WALL HANGING MOUNTING DEVICE

Abstract

A wall support mounting device and method use at least one drive surface that moves in a plane or about an axis contained between the wall hanging and the wall as it couples at least one wall support to the wall.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present patent application claims priority under 35 USC 119(e) from co-pending U.S. provisional patent application 60/945,331 filed on Jun. 20, 2007 by Don W. Klein and entitled WALL HANGING MOUNTING DEVICE, the full disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Wall hangings, such as paintings, photographs, drawings, other framed or unframed works, wall mounted furniture or decorations such as curios, mirrors, candle holders and the like, and various wall mounted electronics, such as flat screen televisions, monitors and the like, come in a variety of shapes, sizes and configurations. Some wall hangings may be lifted and positioned along a vertical wall or a horizontal wall (i.e. ceiling) by a single person, while other wall hangings require multiple individuals to mount the wall hangings along a wall. Some wall hangings have mounting portions comprising wires from which a wall hanging is hung. Other wall hangings have mounting portions comprising mounting extensions through which nails or other impelling members may extend into the wall or comprising brackets configured to rest upon or otherwise engage one or more nails or other wall imbedded members.

Regardless of the wall hanging configuration, its mounting portion or the wall support used to couple the wall hanging to the wall, mounting the wall hanging to a wall is difficult, tedious and time consuming. A properly mounted wall hanging is generally appropriately spaced, both vertically and horizontally, with respect to the dimensions of the wall, the location of other wall hangings along the same wall, or the location of other objects within the room. Meeting these demands is not an easy task. The person or persons mounting the wall hanging generally must measure the wall hanging itself, measure the wall, and measure the relative distances between various objects along the wall in an attempt to identify the desired position for the wall hanging. Once this is determined, the person mounting the wall hanging must then identify where the wall supports (i.e., nails, hooks, activatable bonding members and the like) must be coupled to the wall. In addition, the relative locations of the mounting portions on the back of the wall hanging must be accounted for when attaching the wall supports to the wall. If multiple wall supports are required, the relative positioning of the wall supports themselves must be carefully identified to ensure that the wall hanging will be level once in place.

Once the wall supports are actually mounted to the wall, the person mounting the wall hanging can only hope that his or her calculations were correct. The final outcome cannot generally be determined until the wall supports are embedded or otherwise attached to the wall and until the wall hanging is actually mounted upon the wall supports. Mounting the wall hanging upon the wall supports may reveal that the calculations were erroneously made, resulting in a wall hanging that is not level or positioned along the wall in undesirable spacing relative to other wall hangings or objects in the room. Moreover, once the wall hanging is actually mounted along the wall, and the person can actually see the wall hanging in place along the wall, the person may change his or her mind about the desired position of the wall hanging. Unfortunately, repositioning the wall hanging requires that the entire process be repeated and results in unsightly holes or other mounting marks along the wall that either must be concealed by the wall hanging, or must be spackled and/or covered with paint or wallpaper.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a left perspective view of a wall hanging mounting device according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the law hanging mounting device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a elevational view of a wall support according to an example embodiment illustrating the wall support mounted upon the wall support mounting device of FIG. 1 (shown in broken lines).

FIG. 4 is a elevational view of another wall support according to an example embodiment illustrating the wall support mounted upon the wall support mounting device of FIG. 1 (shown in broken lines).

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the wall support of FIG. 4 according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a left perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 with covers removed for purposes of illustration.

FIG. 9 is it a fragmentary perspective view of another portion of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an exploded fragmentary left perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 11 is an exploded fragmentary perspective view of a portion of the wall support mounting device of FIG. 1 in an unloaded state according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 11A is an enlarged fragmentary Syed elevational view of another portion of the wall support mounting device of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 11B is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 positioned adjacent a wall hanging.

FIG. 11C is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view the wall support of FIG. 3 mounted to the wall support mounting device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 in a loaded state.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of the wall had a mounting device of FIG. 12 in the loaded state.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 12 in the loaded state.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 12 in the loaded state.

FIGS. 16, 17 and 18 are fragmentary sectional views illustrating the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 12 being unloaded.

FIG. 19 is a left perspective view of another embodiment of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a write elevational view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 23 is an exploded last perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19 and an unloaded state.

FIG. 24 is a fragmentary left perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 25 is a fragmentary left perspective view of another portion of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 26 as a fragmentary left perspective view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19 in a loaded state.

FIG. 27 is a fragmentary sectional view of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19 in the loaded state.

FIG. 28 is a fragmentary perspective view of another portion of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 19 in the loaded state.

FIG. 28 is a schematic drawing of another embodiment of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 29A is an enlarged view of a portion of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 29

FIG. 30 is a schematic of another embodiment of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 31 is a schematic drawing of another embodiment of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 32 is a schematic of another embodiment of the wall hanging mounting device of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1 and 6-18 illustrate wall hanging mounting device 910. FIG. 2 illustrates device 910 positioned for mounting a wall hanging 20 having a mounting portion 18 (shown in FIG. 16) which comprises a wire affixed to wall hanging 20. Wall hanging mounting device 910 generally includes support platform 911, coupling unit 912 and level indicator 915. Support platform 911 comprises one or more structures coupled to coupling unit 912 and configured to extend along and engage a bottom side of wall hanging 20. Although support platform 911 is illustrated as a single planar member, support 911 may alternatively have other shapes and configurations and may include multiple members configured to engage a bottom side of wall hanging 20 at various locations.

FIG. 1 illustrates the adjustability of platform 911. As shown by FIG. 1, platform 911 includes an opening 1050 which slidably receives housing 962. Platform 911 further includes a pair of oppositely extending slots 1051 which permit platform to slide past a loading member. Platform 911 additionally includes a retainer 1054 to releasably retain support platform 911 in a desired position along housing 962. In the particular examples shown, retainer 1054 comprises a threaded member which may be threaded into frictional engagement with a face 1056 of housing 962 to retain platform 911 in a desired position. Releasing or turning retainer 1054 in an opposite direction withdraws retainer 1054 from housing 962 to enable platform 911 to be slid along housing 962. In other embodiments, retainer 1054 may have other configurations. For example, retainer 1054 may comprise a spring-loaded member which frictionally engages face 1056 to retain housing 962 in place. In particular embodiments, face 1056 may additionally be provided with a plurality of spaced detents into which retainer 1054 may be positioned to retain platform 911 in a desired location.

Level indicators 915 comprise mechanisms configured to communicate to a user whether platform 911 and wall hanging 20 are in a level orientation. In the particular embodiment shown, level indicators 915 comprise a pair of bubble level indicators coupled to platform 911 as spaced locations. In other embodiments, level indicators 915 may be coupled to platform 911 at other locations or may be coupled to coupling unit 912. Level indicators 915 assist in insuring that wall hanging 20 is a level orientation during mounting to a wall.

Coupling unit 912 comprises a member configured to couple wall support 914 (shown in FIGS. 3-5) to a wall while wall support 914 is in at least close proximity to mounting portion 18 of wall hanging 20. In the particular embodiment shown, coupling unit 912 is configured to impel the portion of wall support 914 into a wall 16 while the wire of wall hanging 20 is in engagement with wall support 914. One example of wall support 914 is shown in FIGS. 3-5. In one embodiment, wall support 914 is configured to hold mounting portion 18 while being affixed to wall 16 (shown in FIG. 16). In another embodiment, wall support 914 is supported just below out of contact with mounting portion 18 while wall support 914 is being affixed to wall 16. In the particular example shown, wall support 914 includes a portion configured to be impelled into wall 16 by coupling unit 912. As shown by FIG. 5, wall support 914 includes impeller 922 and hanger 924. Impeller 922 comprises a fastener or other structure configured to extend into wall 16 while being coupled to hanger 924 to affix hanger 924 to wall 16. In the particular example shown, impeller 922 passes through hanger 924 and into wall 16 after being impelled into wall 16. In other embodiments, impeller 922 may alternatively extend from a single side of hanger 924, wherein coupling unit 912 applies force to portions of hanger 924 which are transmitted to impeller 922 to drive impeller 922 into wall 16.

In the particular example shown, impeller 922 comprises a fastener having a head 926 and tines or prongs 928, 930. Head 926 comprises that portion of impeller 922 configured to be struck or driven by coupling unit 912. Prongs 928, 930 have sufficiently pointed ends 932 so as to penetrate wall 16, allowing a remainder of prongs 928, 930 to be driven into wall 16. Prongs 928, 930 each have a diameter of thickness sufficiently small such that the holes formed in wall 16 by the impelling of prongs 928 and 930 are deminimus and substantially imperceptible to a human eye from about 6 inches away from the surface of wall 16. At the same time, prongs 928, 930 have a sufficient length to enable impeller 922 to cooperate with hanger 924 to support hanger 924 from a mounting portion 18 and wall hanging 20 along wall 16. In the particular example shown, impeller 922 is formed from a metal, such as steel or brass. Head 926 has a length of at least 0.4 inches (nominally 0.52 inches). Prongs 928, 930 each have a diameter of no greater than 0.04 inches and a length extending from head 926 of at least 0.8 inches. Prongs 928 and 930 have a length sufficient such that at least about 0.6 inches of each of prongs 928, 930 extends into wall 16 to support hanger 924 relative to wall 16. Although prongs 928, 930 are illustrated as having substantially the same diameter as head 926, prongs 928, 930 and head 926 may have differing diameters or thicknesses. Moreover, in other embodiments, depending on the configuration of hanger 924, impeller 922 may have other shapes, sizes and configurations and may be made from other materials. For example, in another embodiment, impeller 922 may include greater than 2 tongs for increased fastening. In still other embodiments, impeller 922 may alternatively have a round flat head 926 and a single tong or pointed shaft similar to that of a nail.

