Apparatus for mounting object on wall

Abstract

An apparatus for mounting an object to a wall and a related method of use are disclosed. The apparatus comprises a longitudinally extending track, plural carriers movably supported by the track for movement relative thereto in a longitudinal direction, and couplers supported on the carriers to support the object. A feature of the apparatus is that the carriers are positionable to project past ends of the track whereby the couplers can be located beyond the track. Another feature of the apparatus is that the couplers can be movably supported on the carriers to be repositionable in a crosswise direction to the longitudinal direction.

Claims

1. An apparatus for mounting an object to a wall, comprising: a track extending longitudinally between opposite ends of the track and configured for mounting to the wall; a plurality of carriers supported by the track for longitudinal movement relative thereto, wherein the carriers have longitudinally opposite inner and outer ends; and a plurality of couplers supported on the carriers and configured to receive the object thereby mounting the object to the wall; wherein the carriers are movable from retracted positions in which the carriers are located intermediate the ends of the track to extended positions in which the carriers extend from the inner ends located intermediate the ends of the track and past the ends of the track to the outer ends located outwardly of the track.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the carriers are movable independently of each other along the track.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the track comprises an open-ended channel and the carriers are received in the channel to be movably supported thereby.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the carriers comprise longitudinally extending grooves along laterally opposite sides which are mated with longitudinally-extending laterally-opposite flanges of the channel.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the couplers are supported at or adjacent the outer ends of the carriers.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the couplers are supported for movement relative to the carriers in a crosswise direction to the longitudinal direction of the track.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the couplers are movably supported on grooved tracks extending in the crosswise direction and formed by a plurality of grooves disposed side-by-side in the crosswise direction.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the couplers are movable in the crosswise direction in a common plane.

9. An apparatus for mounting an object to a wall, comprising: a track extending longitudinally between opposite ends of the track and configured for mounting to the wall; a plurality of carriers supported by the track for longitudinal movement relative thereto; and a plurality of couplers supported on the carriers and configured to receive the object thereby mounting the object to the wall; wherein the couplers are supported for movement relative to the carriers in a crosswise direction to the longitudinal direction of the track.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the couplers are movably supported on grooved tracks extending in the crosswise direction and formed by a plurality of grooves disposed side-by-side in the crosswise direction.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the couplers are movable in the crosswise direction in a common plane.

12. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein, when the carriers have inner ends respectively disposed distal to a closest one of the ends of the track and outer ends respectively disposed proximal to the closest end of the track, the couplers are supported at or adjacent the outer ends of the carriers.

13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the carriers are movable independently of each other along the track.

14. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the track comprises an open-ended channel and the carriers are received in the channel to be movably supported thereby.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the carriers comprise longitudinally extending grooves along laterally opposite sides which are mated with longitudinally-extending laterally-opposite flanges of the channel.

16. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the carriers are movable from retracted positions in which the carriers are located intermediate the ends of the track to extended positions in which the carriers extend from the inner ends located intermediate the ends of the track and past the ends of the track to the outer ends located outwardly of the track.

17. A method of mounting an object to a wall, comprising: providing a track mounted to the wall and supporting plural carriers movable in a longitudinal direction of the track, wherein the carriers support couplers for receiving the object such that the object is mountable to the wall; positioning the carriers in spaced apart relation such that a distance between opposite outer ends of the carriers is no more than a corresponding dimension of the object; and supporting the object on the couplers of the spaced apart carriers, whereby the object is mounted to the wall.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein positioning the carriers in spaced apart relation comprises moving at least one of the carriers from a retracted position wholly registered with the track to an extended position in which the at least one of the carriers projects longitudinally beyond a respective one of longitudinally opposite ends of the track.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising repositioning at least one of the couplers relative to a corresponding one of the carriers in a crosswise direction to the longitudinal direction.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising repositioning the object relative to the wall while the object is supported on the couplers.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein repositioning the object comprises displacing the carriers along the track and in fixed relation to each other.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein repositioning the object comprises repositioning the couplers relative to the carriers and in fixed relation to each other.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0057] FIG. 1 illustrates in perspective view a hanger having a track member and a pair of sliders, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0058] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the hanger of the FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 3 shows a front elevation view of an apparatus for mounting an object to a wall, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, in which carriers are in retracted positions.

