Wall anchors and assemblies for heavyweight objects

Wall anchors and assemblies of the present disclosure include a plate, one more prongs, and a load bearing structure. The prongs are typically integral with a side edge of the plate and are typically curved in an upward towards the top edge of the plate.

BACKGROUND

Numerous products and devices exist for installing a hook or hanging device in a wall, such as for hanging a picture frame, a mirror, or the like. Conventional nails and screws are not always convenient solutions and may not provide sufficient support strength in the wall, particularly in the case of drywall, or other friable wallboards, which are relatively weak. Other hanging devices may avoid the use and attendant drawbacks of conventional fasteners, but nonetheless may result in excessive damage to the wallboard, require the use of conventional tools, or fail to consistently hold the desired weight.

SUMMARY

The present inventors have devised a wall anchor construction and wall anchor assemblies that provide stronger support in load bearing directions than currently available solutions. The wall anchors and anchor assemblies may be installed without the use of tools and may be used to mount heavy weight objects like picture frames without damaging the wall or losing material fidelity. The anchors feature a base plate and one or more prongs that include a relatively high ratio of height to thickness, which can provide both an improved installation experience and more routinely successful mounting. The anchors may be combined with other components that allow for temporary attachment of an anchor assembly to the wall, letting a user iteratively select the best location for both the anchor and the object to be mounted without fully committing to the installation.

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a wall anchor comprising: a base plate including opposing front and back surfaces, a top edge, a bottom edge and two opposing side edges: and a curved prong having a base, wherein the prong extends outwardly along an arc to a wall-penetrating outer end, and wherein the base of the prong is integral with one of the opposing side edges.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a wall anchor assembly comprising: a base plate a first insertion plate pivotally coupled to the base plate and including a proximal edge, a distal edge, and opposing side edges, the insertion plate further including a curved prong having a base, wherein the prong extends outwardly along an arc to a wall-penetrating outer end, and wherein the base of the prong is coincident with one of the opposing side edges. Such wall anchor assemblies may further comprise a second insertion plate pivotally coupled to the base plate and including a proximal edge, a distal edge, and opposing side edges. The second insertion plate can further include a second curved prong having a base, wherein the prong extends outwardly along an arc to a wall-penetrating outer end, and wherein the base of the prong is coincident with one of the opposing side edges of the second insertion plate.

As used herein. “layer” means a single stratum that may be continuous or discontinuous over a surface.

As used herein “geometry” refers to the size and shape of an element.

Also herein, all numbers are assumed to be modified by the term “about” and preferably by the term “exactly.” As used herein in connection with a measured quantity, the term “about” refers to that variation in the measured quantity as would be expected by the skilled artisan making the measurement and exercising a level of care commensurate with the objective of the measurement and the precision of the measuring equipment used.

Also herein, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range as well as the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc.).

As used herein as a modifier to a property or attribute, the term “generally”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means that the property or attribute would be readily recognizable by a person of ordinary skill but without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match (e.g., within +/−20% for quantifiable properties). The term “substantially”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means to a high degree of approximation (e.g., within +/−10% for quantifiable properties) but again without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match. Terms such as same, equal, uniform, constant, strictly, and the like, are understood to be within the usual tolerances or measuring error applicable to the particular circumstance rather than requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

Layers in certain depicted embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to absolutely define the thickness, relative or otherwise, or the absolute location of any component. While the above-identified figures set forth several embodiments of the disclosure other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the description. In all cases, this disclosure presents the invention by way of representation and not limitation. It should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art, which fall within the scope and spirit of the principles of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

While the above-identified figures set forth several embodiments of the disclosure other embodiments are also contemplated, as noted in the description. In all cases, this disclosure presents the invention by way of representation and not limitation. It should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art, which fall within the scope and spirit of the principles of the invention.

A wall anchor100according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted inFIGS.1-4and9-10. The wall anchor100includes a base plate110presenting a generally rectangular shape (as seen inFIG.2). The base plate110includes a front surface111opposing a back, wall-facing surface112, a top edge113, a bottom edge114, and opposing side edges115,116connecting the top and bottom edges113,114to define an outer plate perimeter. A pair of upwardly curved prongs150extend from each side edge115,116(seeFIG.3) in direction generally orthogonal to the back surface112. The prongs150extend to an outer end152that can be tapered to ease insertion when pressed into wall board.

The base110includes a lower section120including bottom edge114and an upper section122near the top edge113. The sections120and122are typically coplanar and include front surfaces residing in a plane “P”. The lower section120includes an open-ended region or recess130arranged generally aligned with the central axis of the base plate. The recess130generally corresponds in at least the width dimension to the width of a load bearing structure170. The base plate110has an overall, generally rectangular shape when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the base plate plane “P”. In other embodiments, the base plate110present another shape or combination of shapes in the same viewing direction, including circular, ovular, triangular tetrahedral. Y-shaped, etc. Other variations are contemplated and discernable by those of skill in the art.