Hanger 924 comprises a structure configured to be supported adjacent to wall 16 while supporting mounting portion 18. Hanger 924 includes main portion 936, lower hooks 938 and extensions 940. Main portion 936 comprises a main structure having the main surfaces which are configured to lie face against wall 16. In the particular example shown, main portion 936 has a width w₁ of about 1.1 inches along hooks 938, a width W₂ of about 0.76 inches at extensions 940 and a height h of about 0.76 inches. The surface area of main portion 936 distributes forces across wall 16, enabling hanger 924 to more stably support mounting portion 18 and wall hanging 20.

Hooks 938 extend from main portion 936 and are configured to form a channel 939 configured to receive mounting portion 18. As shown by FIG. 3, hooks 938 engage an underside of mounting portion 18 and are spaced apart from one another by a distance di of approximately 0.6 inches. In other embodiments, hanger 924 may consist of greater than 2 hooks or fewer than 2 hooks which may be spaced apart from one another or which may continuously extend along main portion 936. Hooks 938 generally face in a common upward direction.

As further shown by FIG. 3, inner edges 950 of extensions 940 are spaced from one another to receive portions of coupling unit 912. In the particular example shown, edges 950 are spaced so as to frictionally engage portions of coupling unit 912 to assist in retaining wall supports 914 relative to coupling unit 912. Such frictional engagement results in a friction fit or slip fit retaining hanger 924 on coupling unit 912. In the example shown, edges 950 and main portion 936 wrap about three sides of mounting portion 912 to assist in retaining wall support 914 relative to coupling unit 912.

Main portion 936 includes an elongate slot 942 proximate to extensions 940. Slot 942 generally is an opening through which prongs 928, 930 extend. Slot 942 is configured such that edges 944 adjacent to slot 942 face and potentially engage opposite outer sides of prongs 928 and 930 passing through slot 942. Edges 944 guide movement of prongs 928, 930 through slot 942 and into wall 16. Edges 944 assist in preventing prongs 928, 930 from splaying outward, away from one another as force is being applied to head 926 during impelling of prongs 928, 930 into wall 16 (shown in FIG. 32). Because the opening in main portion 936 through which prongs 928, 930 is formed as a slot, slot 942 accommodates tolerance variations of slot 942 as well as impeller 922. At the same time, friction between main portion 936 and prongs 928, 930 is reduced to facilitate impelling of impeller 922 into wall 16. Alternatively, in other embodiments, slot 942 may be replaced with a pair of spaced openings through main portion 936.

Extensions 940 project from main portion 936 and are configured to secure impeller 922 to hanger 924. In the particular example shown, projections 940 comprise downwardly angled tabs generally opposite hooks 938 above slot 942 of main portion 936. Extensions 940 include openings 946. Openings 946 are configured to facilitate sliding movement of prongs 928, 930 therethrough, through slot 942 and into wall 16. Openings 946 guide movement of impeller 922 and assist in retaining impeller 922 relative to hanger 924. Openings 946 are configured such that extensions 940 have inner edges 948 engaging the inner sides of each of prongs 928 and 930. Edges 948 assist in preventing prongs 928, 930 from deforming inwardly towards one another. Edges 948 further frictionally engage prongs 928, 930 to a sufficient degree such that impeller 922 does not freely slide relative to hanger 924, but remains in place until driven by coupling unit 912. Overall, edges 944 and 948 cooperate with one another by engaging opposite sides of prongs 928 and 930 to guide movement of prongs 928 and 930.

In other embodiments, slot 942 and openings 946 may have other configurations while still guiding prongs 928 and 930. For example, in another embodiment, in lieu of comprising a completely bounded opening, slot 942 may alternatively comprise two slots inwardly extending from an outer edge of main portion 936 such that the edges of main portion 936 engage inner sides of prongs 928 and 930. In such an embodiment, openings 946 may be configured as shown or may comprise outwardly extending channels or slots extending from side edges 950 of extensions 940 such that portions of extension 940 engage inner sides of prongs 928, 930. In still other embodiments, openings 946 may alternatively comprise slots, channels or cutouts extending from outer sides 952 of extensions 940, wherein edges of extensions 940 still engage the inner sides of prongs 928, 930.

In lieu of having two spaced extensions 940, hanger 924 may alternatively have a single continuous extension 940 provided with both openings 946 or other opening configurations or may include greater than two such extensions 940. For example, hanger 924 may include additional extensions 940 depending upon the number of prongs provided by impeller 922. In still other embodiments, hanger 924 may include greater than two extensions 940 to enable hanger 924 to be utilized with a multitude of differently configured and differently sized impellers 922.

FIG. 4 illustrates wall support 1114, another embodiment of wall support 914. Wall support 1114 is similar to wall support 914 except that wall support 1114 additionally includes hook 1138. Those remaining structures or components of wall support 1114 which correspond to structures of wall support 914 are numbered similarly. Hook 1138 extends from main portion 936 between hooks 938. Hook 1138 forms a downwardly facing channel facing away from the upwardly facing channel provided by hooks 938. As shown by FIG. 4, hook 1138 is configured to engage an upper side of mounting portion 18. Hook 1138 assists in maintaining mounting portion 18 within the channels of hooks 938 by reducing the potential for mounting portions 18 from rising out of the channels of hooks 938.

As shown by FIGS. 1 and 6-15, unit 912 comprises a device configured to impel impeller 922 into wall 16 while wall support 914 (or wall support 1114) is in at least close proximity to mounting portion 18 of wall hanging 20. Coupling unit 912 includes wall support holder 1002 (shown in FIGS. 11 and 18), wall interface 1003 (shown in FIG. 11B, drive mechanism 1004 (shown in FIG. 10), loading mechanism 1006 (shown in FIG. 10), trigger mechanism 1008 and trigger disabler 1009. Wall support holder 1002 comprises a portion of coupling unit 302 including at least one retention surface configured to temporarily and releasably retain wall support 914 in place as drive mechanism 1004 drives impeller 922 into wall 16. Wall support holder 1002 retains wall support 914 while mounting portion 18 is received within the channels of hooks 938.

As shown by FIGS. 11 and 11A, wall support holder 1002 includes channel 956, recess 957 and recess 958. Channel 956 comprises an opening extending into housing 962 of drive mechanism 404. Channel 956 is configured to receive head 926 of impeller 922. Channel 956 is angled relative to a horizontal plane to accommodate impeller 922 which is also angled relative to the horizontal plane. In the particular example shown, impeller 922 extends through hanger 924 at an angle θ of approximately 45 degrees. It has been found that this angle maximizes the retention capability of impeller 922. In other embodiments, the angle at which impeller 922 extends from hanger 924 and the angle at which channel 938 extends into housing 962 may be varied. Channel 956 engages an underside of head 926 to further guide movement of impeller 922 as impeller 922 is being driven by drive mechanism 1004. In other embodiments, channel 956 may be longer such that channel 956 does not guide or contact an underside of head 926 or an underside of prongs 928, 930.

Recess 957 comprises an opening, notch, cut out, cavity or depression extending into the front face 960 of housing 962. Recessed 957 is configured to receive portions of wall support 914 such that wall support 914 may be held in closer proximity to face 960 during mounting. In the particular example illustrated, recess 957 is configured to receive extensions 940 of hanger 924 such that main portion 936 may wrap about three sides of housing 962 while extending in a plane substantially parallel to face 960, substantially flush against face 960. Although recess 957 is illustrated as a V-shaped notch, in other embodiments, recess 957 may have other shapes and dimensions depending upon the configuration of hanger 924. In particular embodiments, recess 957 may be omitted.

Recess 958 comprises a cutout, notch, depression or the like extending into face 960 of housing 962 below channel 956. Recess 958 has a depth of at least a thickness of mounting portion 18. As a result, mounting portion 18 may be positioned within the channels provided by hooks 938 while main portion 936 extend substantially parallel to and flush with housing 962 as it is pressed against wall 16. In other embodiments, recess 958 may be omitted.

