Patent ID: 12234945

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The figures illustrate an exemplary implementation of an assembly including a mounting portion and an implement-retaining portion. Based on the foregoing, it is to be generally understood that the nomenclature used herein is simply for convenience and the terms used to describe the invention should be given the broadest meaning by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Referring toFIGS.1-6, an assembly including a rotatably-adjustable, self-boring mount for fixtures may include a hollow, deformable, dome-shaped base element11made of a thermoplastic material. In some examples, the base element11may be defined by a ratio in which the ratio of the width of the base element11to the height of the base element11can be between 4 inches and 8 inches. In another example, a diameter of the base element11may be between 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches. A self-boring, screw element12may be attached to the underside of the base element11. In some implementations, the base element11includes a convex, fixture-supporting topside portion9, a concave, substrate-facing, underside portion3opposite the topside portion9, a generally cylindrical or frustoconical hub4extending perpendicularly away from a center of the underside portion3, and a substrate-engaging portion defined by a circumferential edge2of the base element11. A plurality of protuberances1(which may alternatively be referred to as a “detents” or “nubs”) extends away from the circumferential edge2. Each detent1may be defined by a hemispherical shape and a base diameter that is less than or equal to a width of the circumferential edge2. The protuberances1may be uniformly spaced-apart along the circumferential edge2. The detents1provide additional friction between the circumferential edge2and an underlying substrate in order to prevent unintentional rotation of the base element11. The generally cylindrical or frustoconical hub4may be defined by a flat lower surface. When arranged adjacent an underlying substrate, the lower surface of the generally cylindrical or frustoconical hub4prevent the screw element12to further penetration of the underlying substrate, which, in turn, prevents an excessive deformation of base element11. The screw element12may include a non-circular head portion5(e.g., a hex head, a thumb-screw head or the like) that resists twisting when embedded in the base element11, a shaft with a threaded portion8, an optional non-threaded portion10, and a pointed substrate-engaging tip6with sharp threads to facilitate self-boring penetration of the underlying substrate and fixation to the underlying substrate with sufficient grip to compress the circumferential edge2against the underlying substrate in order to effectuate a counteracting elastic deformation of the dome-shaped base element11. The non-circular head portion5is rigidly embedded in the generally cylindrical or frustoconical hub4. The threaded portion8may have a thread density between approximately about 10-to-16 threads per inch. The treaded portion8and the non-threaded portion10(which may be collectively referred to as the “shank” of the screw element) may be optionally tapered. The top 6 of the screw element12may be optionally defined as a self-tapping tip and/or a self-drilling tip. The length of the screw element12may be any desirable length between about, for example, 0.5 inches and 1.5 inches. A fixture such as a conduit holder7may be attached to the topside portion9of the base element11.

Because the base element11may be rigidly attached to the screw element12, a force applied to the fixture7in a plane substantially perpendicular to an axis extending along the length of the screw element12is counteracted by a force exerted upon the underlying substrate by the circumferential edge2of the elastically deformable, spring-like base element11; this spring-like quality imparts additional strength to the overall assembly while: (1) the screw element12still permits quick and easy installation, and (2) the spring-like quality of base element11permits 360° rotation of the assembly while maintaining uniform pressure against the underlying substrate, thereby preserving strength regardless of the rotational positioning of the assembly.

Another assembly including a rotatably-adjustable, self-boring mount for fixtures is shown atFIGS.7-10. The assembly illustrated atFIGS.7-10is substantially similar to the assembly illustrated atFIGS.1-6with the exception that a self-boring, single screw (see e.g., screw element12ofFIGS.1-6) is not insert-molded into the base element (see e.g., screw element11ofFIGS.1-6). Rather, a countersunk hole13is provided into which a separate, self-boring, single screw may be inserted and seated. In some instances, the hole13may be bored through an axial center of the base element11and the generally cylindrical or frustoconical hub4. The hole13may be defined by a wider, optionally conical and tapered upper portion14and a narrower lower portion15such that a screw (not shown and supplied separately) including a head portion and a narrower shaft portion can be inserted into the hole with the bottom of said head portion seated against the surface formed by the junction of the wider upper portion14and the narrower lower portion15of the hole13. In some examples, the head portion may be narrower than the diameter of the wider upper portion14of the hole13, but wider than the diameter of the narrower lower portion15of the hole13. In other examples, the upper portion of the hole13is conical and tapered. The assembly may be affixed to an underlying substrate with a separately-supplied screw (not shown).

The assembly depicted inFIGS.1-6and the assembly depicted inFIGS.7-10may be interfaced with a conduit holder that is attached to the top portion9of the rotatable base element11. However, the implementations of the assemblies disclosed respectively atFIGS.1-6andFIGS.7-10are exemplary uses. Accordingly, other assemblies may include different holders, fixtures, hooks, anchors, or cleats (rather than a conduit holder).

In some examples, the screw element12may be defined by a 1.5″ steel screw element that is insert-molded with a 2″ diameter base element11formed from polypropylene in an injection-molding machine. Typically, the wall thickness of base element11(i.e. the distance between the convex, fixture-supporting topside portion9and the concave, substrate-facing, underside portion3) is uniform. An exemplary wall thickness (when, for example, the base element11is defined by a 2″ diameter and formed from polypropylene) may be 0.093 inches. In other examples, the base element11may be made of any elastic material so long as the wall thickness of the base element11is adjusted correlatively to produce a similar modulus of flexibility. In the embodiment described above atFIGS.1-6, the generally cylindrical or frustoconical hub4extends from the center of the underside portion3of the base element11in the direction of the underlying substrate along the axis of the screw element12at a distance less than the furthest extent of the nubs1on the circumferential edge2by 150% of the thread pitch of the screw element12; this relationship between the lower extent of the base element11and the lower extent of the generally cylindrical or frustoconical hub4permits the base element11to rotate 360° while maintaining contact between the nubs1and the underlying substrate, yet avoids excessive deformation of the base element11by over-penetration of the screw element12into the underlying substrate.