The upper base section122includes an alignment notch123near the top edge113for visual confirmation of the anchor100placement and orientation on a wall surface. Other embodiments not depicted can feature an alignment notch of some or all of edges114,115, and116. The upper section122is removably coupled to the lower section120through line of weakness127. The line of weakness127may comprise perforations, recesses, apertures, combinations thereof, and other features capable of selectively reducing the structural integrity of a material. The line of weakness127allows the upper section122to be removed from the base plate110before or after the anchor100is secured to a wall surface, providing unfettered access to the load bearing structure170. The upper section122may also be articulated about the line of weakness to improve the strength of the base plate110between the prongs160. The presence of upper section122before insertion may enhance rotational forces available to the user during installation, due in part to the increased height (e.g., the distance between top edge113and bottom edge114) of the base plate110.

The lower base section120includes a pair of curved prongs150proximate the top edge121and a pair of linear shanks160adjacent the bottom edge114. The prongs150and shanks160each extend to an outer end152,162over a length that is generally equal to or less than the thickness of the wallboard to which the anchor would typically be attached. The lengths of both the prongs150and shanks160can be varied to allow selection for a specific thickness of wallboard, with the curved prongs150typically having linear or arc length that is at least twice that of the shanks160. Exemplary anchor100may also be useful without shanks160, but the plurality of insertion points can improve the stability of the anchor100during installation, use, and removal.

The curved prong150can have a fixed radius of curvature, or have varying radii of curvature at various points, either discretely or continuous, along the outer profile of the prong150from the wall-base151to the outer end152. The curvature produces a tip distance “D” from the top edge151aof the prong base151to a plane parallel to the outer end152, with greater curvature producing a greater tip distance D. While not wishing to be bound by theory or relation to gypsum wallboard, it is believed that an increase in tip distance leads to an increase in the weight that may be mounted on the anchor100. In one exemplary embodiment, the tip distance D is about 0.15 inches. In depicted implementations, the prongs150are upwardly curved, in that the end152is closer than the top edge151ato a plane including the top edge113of the base plate110. In other circumstances (SeeFIGS.20-22), one or more prongs may in include a downward curve, in that the end152is closer than the bottom edge151bto a plane including the bottom edge114of the base plate110.

The prongs150may include one or more flat surfaces and may comprise different cross-sectional shapes and combination of shapes (e.g., rectangular, circular, ovular, triangular etc.). For instance, an upper surface of a prong may be rounded, with a planar bottom surface to prevent crack propagation in the wallboard. The flat surface can also aid in the prevention of pullout due to stress concentrations on the wallboard. In the embodiment depicted inFIGS.1-4, each prong150includes opposing, substantially planar side surfaces156, each side surface extending in a plane generally orthogonal to the base plane “P”. In other implementations, one or both edges158of the prong may be serrated.

Each of the prongs150include a height155and a thickness at the base151. The thickness is measured in a direction parallel to the top edge113(e.g., the x-direction) and corresponds to the distance between prong side surfaces156. A comparison of height155to thickness defines a prong aspect ratio. In presently preferred implementations, the aspect ratio is at least 3:1, at least 4:1: at least 5:1. In one exemplary embodiment, the height155can be about 0.10 inches and the thickness can be about 0.022 inches, resulting in a prong aspect ratio of 4.55:1. As further described below, the relatively thin nature of the prongs150reduces the needed insertion force, while the wallboard itself serves to prevent the buckling of the prong150as it is inserted. Relying on the wall to prevent buckling allows for the anchor to hold progressive heavier objects. The curved prongs150can taper in height over all or a portion of the arc length from base151to end152.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, the prong aspect ratio can change the failure mode of the anchor by enhancing the strength of the prong in load-bearing directions (e.g., towards the bottom edge114). The enhanced strength acts against the bending on the prong while the mounting of progressively heavier objects, potentially resulting in the destruction of the wallboard before the prong yields. A relatively high aspect ratio prong can accordingly perform to user expectations for more typical mounting hardware (e.g., nails, screws, etc.) while still reducing the work needed to install.

The shank160forms an angle165with the back surface112of the base. By way of example, angle165(e.g., taken relative to a plane parallel to the frame plane “P”) may be between about 75 degrees and about 90 degrees (such as between about 80 degrees and about 90 degrees or between about 85 degrees and about 90 degrees), though variations are possible. In presently preferred implementations, the shanks160extend generally along a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the frame plane “P”. Without wishing to be bound by theory, providing an excessively acute angle between a shank160and the back surface112tends to shear gypsum wall board. A slightly acute angle (e.g., an angle165of 80 degrees or greater), however, may case insertion of the anchor100and assist in drawing the back surface112substantially parallel to the wall in certain embodiments. A shank may also be oriented at tilt, such that the shank base161is not parallel to either the lower edge114or a side edge115,116(seeFIG.9). The shank base161can also be oriented at least one of parallel to and integral with lower edge114. The shank base161can also be oriented at least one of parallel to and integral with lower edge114. Such orientations may, under certain circumstances, improve the shear holding power of the anchor.