In the particular example illustrated, recess 958 is configured to not only receive portions of mounting portion 18 (portions of a wire in particular embodiments), but is configured to retain such portions of mounting portion 18 in place during mounting. In the particular example illustrated, recess 958 has a floor 1060 which is angled upwardly and forwardly in a vertical direction towards channel 956. In other embodiments, floor 1060 may alternatively extend substantially horizontal (substantially perpendicular to face 960). In particular embodiments, where floor 1060 is either horizontal or is angled upwardly and forwardly as shown in FIG. 11A, housing 962 of coupling unit 912 may support a substantial portion of the weight of the wall hanging being mounted. As a result, the friction fit between hanger 924 (shown in FIG. 3 and housing 962 need only be sufficient to retain hanger 924 against housing 962 without having to support a substantial portion of the weight of the wall hanging. In one embodiment, floor 1060 is configured to be vertically located above channel 939 of hanger 924 during mounting such that mounting portion 18 (the wire in particular embodiments) is substantially out of contact with hanger 924 and is substantially received within recess 958 during mounting. During withdrawal of mounting unit 912 from the wall after impeller 922 has been coupled to the wall, mounting portion 18 (the wire) is withdrawn from recess number 958 and is transferred to channel 939 of hooks 938. In particular embodiments, recess 958 and floor 1060 may be configured such that substantially all of the weight of the wall hanging is supported by housing 962 of coupling unit 912. In such embodiments, platform 911 may be omitted such that the wall hanging simply hangs from housing 962 as it is being mounted to a wall.

FIGS. 11B and 11C illustrate holder 1002 in use during mounting of the wall hanging 20 having mounting portion 18 (shown as a wire coupled to a remainder of wall hanging 20). FIG. 11B illustrates mounting portion 18 of wall hanging 20 initially secured to coupling unit 912. As shown by FIG. 11B, coupling unit 912 is positioned between a back surface 1062 of wall hanging 20 and the wire of mounting portion 18 with face 962 of mounting portion 912 facing away from back surface 1062. The wire of mounting portion 18 is located within recess 958. In the example shown, recess 958 substantially receives an entire diameter of the wire of mounting portion 18. Because floor 1060 is substantially horizontal or is sloped, ramped or vertically inclined, floor 1060 assists in retaining the wire of mounting portion 18 within recess 958. In other embodiments, floor 1060 may alternatively be downwardly tangled, wherein the spacing between back surface 1062 and face 960 is such that the wire of mounting portion 18 is retained within recess number 958.

FIG. 11C illustrates holder 1002 further holding or supporting wall support 914. Once the wire of mounting portion 18 has been positioned within recess to remind 58, wall support 914 is positioned against face 960, sandwiching the wire of mounting portion 18 between face 960 and wall support 914. Prior to being positioned against face 960, impeller 922 is pre-inserted through hanger 924. When mounting unit 914 is positioned against face 960 of coupling unit 912, head 926 of impeller 922 is located within channel 956 with prongs 928, 930 extending through slot 942 to an opposite side of main portion 936 of hanger 924. Extension 940 extend into recess 957 to an extent sufficient such that name portion 936 extends in a plane substantially parallel to face 960. As shown by FIG. 11C, in the example illustrated, recess 957 facilitates main portion 936 being positioned flush against face 960.

As mentioned above, hooks 938 extend opposite to and frictionally engage opposite sides 1066 of housing 962 to frictionally hold and retain hanger 924 in place with respect to coupling unit 912 during mounting. Because hooks 938 frictionally engage sides 1066 of housing 962, housing 962 may be wider, providing additional space for internal componentry of coupling unit 912. In addition, the frictional engagement between hooks 938 and housing 962 is wider, providing a wider and lower base or foundation for enhanced retention of hanger 924.

In still other embodiments, retention of hanger 924 relative to face 960 may be assisted in additional manners. For example, channel 956 may be configured to frictionally engage portions of impeller 922 to assist in holding hanger 924 in place. Surfaces of channel 957 may also be configured or formed from a material so as to have a higher coefficient of friction with the engage portions of extensions 940 to further assist in retaining hanger 924 against face 960. In one embodiment, holder 1002 may alternatively or additionally include a projection or ledge along housing 962 configured and located to engage and support a lower edge of wall support. In still other embodiments, holder 1002 may alternatively comprise a surface configured to grip an outer edge of wall support 914. In particular embodiments, the friction fit between hooks 938 and housing 962 may be lessened or may be omitted where wall support 914 is held in place with respect to coupling unit 912 in other manners.

In the example illustrated, hanger 924 and recess 958 are configured and located with respect to one another such that the wire of mounting portion 18 extends above the channel 939 formed by hooks 938, out of engagement with hooks 938 until coupling unit 912 is withdrawn. In other embodiments, the wire of mounting portion 18 may be supported by recess 958 in contact with hooks 938.

FIG. 11B further illustrates wall interface 1003. Wall interface 1003 comprises a structure or mechanism along face 960 configured to lessen frictional or other resistance between coupling unit 912 and the adjacent wall as coupling unit 912 is positioned against the adjacent wall and is potentially moved along the adjacent wall prior to, during and after mounting of wall hanging 20. In the example illustrated, wall interface 1003 is located in close proximity to wall holder 1002. In the example illustrated, wall interface 1003 is located vertically below recess 958 on an opposite side of recess to remind 58 as channel 956. As a result, wall interface 1003 is located where relatively large frictional forces that would otherwise occur between coupling unit 912 during positioning of coupling unit 912 relative to the wall and during withdrawal of coupling unit 912 from mounting portion 18 and the wall.

In the example illustrated, wall interface 1003 comprises a pad having a surface formed from one or more materials and having a texture so as to have a relatively low coefficient of friction with the adjacent wall surface. In the example illustrated, wall interface 1003 comprises a pad of smooth nylon or polytetrafluoroethylene (TEFLON). In other embodiments, other low friction materials may be employed. In still other embodiments, wall interface 1003 may include one or more movable bearing mechanisms. For example, wall interface 1003 the alternatively comprise one or more balls or rod bearing assemblies, wherein the balls or rods rotate as coupling unit 912 is moved relative to an adjacent wall surface. In other embodiments, wall interface 1003 may have other locations or may be omitted.

Drive mechanism 1004 comprises a mechanism configured to drive or impel impeller 922 into wall 16. As shown by FIG. 12, drive mechanism 1004 includes frame, enclosure, support structure or housing 962 and drive unit 964 (shown in FIG. 11). Housing 962 substantially encloses drive unit 964. Housing 962 further guides and directs movement of drive unit 964. Housing 962 has a width W₃ (shown in FIG. 12) configured to extend between a back surface of wall hanging 20 and wall 16 while wall support 914 is positioned against wall 16 and while mounting portion 18 extends from wall hanging 20 into engagement with wall support 914. In the particular examples shown, housing 962 has a width W₃ of no greater than approximately 2 inches. As a result, this portion of housing 962 may fit between the back of wall hanging 20 and the wire of mounting portion 18.

As best shown by FIGS. 12 and 13, housing 962 includes an elongate channel which receives spring 970 of drive mechanism 1004. Channel 1060 assists in guiding the extension or retraction of spring 970.

Drive unit 964 is substantially contained within housing 962 and engages impeller 922 to drive impeller 922. Drive unit 964 includes slide or drive bar 968 (shown in FIG. 11) and spring 970 (shown in FIG. 12). Bar 968 extends within housing 962 and generally comprises a drive member having a drive surface 974. Drive surface 974 comprises a surface configured to engage head 926 of impeller 922 so as to exert a force upon impeller 922 to drive impeller 922 into wall 16. Drive surface 974 is generally angled with respect to a horizontal plane. In the particular example shown, drive surface 974 extends at approximately 135 degrees relative to a horizontal plane such that drive surface 974 is substantially perpendicular to the plane containing prongs 928, 930. Drive surface 974 is movable between a loaded position (shown in FIG. 16), an impelling position (shown in FIG. 17) and a discharged position (shown in FIG. 18). Drive surface 974 moves between the loaded position, the impelling position and the discharged position in a plane substantially parallel to wall 16 and in a direction non-parallel to the direction in which impeller 922 is impelled into wall 16. Drive bar 968 does not need to project in front of wall hanging 20 which would otherwise obstruct the view of wall hanging 20 by a person hanging wall hanging 20 on wall 16. In the particular example shown, slide bar 968 is formed from a sufficiently hard material for driving impeller 922. In the embodiment shown, bar 968 is formed from steel. In other embodiments, portions of bar 968, other than drive surface 974, may be formed from less hard materials.

Spring 970 comprises a tension spring having a first end 976 coupled to housing 962 and a second end 978 coupled to bar 968 via pin 980. During loading of bar 968, spring 970 is extended so as to store energy for driving bar 968 and impeller 922. As will be described in greater detail hereafter, the fluctuation of trigger mechanism 1008 discharges spring 970 such that drive surface 974 is driven in the direction indicated by arrow 984 to move drive surface 974 to the impelling position and to the position in which drive surface 974 engages stop 972.