FIGS.11A-13,14F and14F′ illustrate an exemplary assembly shown generally at100. The assembly100includes a mounting portion112and an implement-retaining portion114. The mounting portion112removably-secures the assembly100to an underlying substrate S (see, e.g.,FIGS.11A-11B), such as, for example, a tree, drywall, a wall stud or the like. The implement-retaining portion114removably-secures an implement (e.g., an article of clothing such as a hat, a smart phone, a camera, or the like—not shown) to the assembly100. As will become apparent in the following disclosure, the mounting portion112provides mating structure (e.g., a plurality of male-receiving portions128as seen inFIG.12) that acts as a universal interface that permits attachment of a variety of different implement-retaining portions114(see e.g.,FIGS.21-24) each having a mating structure (e.g., a plurality of male portions138as seen inFIG.12) that corresponds to the mating structure of the mounting portion112.

As seen inFIG.11A, the mounting portion112includes a body portion112aand a substrate-penetrating portion112b. The body portion112amay be further defined by a substrate-engaging portion112a1and an implement retainer interface portion112a2.

Referring toFIGS.11A-11B, when the mounting portion112of the assembly100is removably-secured to the underlying substrate S, the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112amay be disposed adjacent an exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S. Furthermore, when the mounting portion112of the assembly100is removably-secured to the underlying substrate S, the substrate-penetrating portion112bmay be at least partially extended into at least a portion of a thickness of the underlying substrate S.

In some implementations, at least the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be permitted to bend or flex relative to the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. The bending or flexibility of the substrate-engaging portion112a1may result from one or both of, for example, a reduction in a thickness of the substrate-engaging portion112a1and a selection of a non-rigid, flexible material (e.g., polypropylene) utilized for forming the substrate-engaging portion112a1. Accordingly, in some examples, the implement retainer interface portion112a2may be defined by the same material (e.g., polypropylene) as the substrate-engaging portion112a1but formed to be defined by a comparatively greater thickness than that of the substrate-engaging portion112a1(in order to inhibit or resist bending or flexing of the implement retainer interface portion112a2); alternatively, the implement retainer interface portion112a2may be formed from a rigid, non-flexible material such that the mounting portion112is formed in a multi-shot or two-shot injection molding process whereby the substrate-engaging portion112a1is formed from a first, flexible material and the implement retainer interface portion112a2is formed from a second, non-flexible material.

In some examples, the substrate-penetrating portion112bmay be formed from a rigid, non-flexible material (e.g., a metal such as, for example, steel). Furthermore, as seen, for example, inFIGS.13and14A-14I′, the substrate-penetrating portion112bmay be, for example, a self-boring threaded fastener (e.g., a screw) defined by a shaft portion112b1having a sharp distal tip112b2and a threaded portion112b3extending away from the shaft portion112b1.

While the rigidity of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112and the substrate-penetrating portion112bmay result in a more robust assembly100that permits heavier implements to be supported by the assembly100and be secured to the underlying substrate S, the relative flexibility of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112provides a beneficial functionality of the assembly100. For example, when an external force (see, e.g., arrow F inFIG.11B) is directed to one or both of the implement-retaining portion114and the body portion112aof the mounting portion112, the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may flex and partially distribute the externally-applied force F to the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S such that all of the externally-applied force F is not translated to and concentrated upon a head portion112b4(see, e.g.,FIGS.14A-14I) of the substrate-penetrating portion112b. As a result of the partial distribution of the externally-applied force F by the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112, the mounting portion112is less likely to be sheared off from the head portion112b4of the substrate-penetrating portion112bof the assembly100thereby mitigating damage to one or more of the assembly100and the underlying substrate S.

In some instances, the substrate-penetrating portion112bmay be joined to the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112by, for example, arranging the head portion112b4of the substrate-penetrating portion112bwithin a passage, recess or cavity115(see, e.g.,FIGS.14A-14I) formed by the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. In some examples, the substrate-penetrating portion112bmay be arranged within a mold tool (not shown) such that when the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112is formed by material injected into the mold tool, the injected material defining the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be molded over the head portion112b4of the substrate-penetrating portion112bsuch that the head portion112b4forms the recess or cavity115of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. In other examples, the recess or cavity115of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be pre-formed by a mold tool and the head portion112b4of the substrate-penetrating portion112bmay be subsequently inserted into the pre-formed recess or cavity115of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112.

Referring toFIG.12, the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112is shown including a plurality of male-receiving portions128defined by a plurality of female portions130and a plurality of wedging passages132. Furthermore, the implement-retaining portion114is shown including a plurality of male portions138defined by a first wedging portion140, a second wedging portion142and a pair of registration portions144. As seen inFIG.12, a plurality of dashed lines are shown for the purpose of providing an exemplary illustration of the correspondence between the plurality of male-receiving portions128of the mounting portion112and the plurality of male portions138of the implement-retaining portion114. When the plurality of male portions138of the implement-retaining portion114are interfaced with (some but not all of) the male-receiving portions128of the mounting portion112, the assembly100is formed as seen, for example inFIGS.11B,13,14F and14F′. Exemplary steps for assembling the assembly100is shown and described atFIGS.14A-14F; furthermore, steps for disassembling the assembly100is shown and described atFIGS.14G-14I′.

Referring toFIGS.15-17, an implementation of the mounting portion112is described. With reference toFIG.17, the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be defined by: (1) a substrate-mounting surface116that is shaped for contacting the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S and (2) an opposite, non-mounting surface118that is shaped to not contact the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S.

With reference toFIG.17, the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be defined by a neck-portion-engaging surface120that is shaped for contacting a surface (see, e.g.,140a2inFIG.20) of at least one male portion (see, e.g.,140inFIG.20) of the plurality of male portions138of the implement-retaining portion114. Furthermore, the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be further defined by an opposite, implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122that is shaped to contact and/or be arranged opposite a mounting-portion-engaging surface134(see, e.g.,FIGS.18-20) of the implement-retaining portion114.