In the illustrated embodiment, and as can be seen particularly clearly fromFIGS.1,3, and4, the prongs150) and shanks160can be formed from a monolithic piece of material that has been bent or otherwise articulated at select locations to form both base plate section120, prongs150, and shanks160). Thus, each of the prongs150) and shanks160include at least one section that is integral and substantially coplanar with a side edge115,116of the frame110). In other embodiments, one or more of the prongs and shanks may be soldered, welded, or otherwise attached to the back surface112of the frame110at an edge115,116or other location spaced from the recess130. Any of the prongs150) and shanks160may be previously articulated when provided to a user, or the user may opt to bend each of the wall-penetrating components to the user's liking.

As depicted, both the prongs150and shanks160extend to coplanar endpoints, and prongs150) each include the same radius of curvature. In alternative embodiments, either of the prongs150) may be offset from the other along the length of the respective edge115,116, such that one prong base151is nearer to the top edge113than the other. Furthermore, the base plate110may include one or more prongs in addition to the depicted pair of prongs150): such additional prong(s) may feature the same or different radius of curvature, prong aspect ratio, outer end plane, length, or position alongside a side edge115,116or back surface112of the base plate110. The additional prongs may increase the weight hanging capabilities of the anchor but may result in additional damage to a wall surface on installation.

A load bearing projection170) extends outward from the front surface111of the base plate110. The load bearing projection170) as depicted is a hook including a base172. The loading bearing structure used on the plate110) may instead include a button, a ledge, a shank, or any number of load bearing structures used to hang articles. Furthermore, an anchor100may include two or more load bearing structures aligned along a longitudinal axis, a latitudinal axis, or both. In other embodiments, the front face of the base plate may feature a layer of adhesive (described in further detail below). As can be seen inFIGS.3and4, the projection170) is disposed on the front face111such that the hook base172is located above the bottom edge151aof the prong base151. It should be appreciated, however, that the projection170may be placed at any desired location on the front face111, though such placements may reduce the shear holding capacity of the anchor and limit the type of objects that may be mounted thereon.

Like the prongs150) and shanks160, the load bearing projection170can be formed from a monolithic piece of material that has been bent or otherwise articulated at select locations to form both base plate section120) and the load bearing structure170. As depicted, the hook170) can be created by cutting (e.g., die stamping, laser cutting, etc.) a portion of the base plate110along a path to form a hook outline, which can then be folded in the direction of top edge113to form the projection.

Referring toFIG.4, one method for attaching the wall anchor100to a substantially vertical surface is illustrated. In a first step, the upper plate section122is positioned at the desired location of the wall, optionally using the alignment groove123. The anchor100is rotated about 45-60 degrees so that the outer end152of each curved prong150extends horizontally toward the wall, with the outer point152at a desired entry point. Force is applied in direction orthogonal to the front face111of the lower section120, preferably at a location on the front face111between the curved prongs150. The orthogonal force applied results in the anchor rotating about the upper edge113the outer end152of the prongs250penetrating the wallboard. Further rotation results in the remaining length of the prong being driven into the wallboard, followed by the insertion of the shanks160until the back surface112of the base plate110is generally flush with the wall. Optionally, the upper section122may then be removed along the line of weakness127. Notably, the hook base172remains substantially aligned with or spaced above the insertion point of the prong ends152on the wall.

An object may be secured on the load bearing projection170before or after the anchor100has been inserted into the wall. Once an object is on the hook170, it has a weight180that creates a force moment in the rotational direction away from the wall and downward. This translates to the force181that provides a bias or urging outwardly of the curved prong150. This force also operates about the lowest edge114of the anchor100, which functions as a pivot. The smaller the distance between the curved prong150and the pivot point, the greater the force181urging the anchor out of the wall. As can be seen with anchor100, however, this force is distributed through the core of the wallboard above the curved prong150. Having the force distributed above the prong150presents a considerable amount of material for the prong to tear through. Accordingly, the anchor100is less likely to dislodge from the wall or cause considerable damage to the wallboard.

For removal, the base plate may be lifted upwards by the lower section121. The upper edge113(or121, if upper section122is removed) naturally pivots upon itself and the anchor is dislodged as the outer ends152of the prongs150exit the wall. The lower section120may feature structures at the lower edge113to assist removal, such as a boss190that can be engaged with a screwdriver, key or other implement (seeFIG.9) or a hinged tab192that may be engaged by a human finger (seeFIG.10).

In presently preferred implementations, the anchor is made of a metal containing material, however, it can be appreciated that other suitable materials can be used. The anchor100is typically made from a resilient metal or metal alloy, such as stainless steel, titanium, cobalt-chromium alloy (such as manufactured by Elgiloy Specialty Metals, Elgin, IL), or a shape-memory alloy such as an alloy of nickel and titanium (e.g., Nitinol). Preferably, the anchor100is sufficiently resilient so that the shape when relaxed does not significantly change during the course of mounting an object. As another option, the anchor100could be made from any other resilient material known to one skilled in the art, such as a flexible polymer or composite material. Moreover, although the anchor100is specifically discussed as mountable on a wall of gypsum wallboard, it can be utilized with walls of other materials or to secure an object to something other than a wall.