[0060] FIG. 4 is a front view of the embodiment of apparatus of FIG. 4 showing the carriers in extended positions.

[0061] FIG. 5 shows a rear view of an apparatus for mounting an object to a wall, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 6 shows a top view of the embodiment of apparatus of FIG. 4.

[0063] FIG. 7 shows a side elevation view of the embodiment of apparatus of FIG. 4.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the embodiment of apparatus of FIG. 4 showing the carriers in extended positions.

[0065] FIGS. 9 and 10 show the apparatus in use to mount an object to a wall.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a hanger 100 adapted to be mounted to a wall or a ceiling to hold/hang one or more objects, such as, photographs, paintings, mirrors, is shown. As shown, the hanger 100 includes a track member 102 adapted to be mounted on the wall and a pair of sliders 104, 106 slidably and telescopically coupled to the track member 102 and configured to slide between an inward position i.e., retracted position and an outward position i.e., extended position. As shown, the track member 102 includes a first end 108 and a second end 110 arranged opposite to the first end 108 and having a plate 112 extending from the first end 108 to the second end 110. To facilitate the mounting of the track member 102, hence the hanger 100, to the wall, the plate 112 defines at least one hole, for example, three holes 114, 116, 118 extending through a thickness of the plate 112. In an embodiment, one of the holes 114 is arranged substantially centrally to the plate 112, while other two holes 116, 118 are arranged proximate to respective ends 106, 108 of the plate 112. The track member 102 is attached/mounted to the wall by inserting suitable nail structures (not shown) into the wall through the at least one hole.

[0067] Further, the track member 102 includes a pair of sidewalls 122, 124 extending perpendicularly from the plate 112 defining a substantially U-shaped structure and a channel 126 therebetween. The channel 126 extends from the first end 108 to the second end 110 of the track member 102. Further, the track member 102 includes at least one stopper, for example, a pair of stoppers 128, 129 arranged at free ends of the sidewalls 122, 124 to prevent a removal of the sliders 104, 106 through a front opening 130 of the U-shaped structure 124.

[0068] As shown, the pair of sliders 104, 106 are arranged on opposite side of a central axis 132 of the track member 102. For example, a first slider 104 of the pair of sliders is arranged on a first side of the central axis 132 and is arranged outwardly of the first end 108 of the track member 102 in its outward position. Similarly, a second slider 106 of the pair of sliders is arranged on a second side of the central axis 132 and is arranged outwardly of the second end 110 of the track member 102 in its outward position. The sliders 104, 106 are adapted to slide between the inward position and the outward position along a length of the channel 126 and are arranged, at least partly, inside the channel 126. By moving the sliders 104, 106 along the length of the track member 102, a distance between the sliders 104, 106 may be changed.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the first slider 104 includes a first portion 140 extending inside the channel 126 and arranged abutting the plate 112, and a second portion 142 extending inside the front opening 130 and arranged distally from the plate 112 and contacting the stoppers 128, 129. Accordingly, a pair of steps 146, 148 are defined at an interface of the first portion 140 and the second portion 142, and the steps 146, 148 act as a pair of guide structures to guide the sliding of the first slider 104 inside the track member 102. Similarly, the second slider 106 includes a first portion 150 extending inside the channel 126 and arranged abutting the plate 112, and a second portion 152 extending inside the front opening 130 and arranged distally from the plate 112 and contacting the stoppers ma, 129. Accordingly, a pair of steps 156, 158 are defined at an interface of the first portion 150 and the second portion 152, and the steps 156, 158 act as a pair of guide structures to guide the sliding of the second slider 106 inside the track member 102. To prevent the removal of the sliders 104, 106 from the track member 102 through end openings 160, 162 of the track member 102, and restrict the outward sliding of the sliders 104, 106 beyond the outward position, the track member 102 includes a pair of detents (not shown), for example, a first detent arranged proximate to the first end 108 of the track member 102, and a second detent disposed proximate to the second end 110 of the track member 102. Similarly, the track member 102 may include at least one arrester (not shown), for example, at least one protrusion arranged inside the track member 102, to prevent the inward sliding of the sliders 104, 106 beyond respective inward positions.