As seen inFIG.17, each of the non-mounting surface118of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112and the neck-portion-engaging surface120of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be defined by a dome shape. A peak or summit of the dome shape of each of the non-mounting surface118and the neck-portion-engaging surface120are disposed adjacent one another for joining the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112to the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112.

Furthermore, as seen inFIGS.15and17, the substrate-mounting surface116of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be defined by a circumferential engagement lip124that is shaped for contacting the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S. In some instances, the circumferential engagement lip124may be further defined to include a plurality of detents, nubs or protuberances126. When arranged adjacent the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S, the plurality of protuberances126may frictionally engage the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S, thereby resisting an over-rotation R (see, e.g.,FIG.11B) of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112relative the underlying substrate S when the mounting portion112is joined to the underlying substrate S.

With reference toFIG.15, the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112defines a plurality of male-receiving portions128that are respectively sized for being interfaced with the plurality of male portions138extending from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134of the implement-retaining portion114. In an example, the plurality of male-receiving portions128may be defined by a plurality of female portions130and a plurality of wedging passages132.

The plurality of female portions130may be defined by a first pair of female portions130a(including a first female portion130a1of the plurality of female portions130and a second female portion130a2of the plurality of female portions130) and a second pair of female portions130b(including a third female portion130b1of the plurality of female portions130and a fourth female portion130b2of the plurality of female portions130). The plurality of wedging passages132may be defined by a first wedging passage132aand a second wedging passage132b.

The first wedging passage132ais associated with the first pair of female portions130aand is arranged between the first female portion130a1and the second female portion130a2. The second wedging passage132bis associated with the second pair of female portions130band is arranged between the third female portion130b1and the fourth female portion130b2.

As seen inFIGS.15-16, the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be divided into a first (upper) half112a2-1and a second (lower) half112a2-2. The first wedging passage132aand the first pair of female portions130aare defined by the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122and provided by the first half112a2-1of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. The second wedging passage132band the second pair of female portions130bare defined by the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122and provided by the second half112a2-2of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112.

Referring toFIGS.18-20, an implementation of the implement-retaining portion114is described. With reference toFIG.20, the implement-retaining portion114may be defined by: (1) a mounting-portion-engaging surface134that is shaped for being arranged opposite the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112and (2) an opposite, implement-engaging surface136that is shaped for being interfaceable with an implement (e.g., an article of clothing such as a hat, a smart phone, a camera, or the like). As will be described below in the following disclosure atFIGS.21-24, the implement-engaging surface136may include any desirable geometry such as, for example, a flat surface (as seen inFIG.20) with, for example, an adhesive, a storage pocket (see, e.g.,FIGS.21,23), a hook (see e.g.,FIGS.11A-11B,22), a frictional surface defined by bumps (see, e.g.,FIG.24) or the like for retaining an implement (e.g., an article of clothing such as a hat, a smart phone, a camera, or the like) thereto.

With reference toFIGS.18-20, the plurality of male portions138extend away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134. The plurality of male portions138may include a first wedging portion140, a second wedging portion142and a pair of registration portions144(defined by a first registration portion144a1and a second registration portion144a2).

With reference toFIG.20, the first wedging portion140may be defined by a head portion140aand a neck portion140b. The neck portion140bis connected to the head portion140a. The neck portion140bextends away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134.

As seen inFIG.19, the neck portion140bincludes a first side surface140b1and an opposite second side surface140b2that are joined by an intermediate surface140b3. The first side surface140b1and the second side surface140b2may be arranged in a non-parallel, converging relationship. With reference toFIGS.15and16, the first side surface140b1of the neck portion140bis sized for being disposed adjacent a first wall surface132a1defined by the first wedging passage132aor a first wall surface132b1defined by the second wedging passage132b. With continued reference toFIGS.15and16, the second side surface140b2of the neck portion140bis sized for being disposed adjacent a second wall surface132a2defined by the first wedging passage132aor a second wall surface132b2defined by the second wedging passage132b.

Referring toFIG.20, the head portion140aincludes a first surface140a1and an opposite second surface140a2that are joined by an intermediate surface140a3. As seen inFIG.14F, the first surface140a1of the head portion140ais arranged in an opposing relationship with respect to the non-mounting surface118of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112when the assembly100is arranged in an un-biased state; conversely, when an externally-applied force F is applied to the assembly100as described above, the first surface140a1of the head portion140ais sized for being disposed adjacent the non-mounting surface118of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112when an external force F is applied to the assembly100. Furthermore, as seen inFIG.14F, the second surface140a2of the head portion140ais sized for being arranged adjacent the neck-portion-engaging surface120of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112.

With reference toFIGS.18-20, the second wedging portion142is shown extending away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134. As seen inFIG.19, second wedging portion142includes a first side surface142a1and an opposite second side surface142a2that are joined by an intermediate surface142a3. The first side surface142a1and the second side surface142a2may be arranged in a non-parallel, converging relationship. With reference toFIGS.15and16, the first side surface142a1of the second wedging portion142is sized for being disposed adjacent the first wall surface132b1defined by the second wedging passage132bor the first wall surface132a1defined by the first wedging passage132a. With continued reference toFIGS.15and16, the second side surface142a2of the second wedging portion142is sized for being disposed adjacent the second wall surface132b2defined by the second wedging passage132bor the second wall surface132a2defined by the first wedging passage132a. Furthermore, the intermediate surface142a3of the second wedging portion142is sized for being disposed adjacent an intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132bor an intermediate wall surface132a3defined by the first wedging passage132a.

With reference toFIGS.18-20, the first registration portion144a1of the pair of registration portions144is shown extending away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134. As seen inFIG.19, first registration portion144a1includes a first side surface144a1-1and an opposite second side surface144a1-2that are joined by an intermediate surface144a1-3. The first side surface144a1-1and the second side surface144a1-2may be arranged in a non-parallel, converging relationship.

