Semi-Flush Smoke Detector Mount for Universal Ceiling Fit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors often fail prematurely, necessitating early replacement, and existing wall mounts do not provide a universal solution for various detector types and sizes, complicating installation and affecting aesthetic appeal.

Innovation Solution

A universal semi-flush wall mount comprising a bucket, reversible trim ring, and trim ring, which can be attached using fasteners or magnets, allowing for easy installation and adjustment to accommodate different detector sizes, and ensuring the detector is flush with the ceiling for improved aesthetics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If detectors are mounted using traditional electrical box attachment methods, then secure installation is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The wall mount is divided into separate components: a bucket portion that attaches to the electrical box, and a trim ring portion that provides the finishing interface. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly and installation procedures while maintaining secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The bucket portion serves as an intermediary component between the electrical box and the smoke detector. It simplifies the attachment process by providing a pre-fabricated mounting interface that requires less complex installation procedures compared to traditional direct electrical box attachment methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Shape

If detectors are mounted flush with the ceiling, then aesthetics are improved, but installation precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidinstallation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The trim ring portion provides a finished aesthetic appearance at the visible interface with the ceiling, while the bucket portion handles the structural mounting functions. This local differentiation allows the aesthetic portion to be optimized for appearance without compromising the structural installation requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The reversible trim ring can be installed in different orientations and configurations to accommodate variations in ceiling conditions and detector types, providing flexibility that reduces the need for high installation precision while maintaining flush mounting aesthetics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a universal wall mount design is used, then adaptability to different detector types is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetector compatibilityVSAvoidmount structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wall mount is designed as a universal system that can accommodate different types of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. The bucket and trim ring configuration provides a standardized interface that works with various detector forms factors, eliminating the need for multiple specialized mounting solutions.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The trim ring portion nests around the bucket portion, creating a compact multi-component structure. This nested configuration allows the universal mount to accommodate different detector sizes and types while maintaining a consistent external appearance and simplified overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Reliability

If detectors are exposed to drafts and mechanical stress, then functionality is maintained, but detector lifespan decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetector functionalityVSAvoiddetector lifespan
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The trim ring acts as a protective shell that encloses and protects the detector from environmental factors such as drafts and mechanical stress. This protective configuration extends detector lifespan by reducing exposure to harmful conditions while maintaining full detector functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS12633202B2Universal semi-flush smoke detector wall mount
Publication Date: 2026.05.19 CHILDS RICHARD
  • US12633202B2 patent drawing
  • US12633202B2 patent drawing
  • US12633202B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A smoke detector wall mount is disclosed herein. In general the wall mount is a combination of several components, including, but not limited to, a bucket, a reversible trim ring, and a trim ring. The bucket may be attached within the drywall of a wall or ceiling, and a smoke detector or a combination carbon monoxide and smoke detector may be housed within the bucket. The reversible trim ring component attaches to the bucket and secures the wall mount to the wall or ceiling. Similarly, the trim ring component also attaches to the bucket and supports the weight of the smoke detector house therein. When properly installed, the smoke detector will be nearly flush with the drywall of the wall or ceiling.