Turning toFIGS.5-8, another embodiment of a wall anchor200according to the present disclosure is depicted. The wall anchor200includes a base plate210including a front surface211opposing a back, wall-facing surface212. A pair of upwardly curved prongs250extend from each side edge215,216(seeFIG.6) in direction generally orthogonal to the back surface212. The base210includes a lower section220and an upper section222connected at a line of weakness226. The sections220and222are typically coplanar and include front surfaces residing in a plane “P”. It is to be understood that many other aspects of anchor200may have similar form and function to those described with respect to anchor100and these need not be repeated.

In a slight departure from the anchor100, the lower section220includes a fixed region226, a taper227, and a tab228that is pivotally moveable relative to the fixed region228. The tab228features a smaller width228athan that of the fixed region228, allowing the tab228to flex about a hinge axis229within the taper227. In alternative embodiments, the tab228may be coupled to the fixed region227by one or more hinge pins or living hinges.

To use anchor200, a user selects the desired position on the wall to support an object. Next, force is applied in direction orthogonal to the front face211of the upper section222. The orthogonal force applied results in the upper section222rotating about the upper edge213and continues until the outer end of the prongs250to penetrate the wallboard. Further rotation results in the remaining length of the prong250being driven into the wall until upper section222and the majority of fixed region226are flush with the vertical surface of the wall. The tab228pivots in a direction away from the wall along the hinge axis229. The user then applies force orthogonal to the front face of the tab229to drive the shanks260into the wall.

The two-step process detailed above can help, under typical conditions, to ensure that the curved prongs250are rotated into the wall instead of directly pressed. Rotation of the prongs250into wall reduces the ability of the prong250to extract via the original insertion path. The flexing of the tab228inhibits the application of force over the entire front face211of the base plate210, which may be sufficient to guide the user to properly rotate the upper section222. Furthermore, the size of the fixed region226can subtly suggest the preferred surface for application of pressure.

Yet another embodiment of a wall anchor300according to the present disclosure is depicted inFIGS.11-13. The wall anchor300includes a base plate310and an insert plate330pivotally coupled to the base plate310at hinge segments329adjacent the top edge313of the base plate310. The base plate includes a front surface311, a back surface312, a bottom edge314, and side edges315,316. Both the front311and back surfaces312are substantially planar, with the front surface311residing in a frame plane “P”. It is to be understood that many other aspects of anchor300may have similar form and function to those described with respect to anchors100and200, and these need not be repeated.

The base plate310includes two insertion guides340spaced across the width of the plate310, with each insertion guide adjacent a side edge315,316. The insertion guides340include an aperture extending through the thickness of the plate310. The aperture is dimensioned to allow a curved prong350on the insert plate310to reach the intended wall surface and continue its journey through the wallboard until the base351of the prong is generally parallel to the wall.

The insert plate330includes a front surface331, a back surface332, a top edge333, and a bottom edge334. A pair of legs337extends upwardly from the top edge333and couples the insert plate330to the hinge segment329. The legs337feature a considerably smaller width than that of the insert plate body, allowing the leg337to flex about a hinge axis at the hinge segment229. In alternative embodiments, the leg337may be coupled to the base plate310by one or more hinge pins or like structures.

The insert plate330includes a pair of curved prongs350, each extending from one of the side edges315,316, and a pair of linear shanks360adjacent to the distal, bottom edge314. The top edge351aof the prong base351is spaced from the hinge segment329at a distance equal to or less than the distance between the upper boundary341of the guide340and the hinge segment329. This spacing can ensure the curved prong350enjoys a full, unimpeded path of travel through the aperture during use. Further, the hinge segment229can be located at the radial center of an arc defined by the curved prong, which can help ensure that the prongs350are inserted along an appropriate curved path.

The top361aof the shank base361is spaced from the lower edge351bof the prong base351at a distance greater than the distance between the lower boundary342of the guide340and the bottom edge314of the base plate310: ensuring that the shank360is received in the wall at location below or otherwise spaced from the base plate310. In alternative implementations, the base plate310may feature another set of insertion guides for the shanks360.

The insert plate330includes a deployed load bearing projection370) and additional load bearing tabs372,374that a maintained in coplanar relation with the insert plate plane “I”. The wall anchor may also be provided to a user with all load bearing structures370,372,374as tabs maintained in the plane “I”, allowing the user to choose the location of the deployed load bearing structure by bending or otherwise articulating one or more of the tabs in the direction of top edge313. Once bent to the desired orientation, the tab may serve as a hook or other load bearing structure for mounting the desired object. In some embodiments, some or all of the tab or load bearing projection may be removable by a user before or after deployment.

