it is difficult to confirm proper seating and the hardware may become dislodged when the frame is released

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidconfirmation of proper seating
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The hanging device performs self-verification by providing visual feedback through the visible indicator. The system serves itself by making the seating status automatically apparent without requiring external inspection or special tools, resolving the contradiction between secure attachment and ease of confirming proper seating.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If wire or frame hardware is used to attach objects to wall hardware, then the object can be hung, but there is a risk that the wire or frame hardware may become dislodged as the frame is released and pulls down on or away from the wall hardware

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimple hanging methodVSAvoidprevention of dislodgment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device applies preliminary anti-action by using the visible indicator to warn of improper seating before the object is fully released. The indicator system preemptively signals potential dislodgment risks, allowing the user to adjust the seating before release, thus preventing dislodgment while maintaining simple hanging operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Adaptability or versatility

If spring loaded carabineers or clip devices are used to lock the frame, then the hanging clip can be locked onto the picture frame, but these devices typically do not lock the frame onto the wall

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking capabilityVSAvoidwall attachment security
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The device merges the functions of frame locking and wall attachment security into a single integrated system. The visible indicator mechanism serves both to verify frame clipping and to confirm wall hardware seating, combining multiple security functions that were previously separated into different devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Stability of the object's composition

If dual step systems with interlocking brackets are used to fix the frame onto the wall, then the frame cannot move laterally, but these devices typically do not lock the frame onto the wall and require specialized hardware

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelateral stabilityVSAvoidspecialized hardware requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device achieves universal applicability by providing both lateral stability and wall attachment security through a single simple mechanism that works with standard hanging hardware. The visible indicator system is universally applicable to various frame and wall hardware combinations without requiring specialized components.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11076711B2Self-locking device for hanging objects
Publication Date: 2021.08.03 RICHMAN RYAN
  • US11076711B2 patent drawing
  • US11076711B2 patent drawing
  • US11076711B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A self-locking device having a locking mechanism is configured to lock an object. A mounting bracket contrivance includes a guide track implement for engaging the locking mechanism. A notch implement is configured to allow said locking mechanism to rotate out into an open position and a back stop is configured to hold the locking mechanism within the notch implement in an open position. A is configured to inhibit the locking portion from escaping the guide track implement. A base plate tool is used to mount the mounting bracket contrivance to a mounting surface and elevated the mounting bracket contrivance off the mounting surface.