Stop surface 972 comprises a surface coupled to housing 962 and configured to stop drive surface 974 after drive surface 974 has moved through the impelling position. In the particular embodiment shown, stop surface 972 is further configured to absorb energy or force from drive surface 974. In one embodiment, stop surface 974 comprises an elastomeric material such as an elastic polymer, rubber or foam coupled to housing 962 below wall support holder 1002. In other embodiments, stop surface 972 may have other configurations configured to brake drive surface 974 after drive surface 974 is driven to impeller 922.

Loading mechanism 1006 comprises a mechanism configured to enable drive surface 974 to be moved to the loaded position and to be temporarily retained in the loaded position until trigger mechanism 1008 is actuated. In the particular example shown, loading mechanism 1006 includes loading member 1286 and retaining mechanism 988. Loading member comprises one or more structures configured to serve as a handle or surface against which a person may manually engage (or contact) and apply a force to load spring 970 and to move drive surface 974 to a loaded state.

As shown by FIG. 6, loading member 986 has oppositely extending portions 987 that extended through opposing spaced sidewalls of housing 962. Portions 987 permit forces to be applied to spring 970 from both sides of spring 974 a more symmetrical application of force to spring 970. As a result, loading of spring 970 is facilitated. In the particular example illustrated, each of portions 987 are symmetrically shaped with respect to one another and symmetrically extend from housing 962. In the example illustrated, each of portions 987 includes a downwardly facing arcuate edge 989. Edges 989 provide a comfortable surface against which a person's hands or fingers may apply force to loading member 986. In one embodiment, the opposing walls of housing 962 through which loading member 986 extends are spaced from one another by a distant less than or equal to about 0.5 inches. As a result, forces or more directly transferred to spring 970. In addition, portions 987 may be simultaneously engaged and drawn by fingers of a person's hand. For example, in one embodiment, both portion 3987 may be simultaneously engaged and drawn by a person's middle and index fingers. Consequently, loading a spring 970 is intuitive and may be performed with less force.

As further shown by FIGS. 1, 6 and 7, loading member 986 has exposed surfaces that are coupled to spring 970 that are located between manually engageable trigger surface 1018 and a top of the device 910 when spring 970 and drive surface 974 are loaded and after spring 970 is unloaded and drive surface 974 is discharged. In the example illustrated, loading member 986 is vertically located between trigger surface 1018 and the at least one retention surface provided by holder 1002 when spring 970 and drive surface 974 are loaded and after spring 970 is unloaded and drive surface 974 is discharged. As a result, loading mechanism 1006 and the loading member 986 remains substantially contained within housing 962 prior to loading, during loading and after discharging. Consequently, coupling unit 912 operates in a more compact fashion.

Retaining mechanism 988 is configured to releasably retain drive surface 974 in the loaded position. Retaining mechanism 988 generally includes catch 992, retainer 994 and bias member 996. Catch 992 comprises a surface along extends drive member 968 configured to be engaged by retainer 994 so as to retain drive surface 974 in the loaded position. In the particular example shown, catch 992 is provided at a lower axial end of drive member 968. In other embodiments, catch 992 may comprise a pin, for crew prints, projection or other structure projecting from a side of drive member 968.

Retainer 994 comprises an elongate arm pivotally coupled to housing 962 about axis 998. Retainer 994 pivots between a retaining or loading position (shown in FIGS. 12 and 14) and a releasing or discharging position (shown in FIGS. 8 and 9). In the loaded position, retainer 994 engages catch 992 to retain drive surface 974 in the loaded position. In the discharging position, retainer 994 is withdrawn from catch 992, permitting spring 970 to retract to drive surface 974 towards stop surface 972.

Bias member 996 resiliently biases retainer 994 towards the retaining or loaded position as shown in FIG. 14. In the particular example shown, bias member 996 comprises a compression spring coupled between retainer 994 and housing 962. Member 996 enables catch 992 to be moved from below retainer 994 to above retainer 994 as member 996 is compressed. Once catch 992 is above retainer 994 (as seen in FIG. 14), member 994 resiliently returns retainer 994 to the retaining position.

In lieu of comprising a compression spring, bias mechanism 996 may comprise other biasing structures such as a leaf spring, tension spring, or resilient material coupled between housing 962 and retainer 994.

Trigger mechanism 1008 comprises a mechanism configured to actuate retainer 994 from the retaining or loading position to the releasing or discharging position. Trigger mechanism 1008 includes housing 1010, trigger and coupling member 1014. Housing 1010 comprises a structure coupled to housing 962 and configured to enclose or shield portions of trigger 1012 and coupling member 1014. Housing 1010 further guides movement of trigger 1012 and coupling member 1014.

Trigger 1012 comprises a member pivotally coupled to housing 1010 about axis 1016. Trigger 1012 includes a manually engageable and accessible actuation surface 1018 on a first side of axis 1016 and working end 1020 on a second opposite side of axis 1016. Working end 1020 is coupled to retainer 994 by coupling member 1014 which is illustrated as a wire. Because coupling member 1014 couples trigger 1012 to retainer 994, compression member 994, bias member 996 also resiliently biases trigger 1012 to an unactuated state. As shown by FIG. 14, trigger 1008 additionally includes bias member 1015 (shown as a compression spring) further resiliently biasing trigger surface 1018 towards the un-actuated or uncompressed state or position.

Trigger disabler 1009 comprises one or more structures actuatable between a first disabling state inhibiting actuation of trigger mechanism 1008 and a second trigger enabling state permitting actuation of trigger mechanism 1008. As a result, inadvertent or accidental actuation of trigger mechanism 1008 and accidental firing of drive mechanism 1004 is reduced or eliminated. In the particular example illustrated, trigger disabler 1009 comprises a cover movable between a first position (shown in FIG. 1) inhibiting sufficient manual engagement with trigger surface 1018 to actuate trigger mechanism 1008 and a second position permitting sufficient manual engagement or contact with trigger surface 1018 to actuate trigger mechanism 1008. In the particular embodiments illustrated, the cover of trigger disabler 1009 pivots about axis 1019 between the first disabling position and the second enabling position. In the particular example illustrated, the cover includes a projecting flange or rim 1021 configured to permit a person to contact or engage in underside of cover 1009 with his or her thumb so as to lift in pivot the cover to access trigger surface 1018 in a substantially single motion without requiring the use of two hands or other fingers besides the person's thumb. As a result, disabler 1009 comprises a cost-effective disabling structure that may be easily moved for accessing trigger surface 1018 to use unit 912. In other embodiments, disabler 1009 may have other configurations or may be omitted. For example, in one embodiment, disabler 1009 may alternatively slide between a covering position inhibiting depressment of trigger surface 1018 and an opened position providing access to trigger surface 1018.

FIGS. 16-18 illustrate one example process that may be used to mount wall hanging 20 to wall 16. Drive surface 974 is moved to the loaded position by exerting an upward force upon loading member 986 in the direction indicated by arrow 990 in FIG. 1. As drive surface 974 is being moved toward the loaded position, spring 970 (shown in FIG. 12) is extending. As catch 992 moves past retainer 994, bias member 996 is compressed. Once catch 992 passes retainer 994, bias member 996 resiliently returns retainer 994 to retaining or loading position shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. Once drive surface 974 has been moved to the loaded position, wall hanging 20 may be positioned relative to device 910.

Wall hanging 20 is positioned upon platform 911 with mounting portion 18 extending about housing 962 of coupling unit 912. Mounting portion 18 is further positioned within the channels 939 provided by hooks 938 and wall support 914 is positioned relative to housing 962 by positioning impeller 922 within channel 956 and by positioning mounting portion 18 within recess 958. Hanger 924 is positioned relative to housing 962 such that extensions 940 (shown in FIG. 3) straddle the opposite sides of housing 962. The height of platform 911 is adjusted using retainer 1054 such that wall hanging 20 is supported by platform 911 but such that mounting portion 18 is relatively taut.

Coupling unit 912, wall support 914 and wall hanging 20 are then positioned against wall 16 in a desired location. Reference may be made to level indicators 915 (shown in FIG. 1) to ensure that wall hanging 20 is at a level orientation. Once wall hanging 20 is positioned in a desired location, actuator surface 1018 of trigger 1008 is pivoted forward about axis 1016 in the direction indicated by arrow 1030 as indicated in FIG. 14. This results in working end 1020 of trigger 1012 moving in the direction indicated by arrow 1032 and also results in retainer 974 pivoting against the bias of bias member 994 about axis 998 in the direction indicated by arrow 1034 to dislodge retainer 994 from catch 992. As a result, as shown by FIGS. 15-18, spring 970 resiliently returns to its natural state, driving slide bar or drive member 968 and drive surface 974 from the loaded position shown in FIG. 16, through the impelling position shown in FIG. 17 to the discharged position shown in FIG. 18. As shown by FIG. 17, as drive surface 974 is moving through the impelling position in the direction indicated by arrow 1038, drive surface 974 is engaging head 926 to drive tongs 928, 930 in the direction indicated by arrow 1040 into wall 16. Drive surface 974 is braked or stopped by stop surface 972. Once drive surface 974 has moved to the discharged position shown in FIG. 18, housing 962 may be moved in a direction away from wall 16 and then slid in a downward direction out from behind wall hanging 20, leaving wall hanging 20 in substantially the same position as it had assumed while being supported by platform 911 and prior to the driving of impeller 922 into wall 16.

