Sensor Mounting Bracket With Magnetic Ceiling Registration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling and wall mounting systems require tools and access to the space above the ceiling for installation and removal, making it difficult to securely and repeatably mount sensors and fixtures to grid ceilings without damaging the ceiling structure.
Innovation Solution
A mounting system utilizing magnets and registration features that magnetically couple to a ferromagnetic grid ceiling, allowing for tool-free attachment and detachment of ceiling fixtures, ensuring precise repositioning and alignment without damaging the ceiling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting systems are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but tool access above ceiling and potential ceiling damage are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical mounting systems (screws, bolts, clips requiring tools) with a magnetic mounting system. Magnets embedded in the ceiling grid segments provide magnetic attraction forces that securely hold fixtures without requiring any tools for installation or removal, thus achieving both secure mounting and tool-free operation
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic mounting system allows fixtures to be easily attached and detached by users without requiring professional installation tools or access to spaces above the ceiling. The magnets self-grip the ferromagnetic fixtures, enabling simple pick-up and placement operations that anyone can perform
2Reliability
If traditional mounting systems are used, then secure mounting is achieved, but access to space above ceiling is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ceiling system into modular grid segments, each containing embedded magnets. This segmentation allows the mounting function to be distributed across multiple small, independent units rather than requiring a complex overhead mounting structure, simplifying both installation and maintenance
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary force between the ceiling grid and fixtures, eliminating the need for physical mechanical connections that would require access above the ceiling. The magnetic attraction provides the securing function without requiring any physical intervention from above the ceiling surface
3Ease of operation
If magnets are used for mounting, then tool-free attachment is achieved, but precise positioning and alignment must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
Registration features (protrusions and recesses) are pre-formed during manufacturing of the grid segments and fixtures. These features automatically align when the fixture is brought near the magnetic mounting location, guiding it into the precise correct position before magnetic attachment occurs, thus maintaining positioning precision while keeping the actual attachment tool-free
4Object-affected harmful factors
If magnetic coupling is used, then ceiling structure damage is avoided, but secure mounting of various fixtures must be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical fastening systems that require drilling, screwing, or clipping (which can damage ceiling structures) with a magnetic attraction system. The magnets embedded in the grid segments create holding forces through magnetic fields alone, securing fixtures without any physical penetration or mechanical stress on the ceiling materials
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, tool-free mounting and replacement of ceiling fixtures on grid ceilings, maintaining precise positioning and full coverage of sensor fields of view, while supporting multiple types of fixtures and ceilings without damaging the ceiling structure.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnet fixed to the upper face; characterized by a first height greater than a protrusion distance of the outer surface of a ceiling tile in the set of ceiling tiles below a grid segment in the assembly of grid segments
Implementation Method 2
magnets and registration features that magnetically couple to a ferromagnetic grid ceiling
Data Source
AI summary
A system for mounting an image sensor to a surface including: a sensor block having a housing defining a front face and a rear face and a set of engagement features; an image sensor arranged in the housing, facing outwardly from the front face, and a receptacle arranged on the rear face configured to receive an electrical cable. The system also includes a universal bracket defining a mounting plate including: a cutaway feature arranged on the universal bracket configured to pass the electrical cable to the receptacle; a set of latches; a mounting bore configured to receive a mounting rod; a set of through-holes configured to receive a set of fasteners to mount the universal bracket; a set of standoffs extending below the mounting plate; and a set of retention features arranged on the set of standoffs configured to transiently engage and retain the engagement features of the housing.