A back surface310of the base plate310can include an adhesive construction for temporarily securing the insert plate330to a wall surface. For example, the back surface may be coupled to a Command™ Adhesive Strip or a Command™ Picture Hanging Strip, both available from 3M Company. In some embodiments, the adhesive construction can include a pressure sensitive adhesive and a backing, while in other embodiments the adhesive construction includes only a continuous or discontinuous layer of pressure sensitive adhesive. A general description of useful pressure sensitive adhesives may be found in the Encyclopedia of Polymer Science and Engineering, Vol. 13. Wiley-Interscience Publishers (New York, 1988). Additional description of useful pressure-sensitive adhesives may be found in the Encyclopedia of Polymer Science and Technology. Vol. 1. Interscience Publishers (New York. 1964). Pressure sensitive adhesive compositions are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art to possess properties including the following: (1) tack. (2) adherence with no more than finger pressure. (3) sufficient ability to hold onto an adherend, and (4) sufficient cohesive strength to be cleanly removable from the adherend. Materials that have been found to function well as pressure sensitive adhesives are polymers designed and formulated to exhibit the requisite viscoelastic properties resulting in a desired balance of tack, peel adhesion, and shear holding power. Suitable PSAs may be based on crosslinked or non-crosslinked (meth)acrylics, rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, silicones, polyurethanes, and the like, and may include tackifiers in order to provide the desired tac, as well as other additives. In some embodiments, the PSA is based on a (meth)acrylic PSA or at least one poly(meth)acrylate, where (meth)acrylate refers to both acrylate and methacrylate groups. In some embodiments, the PSA is an olefin block copolymer-based adhesive.

The adhesive construction used on the insert plate330maybe peelable or stretch releasable. In embodiments featuring a stretch releasable construction, the construction can be removed from a surface by stretching it at an angle of less than 35°. In embodiments featuring a peel-releasable construction, the adhesive can be removed from a wall surface by stretching it an angle of 35° or greater. In some embodiments, the releasable adhesive may be removed by a combination of stretch and peel-release mechanisms.

An insert plate330featuring one or more stretch release adhesive constructions can include, for example, any of the adhesives and constructions described in any of the following patents: U.S. Pat. No. 5,516,581 (Kreckel et al.); U.S. Pat. No. 6,231,962 (Bries et al.): U.S. Pat. No. 7,078,093 (Sheridan et al.): U.S. Pat. No. 6,395,389 (Lühmann et al.); and US Patent Publication No. 2016/0068722 (Schmitz-Stapela et al.), all of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

An insert350featuring one or more peelable adhesive constructions can include, for example, any of the adhesives and constructions described in any of the following patent applications: International Publication Nos. 2015/035556, 2015/035960. U.S. Patent Application No. 2015/034104, and PCT Application Nos. US2017/015163 and US2017/014733, all of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

The adhesive construction may further include one or more release liners. The release liner can be, for example, on either or both of major surfaces of the adhesive layers. The release liner protects the adhesive during manufacturing, transit, and before use. When the user desires to use the adhesive construction, the user can peel or remove the release liner to expose the adhesive. Examples of suitable liners include paper. e.g., kraft paper, or polymeric films, e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene or polyester.

The use of a removable adhesive on the base plate310allows for a user to adjust the position of the base plate310before committing to the location of the anchor300or otherwise puncturing the wall. To use anchor assembly300, a user first removes any release liner from the adhesive construction on the base plate310. The base plate310is then placed at the desired location and secured to the wall surface using finger pressure in the direction of the wall. Once the user is satisfied with the location of the base plate310, force is applied in direction orthogonal to the front face331of the insert plate330. The orthogonal force applied results in the anchor rotating about the hinge segment329and the outer end352of the prongs350penetrating the wallboard. Further rotation results in the remaining length of the prongs350being driven into the wallboard, followed by the insertion of the shanks360until the back surface332of the insert plate330is generally flush with the front surface311of the base plate310.

Turning toFIGS.14-17, another pivotable wall anchor assembly400is depicted. The wall anchor assembly includes a base plate410) pivotally coupled to two insert plates at opposing hinge segment428and429: upper insert plate430) and lower insert plate440. Each insert plate430,440includes a pair of curved prongs450,460, respectively. It is to be understood that many other aspects of anchor400may have similar form and function to those described with respect to anchors100and200, and these need not be repeated.

The upper insert plate430) includes prongs450) curving in the direction of hinge segment429. The prongs450) are located on the side edges435,436of the upper plate430at a location near the distal edge434of the plate. The prongs450are spaced across the distal edge434such that the distance between the prongs is greater than the width of the base plate410. In other embodiments, the base plate may feature guides similar to those of wall anchor assembly300, with guides spaced to receive the prongs450. The distal edge434also includes an upper segment470aof a load bearing projection470. The distance between the hinge segment429and the distal edge434is approximately equal to the distance between the hinge segment429and the latitudinal center axis419of the base plate410.

