Spring Clamp Mounting Plate for Variable Fixture Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixture mounting systems struggle to securely mount light fixtures in existing holes of varying sizes, often requiring complex constructions and tools for assembly.
Innovation Solution
A mounting plate assembly with a novel spring clamp structure that is displaceably connectable to the mounting plate without tools, using a simple connecting base assembly with few parts, facilitating easy assembly and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing fixture mounting systems are used, then mounting can be achieved, but the construction becomes complex and requires tools for assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into distinct functional components: a mounting plate with guide slots, spring clamp structures with bridge arms, and retaining members with arresting formations. Each component has a specific function and can be assembled independently, simplifying the overall construction while maintaining ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clamp structures incorporate spring-loaded bridge arms that can dynamically adjust to fit holes of varying sizes. The spring mechanism allows the clamp to expand and contract, providing adaptability without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms or tools.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing mounting systems are used, then fixtures can be mounted, but varying hole sizes cannot be accommodated securely
Solution Approach 1:
The spring clamp structures have localized flexible regions in the bridge arms that can deform to match different hole diameters. The arresting formations on the retaining members engage with specific guide slot positions to provide secure mounting at various locations, combining adaptability with reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clamp structures change their dimensional parameters (expansion and contraction) to adapt to different hole sizes. The spring mechanism allows the bridge arms to adjust their span, enabling the same mounting structure to securely fit holes of varying diameters while maintaining reliable mounting.
3Ease of manufacture
If complex connecting base assemblies are used, then mounting functionality is achieved, but assembly requires tools and increases malfunction risk
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting base assembly is segmented into simple, discrete components that can be assembled by hand. The mounting plate, spring clamps, and retaining members are separate parts that fit together through simple geometric interfaces (guide slots and arresting formations), eliminating the need for tools and reducing assembly errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring clamp structures are self-adjusting and self-securing. The spring mechanism automatically adjusts the clamp arm position, and the arresting formations on the retaining members self-lock into the guide slots without requiring tool assistance. This self-service capability reduces both assembly complexity and malfunction risk.
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 solution allows for secure mounting of light fixtures in holes of different sizes, ensuring easy assembly and reducing the risk of malfunctions, while also minimizing costs due to the reduced complexity of parts.
Implementation Method 1
A spring clamp structure is displaceably engageable with each guide slot
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting plate assembly is disclosed having two or more spring clamp structures each being displaceably engageable with a respective guide slot formed on a rear face of the mounting plate. Each spring clamp structure has a spring support bracket provided with a bottom retention base displaceably retained captive by their guide slot. The spring support bracket may have a securing sleeve slidingly coupled thereto and displaceable along a vertical axis to the mounting plate. The spring support bracket may have a retention spring coupled thereto. The securing sleeve and the retention spring each have one or more arresting formations for retention coupling with selected ones of the two or more spaced-apart retention formations disposed spaced-apart along the guide slot when the support bracket is positioned over selected ones of the retention formations.