With reference toFIGS.15and16, the first side surface144a1-1of the first registration portion144a1is sized for being disposed adjacent a first wall surface13ba2-1defined by the fourth female portion130b2of the plurality of female portions130or a first wall surface130a1-1defined by the first female portion130a1of the plurality of female portions130. With continued reference toFIGS.15and16, the second side surface144a1-2of the first registration portion144a1is sized for being disposed adjacent a second wall surface130b2-2defined by the fourth female portion130b2of the plurality of female portions130or a second wall surface130a1-2defined by the first female portion130a1of the plurality of female portions130. Furthermore, the intermediate surface144a1-3of the first registration portion144a1is sized for being disposed adjacent an intermediate wall surface130b2-3defined by the fourth female portion130b2of the plurality of female portions130or an intermediate wall surface130a1-3defined by the first female portion130a1of the plurality of female portions130.

With reference toFIGS.18-20, the second registration portion144a2of the pair of registration portions144is shown extending away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134. As seen inFIG.19, second registration portion144a2includes a first side surface144a2-1and an opposite second side surface144a2-2that are joined by an intermediate surface144a2-3. The first side surface144a2-1and the second side surface144a2-2may be arranged in a non-parallel, converging relationship.

With reference toFIGS.15and16, the first side surface144a2-1of the second registration portion144a2is sized for being disposed adjacent a first wall surface130b1-1defined by the third female portion130b1of the plurality of female portions130or a first wall surface130a2-1defined by the second female portion130a2of the plurality of female portions130. With continued reference toFIGS.15and16, the second side surface144a2-2of the second registration portion144a2is sized for being disposed adjacent a second wall surface130b1-2defined by the third female portion130b1of the plurality of female portions130or a second wall surface130a2-2defined by the second female portion130a2of the plurality of female portions130. Furthermore, the intermediate surface144a2-3of the second registration portion144a2is sized for being disposed adjacent an intermediate wall surface130b1-3defined by the third female portion130b1of the plurality of female portions130or an intermediate wall surface130a2-3defined by the second female portion130a2of the plurality of female portions130.

Another exemplary implementation of a plurality of male portions is shown generally at138′ inFIG.18′. The plurality of male portions138′ extend away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134′. The plurality of male portions138′ may include a first wedging portion140′, a second wedging portion142′ and a pair of registration portions144′ (defined by a first registration portion144a1′ and a second registration portion144a2′).

The plurality of male portions138′ may also include a third wedging portion145′ that is aligned with the first wedging portion140′ and the second wedging portion142′. Furthermore, the second wedging portion142′ is located between the first wedging portion140′ and the third wedging portion145′. The third wedging portion145′ may be defined by a substantially cylindrical post that is located within one of the first wedging passage132aand the second wedging passage132bof the plurality of wedging passages132. Furthermore, a distal tip147′ of the third wedging portion145′ may be disposed adjacent the non-mounting surface118of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112in order to provide further stability to the implement-retaining portion114′ when the implement-retaining portion114′ is joined to the mounting portion112.

Furthermore, a head portion140a′ of the first wedging portion140′ includes a first surface140a1′ that may define a recess or groove149′. The recess or groove149′ may be sized for receiving a projection146a,146b(see, e.g.,FIGS.16-17) extending from the non-mounting surface118of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. Each projection146a,146bmay be respectively aligned with the first wedging passage132aand the second wedging passage132bof the plurality of wedging passages132formed by the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. Registration of one of the projections146a,146bwithin the recess or groove149′ provides further stability to the implement-retaining portion114′ when the implement-retaining portion114′ is joined to the mounting portion112.

Another exemplary implementation of a plurality of male portions is shown generally at138″ inFIG.18″. The plurality of male portions138″ extend away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134″. The plurality of male portions138″ may include a first wedging portion140″, a second wedging portion142″ and a pair of registration portions144″ (defined by a first registration portion144a1″ and a second registration portion144a2″).

The plurality of male portions138″ may also include a third wedging portion145″ that is aligned with the first wedging portion140″ and the second wedging portion142″. Furthermore, the second wedging portion142″ is located between the first wedging portion140″ and the third wedging portion145″. The third wedging portion145″ may be defined by a substantially cylindrical post that is located within one of the first wedging passage132aand the second wedging passage132bof the plurality of wedging passages132. Furthermore, a distal tip147″ of the third wedging portion145″ may be defined by a substantially oval-shaped member having a front surface1471″ and a rear surface1472″. The front surface1471″ is disposed adjacent the non-mounting surface118of the substrate-engaging portion112a1of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112in order to provide further stability to the implement-retaining portion114″ when the implement-retaining portion114″ is joined to the mounting portion112. The rear surface1472″ is disposed adjacent and/or “hooked behind” the surface120of the of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112.

Furthermore, a head portion140a″ of the first wedging portion140″ includes a first surface140a1″ that may define a first recess, groove or channel149a″ and a second recess, groove or channel149b″. The recess or groove149′ may be sized for receiving first and second projections defined by the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122of the mounting portion112. Registration of the projections within the first and second recess, groove or channels149a″,149b″ provides further stability to the implement-retaining portion114″ when the implement-retaining portion114″ is joined to the mounting portion112.

Referring toFIGS.14A-14F′, exemplary steps for assembling the assembly100are shown. Furthermore, as seen inFIGS.14G-14I′, steps for disassembling the assembly100are also shown.

With reference toFIGS.14A-14A′, the mounting portion112and the implement-retaining portion114are shown in a separated, spaced-apart relationship. Assuming the mounting portion112is removably-secured to an underlying substrate S, the assembly100is firstly formed by moving the implement-retaining portion114toward the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A1. Although the mounting portion112may be removably-secured to the underlying substrate S, the mounting portion112does not have to be removably-secured to the underlying substrate S for connecting the implement-retaining portion114toward the mounting portion112. As seen inFIG.14B(which also corresponds to another cross-section view shown inFIG.14B′), after the implement-retaining portion114is moved toward the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A1, the first wedging portion140is axially aligned with the first wedging passage132aof the plurality of wedging passages132of the plurality of female portions130.