The lower insert plate440) includes prongs460curving in the direction of hinge segment228, or downward relative to the prongs450. The prongs460are located on the side edges445,446of the lower plate440) at a location near the distal edge444of the plate. The prongs460) are spaced across the distal edge444such that the distance between the prongs is greater than the width of the base plate410. The distal edge444also includes a lower segment470bof a load bearing projection470). The distance between the hinge segment428and the distal edge444is approximately equal to or less than the distance between the hinge segment428and the latitudinal center axis419of the base plate410.

Due in part to the existence of two sets of curved prongs450,460, the wall anchor assembly may be secured to the wall with hinge segment428,429oriented either vertically or horizontally. The dual orientation can allow a user to adapt to various space constraints where a vertical orientation may not be tenable. The back surface412of the base plate410may also feature a removable adhesive construction, similar to base plate310. The wall anchor assembly400can also be used to produce faint markings on the wall with prong outer ends452,462, allowing a user to judge position and orientation of the assembly on the wall surface without fully committing to insert the prongs450,460. Once a commitment has been made, the user may rotate both the upper and lower insert plates to insert the prongs450,460until the insert plates430,440are generally flush with the base plate410and the loading bearing segments470a.470bcombine to provide a load bearing structure470.

While depicted as having two insert plates430,440, the assembly400may features three or more insert plates pivotably coupled to base plate410. The additional insert plates may be arranged in rows, columns, grids, or radial arrays, as some non-limiting examples. Some or all the additional insert plates can be arranged in opposing pairs: in other embodiments some or all may feature a discrete orientation with respect to the other plates. Some or all the additional insert plates may include load bearing segments that combine to form a load bearing structure, including in combination with a load bearing segment on the base plate.

Another solution allowing for temporary markings using the wall anchors described herein is depicted inFIGS.18and19. A wall anchor according to the present disclosure like wall anchor100may be provided with a pillow500. The pillow500has an initial thickness520that is related to the base to end length159of a curved prong150; the thickness520can be less than, equal, or greater than the end length159depending on the compressibility of the pillow500. The width530of the pillow is typically configured to be equal to or less than the spacing width between prongs150, allowing the prongs150to straddle the pillow and the back surface of the anchor to abut the front surface511of the pillow500during use. In other implementations, the width530may be greater than the spacing between prongs150, with the pillow500compressible in the width direction or including apertures to receive the prongs150. The back surface512of the pillow500may be provided with an adhesive construction, as described above.

The pillow500may include a compressible material that reduces in volume upon application of light finger pressure (e.g., 0.2 to 1.5 MPa). The ratio of the compressed volume/initial volume (i.e., compressibility) will vary depending on the compressible material used. As used herein, compressible materials can include elastic and/or inelastic materials, depending on whether the material substantially rebounds after removal of application forces. The material can include any components that permit it to have the desired properties. Exemplary materials include foams (e.g., polymeric foams including, for example, cellulose foams, glass foams, polymeric foams, and combinations thereof), sponges, nonwoven fabrics, glass fibers (e.g., glass wool), ceramic fibers, cotton fibers, cellulose fibers, felt, rubber, woven mats, nonwoven mats, scrims, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the pillow can be plastic, metal, composite, or any other material or materials capable of being manufactured to the desired specifications. The pillow500may be a single continuous layer of material or may include multiple materials arranged in one or more layers.

The pillow500may also be collapsible, in that the deformation through the thickness in the direction of the wall is substantially permanent. Suitable collapsible materials include corrugated cardboard, collapsible foam, and other material including at least partially destructible voids. The pillow can also feature one or more biasing elements including, but not limited to, deflected beams, leaf springs, flat springs, hinged springs, compression springs (e.g., standard, conical, etc.), torsion springs (e.g., single, double, etc.), extension springs, barrel springs, and the like.

The use of the pillow500allows for a user to adjust the position of the wall anchor the before committing to the location of the anchor500or otherwise puncturing the wall, as the thickness acts as a spacer between prong body and the wallboard. To use pillow500, a user first removes any release liner from the adhesive construction, if present. The pillow500and anchor100are then placed at the desired location and secured to the wall surface using finger pressure (or its rough equivalent) in the direction of the wall. Once the user is satisfied with the location of the pillow500, light finger pressure is applied to the front face111, which causes the pillow500to compress and the outer ends152of the prongs150to pierce the wall board. The user may then separate the anchor from the pillow and remove the pillow from the wall if adhesively secured.

A wall anchor1000according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted inFIGS.20-22. Unless specifically noted, the considerations and elements of anchor1000are the same as anchor100and need not be repeated here. The wall anchor1000includes a base plate1010presenting a generally rectangular shape (as seen inFIG.22). The base plate1010includes a front surface1011opposing a back, wall-facing surface1012, a top edge1013, a bottom edge1014, and opposing side edges1015,1016connecting the top and bottom edges1013,1014to define an outer plate perimeter. A pair of downwardly curved prongs1050extend from each side edge1015,1016in direction generally orthogonal to the back surface1012. The prongs1050extend to an outer end that can be tapered to case insertion when pressed into wall board. The wall anchor1000(or a plurality of wall anchors1000) may also be pivotally coupled to a base plate (not shown), as described above.