Overall, wall hanging mounting device 910 provides several advantages as compared to the conventional techniques for mounting a wall hanging to a wall. Because device 10 couples the wall support to the wall while the wall support is at least close proximity to the mounting portion of the wall hanging itself, much of the guess work about where the wall hanging will actually be located and how it will look when hung from the wall is eliminated. In particular, the person hanging the wall hanging will know to a fairly high degree of accuracy exactly where wall hanging 20 will be located and how it will look as impeller 922 is being driven into wall 16. Level indicators 915 further assist in insuring that the wall hanging will be level when mounted to wall 16. Because platform 911 is vertically adjustable, device 10 may accommodate a variety of differently sized wall hangings 20. In particular applications where a wall hanging may require multiple wall supports, a pair of devices 910 may be used to hang a single larger wall hanging 20.

In addition, device 910 enables wall hangings 20 to be easily mounted without the need for multiple tools. Rather than having to locate a hammer and to properly strike a nail, fastener or other member with the hammer, a person simply needs to cock, load or otherwise move drive surface 974 to a loaded position and to actuate trigger 1012. A person does not need to worry about missing a target with the hammer and striking the wall hanging or subjecting the hanging to excessive vibration from a hammer strike. In contrast, device 910 provides a single one-piece mechanism which functions as a self-contained unit for mounting wall hanging 20.

FIGS. 1 and 6-18 illustrate but one example of a coupling unit 912 that may be employed for mounting wall support 914. For example, although drive unit 964 is illustrated as utilizing a tension spring 970 for driving drive surface 974 through the impelling position, drive unit 974 may alternatively comprise a compression spring coupled between drive bar or drive member 968 and housing 962 such that the spring is compressed when drive surface 974 is in the loaded position. In such an embodiment, actuation of trigger 1012 would result in the spring decompressing and firing drive surface 974. In lieu of drive surface 974 being moved to the loaded position by manually moving loading member 986 upward in the direction indicated by arrow 990 in FIG. 1, drive bar 968 and drive surface 978 may alternatively be loaded utilizing other mechanisms. For example, in other embodiments, loading mechanism 1006 may omit loading member 986 or other mechanisms are provided for moving or ratcheting up bar 968 to the loaded position. In still other embodiments, drive unit 964 may omit spring 970 where other means are utilized to move drive surface 974. For example, pneumatic or hydraulic firing systems utilizing or involving the release of pressurized gas or pressurized fluid against a piston or other surface to move drive surface 74 through the impelling position may be used. Electrical solenoids or other linear actuators may be utilized to move drive surface 974 through the impelling position. In some applications, electrical solenoids, linear actuators, pneumatic actuators or hydraulic actuators may be employed to extend a tension spring or compress a compression spring during loading of drive surface 974. Although trigger mechanism 1012 is illustrated as extending below wall hanging 20, trigger mechanism 1012 may alternatively extend over wall hanging 20.

FIGS. 19-28 illustrate wall hanging mounting device 1110, another embodiment of wall hanging mounting device 910. Unlike wall hanging mounting device 910, wall hanging mounting device 1110 extends over a wall hanging 20 (shown in FIG. 16) while coupling a wall support to wall and while the wall support is in at least close proximity to a mounting portion of the wall hanging. As a result, wall hanging mounting device 1110 may mount a larger variety of differently sized wall hangings to a wall. Device 1110 is additionally more compact.

Wall hanging mounting device 1110 includes a coupling unit 1112 and level indicator 1115. Level indicator 1115 comprises a mechanism configured to communicate to the user whether coupling unit 1112 is itself in a level orientation when mounting a wall hanging to a wall. In the particular embodiment illustrated, level indicator 1115 comprises a bubble level indicator coupled to housing 1162 of coupling unit 1112 proximate to a top of housing 1162. In other embodiments, level indicator 1115 may be provided at other locations or may be omitted.

Coupling unit 1112 comprise a member configured to couple a wall support 914 (shown in FIGS. 3-5) to a wall while wall support 914 is in at least close proximity to mounting portion 918 of wall hanging 20 (shown in FIG. 16). In the particular embodiments shown, coupling unit 1112 is configured to impel a portion of wall support 914 into wall 16 while the wire of wall hanging 20 is in engagement with wall support 914. When used with wall support 914, coupling unit 1112 is configured to impel impeller 922 (shown in FIG. 3) into wall 16 (shown in FIG. 16) while wall support 914 is in at least close proximity to mounting portion 18 of wall hanging 20. Coupling unit 1112 includes wall support holder 1202, drive mechanism 1204 (shown in FIG. 23), loading mechanism 1206 (shown in FIG. 23), trigger mechanism 1208, trigger disabler 1209 (shown in FIG. 19) and handle 1211. Wall support holder 1202 is substantially identical to wall support holder 1002 described above. Wall support holder 1202 includes at least one retention surface configured to temporarily and releasably retaining wall support 914 in place as drive mechanism 1204 drives impeller 922 into wall 16. Wall support holder 1202 retains wall support 914 while mounting portion 18 is received within channels of hooks 938. In other embodiments, wall support holder 1202 may alternatively be configured to hold and releasably retaining other wall supports used for mounting a wall hanging to a wall.

Drive mechanism 1204 comprise a mechanism configured to drive our impel impeller 922 (shown in FIG. 3) into wall 16 (shown in FIG. 16). Drive mechanism 1204 includes frame, enclosure, support, structure or housing 1262 and drive unit 1264. Housing 1262 substantially encloses drive unit 1264. Housing 1262 further guides and directs movement of drive unit 1264. That portion of housing 1262 extending about drive unit 1254 has a width W₃ (shown in FIG. 23) configured to extend between a back surface of wall hanging 20 and wall 16 while wall support 914 is positioned against wall 16 and while mounting portion 18 extends from wall hanging 20 into engagement with wall support 914. In the particular example shown, housing 1262 has a width W3 of no greater than approximately 2 inches.

As further shown by FIG. 23, housing includes an elongate channel 1260 which receives drive unit end a pair of opposing elongate slots 1265 on opposite side of channel 1260. Slots 1265 slightly receive portion of the loading mechanism 1206 and enable loading mechanism 1206 to project outside of housing 1262 for being manually engaged (i.e. physically contacted by a person's hand such that force may be applied thereto). Slots 1265 further assist in guiding movement of drive unit 1204.

Drive unit 1204 is substantially contained within housing 1262 and engages impeller 922 (shown in FIG. 3) drive impeller 922. Drive unit 1264 includes slide, drive bar or drive member 1268, spring 1270 and spring 1272. Drive member 1268 extends within housing 1262 and includes drive surface 1274. Drive surface 1274 comprises a surface configured to engage head 926 of impeller 922 says to exert a force upon impeller 920 to drive impeller 922 into wall 16. Drive surface 1274 is generally angle with respect to a horizontal plane when the front a vertical surface 1275 of housing 1262 is substantially positioned against her flush with a vertical wall 16. In the particular example shown, drive surface 1274 extends at approximately 135° relative to a horizontal plane such that drive surface 1274 extends in a plane substantially perpendicular to the plane containing prongs 928, 930. Drive surface 1274 is movable between a loaded position or state (shown in FIGS. 26-28) and impelling position in which surface 1274 is engaging in driving impeller 922 and a discharged position (shown in FIGS. 19, 23, 24 and 25). Drive surface 1274 moves between the loaded position, the impelling position and the discharged position in a plain substantially parallel to wall 16 and in a direction non-parallel to the direction in which impeller 922 is impelled into wall 16. Drive member 1268 does not need to project in front of wall hanging 20 which would otherwise obstruct the view of wall hanging 20 by a person hanging wall hanging 20 on wall 16. In the particular example shown, drive bar or member 1268 is formed from a sufficiently hard material for driving impeller 922. In the embodiment shown, bar or member 1260 is formed from steel. In other embodiments, portions of bar or member 1268, other than drive surface 1274, may be formed from less hard materials.

Spring 1270 comprises a tension spring concentrically positioned within spring 1272 having a first end 1276 coupled to housing 1262 and a second end 1278 coupled to drive bar 1268 via fastener 1280. During loading of bar 1268, spring 1270 is extended so as to store energy for driving bar 1268 and impeller 922. As we described in greater detail hereafter, actuation of trigger mechanism 1208 discharges spring 1270 such that drive surface 1274 is driven in the direction indicated by arrow 1284 to move drive surface 1274 to the impelling position and to the position in which drive bar 1268 engages spring 1272 towards the end of its movement.