Referring toFIGS.14B-14B′, a reference axis extending along a length L114of the implement-retaining portion114is shown generally at A114-A114. Although not required, for purposes of establishing an exemplary frame of reference, the reference axis A114-A114may be substantially parallel to the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S. As comparatively seen inFIGS.14B-14B′ and14C-14C′, the implement-retaining portion114may then be pivoted away from the mounting portion112(and away from the reference axis A114-A114) in the direction of the arrow A2at an angle θ (see, e.g.,FIGS.14C-14C′).

As seen inFIG.14C, while tilted at the angle θ away from the reference axis A114-A114and while the implement-retaining portion114is still separated from the mounting portion112, the neck portion140bof the first wedging portion140is aligned with the first wedging passage132aof the plurality of wedging passages132of the plurality of female portions130. As seen inFIGS.14C-14C′ through14E-14E′, the implement-retaining portion114is then moved (with respect to, for example, a spatially fixed orientation of the mounting portion112as a result of, for example, the mounting portion112being removably-secured to the underlying substrate S) according to the direction of arrow A3. Movement of the implement-retaining portion114according to the direction of the arrow A3results in the neck portion140bof the first wedging portion140of the implement-retaining portion114being progressively wedged within the first wedging passage132aas a result of: (1) the first side surface140b1of the neck portion140bprogressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent the first wall surface132a1defined by the first wedging passage132aand (2) the second side surface140b2of the neck portion140bprogressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent the second wall surface132a2defined by the first wedging passage132a.

Referring toFIGS.14E-14E′, as a result of the neck portion140bof the first wedging portion140of the implement-retaining portion114being progressively wedged within the first wedging passage132a, the implement-retaining portion114may be said to be partially secured-to or “hooked” about the mounting portion112. Furthermore, with reference toFIGS.14E-14E′, (1) at least a portion of the intermediate surface142a3of the second wedging portion142is spatially arranged below a plane P132b(extending across at least an upper-most portion of the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132b; furthermore, the plane P132bmay be substantially perpendicular with respect to the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S), (2) at least a portion of the intermediate surface144a1-3of the first registration portion144a1is spatially arranged below a plane P130b(extending across at least an upper-most portion of the intermediate wall surface130b1-3defined by the fourth female portion130b2of the plurality of female portions130; furthermore, the plane P130bmay be substantially perpendicular with respect to the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S) and (3) at least a portion of the intermediate surface144a2-3of the second registration portion144a2is spatially arranged below the plane P130bthat also extends across at least an upper-most portion of the intermediate wall surface130b1-3defined by the third female portion130b1of the plurality of female portions130.

As seen inFIGS.14E-14E′, once the implement-retaining portion114is arranged relative the mounting portion112as described above, the implement-retaining portion114is moved toward the mounting portion112(and toward the reference axis A114-A114) in the direction of the arrow A2′, which is opposite the direction of the arrow A2. Movement of the implement-retaining portion114relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, results in at least a portion of the intermediate surface142a3of the second wedging portion142being arranged below the plane P132band thereby progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent at least a portion of the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132b. Additionally, movement of the implement-retaining portion114relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, may also result in: the neck portion140bof the first wedging portion140of the implement-retaining portion114being further progressively wedged within the first wedging passage132aas a result of: (1) the first side surface140b1of the neck portion140bbeing further progressively brought into contact with and being disposed adjacent the first wall surface132a1defined by the first wedging passage132aand (2) the second side surface140b2of the neck portion140bbeing further progressively brought into contact with and being disposed adjacent the second wall surface132a2defined by the first wedging passage132a.

Furthermore, in some instances, movement of the implement-retaining portion114relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, may also result in: (1) at least a portion of the intermediate surface144a1-3of the first registration portion144a1being arranged below the plane P130band thereby progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent at least a portion of the intermediate wall surface130b2-3defined by the fourth female portion130b1of the plurality of female portions130and (2) at least a portion of the intermediate surface144a2-3of the second registration portion144a2being arranged below the plane P130band thereby progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent at least a portion of the intermediate wall surface130b1-3defined by the third female portion130b2of the plurality of female portions130. Yet even further, movement of the implement-retaining portion114relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, may also result in: (1) at least a portion of the first side surface144a1-1and at least a portion of the second side surface144a1-2of the first registration portion144a1progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent, respectively, at least a portion of the first wall surface130b2-1and at least a portion of the second wall surface130b2-2defined by the fourth female portion130b2and (2) at least a portion of the first side surface144a2-1and at least a portion of the second side surface144a2-2of the second registration portion144a2progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent, respectively, at least a portion of the first wall surface130b1-1and at least a portion of the second wall surface130b1-2defined by the third female portion130b1.

With reference toFIGS.14F-14F′, as a result of the implement-retaining portion114being moved relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, the implement-retaining portion114is said to be connected to the mounting portion112for defining the assembly100being arranged in an assembled form. In an example, the assembled assembly100may result from, for example, the arrangement of: (1) the first wedging portion140within the first wedging passage132aand (2) the second wedging portion142within the second wedging passage132b. Such an arrangement of the first wedging portion140and the second wedging portion142within the first wedging passage132aand the second wedging passage132bresults in the implement-retaining portion114being connected to the mounting portion112in a wedged, friction-fit configuration that resists the implement-retaining portion114from being disconnected from the mounting portion112. In an example, as seen inFIGS.14F-14F′, if an external force F in the direction of arrow A3′, which is opposite the direction of the arrow A3, were to be applied to the implement-retaining portion114, the intermediate surface142a3of the second wedging portion142would be urged toward the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132bthereby preventing the implement-retaining portion114from disconnected from the mounting portion112in an upwardly direction. Further, if a pulling force F in the direction of arrow A4is applied to the implement-retaining portion114, (for pulling the implement-retaining portion114away from the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S), the head portion140aof the first wedging portion140is arranged behind and “hooked” about the first wedging passage132such that the second surface140a2of the head portion140ais urged into and disposed adjacent the neck-portion-engaging surface120of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. Yet even further, the arrangement of the first registration portion144a1and the second registration portion144a2within, respectively, the fourth female portion130b2and third female portion130b1, provides a four-point-connection (taking into account the arrangement of the first wedging portion140within the first wedging passage132aand the second wedging portion142within the second wedging passage132bas described above) that further resists rotation R (see, e.g.,FIG.11B) of the implement-retaining portion114about an axis A100-A100(see, e.g.,FIG.11B) extending the mounting portion112.