The insertion and removal methods for wall anchor1000(and other anchors featuring downwardly curved prongs) is essentially the inverse of the method depicted inFIG.4, in that the anchor is rotated about an axis nearer the bottom edge1013to insert and disengage prongs1050.

Any of the wall anchors and assemblies describe above may be provided in a kit with other anchors of the same or different size, as well as one or more pillows and/or other placement tools. The kit may further include a removal strip2000of the type depicted with anchor1000inFIGS.23-25. The removal strip2000is designed to be positioned between the anchor1000or anchor assembly and a mounting surface. The removal strip2000includes a wall-facing portion2010and a tab2050. The wall-facing portion2010includes a front surface2011, a back surface2012, a top edge2013, a bottom edge2014, and side edges2015,2016. The front surface2011may include an adhesive, typically protected by a release liner until use (not shown), for securing the removal strip to the rear surface1012of the anchor1000.

The wall-facing portion2010includes two insertion guides2040spaced across its width, with each insertion guide adjacent a side edge2015,2016. The insertion guides2040include an aperture extending through the thickness of the removal strip2000. The aperture is dimensioned to receive a curved prong1050on from the anchor1000to reach the intended mounting surface. While two insertion guides2040are depicted, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the removal strip2000can have a number of insertion guides corresponding to the number of prongs and/or shanks on a mating wall anchor. In addition to the insertion guides2040, the wall-facing portion can include an alignment notch2042on the bottom edge2013to aid in position of the anchor1000on the front surface2013.

The tab2050extends from top edge2013of the wall-facing portion2010, and typically includes a width less than the width of the wall facing-portion as measured between side edges2015and2016. The tab2050includes a front surface2051and is foldable along a bending axis at or adjacent the top edge2013of the wall-facing portion2010. The front surface2051may include an adhesive, typically protected by a release liner until use (not shown), for securing the tab2050to the front surface1011of the anchor1000. The tab2050further includes an aperture2054dimensioned to receive the load bearing structure1070when the tab2050is folded over the bending axis and positioned adjacent the front face1011of the anchor1000. Accordingly, the length of the tab2050is typically commensurate with or greater than the length of the wall-facing portion2010as measured between the top and bottom edges2013,2014.

To use the removal strip2000in cooperation with the anchor1000(or other anchors and assemblies of the present disclosure), the user first removes any release liner from the front surface2011of the wall-facing portion2010. The prongs1050are inserted through the guides2040and the anchor1000is aligned on the front surface of the wall-facing portion2010such that the bottom edges1014,2014are generally in parallel. The front face2011is then adhered or brought adjacent to the rear surface1012of the anchor1000. The tab2050is then folded about the bending axis and secured to the front face of the wall anchor1000. The assembled film2000and anchor1000can then be secured to the wall and use to mount an object as set out above. The film2000remains with the anchor1000while the object is mounted on the load bearing structure1070.

Once the user wishes to remove the anchor1000from the mounting surface, the tab2050may be disengaged from the front surface1011. The tab2050may then be pulled in a direction generally orthogonal to the front surface1011to disengage the prongs1050from the mounting surface.

The removal strip can possess a single layer or a multilayer construction. Materials forming the removal strip can include paper, natural or synthetic polymer films, nonwovens made from natural and/or synthetic fibers and combinations thereof, fabric reinforced polymer films, fiber or yarn reinforced polymer films or nonwovens, fabrics such as woven fabric formed of threads of synthetic or natural materials. The removal strip may also be formed of metal, metallized polymer films, or ceramic sheet materials in combination with at least one of the above. In some embodiments, the removal strip is a multilayered film having two or more layers: in some such embodiments the layers are laminated. For example, the removal strip can be formed of a foam, a film, or a combination thereof with any suitable thickness, composition, and opaqueness or clarity. The removal strip may be die-cut or laser cut from a unitary piece of material, or the tab may be joined to wall-facing portion via adhesive or mechanical bonding.

The wall anchors and assemblies of the present disclosure can be used even in instances where the object does not include a wire but instead includes a different backing hardware configuration. Exemplary backing hardware configurations include, but are not limited to, a “D”-ring, saw-tooth, key-hole hangers, etc.

The wall anchors of the present disclosure may be used to mount myriad items and objects to surfaces such as painted drywall, plaster, concrete, glass, ceramic, fiberglass, metal or plastic. Items that can be mounted include, but are not limited to, wall hangings, organizers, holders, baskets, containers, decorations (e.g., holiday decorations), calendars, posters, dispensers, wire clips, guitars, floating shelves, curtain rods, heavy-duty hooks, brackets, wall sconces, and carrying handles.

EMBODIMENTS

1. A wall anchor comprising: a base plate including opposing front and back surfaces, a top edge, a bottom edge and two opposing side edges: and a curved prong having a base, wherein the prong extends outwardly along an arc to a wall-penetrating outer end, and wherein the base of the prong is integral with one of the opposing side edges.