[0070] Also, the hanger 100 includes a pair of hooks, for example, a first hook 166 and a second hook 168, coupled to the pair of sliders 104, 106 to enable hanging of the object, for example, picture frame, on the hanger 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the first hook 166 is attached to the first slider 104 and may be disposed proximate to an end of the first slider 104. Also, the second hook 168 is attached to the second slider 106 and may be disposed proximate to an end of the second slider 106.

[0071] The pair of sliders 104, 106 may easily slide on the track member 102 to adjust a position of the hooks 166, 168 (i.e., sliders 104, 106) according to a position of the ring structures (i.e., D-rings) attached to the objects, for example, picture frame to facilitate an easy and hassle free hanging of the objects on the hooks 166, 168 of the sliders 104, 106.

[0072] In other words, FIGS. 1 and 2 show an apparatus 100 for mounting an object to a wall W which includes a track 102 extending longitudinally between opposite ends 108, 110 and configured for mounting to the wall W. Further, the apparatus 100 comprises a plurality of carriers, specifically a pair thereof indicated at 104 and 106, supported by the track 102 for longitudinal movement relative thereto. The carriers have longitudinally opposite inner and outer ends 104A, 106A and 104B, 106B. Yet further, the apparatus 100 comprises a plurality of couplers, specifically a pair thereof indicated at 166 and 168, supported on the carriers 104, 106 and configured to receive the object thereby mounting the object to the wall. The carriers 104, 106 are movable from retracted positions in which the carriers are located intermediate the ends 108, 110 of the track, as shown in FIG. 1, to extended positions, as shown in FIG. 2, in which the carriers extend from the inner ends thereof 104A, 106A located intermediate the ends 108, 110 of the track and past the track ends to the outer ends 104B, 106B located outwardly of the track.

[0073] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, typically the track 102 is oriented substantially horizontally as to be mounted and extend substantially horizontally across a surface of the wall. Thus, the carriers 104, 106 are movable in generally horizontal directions relative to the track and across the wall.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the track 102 comprises an open-ended channel 126 and the carriers 104, 106 are received in the channel to be movably supported thereby. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the carriers comprise longitudinally extending grooves 156, 158 along laterally opposite sides which are mated with longitudinally-extending laterally-opposite flanges 128, 129 of the channel. As such, the carriers are supported for slidable movement relative to the track, hence the carriers may be referred to as sliders.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the channel 126 is C-shaped as to have a base 112 with a backside adapted to abut the wall; sidewalls 122, 124 extending forwardly from the base 112 at a top and a bottom thereof; and flanges 128, 129 supported by the sidewalls 122, 124 in forwardly spaced relation from the base 112 and each extending towards the other one of the flanges to form a front opening 130 in front of the base 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 112 is substantially planar as to be in the form of a plate.

[0076] It will be appreciated that, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the flanges 128, 129 form forwardmost surfaces 128A, 129A of the track 102 which face away from the base 112 and are planar. Further, each of the carriers 104, 106 forms a planar forwardly-facing surface 104C, 106C substantially coplanar with the forwardmost surfaces 128A, 129A of the track, and the couplers 166, 168 protrude from the forwardly facing surfaces 104C, 106C of the carriers.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the couplers 166, 168 comprise hooks which are curved away from the carriers and extend upwardly, as to be pointed upwardly.

[0078] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the carriers 104, 106 are decoupled from each other as to be movable independently of each other along the track 102.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the couplers 166, 168 are supported at or adjacent the outer ends 104B, 106B of the carriers on the forwardly-facing surfaces 104C, 106C thereof. Thus, the couplers can be positioned at a maximal distance from each other when the carriers are disposed at furthest-most extended positions.

