Universal shelf bracket
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of floating shelves is complex and requires difficult implementation, limiting the location and material options for shelving, as well as increasing time and expense due to the need for complex manufacturing to accommodate brackets.
Innovation Solution
A universal mounting bracket assembly with a geometrically shaped base member and complementary member that can be easily installed on various vertical surfaces using a selected fastener, allowing for concealment of support elements within the shelf edge, enabling flexible placement and manufacturing of shelves without complex tools or channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional bracket installation methods are used, then shelves can be securely mounted, but the installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is divided into two separate members: a base member that attaches to the wall and a complementary member that attaches to the shelf. These members connect through coupling portions, allowing independent installation of each component and simplifying the overall installation process
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is designed with universal coupling portions that can accommodate various fastener types and shelf configurations. The base member and complementary member can be used in multiple installation scenarios (floating shelves, traditional shelves, hooks) without requiring different bracket designs
2Ease of manufacture
If custom brackets are manufactured for specific shelf configurations, then secure mounting is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base member and complementary member are designed as universal components that can be used across different shelf types and configurations. The coupling portions accommodate various fastener types, eliminating the need to manufacture custom brackets for each specific application
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the bracket into modular base and complementary members, each component can be manufactured independently using standardized processes. This segmentation allows for simpler, more consistent manufacturing of individual parts that assemble into versatile bracket configurations
3Adaptability or versatility
If brackets are designed to accommodate specific shelf materials, then secure attachment is possible, but material and location options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling portions of the base member and complementary member are designed to accommodate various fastener types, enabling attachment to different shelf materials (wood, metal, glass, stone) without requiring different bracket designs. This universal interface provides adaptability across materials and locations
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides various examples of a universal mounting bracket for mounting a floating shelf to a flat vertical surface such as a wall. The bracket assembly allows for installing the bracket with a single selected fastener. This is more efficient and allows for the bracket to be installed in the widest variety of vertical assemblies with the most strength possible. The bracket can be installed into a stud wall, hollow drywall space, solid masonry wall, a hollow masonry wall unit, a brick wall, a cinderblock wall, a reinforced masonry wall, a plaster wall, a steel wall assembly or support structure, and any other vertical assembly so long as there is a satisfactory fastener for that assembly. Alternatively, the universal mounting bracket provides a mechanism that facilitates its use as a hook for a multitude of purposes.