2 The wall anchor of embodiment 1, wherein the base of the prong is adjacent the top edge.

3. The wall anchor of embodiments 1 and 2, and further comprising a hook, and wherein the bottom of the hook is disposed in a plane parallel to or above a top edge of the base of the prong.

4. The wall anchor of embodiments 1-3, wherein the base of the prong has a height measured along the side edge and a thickness measured along the top edge, and wherein the height is a least twice the thickness.

5. The wall anchor of embodiment 4, wherein the height is at least three times the thickness.

6. The wall anchor of embodiment 5, wherein the height is at least four times the thickness.

7. The wall anchor of embodiments 1-6, wherein the base plate includes a fixed region and a tab, and wherein the tab is pivotable relative to the fixed region.

8. The wall anchor of any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the prong curves upwardly in the direction of the top edge.

9. The wall anchor of any one of embodiments 1-8 and further including a second curved prong extending outwardly along an arc to an outer end.

10. The wall anchor of embodiment 8, wherein the outer end of the first prong and the outer end of the second prong are coplanar.

11. The wall anchor of embodiment 10, wherein each prong curves upwardly in the direction of the top edge of the base plate.

12. The mounting apparatus of any one of embodiments 1-11, and further comprising a pillow.

13. The wall anchor of embodiment 12, wherein the pillow comprises a compressible material.

14. The mounting apparatus of embodiments 12-13, wherein the sacrificial pillow has an initial thickness, and wherein the pillow thickness is greater than a length of the prong.

15. The wall anchor of any one of embodiments 12-14, wherein a major surface of the pillow includes an adhesive construction.

16. The wall anchor of embodiment 1, and further including a shank disposed adjacent the bottom edge.

17. The wall anchor of embodiment 16, wherein the base of the shank is colinear with the base of the prong.

18. A wall anchor assembly comprising: a base plate a first insertion plate pivotally coupled to the base plate and including a proximal edge, a distal edge, and opposing side edges, the insertion plate further including a curved prong having a base, wherein the prong extends outwardly along an arc to a wall-penetrating outer end, and wherein the base of the prong is coincident with one of the opposing side edges.

19. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 18, wherein the base plate includes opposing first and second major surfaces, and wherein the first major surface includes an adhesive construction disposed thereon.

20. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 18, wherein the base plate is pivotally coupled to the insertion plate at a first hinge segment.

21. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 20, wherein the first hinge segment is disposed proximate a top edge of the base plate and a proximal edge of the insertion plate.

22. The wall anchor assembly of embodiments 18-21, wherein the base plate includes a guide aperture dimensioned for receipt of the prong.

23. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 18-22, wherein the base of the prong has a height measured along the side edge and a thickness measured along the top edge, and wherein the height is a least twice the thickness.

24. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 23, wherein the height is at least three times the thickness.

25. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 18, wherein the prong curves upwardly in the direction of the proximal edge.

26. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 18 and further including a second curved prong extending outwardly along an arc to an outer end.

27. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 26, wherein the outer end of the first prong and the outer end of the second prong are coplanar.

28. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 26, wherein the base of the second prong is integral with one of the opposing side edges.

29. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 28, wherein the base of the second prong is integral with the side edge opposite the side edge integral with the first prong base.

30. The wall anchor assembly of embodiments 18-29 and further comprising a second insertion plate pivotally coupled to the base plate and including a proximal edge, a distal edge, and opposing side edges, the second insertion plate further including a second curved prong having a base, wherein the prong extends outwardly along an arc to a wall-penetrating outer end, and wherein the base of the prong is coincident with one of the opposing side edges of the second insertion plate.

31. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 30, and wherein the base plate is pivotally coupled to the second insertion plate at a second hinge segment, and where second hinge segment is disposed adjacent the bottom edge of the base plate opposite the first hinge segment.

32. The wall anchor assembly of embodiment 31, wherein the second hinge segment is disposed proximate a bottom edge of the base plate and a proximal edge of the second insertion plate.

33. The wall anchor assembly of embodiments 31-32, wherein the second curved prong curves downwardly toward the second hinge segment.

34. The wall anchor assembly of any one of embodiments 31-33, wherein each insertion plate is rotatable in the direction of the base plate to insert the curved prongs into a wall material.

35. The wall anchor assembly of embodiments 31-34, wherein the assembly is adjustable between an open state and a closed state, and wherein the first and second insertion plates include rear surfaces residing in planes substantially parallel to a front surface of the base plate in the closed state.

The patents, patent documents, and patent applications cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety as if each were individually incorporated by reference. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without deviating from the inventing concepts set from above. Thus, the scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the structures described herein. Those having skill in the art will appreciate that many changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments and implementations without departing from the underlying principles thereof. Further, various modifications and alterations of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the present application should, therefore, be determined only by the following embodiments and equivalents thereof.