[0080] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the rear surface of the track 102 is formed to be substantially planar along the longitudinal extent to facilitate a flush engagement with the wall W. This may increase the stability of the track 102 mounted to the wall and reduces gaps, misalignments during installation.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 2, the open-ended channel 126 comprises laterally opposed sidewalls 122, 124, each provided with longitudinally extending flanges 128, 129. Each flange 128, 129 projects inwardly towards a central axis of the channel 126. The flanges 128, 129 extend in continuous parallel alignment along a full length of the channel 126.

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each carrier 104, 106 has a longitudinal opposite ends, defined herein as an inner end and an outer end, as well as laterally opposite sides. Each carrier 104, 106 are arranged for movement along the track 102. Each carrier 104, 106 has an inner end 108 and an outer end 110. The inner ends 108 of the carriers 104, 106 is the side disposed distal to said closest end of the track 102 to the carriers whereas the outer ends 110 of the carriers 104, 106 is the side disposed proximal to said closest end of the track 102. In other words, the carriers 104, 106 are oriented such that their outer ends 110 face toward the closest end of the track 102, while their inner ends 108 extend away from that end.

[0083] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each carrier 104, 106 is slidably engaged with the track 102, permitting repositioning along the longitudinal extent of the track 102. A groove 146, 148 is disposed on each lateral side of the carrier 104, 106 extending substantially along its longitudinal axis. The grooves 146, 148 of each carrier 104 and 106 are configured to mate with the inwardly projecting flanges 128, 129 of channel 126, thereby allowing the track 102 to both support and slidably retain each of the carriers 104, 106.

[0084] Furthermore, each carrier 104, 106 is configured to move between a retracted position (inward position) and an extended position (outward position) relative to the track 102. In the retracted position as depicted in FIG. 1, each carrier 104, 106 is positioned at an intermediate location situated between the opposed ends 108, 110 of the track 102, such that the carriers 104, 106 remain confined substantially within a length of the track 102 i.e. positioned away from the open-ends of the channel 126. In the extended position, as depicted in FIG. 2, the carriers 104, 106 slidably move from their intermediate location beyond the opposed ends of the track 102, such that the outer end of the carrier 104, 106 project outwardly beyond the length of the track 102 i.e. outside the open-ends of the channel 126. The retracted position and the extended position of the carriers 104, 106 relative to the track 102 enables improved reach, greater adaptability, and enhanced functional efficiency of the apparatus for mounting 100.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of hooks 166, 168 are supported on each carrier 104, 106 and configured to receive the object thereby mounting the object to the wall. In the illustrated embodiment, each carrier 104, 106 supports a hook 166, 168 disposed at or adjacent to its respective outer ends, and specifically on a forwardly-facing surface thereof. In the illustrated embodiment the hooks 166, 168 are permanently affixed to the carriers 104, 106. In another embodiment of the present invention, the hooks 166, 168 are movably mounted to each carrier 104, 106.

[0086] Furthermore, each carrier 104, 106 is configured to move independently of another along the track 102, such that the position of one carrier 104 is unaffected by the position of the other carrier 106. Each carrier 104, 106 may be independently and selectively disposed either in the retracted position or the extended position. The independent operability of each carrier 104, 106 permits multiple positional combinations, including both carriers retracted, both carriers extended, or one carrier retracted while the other is extended. Such positional combination achieved by the carriers 104, 106 permits the object received and supported by the hooks 166, 168 to be adjusted laterally relative to the wall, allowing displacement in a rightward direction and a leftward direction. This displacement achieved by the independent and selective movements and positions of the carriers 104, 106 may facilitates a precise alignment, and may accommodate a positional variation of the object relative to the wall and enhances overall adaptability of the apparatus 100 for mounting.

[0087] Turning now to FIGS. 3-10, there is shown another embodiment of apparatus 200 for mounting an object to a wall. The apparatus 200 includes track 202 extending longitudinally between opposite ends 208, 210 and configured for mounting to the wall. The track 202 comprises an open-ended channel 226 configured to receive and support longitudinal movement of a plurality of carriers 104, 106 relative to the track 102. In the second embodiment, the track 202 and the carriers 204, 206 are substantially the same in structure and function to those described in respect of the first embodiment, so to avoid repetition, these features are not described in further detail. Instead, reference is made to the description of corresponding features in the first embodiment for corresponding structure and operation.

