Suction-Based Surface Mount for Tool-Free Curtain Rod Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing suction cup mounts are limited in the types of objects they can support and require tools or hardware for securing curtain rods to window casings or walls.

Innovation Solution

A surface mount device with a base, lever, connector, and diaphragm design that allows for tool-free attachment to surfaces, featuring a handle, arm, and connection portions for secure object support without additional hardware.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional brackets are used to support curtain rods, then the support strength is sufficient, but tools and hardware are required for installation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation convenienceVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, brackets, tools) with a suction-based attachment mechanism. The suction cup creates a vacuum seal against the window surface, using atmospheric pressure to hold the curtain rod in place without requiring any drilling, screws, or specialized installation tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention utilizes pneumatic principles through the suction cup mechanism. By creating a vacuum seal and utilizing atmospheric pressure differential, the system achieves secure attachment to the window surface. The suction cup can be easily attached and detached by breaking the vacuum seal, providing tool-free installation and removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

2Ease of operation

If suction cup mounts are used for tool-free attachment, then installation convenience is improved, but the types of objects they can support are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation convenienceVSAvoidobject support versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal mounting system where the suction cup base can support various types of objects through different connector configurations. The system can accommodate curtain rods, picture frames, mirrors, and other decorative items by simply changing the connector type while keeping the suction cup base the same, thereby achieving multi-functionality.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is divided into separate functional components: the suction cup base for attachment, the connector for object-specific connection, and the mounting arm for positioning. This segmentation allows the connector portion to be changed or adapted for different objects while retaining the same suction cup base, enhancing versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If suction cup mounts are dedicated to specific accessories, then the support function is optimized, but adaptability to different objects is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport reliabilityVSAvoidobject support versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal suction cup base that can reliably support various objects through standardized connector interfaces. The base design maintains consistent suction force and stability, while the interchangeable connectors adapt to different object types such as curtain rods, frames, and mirrors, achieving both reliability and versatility.

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

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 the secure, tool-free support of objects like curtain rods on various surfaces, enhancing versatility and ease of use compared to traditional suction cup mounts.

Implementation Method 1

suction cup surface mounts for supporting objects

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSuction: Suction

Data Source

PatentUS11215217B2Surface mount
Publication Date: 2022.01.04 HOUSE OF ATLAS LLC
  • US11215217B2 patent drawing
  • US11215217B2 patent drawing
  • US11215217B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A surface mount is provided having a body, a lever, a laterally offset connector, and a diaphragm. The surface mount may be mounted to a surface at the diaphragm and support an object via the connector.