Spring 1272 comprises a compression spring concentrically positioned about spring 1270 proximate to end 1276. Spring 1272 has a first end fixedly coupled to housing 1262 and a second opposite end 1282 terminating at a location so as to initially engage drive member 1268 after drive member 1268 has substantially completed its downward stroke and has at least substantially driven wall support 914 (or another wall support) into the wall. Spring 1272 absorbs forces from movement of drive member 1268 after the wall support 914 has been mounted into wall 16 to reduce vibration in impact forces that would otherwise be experienced by housing 1262 and the person holding device 1110. In other embodiments, other force or impact absorbing devices or members may be employed.

As further shown by FIGS. 21 and 24, wherein drive member 1268 has been discharged and prior to loading of drive member 1268, drive member 1268 extends across at least channel 986. In the particular example illustrated, drive member 1268, in the discharged state or position, also extends across recess 987. As a result, drive member 1268 prevents loading or positioning of a wall support, such as wall support 914, onto coupling unit 1112 prior to loading of drive member 1268.

Loading mechanism 1206 comprises a mechanism configured to enable drive surface 1274 to be moved to the loaded position or state and to be temporarily retained in the loaded position until trigger mechanism 1208 is actuated. In the particular example shown, loading mechanism 1206 includes loading member 1286 and retaining mechanism 1288. Loading member comprises one or more structures configured to serve as a handle or surface against which a person may manually engage (or contact) and apply a force to load spring 1270 and to move drive surface 1274 to a loaded state.

As shown by FIG. 21 loading member 1286 has oppositely extending portions 1287 that extended through opposing spaced sidewalls of housing 1262. Portions 1287 permit forces to be applied to spring 1270 from both sides of spring 1270 for a more symmetrical application of force to spring 1270. As a result, loading of spring 1270 is facilitated. In the particular example illustrated, each of portions 1287 are symmetrically shaped with respect to one another and symmetrically extend from housing 1262. In the example illustrated, each of portions 1287 includes a downwardly facing arcuate edge 989. Edges 989 provide a comfortable surface against which a person's hands or fingers may apply force to loading member 1286. In one embodiment, the opposing walls of housing 1262 through which loading member 1286 extends are spaced from one another by a distant less than or equal to about 0.5 inches. As a result, forces or more directly transferred to spring 1270. In addition, portions 1287 may be simultaneously engaged and drawn by fingers of a person's hand. For example, in one embodiment, both portions 1287 may be simultaneously engaged and drawn by a person's middle and index fingers. Consequently, loading a spring 1270 is intuitive and may be performed with less force.

As further shown by FIGS. 19, 21 and 23, loading member 1286 has exposed surfaces that are coupled to spring 1270 that are located between manually engageable trigger surface 1018 and a top of the device 1110 when spring 1270 and drive surface 1274 are loaded and after spring 1270 is unloaded and drive surface 974 is discharged. In the example illustrated, loading member 1286 is vertically located between trigger surface 1218 and the at least one retention surface provided by holder 1202 when spring 1270 and drive surface 1274 are loaded and after spring 1270 is unloaded and drive surface 1274 is discharged. As a result, loading mechanism 1206 and the loading member 1286 remain substantially contained within housing 1262 prior to loading, during loading and after discharging. Consequently, coupling unit 1112 operates in a more compact fashion.

Retaining mechanism 1288 is configured to releasably retain drive surface 1274 in the loaded position. Retaining mechanism 1288 generally includes catch 1292, retainer 1294 and bias member 1296. Catch 1292 comprises a surface along drive member 1268 configured to be engaged by retainer 1294 so as to retain drive surface 1274 in the loaded position. In the particular example shown, catch 1292 comprises a detent, cut out or notch extending into drive member 1268. In other embodiments, catch 1292 may comprise a pin, projection or other structure projecting from a side of drive member 1268.

Retainer 1294 comprises an elongate arm or bar slidably supported by housing 1262 for linear translation along an axis 1298. Retainer 1294 linearly translates between a retaining or loading position (shown in FIGS. 26-28) and a releasing or discharging position (shown in FIGS. 23-25). In the loaded position, retainer 1294 engages catch 1292 to retain drive surface 974 in the loaded position. In the discharged or withdrawn position, retainer 1294 is withdrawn from catch 1292, permitting spring 1270 to retract to drive surface 1274 towards spring 1272 and into engagement with a wall support supported by holder 1202.

Bias member 1296 resiliently biases retainer 1294 towards the retaining or loaded position as shown in FIG. 26. In the particular example shown, bias member 1296 comprises a compression spring coupled between retainer 1294 and housing 1262. Member 1296 enables catch 1292 to be moved from below retainer 1294 to above retainer 1294 as member 1296 is compressed. Once catch 1292 has received retainer 994 (as seen in FIG. 26), member 994 resiliently returns retainer 994 to the retaining position. In lieu of comprising a compression spring, bias mechanism 1296 may comprise other biasing structures such as a leaf spring, tension spring, or resilient material coupled between housing 1262 and retainer 1294.

Trigger mechanism 1208 comprises a mechanism configured to actuate retainer 1294 from the retaining or loading position to a releasing or discharged position. Trigger mechanism 1208 includes housing 1210, trigger 1212 and coupling member 1214.

Trigger 1212 comprises a member pivotally coupled to housing 1210 about axis 1216. Trigger 1212 includes a manually engageable and accessible actuation surface 1218 on a first side of axis 1216 and a working end 1220 on a second opposite side of axis 1216. Working end 1220 is coupled to retainer 1294 by coupling member 1214 which is illustrated as a wire. Because coupling member 1214 couples trigger 1212 to retainer 1294, bias member 1296 also resiliently biases trigger 1212 to towards an unactuated state. As shown by FIG. 23, trigger 1212 mechanism 1212 additionally includes bias member 1215 (shown as a compression spring) further resiliently biasing trigger surface 1218 towards the un-actuator or uncompressed state or position.

As shown by FIG. 23, in the particular example illustrated, trigger 1212 is coupled to coupling member 1214 by means of a hole or aperture through which trigger 1218 passes, wherein an axial end of coupling member 1214 has secured to it an enlarged head 1301. During pivoting of trigger 1218 about axis 1216, trigger 1218 engages head 1301 to linearly move coupling member 1214 and retainer 1294 along axis 1298. According to one embodiment, head 1301 is adjustably coupled to coupling member 1214. As a result, the axial positioning of head 1301 upon coupling member 1214 may be adjusted or varied to very the sensitivity of trigger mechanism 1208. To lower the sensitivity of trigger mechanism 1208, had 1301 may be adjustably moved along axis 1298 to the right (as seen in FIG. 23), permitting a greater degree of movement of trigger surface 1218 without any corresponding movement of coupling member 1214 or retainer 1294. To increase the sensitivity of trigger mechanism 1208, head 1301 may be linearly adjusted or moved to the left (as seen in FIG. 23) such that trigger 1212 engages head 1301 earlier in time upon depressment of trigger surface 1218. In one embodiment, head 1301 comprises a nut threaded onto exterior threads along coupling member 1214. In other embodiments, head 1301 may be adjustably positioned or coupled to coupling member 1214 in other fashions. In other embodiments, trigger 1212 may be fixedly connected to coupling member 1214 such that any movement of trigger 1212 automatically and immediately causes movement of coupling member 1214 and retainer 1294.

FIG. 19 illustrates trigger disabler 1209. Trigger disabler 1209 comprises one or more structures actuatable between the first disabling state inhibiting actuation of trigger mechanism 1208 and a second trigger enabling state permitting actuation of trigger mechanism 1208. As a result, inadvertent or accidental actuation of trigger mechanism 1208 and accidental firing of drive mechanism 1204 is reduced or eliminated. In the particular example illustrated, trigger disabler 1209 comprises a cover movable between a first position (shown in FIG. 1) inhibiting sufficient manual engagement with trigger surface 1218 to actuate trigger mechanism 1208 and a second position permitting sufficient manual engagement or contact with trigger surface 1218 to actuate trigger mechanism 1208. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the cover of trigger disabler 1209 includes one or more elongate interior channels or guides 1303 that slidably receive one or more projections or pins 1305 extending from housing 1210. The one or more channel 1303 and one or more pins 1305 slidably support the cover of disabler 1209 for slidable or linear translation between the first disabling position and the second enabling position. In the particular example illustrated, the cover includes a projecting flange or lip 1221 configured to permit a person to contact or engage an underside of cover 1209 with his or her thumb so as to manually slide or push the cover to access trigger surface 1218 and a substantially single motion without requiring the use of two hands or other fingers besides the person's thumb. As a result, disabler 1209 comprises a cost-effective disabling structure that may be easily moved for accessing trigger surface 1218 to use unit 1212.