Referring toFIGS.14F-14F′ and14G-14G′, when it may be desired to arrange the assembly100back to a disassembled orientation (i.e., arranging the implement-retaining portion114in spatially separated orientation with respect to the mounting portion112as seen in, for example,FIGS.14A-14A′), the implement-retaining portion114may then be pivoted away from the mounting portion112(and away from the reference axis A114-A114) in the direction of the arrow A2at the angle θ (see, e.g.,FIGS.14G-14G′). With the implement-retaining portion114may then be pivoted away from the mounting portion112as seen inFIGS.14G-14G′: (1) the second wedging portion142is removed from the second wedging passage132b, (2) the first registration portion144a1is removed from the fourth female portion130b2of the plurality of female portions130and (3) the second registration portion144a2is removed from the third female portion130b1of the plurality of female portions130. Thereafter, as seen inFIGS.14H-14H′ and14I-14I′, the implement-retaining portion114is moved away from the mounting portion112according to the direction of the arrow A3′, which is opposite the direction of the arrow A3for removing the first wedging portion140from the first wedging passage132a(as seen inFIGS.14H-14H′) and then subsequently arranging the implement-retaining portion114in a spatially separated state with respect to the mounting portion112(as seen inFIGS.14I-14I′).

As described above atFIGS.15-16, the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112may be defined as having a first (upper) half112a2-1and a second (lower) half112a2-2. In the above-described exemplary assembling and disassembling of the assembly100atFIGS.14A-14I′, the fourth female portion130b2and the third female portion130b1of the second (lower) half112a2-2of the mounting portion112are respectively interfaced with the first registration portion144a1and the second registration portion144a2while the first female portion130a1and the second female portion130a2of the first (upper) half112a2-1of the mounting portion112are not interfaced with any of the a plurality of male portions138of the implement-retaining portion114. Although the first female portion130a1and the second female portion130a2of the first (upper) half112a2-1of the mounting portion112are not interfaced with any of the a plurality of male portions138of the implement-retaining portion114, the provision of the first female portion130a1and the second female portion130a2of the first (upper) half112a2-1of the mounting portion112still serves a purpose, as follows.

In an example, the mounting portion112may be connected to the underlying substrate S by directing the substrate-penetrating portion112b(which may be, for example, a self-boring threaded fastener) into the underlying substrate S by rotating R the mounting portion112about the axis A100-A100(see, e.g.,FIG.11A) extending through the substrate-penetrating portion112b. In order to prevent an undesirable over-rotation R of the mounting portion112b, the first (upper) half112a2-1and the second (lower) half112a2-2are designed with symmetry such that either of the first pair of female portions130a(including the first female portion130a1and the second female portion130a2) and the second pair of female portions130b(including the third female portion130b1and the fourth female portion130b2) may be arranged for being interfaced with the first registration portion144a1and the second registration portion144a2. Therefore, although the above-described steps for assembling and disassembling the assembly100discloses the first registration portion144a1and the second registration portion144a2being interfaced with the fourth female portion130b2and the third female portion130b1, the mounting portion112may be alternatively secured to the underlying substrate S such that the first registration portion144a1and the second registration portion144a2are interfaced, respectively, with the second female portion130a2and the first female portion130a1and not the fourth female portion130b2and the third female portion130b1, respectively; furthermore, if arranged in such an alternative orientation, the first wedging portion140is arranged within the second wedging passage132band the second wedging portion142is arranged within the first wedging passage132a.

Referring toFIGS.21-24, a plurality of implement-retaining portions114are shown. Each of the implement-retaining portions114include the plurality of male portions138extending from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134as described above atFIGS.12,14A-14I′ and18-20; although the implement-engaging surface136of the implement-retaining portion114ofFIGS.12,14A-14I′ and18-20are shown being defined by a substantially flat surface, the implement-engaging surface136of the implement-retaining portion114may shaped or sized to include any desirable surface configuration such as, for example, a storage pocket (see, e.g.,FIGS.21,23), a hook (see e.g.,FIGS.11A-11B,22), a frictional surface defined by bumps (see, e.g.,FIG.24) or the like for retaining an implement (e.g., an article of clothing such as a hat, a smart phone, a camera, or the like) to the implement-engaging surface136of the implement-retaining portion114. Because each of the implement-retaining portions114ofFIGS.12and21-24include a similar configuration of the plurality of male portions138extending from the mounting-portion-engaging surface134, the mounting portion112may function as a universal mounting portion112that may permit any of the implement-retaining portions114ofFIGS.12and21-24to be removably-secured to the mounting portion112. Furthermore, even if the implement-engaging surface136of the implement-retaining portion114is defined to be a substantially flat surface as seen, for example atFIGS.12,14A-14I′ and18-20, the substantially flat surface may include, for example, an adhesive that permits, for example, an implement to be adhesively bonded in a permanent or selectively-removable fashion thereto.

