Utility Hook Assembly with Magnetic Latch for Hidden Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility hook systems lack a convenient and aesthetically pleasing solution for storing hooks out of sight when not in use, particularly in spaces with limited room, where hooks need to be easily deployable and unobtrusive.
Innovation Solution
A utility hook assembly that mounts to a horizontal surface with a base featuring Neodymium permanent magnets, allowing hooks to pivot and attach to the base without mechanical attachments, enabling them to be hidden when not in use and easily deployed for hanging items.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hooks are mounted on walls or ceilings for easy access, then hooks are easily deployable for hanging items, but hooks remain visible and create a cluttered appearance when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The hook assembly transitions from a static mounted position to a dynamic stored position. The base is designed to rotate and swing away from the wall surface, allowing hooks to be concealed behind the base when not in use, while remaining easily accessible when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The hooks nest within the profile of the base when stored. The base structure is designed to accommodate the hooks in a compact configuration, hiding them within the overall form of the mounting assembly to create a clean, uncluttered appearance.
2Shape
If hooks are stored out of sight to present a cleaner space, then visual appearance is improved, but hooks become less easily accessible for quick use
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed with rotational movement capability, allowing it to swing away from the wall and present the hooks to an accessible position. This dynamic mechanism maintains easy access while preserving the concealed storage benefit.
3Reliability
If traditional mechanical attachments are used to secure hooks to the base, then attachment reliability is improved, but device complexity and number of parts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, clips, latches) with a magnetic attachment system. Magnets embedded in the base provide secure holding force for the hooks while eliminating complex mechanical attachment mechanisms, reducing part count and simplifying the overall design.
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 space-efficient and visually uncluttered storage option for hooks, allowing for quick and convenient access while maintaining a clean appearance by using strong magnetic attachment to secure the hooks to the base, ensuring reliable and easy deployment.
Implementation Method 1
The magnets may be in a preferred embodiment Neodymium permanent magnets selected for their small size and strong magnetic field. The magnets allow the hooks to attach to the base without any other mechanical attachments
Data Source
AI summary
A utility hook assembly is disclosed that conveniently secures to a planar surface such as the bottom of a counter or cabinet, and has a plurality of hooks that extend perpendicular to a mounting base. The base includes on an outer surface a fixed bracket with a pair of eyelets that are collinear at an edge of the mounting bracket. The eyelets each receive one end of a suspended hook member such that the suspended hook members can swing/pivot about their respective eyelet in separate but parallel vertical planes. The opposite ends of the hook members are collinear and laterally extended in opposite directions. Disposed on an inner surface of the base is one or more magnets positioned above the intersection of the opposite ends of the hook members and the base when the hook members are fully rotated parallel to the base. The magnets allow the hooks to attach to the base without any other mechanical attachments, providing a simple and reliable attachment mode for the utility hooks.