Handle 1211 is coupled to housing 1210 and extends from housing 1210 generally below trigger surface throw 18. In the example illustrated, handle 1211 extends along an axis 1312 that is oblique to plain 1313 (extending into the page of FIG. 19) which extends along the front face 1315 of unit 1112. In the particular example illustrated, handle 1211 extends at an upward forwardly inclined angle. In the example illustrated, handle 1211 extends at an acute angle A relative to plane 1313. In one embodiment, angle A is between about 2° and about 12°, and nominally about 6°. As a result, unit 1112 is more ergonomic in nature and may more easily positioned against a wall, especially when supporting a wall hanging along the wall during mounting operations.

In the particular embodiment illustrated, handle 1211 has a length of at least 12 inches and extends below holder 1202 by distance of at least 6 inches. In other embodiments, handle 1211 may extend at other orientations and may have other dimensions and.

FIG. 29 schematically illustrates wall hanging mounting device 1410, another embodiment of wall hanging mounting device 910. Like device 910, device 1410 is configured to couple a wall support to a wall. Like device 910, device 1410 is specifically configured to drive a wall support into a wall at an angle oblique to the wall. In the example illustrated, device 1410 is configured to couple a wall support, such as wall support 914 or other wall support to a wall while the support using at least close proximity to the mounting portion 18 of wall hanging 20. In the example shown, device 1410 is configured to impel a portion of the wall support into a wall while the wire of the wall support is in engagement with the wall support.

Device 1410 includes coupling unit 1412 and level indicator 1115 (shown described above with respect to device 1110. Coupling unit 1412 includes wall support holder 1502, drive unit 1504, load a mechanism 1506, trigger mechanism 1508 and trigger disabler 1509. Wall support holder 1502 comprises a portion of coupling unit 1412 which includes at least one retention surface configured to temporarily and releasably retain a wall support 1414 in place as drive mechanism 1504 drives the wall support 1414 into the wall or other wise couples the wall support to the wall. Wall support holder 1502 generally includes a channel 1556, recess 1558 and support aperture 1559. Channel 1556 and recess 1558 are substantially similar to channel 956 and recess 958 described above. Support aperture 1559 comprises an opening extending through a front wall of housing 1562. Aperture 1559 is sized so as to receive a catch or hook 1561 extending from hanger 1524 which resiliently flexes during insertion through aperture 1559. Hanger 1524 is similar to hanger 924 in substantially all other respects. Hook 1561 projects behind the front wall of housing 1562 to assist in retaining hanger 1524 adjacent a remainder of coupling unit 1412 until the impeller 922 associated with wall support 1414 is mounted to a wall. As will be described hereafter, during mounting of wall support 1414 to wall, hook 1561 is driven through aperture 1559 to release hanger 1524 from coupling unit 1412 or is alternatively broken off or otherwise separated from main portion 936 from which hook 1561 projects.

As further shown by FIG. 29, in the particular example illustrated, wall support holder 1502 is releasably or removably coupled to a remainder of coupling unit 412. In one embodiment, holder 1502 is modular in nature or is in the form of a holder “cartridge” configured to be releasably amounted to coupling unit 1412. As a result, holder 1502 may be easily removed from coupling unit 412 for repair or replacement. In particular embodiments, device 1410 may include a plurality of distinct wall support holder cartridges which may be interchangeably mounted to coupling unit 412, wherein each wall support holder module or cartridge is configured to releasably support a different wall support relative to coupling unit 1412 while the wall support is being coupled to a wall. As a result, different wall support holders may be used with coupling unit 1412 two mount or couple different wall supports having different features comic characteristics or it manages, to a wall. Thus, the interchangeability of different wall support holder 1502 to provide device 1410 with enhanced versatility to meet different wall hanging mounting needs.

In one embodiment, such wall support holder cartridges or modules may be configured to snap into place with respect to coupling unit 1412, eliminating or reducing the need for tools. In another embodiment, such wall support holders may be removably connected to coupling unit 1412 by one or more fasteners. In yet other embodiments, this modular or cartridge nature of wall support holder 1502 may be omitted, wherein all support holder 1502 is permanently provided as part of coupling unit 1412. Although the cartridge of wall support holder 1502 is illustrated as omitting recess 1558 (which is attention identical to recess 958 described above), in other embodiments, recess 1558 may also be incorporated as part of the cartridge providing the remaining elements of holder 1502. In

Drive mechanism 1504 comprises a mechanism configured to drive or impel impeller 922 associated with wall support 914 or an impeller associate with another wall support into wall 16 (shown in FIG. 16). Drive mechanism 1504 includes housing 1562 and a drive unit 1564. Housing 1562 has a width W₃ configured to extend between a back surface of wall hanging 20 and wall 16 while wall support 1414 is positioned against wall 16 and while mounting portion 18 extends from morning 20 into engagement with wall support 1414. In the particular example shown, housing 1562 has a width W₃ of no greater than approximately 2 inches.

Drive unit 1564 is essentially contained within housing 1562 and engages impeller 922 (shown in FIG. 3) to drive impeller 922 of us is secure hanger 1524 to a wall. Drive unit 1564 includes drive member 1568 and spring 1570. Drive member 1568 extends within housing 1562 and generally comprises a pivotable panel, door or bar having a drive surface 1574 that comprises a surface configured to engage head 926 of impeller 922 (shown in FIG. 3) so as to exert a force upon impeller 922 to drive impeller 922 into wall 16 (shown in FIG. 16). Drive member 1568 pivots about axis 1575 between a loaded position (shown in FIG. 29), and impelling position in which drive surface 1574 is in engagement with impeller 922 and driving impeller 922 and a discharged position in which drive member 1568 has rotated past channel 1556. In one embodiment, drive member 1568 pivots through a proximally 180 degrees during a stroke. In one embodiment, drive their 1568 may rotate until engaging a force absorbing member such as a spring or rubber bumper (not shown). In one embodiment, drive member 1568 is formed from steel. In other embodiments, portions of drive member 1568 may be formed from other materials.

Spring 1570 comprises a spring configured to load drive member 1568 and to drive member 1568 with a sufficient force so as to drive impeller 922 into a wall. In one embodiment, spring 1570 comprises a pre-loaded torsion spring configured to rotationally drive member 1568 about axis 1575. In other embodiments, spring 1570 may comprise a compression spring, a tension spring or other resiliently biasing mechanisms appropriately positioned relative to drive member 1568 and housing 1562 so as to drive or move drive member 1568 about axis 1575.

Loading mechanism 1506 comprising mechanism configured to enable drive member 1568 and its drive surface 1574 to be moved to the loaded position and to be temporally retained in the loaded position until trigger mechanism 1508 is actuated. In the particular example illustrated, loading mechanism 1506 includes a loading member 1586 and retaining mechanism 1588. Loading member 1586 comprises one or more structured configured to serve as a handler surface against which a person may manually engage (or contact) and apply a force to load spring 1570 so as to move drive surface 1574 to be loaded state. In one embodiment, loading member 1586 (schematically shown in FIG. 29) may comprise a lever coupled to an extending from drive member 1568 that is configured to be manually gripped and rotated about axis 1506 to wind the torsion spring 1570. Such an embodiment, load member 1586 may comprise a pair of tabs or projections extending through arcuate slots in opposite side walls of housing 1562. In other embodiments, loading member 1586 may have other configurations.

Retaining mechanism 1588 is configured to releasably retain drive surface 1574 in the loaded position or steak. Retaining mechanism 1588 includes retainer 1594 and bias member 1596. Retainer 1594 comprises an elongated arm linearly movable or translatable along a substantially vertical axis between a retaining or loading position (shown in FIG. 29) and a releasing are discharged position in which a lower end of retainer 1594 is elevated above an uppermost portion of drive member 1568. In the loaded position, retainer 1594 inhibits rotation of drive member 1568 in a counter-clockwise direction (as seen in FIG. 29). In the discharged position, retainer 1594 is withdrawn from drive member 1568, permitting drive member 1568 to rotate in the counter-clockwise direction under the force applied by spring 1570.

Bias member 1596 resiliently biases retainer 1594 towards the retaining or loaded position shown FIG. 29. In particular example illustrated, bias member 1596 comprises a compression spring coupled between retainer 1594 and housing 1562. Member 1596 enables drive member 1568 to be rotated in a clockwise direction during loading from one side of retainer 1594 to an opposite side of retainer 1594 as member 1596 is compressed. Once drive member 1568 has moved past retainer 1594, member 1596 was only returns retainer 1594 to the retaining position. As shown by FIG. 29, in the particular example illustrated, drive member 1568 and retainer 1594 each have complementary paper, slope, ramped or angled surfaces such that as drive ever 1568 is rotated in the clockwise direction, drive never 1568 drives or lists retainer 1594 against bias member 1596. In other embodiments, in lieu of comprising a compression spring, bias member 1596 may comprise other biasing structures such as a leaf spring, tension spring are resilient material coupled between housing 1562 and retainer 1594.

Trigger mechanism 1508 comprising mechanism configured to actuate retainer 1594 from the retaining or loaded position to the released or discharged position. Trigger mechanism 1508 includes housing 1510, trigger 1512 and link 1513. Housing 1510 comprise a structure coupled to housing 1562 and configured to enclose or shield portions of trigger 1512. Housing 1510 further guides movement of trigger 1512.