With reference toFIGS.25-26,28and29A-29E, an exemplary assembly shown generally at200. The assembly200includes the mounting portion112and an implement-retaining portion214(see also, e.g.,FIG.27). As seen inFIG.25, the mounting portion112removably-secures the assembly200to an underlying substrate S, such as, for example, a post, a tree, drywall, a wall stud or the like. As described above, the mounting portion112provides mating structure (e.g., a plurality of male-receiving portions128) that act as a universal interface that permits the potential for attachment of a variety of different implement-retaining portions (see, e.g.,114inFIGS.21-24) each having a mating structure (see, e.g.,138inFIG.12) that corresponds to the mating structure of the mounting portion112.

In an example, as seen inFIG.27, the implement-retaining portion214includes an implement portion215(e.g., a substantially planar member defining a sign having an octagonal shape that includes or defines alphanumeric text217saying “POSTED KEEP OUT!”). In an example, the implement portion215may define the alphanumeric text217as a result the implement portion215being die-cut, punched, molded or otherwise formed with passages219that extend through a thickness T215of the implement portion215.

The implement portion215may also define one or more fastener-receiving passages221that are sized for receiving a fastener (not shown, such as, e.g., a screw). The one or more fastener-receiving passages221extend through the thickness T215of the implement portion215; accordingly, if optionally included, the fastener may assist in securing the implement portion215to the underlying substrate S.

The implement portion215may also define one or more attachment portions223. The one or more attachment portions223may include one or more attachment flanges223aand one or more attachment passages223bthat extend through the thickness T215of the implement portion215. In an example, each attachment flange (see, e.g.,223a1,223a2,223a3) of the one or more attachment flanges223ais arranged near each attachment passage (see, e.g.,223b1,223b2,223b3) of the one or more attachment passages223b. In an example, the implement portion215may define three attachment flanges223a(see, e.g.,223a1,223a2,223a3) and three attachment passages223b(see, e.g.,223b1,223b2,223b3). In an example, each attachment flange223a1,223a2,223a3includes an “L shape” body, and, in some instances, a first L-shaped attachment flange223a1and a third L-shaped attachment flange223a3are arranged in a “down” orientation while an intermediate/second L-shaped attachment flange223a2is arranged in an “up” orientation for cooperating to form a lateral attachment passage225(see, e.g.,FIG.28).

Referring toFIG.25, a plurality of male portions238extend away from a mounting-portion-engaging surface234. The plurality of male portions238may be defined by a first wedging portion240and a second wedging portion242that is connected to the first wedging portion240by a bridge portion241. The plurality of male portions238may also be defined by a pair of clamping portions244including a first clamping portion244a1and a second clamping portion244a2.

Referring toFIG.27, the first wedging portion240extends away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface234and includes a first side surface240a1and an opposite second side surface240a2that are joined by an upper intermediate surface240a3. The first side surface240a1and the second side surface240a2may be arranged in a non-parallel, converging relationship. In an example, with reference toFIG.15, the first side surface240a1of the first wedging portion240is sized for being disposed adjacent the first wall surface132b1defined by the second wedging passage132bof the mounting portion112or the first wall surface132a1defined by the first wedging passage132aof the mounting portion112. With continued reference toFIG.15, the second side surface240a2of the first wedging portion240is sized for being disposed adjacent the second wall surface132b2defined by the second wedging passage132bof the mounting portion112or the second wall surface132a2defined by the first wedging passage132aof the mounting portion112. Furthermore, the upper intermediate surface240a3of the first wedging portion240is sized for being disposed adjacent the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132bof the mounting portion112or the intermediate wall surface132a3defined by the first wedging passage132aof the mounting portion112.

The bridge portion241extends from a lower intermediate surface240a4of the first wedging portion240. The bridge portion241includes a first side surface241a1, a second side surface241a2, a front surface241a3, a rear surface241a4and a lower surface241a5.

The second wedging portion242extends away from the rear surface240a4of the bridge portion241. The second wedging portion242includes a first side surface242a1and an opposite second side surface242a2that are joined by an upper intermediate surface242a3. The first side surface242a1and the second side surface242a2may be arranged in a non-parallel, converging relationship. In an example, with reference toFIG.15, the first side surface242a1of the second wedging portion242is sized for being disposed adjacent the first wall surface132a1defined by the second wedging passage132bof the mounting portion112or the first wall surface132b1defined by the first wedging passage132aof the mounting portion112. With continued reference toFIG.15, the second side surface242a2of the second wedging portion242is sized for being disposed adjacent the second wall surface132a2defined by the second wedging passage132bof the mounting portion112or the second wall surface132b2defined by the first wedging passage132aof the mounting portion112. Furthermore, the upper intermediate surface242a3of the second wedging portion243is sized for being disposed adjacent the intermediate wall surface132a3defined by the second wedging passage132bof the mounting portion112or the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the first wedging passage132aof the mounting portion112.

As seen inFIG.27, each of the first clamping portion244a1and the second clamping portion244a2is generally defined by an “L shape” body having at least a first mounting-portion-engaging-surface2451and a second mounting-portion-engaging surface2452. Each of the first clamping portion244a1and the second clamping portion244a2extend away from the mounting-portion-engaging surface234and are sized and spaced apart from one another for clamping opposite sides of the implement retainer interface portion112a2of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. In an example, with reference toFIGS.15and27, the first mounting-portion-engaging-surface2451is sized for engaging the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122, and the second mounting-portion-engaging surface2452is sized for engaging a side surface121of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112that connects the neck-portion-engaging surface120to the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122.

Referring toFIGS.29A-29E, exemplary steps for assembling the assembly200are shown. As seen inFIG.29A, the mounting portion112and the implement-retaining portion214are shown in a separated, spaced-apart relationship. Assuming the mounting portion112is removably-secured to an underlying substrate S, the assembly200is firstly formed by moving the implement-retaining portion214toward the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A1. Although the mounting portion112may be removably-secured to the underlying substrate S, the mounting portion112does not have to be removably-secured to the underlying substrate S for connecting the implement-retaining portion214toward the mounting portion112.

