System for suspending articles from a surface

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for suspending articles like framed photos and artwork from walls often require multiple anchor points and complex leveling, making the process cumbersome and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A system featuring a C-shaped connector with a ridge mechanism that securely engages a sawtooth-type support bracket, allowing a single anchor point to suspend multiple articles by routing a line through the connector, which is retained via a line retention portion, simplifying the hanging process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple anchor points are used to suspend articles, then the suspension stability is improved, but the device complexity and user effort increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesuspension stabilityVSAvoidnumber of anchor points

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple suspension functions into a single anchor point system. The C-shaped connector with ridge mechanism integrates the functions of multiple anchors by allowing a single anchor to support multiple connectors, each capable of holding articles. This merging reduces the number of anchor points needed while maintaining suspension stability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The C-shaped connector is designed as a universal component that can be used with various article types and support brackets. The ridge mechanism provides a universal engagement method that works with different bracket configurations, allowing one anchor point to serve multiple suspension purposes simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple anchor points and complex leveling are required, then the suspension stability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesuspension stabilityVSAvoidhanging process simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The C-shaped connector is pre-configured with the ridge mechanism that automatically engages with the support bracket's geometry. This preliminary design of the engagement mechanism eliminates the need for complex leveling adjustments during installation, as the ridge and bracket geometry self-align to provide stable suspension.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If a secure engagement mechanism is used, then the reliability of article suspension is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveengagement securityVSAvoidconnector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The C-shaped connector features an asymmetric ridge that corresponds to the asymmetric geometry of the support bracket. This asymmetric design creates a secure, non-reversible engagement where the ridge fits into the bracket's profile, preventing accidental detachment while maintaining a relatively simple connector structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentUS11771244B2System for suspending articles from a surface

Publication Date: 2023.10.03 K4 ENTERPRISES LLC

AI summary

A system for suspending articles from a surface may include, but is not limited to: a line; a first connector including: a curved portion; and a line-retention portion configured to couple to a first end of the line; a second connector including: a curved portion; and a line-retention portion configured to couple to a second end of the line.