Trigger 1512 comprises a member slidably or linearly translatable along axis 1513. Trigger 1512 includes a manually engageable and accessible actuation surface 1518 on a first end 1519 and a working end 1520 pivotally connected to link 1513. Link 1513 comprises a substantially rigid member pivotally connected to housing 1510 for rotation about axis 1521. Link 1513 has a first end 1522 pivotally connected to end 1520 of trigger 1512 and a second end 1523 or pivotally connected to retainer 1594. As a result, depressment of trigger surface 1518 moves trigger 1512 and the direction indicated by arrow 1527. This results in linkage 1513 rotating in a clockwise direction to lift retainer 1594 in a direction indicated by arrow 1529 against the bias force applied by bias member 1596. As a result, retainer 1594 is lifted or raised, permitting spring 1570 to drive member 1568 into engagement with the wall support held by holder 1502. Prior to depressment of trigger surface 1518, bias member 1596 resiliently biases surface 1518 to and unactuated or extended state.

Trigger disabler 1509 is substantially similar to figure disabler 1009 described above with respect to device 910. Like disabler 1009, disabler 1509 is configured to be actuated between a first disabling state inhibiting actuation of trigger mechanism 1508 and a second trigger enabling state permitting actuation of trigger mechanism 1508. As shown by FIG. 29, inadvertent or accidental actuation of trigger mechanism 1508 is further inhibited by locating trigger surface 1518 in a recess or a void 1531. In other embodiments, trigger surface 1518 may not be located within avoid and/or disabler 15 on nine may be omitted.

Like wall hanging mounting device 1110, wall hanging mounting device 1410 extends over a wall hanging. As a result, wall hanging mounting device 1410 is able to accommodate a larger variety of differently sized wall hangings. In addition, wall hanging mounting device 1410 may be more compact in size. As shown by FIG. 29, vice 1410 has trigger surface 1518 proximate to a top of the device horizontally across from the horizontal portion of device 1110 spacing handle portion 1511 from the vertical leg of housing 1562 containing drive member 1568 and having face 1502. As a result, handle portion 1511 may be located closer to a top 1411 of device 1410, and enabling handle portion 1511 to be shorter in length. In the example illustrated, handle portion 1511 has a length L of no greater than about 6 inches, a length sufficient to accommodate most hands. Because handle portion 1511 and trigger surface 1518 are located in close proximity to a top of device 1410, device 1410 is more compact. Although wall support holder 1502 has been illustrated and described as a cartridge or module for use with wall hanging mounting device 1410, wall hanging mounting device 1502 may additionally be incorporated as part of either wall hanging mounting device 910 or 1110. Likewise, in particular embodiments, wall support 1414 may also be utilized with devices 910 or 1110.

FIG. 30 schematically illustrates wall hanging mounting device 1610, another embodiment of wall hanging mounting device 910. Wall hanging mounting device 1610 is similar to wall hanging mounting device 1410 (shown and described with respect to FIG. 29) except that wall hanging mounting device 1610 additionally includes spring 1613, opening 1615 and collection container 1617. Those remaining elements of device 1610 which correspond to elements of device 1410 are numbered similarly.

As shown by FIG. 30, spring 1613 resiliently biases paddle or door 1556 towards front face 1502. Spring 1613 enables differently sized fasteners of different wall supports to be used while reducing the likelihood that door 1556 will be swung past a top of drive member 1568 during loading of the wall support.

In the particular example illustrated, spring 1616 comprises a tension spring. In other embodiments, spring 1616 may comprise a torsion spring or a compression spring a appropriately repositioned with respect to door 1556 and housing 1562 to achieve the noted function. In other embodiments, housing 1562 may include internal stops preventing door 1556 from being swung too far past drive member 1568.

Opening 1615 comprise an opening extending within housing 1562 below holder 1502. Opening 1615 permits broken off hooks 1559 to be discharged from housing 1562. In the example illustrated, such broken off hooks passed through opening 1615 into collection container 1617.

Collection container 1617 comprises a receptacle below opening 1615 configured to receive and contain broken off hooks 1559. In the example illustrated, container 1617 is removably attached to housing 1562. As a result, container 1617 may be separated and emptied or disposed of with a new empty container 1617 being subsequently attached to housing 1562. In other embodiments, container 1617 may be omitted.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the defined subject matter. For example, although different example embodiments may have been described as including one or more features providing one or more benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one another in the described example embodiments or in other alternative embodiments. Because the technology of the present disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to the example embodiments and set forth in the following claims is manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specifically otherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element also encompass a plurality of such particular elements.

Claims

1. A wall hanging mounting device for use with at least one wall support and a wall hanging having a mounting portion, the device comprising:

a coupling unit configured to couple the least one wall support to a wall while the wall support is in at least close proximity to the mounting portion of the wall hanging, wherein the unit includes:

at least one drive surface that moves in a plane or about an axis contained between the wall hanging end the wall as it couples the least one wall support to the wall;

a trigger mechanism actuatable between an actuated state and a non-actuated state, the trigger mechanism including a manually engageable trigger surface;

at least one drive mechanism configured to drive the least one drive surface into engagement with the least one wall support in response to actuation of the trigger mechanism to the actuated state, the least one drive mechanism including:

a spring coupled to the at least one drive surface; and

a loading mechanism configured to load the spring, wherein the loading mechanism includes a manually engageable loading member coupled to the spring and exposed between the trigger surface and a top of the wall hanging mounting device.

2. The device of claim 1 further comprising at lease one retention surface configured to retain the least one wall support in a position relative to the mounting portion, wherein the loading member is vertically between the trigger surface and the at least one retention surface.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the trigger mechanism extends below the least one retention surface

4. The device of claim 2 wherein the trigger mechanism extends above the least one retention surface

5. The device of claim 1 further comprising at least one surface configured to retain the least one wall support in a position relative to the mounting portion, wherein the loading member is vertically arranged between the at least one retention surface and a top of the device.

6. The device of claim 1 further comprising a housing, wherein the loading member symmetrically extends from opposite sides of the housing.

7. The device of claim 1, further comprising a housing, wherein the housing has opposing spaced sidewalls through which oppositely extending portions of the loading member extend.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein the sidewalls are spaced by less than or equal to about 0.5 inches.

9. The device of claim 7, wherein the oppositely extending portions have a downwardly facing arcuate edges.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the drive surface moves between a loaded state and a discharged state and wherein the device further includes a loading mechanism comprising:

a catch associated with the drive surface to move with the drive surface; and

a retainer linearly translatable between a retaining position in which the drive surface is retained in the loaded state and a withdrawn position, permitting the drive surface to move to the discharged state.

11. The device of claim 10, wherein the catch includes one of a detent and a projection and wherein the retainer includes the other of the detent and the projection.

12. The device of claim 10, wherein the drive surface moves along a first axis between the loaded state and the discharged state and wherein the retainer moves along a second axis nonparallel to the first axis.

13. The device of claim 12, the second axis along which the retainer moves is substantially perpendicular to the first axis.

14. The device of claim 10, wherein the retainer is resiliently biased towards a retaining position.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the retainer and the catch includes a tapered surface configured to facilitate movement of the catch past the retainer.

16. (canceled)

17. (canceled)

18. The device of claim 1, wherein the drive surface moves between a loaded state and a discharged state and wherein the device further includes a loading mechanism comprising:

a catch associated with the drive surface to move with the drive surface; and

a retainer movable between a retaining position in which the drive surface is retained in the loaded state and a withdrawn position, permitting the drive surface to move to the discharged state, wherein the trigger surface is movable while the retainer is stationary in the retaining position.

19. (canceled)

20. The device of claim 1, wherein the drive surface moves between a loaded state and a discharged state and wherein the device further includes a loading mechanism comprising:

a catch associated with the drive surface to move with the drive surface; and

a retainer movable between a retaining position in which the drive surface is retained in the loaded state and a withdrawn position, permitting the drive surface to move to the discharged state, wherein the drive surface moves away from the retainer when moving from the loaded state to the discharged state.

21. The device of claim 1 further comprising a handle configured to extend oblique to the wall when the device is positioned against the wall during securement of the wall support to the wall.

22. (canceled)

23. (canceled)

24. (canceled)

25. The device of claim 1, wherein the coupling unit has a recess configured to receive the mounting portion and opposite our faces configured to frictionally engaged opposite inner edges of the wall support below the recess.

26-36. (canceled)

37. A wall support comprising:

a main portion;

at least one hook extending from the main portion configured to support a mounting portion of a wall hanging;

at least one extension;

at least one fastener extending from the least one extension and configured to couple the wall support to a wall; and

at least one catch projecting from the main portion between the least one extension and the least one hook, the at least one catch configured to releasably retain the wall support relative to a wall hanging mounting device during mounting.

38-54. (canceled)