As seen inFIG.29B, after the implement-retaining portion214is moved toward the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A1, the first wedging portion240is axially aligned with the first wedging passage132aof the plurality of wedging passages132of the plurality of female portions130. A reference axis extending along a length L214of the implement-retaining portion214is shown generally at A214-A214. Although not required, for purposes of establishing an exemplary frame of reference, the reference axis A214-A214may be substantially parallel to the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S. As comparatively seen inFIGS.29B and29C, the implement-retaining portion214may then be pivoted away from the mounting portion112(and away from the reference axis A214-A214) in the direction of the arrow A2at an angle θ.

As seen inFIG.29C, while tilted at the angle θ away from the reference axis A214-A214and while the implement-retaining portion214is still separated from the mounting portion112, the first wedging portion240is aligned with the first wedging passage132aof the plurality of wedging passages132of the plurality of female portions130. As seen inFIGS.29C-29D, the implement-retaining portion214is then moved (with respect to, for example, a spatially fixed orientation of the mounting portion112as a result of, for example, the mounting portion112being removably-secured to the underlying substrate S) according to the direction of arrow A3. Movement of the implement-retaining portion214according to the direction of the arrow A3results in the first wedging portion240of the implement-retaining portion214being progressively wedged within the first wedging passage132aas a result of: (1) the first side surface240a1of the first wedging portion240progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent the first wall surface132a1defined by the first wedging passage132aand (2) the second side surface240a2of the first wedging portion240progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent the second wall surface132a2defined by the first wedging passage132a.

Furthermore, in some instances, movement of the implement-retaining portion214relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A3(see, e.g.,FIG.29C), may also result in at least a portion of the first mounting-portion-engaging-surface2451of each of the first clamping portion244a1and the second clamping portion244a2being disposed adjacent the implement-retaining-portion-engaging surface122of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. Yet even further, movement of the implement-retaining portion214relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A3, may also result in at least a portion of the second mounting-portion-engaging-surface2452of each of the first clamping portion244a1and the second clamping portion244a2being disposed adjacent the side surface121of the body portion112aof the mounting portion112. Arrangement of the first clamping portion244a1and the second clamping portion244a2relative the body portion112aof the mounting portion112results in the first clamping portion244a1and the second clamping portion244a2laterally clamping the body portion112aof the mounting portion112.

As a result of the first wedging portion240of the implement-retaining portion214being progressively wedged within the first wedging passage132a, the implement-retaining portion214may be said to be partially secured-to the mounting portion112. Furthermore, as seen inFIG.29D, at least a portion of the upper intermediate surface242a3of the second wedging portion242is spatially arranged below a plane P132b(extending across at least an upper-most portion of the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132b; furthermore, the plane P132bmay be substantially perpendicular with respect to the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S).

As seen inFIG.29D, once the implement-retaining portion214is arranged relative the mounting portion112as described above, the implement-retaining portion214is moved toward the mounting portion112(and toward the reference axis A214-A214) in the direction of the arrow A2′, which is opposite the direction of the arrow A2. As seen inFIG.29E, movement of the implement-retaining portion214relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, results in at least a portion of the upper intermediate surface242a3of the second wedging portion242being arranged below the plane P132b. In some examples, the portion of the upper intermediate surface242a3of the second wedging portion242may thereby progressively coming into contact with and being disposed adjacent at least a portion of the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132b. Additionally, movement of the implement-retaining portion214relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, may also result in: the first wedging portion140of the implement-retaining portion214being further progressively wedged within the first wedging passage132aas a result of: (1) the first side surface240a1of the first wedging portion240being further progressively brought into contact with and being disposed adjacent the first wall surface132a1defined by the first wedging passage132aand (2) the second side surface240a2of the first wedging portion240being further progressively brought into contact with and being disposed adjacent the second wall surface132a2defined by the first wedging passage132a.

With reference toFIG.29E, as a result of the implement-retaining portion214being moved relative the mounting portion112in the direction of the arrow A2′, the implement-retaining portion214is said to be connected to the mounting portion112for defining the assembly200being arranged in an assembled form as seen in, for example,FIGS.26and28. In an example, the assembled assembly200may result from, for example, the arrangement of: (1) the first wedging portion240within the first wedging passage132aand (2) the second wedging portion242within the second wedging passage132b. Such an arrangement of the first wedging portion240and the second wedging portion242within the first wedging passage132aand the second wedging passage132bresults in the implement-retaining portion214being connected to the mounting portion112in a wedged, friction-fit configuration that resists the implement-retaining portion214from being disconnected from the mounting portion112. In an example, as seen inFIG.29E, if an external force in the direction of arrow A3′, which is opposite the direction of the arrow A3, were to be applied to the implement-retaining portion214, the upper intermediate surface242a3of the second wedging portion242would be urged toward the intermediate wall surface132b3defined by the second wedging passage132bthereby preventing the implement-retaining portion214from disconnected from the mounting portion112in an upwardly direction. Yet even further, the arrangement of the first wedging portion240within the first wedging passage132aand the second wedging portion242within the second wedging passage132bas described above provides a two-point connection that further resists rotation R (see, e.g.,FIG.26) of the implement-retaining portion214about a central axis A200-A200extending the mounting portion112that is substantially orthogonal to the exterior surface SSof the underlying substrate S.

When it may be desired to arrange the assembly200back to a disassembled orientation (i.e., arranging the implement-retaining portion214in spatially separated orientation with respect to the mounting portion112as seen in, for example,FIG.29A), the implement-retaining portion214may then be pivoted away from the mounting portion112(and away from the reference axis A214-A214) in the direction of the arrow A2at the angle θ. With the implement-retaining portion214pivoted away from the mounting portion112, the second wedging portion242is removed from the second wedging passage132b. Thereafter, the implement-retaining portion214is moved away from the mounting portion112according to the direction of the arrow A3′, which is opposite the direction of the arrow A3for removing the first wedging portion240from the first wedging passage132aand then subsequently arranging the implement-retaining portion214in a spatially separated state with respect to the mounting portion112.

A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims. For example, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results.