Adjustable Suction Cup Post with Grooved Break-Off Notch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suction cup devices lack flexibility in adjusting the distance of an item from a window pane and securing it in various orientations, especially when dealing with differently sized window sills and orientations of the window.
Innovation Solution
A suction cup device with a post having axially spaced grooves and a break-off notch allows for adjustable positioning of a bracket to hold items at varying distances from the window, enabling secure attachment and orientation of items like candles, with the option to shorten the post for specific configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the post is made longer to increase the distance of the item from the window pane, then the adjustable range is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for multiple grooves and break-off notches
Solution Approach 1:
The post is segmented into multiple sections with grooves at different positions, allowing the bracket to be mounted at various distances from the window pane. The break-off notch enables the post to be divided into different lengths, providing multiple mounting configurations without requiring a completely different post for each distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The post transitions from a fixed-length structure to a dynamic, adjustable-length structure through the break-off notch. Users can break the post at the notch to achieve different lengths, making the device adaptable to various window sill depths and orientations.
2Device complexity
If the bracket is fixed in a specific position on the post, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different window sill depths and orientations is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The post serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, offers multiple mounting positions through grooves at different locations, and allows length adjustment via the break-off notch. This single component replaces what would otherwise require multiple different posts or mounting mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The grooves are pre-positioned at specific locations on the post to anticipate different mounting needs. The break-off notch is pre-formed to enable easy length adjustment, so users don't need to perform complex modifications when adapting to different window configurations.
3Reliability
If the post is shortened to prevent transverse extension of the item, then the security of attachment is improved, but the adjustable range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The post is segmented at the break-off notch, allowing it to be divided into different lengths. This segmentation enables the post to be shortened when needed to prevent transverse extension, while still maintaining the option to use the full length when maximum adjustable range is required.
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 device provides adjustable and secure attachment of items to windows, accommodating different sill depths and orientations, ensuring the item is held at a set distance and preventing transverse extension when necessary, enhancing versatility and usability.
Implementation Method 1
A suction cup adhering by suction to a window pane
Data Source
AI summary
A suction cup located on an axis has axially opposite front and rear ends. The front end is configured to adhere to a window pane by suction. A post extends along the axis rearward from the rear end and has axially spaced grooves. A bracket is configured to be mounted in any one of the grooves and to hold an item a set distance rearward from the post.