Articulated TV Mount Assembly for Fireplace Heat and Viewing Angle
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge is to securely and safely mount a flat panel television over obstacles like fireplaces while allowing optimal viewing and preventing damage from heat and physical discomfort, as traditional mounting methods are either obstructed by permanent fixtures or expose the TV to harmful temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A television mount assembly featuring two arms and a spring mechanism that allows the TV to extend and swivel, with a calibration system, locking screws, and a handle with a temperature gauge to ensure safe operation, enabling secure mounting over obstacles and maintaining comfortable viewing angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the television is mounted directly above the fireplace, then the viewing position is optimized and space is saved, but the television is exposed to high temperatures that can damage the electronic circuitry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a heat shield as an intermediary component positioned between the fireplace and the television. This heat shield blocks direct heat exposure to the television while allowing the television to remain in the optimal viewing position above the fireplace, thus resolving the contradiction between viewing optimization and heat protection
2Ease of manufacture
If the television is mounted on the wall directly, then the mounting is simple and secure, but the television cannot be adjusted for optimal viewing angles or extended away from the wall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic mounting system with articulated arms and joints that allow the television to move and adjust its position. The mount includes extension arms that can be telescoped and joints that allow angular adjustment, transforming a static wall mount into a dynamic system that maintains security while providing viewing angle flexibility
3Ease of operation
If the television is extended away from the wall, then viewing comfort is improved, but the television becomes more vulnerable to physical contact and accidental damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a spring mechanism that dynamically adjusts the extension position of the television arm. The spring provides a counterbalancing force that allows easy extension for viewing comfort while automatically retracting if excessive force is applied, thus protecting against accidental damage. The system changes its mechanical parameters (extension position, resistance force) based on user interaction
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 provides a secure, adjustable, and safe mounting system that allows for optimal viewing positions over obstacles, reduces the risk of heat damage, and ensures comfortable viewing by maintaining a safe temperature range, thus addressing the limitations of previous mounting methods.
Implementation Method 1
The mount assembly secures a television (TV) to a wall via two arms and a spring mechanism thereby allowing it to extend away from the wall
Implementation Method 2
A temperature gauge on the handle displays ambient temperature proximate to the television to warn users if the temperature is too high for the television to safely operate
Data Source
AI summary
A television mount assembly suitable for mounting a television to a wall, especially over fireplaces and other obstacles. The mount assembly secures a television (TV) to a wall via two arms and a spring mechanism thereby allowing it to extend away from the wall while at the same time allowing the television to swivel. It includes a mechanism to straighten the television as it is positioned close to the wall. The spring mechanism is calibrated by means of a calibration screw, spring block, and locking screws. A handle enables a user to grasp the mount assembly for changing the position of the television. A temperature gauge on the handle displays ambient temperature proximate to the television to warn users if the temperature is too high for the television to safely operate. A means of setting a maximum extension prevents the television from extending beyond a point set by the user.