Universal Connector Bracket for Dual-Orientation Storage Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Homeowners face frustration due to the complexity and variety of hardware needed to install shelving, as existing systems require different hardware for vertical and horizontal supports, often necessitating returns or multiple purchases for flexibility in re-orienting shelving.
Innovation Solution
A universal connector bracket with distinct mounting features for both horizontal and vertical supports, allowing for secure engagement and re-orientation, featuring projections and arms for horizontal supports and hooks for vertical supports, along with spring-loaded retention features for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different hardware is used for vertical and horizontal supports, then secure engagement is achieved, but hardware variety and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is designed with dual mounting features: a first mounting feature with projections and arms for horizontal supports, and a second mounting feature with hooks for vertical supports. This multi-functional design allows a single bracket to securely engage both horizontal and vertical supports, eliminating the need for different hardware types while maintaining reliable engagement for both orientations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of hardware are purchased for flexibility, then re-orientation capability is achieved, but cost and purchase complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket incorporates both horizontal mounting features (projections and arms) and vertical mounting features (hooks) in a single component. This allows homeowners to install shelving on horizontal supports, vertical supports, or re-orient between configurations using the same hardware, achieving full adaptability without purchasing multiple hardware types.
3Device complexity
If a single bracket design is used for both orientations, then hardware variety is reduced, but engagement reliability may compromise
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket employs different mounting feature designs optimized for specific orientations: the first mounting feature uses projections and arms with spring-loaded retention elements optimized for horizontal support engagement, while the second mounting feature uses hooks optimized for vertical support engagement. Each local feature is specifically designed for its intended orientation, ensuring reliable engagement while maintaining a single unified bracket design.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal connector bracket including a bracket body, a first mounting feature defined by the bracket body, and a second mounting feature defined by the bracket body and distinct from the first mounting feature. The first mounting feature is structured and arranged to engage a horizontal support of a storage system. The second mounting feature is structured and arranged to engage a vertical support of a storage system. As such, the universal connector bracket can be coupled to one of the vertical or horizontal support, or can be coupled to both the vertical and horizontal support at the same time.