[0088] In the second embodiment, the apparatus 200 further comprises a plurality of couplers 266, 268, each disposed on respective carriers 204, 206. The couplers 266, 268 are configured to receive the object thereby mounting the object to the wall. In the illustrated second embodiment, the couplers 266, 268 are positioned at or proximate to outer ends 204B, 206B of the carriers 204, 206. In other variations, the couplers 266, 268 may comprise mechanical fasteners, clamps, sockets, or equivalent engagement members suitable for accommodating objects of differing shapes and dimensions. The couplers 266, 268 may be formed integrally with the carriers 204, 206 or may be detachably mounted thereto, permitting replacement or interchangeability.

[0089] In the illustrated second embodiment, the couplers 266, 268 are movably supported on the carriers for movement in a crosswise direction to the longitudinal direction of the track 202. That is, in contrast to the first embodiment of FIGS. 1-2, the couplers 266, 268 are not rigidly affixed to the carriers, and are configured for translational or guided movement across the carriers 204, 206. In the illustrated second embodiment, the couplers 266, 268 are operatively coupled on tracks 270, 272 each extending in the crosswise direction relative to the carrier 204, 206 along substantially a full dimension of the carrier in the crosswise direction, which can be referred to as a height of the carrier. The coupler tracks 270, 272 are positioned on forwardly-facing sides of the carriers and are disposed at locations thereon as to extend alongside the outer ends 204B, 206B of the carriers. The coupler tracks are formed by a plurality of grooves 273 which are distinct one from the other and arranged in side-by-side configuration on the carriers 204, 206. These grooves can be alternatively referred to as indents which are formed into the front faces of the carriers. Thus, the couplers comprise object-engaging portions, which engage or interface with the object to be hung, and in the illustrated embodiment form comprise, and track-engaging portions, which engage or interface with the coupler track, and in the illustrated embodiment comprise detents to mate with the indents to be maintained at selected position across the heights of the carriers. In the illustrated embodiment, the couplers are movable in the crosswise direction independently of each other.

[0090] In the illustrated second embodiment, the couplers 266, 268 are movable in the crosswise direction in a common plane. Since the track 202 extends substantially horizontally across the wall and is oriented substantially upright such that the base 112 is substantially upright and upper sidewall 124 is disposed substantially vertically above lower sidewall 122, the common plane of movement of the couplers is oriented substantially upright, and more specifically, is substantially parallel to the wall.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupler 266, 268 provided on the carriers 204, 206 are configured to move in the crosswise direction independently of each other. Such movement enables the object received on the couplers 266, 268 to be selectively raised or lowered with respect to the wall. Thus, the couplers 266, 268 functions as both a receiving interface for the object to be mounted to the wall and as an adjusting interface to permit a positional adjustment of the object relative to the wall.

[0092] In the illustrated second embodiment, the coupler tracks are disposed at or adjacent the outer ends 204B, 206B on fronts of the carriers.

[0093] FIGS. 9 and 10 show the apparatus in use to mount an object to the wall W, in this case the second embodiment indicated at 200 carrying a picture frame F (shown in phantom as to reveal the apparatus otherwise covered thereby), which is a substantially planar body sized larger in both width and height than the apparatus 200. The picture frame F comprises a wire extending along a width (horizontally oriented dimension) of a frame body and substantially parallel to a top of the frame which is rectangular in shape. The wire is received by the couplers as to support the picture frame; since the couplers are in the form of hooks, the wire is supported by gravitational hooking action. The couplers 266, 268 are located at respectively outwardly most positions relative to the track ends 208, 210, as to be arranged at nearest locations to opposite sides of the picture frame F. Also, the couplers 266, 268 are arranged at a common height (relative to a bottom of the wall, i.e., a floor surface) as to lie in a common horizontal plane such that the object is considered level with respect to a horizontal axis.

[0094] With reference to the first and second embodiments of mounting apparatus, but in other words, the present invention relates to an adjustable hanger system for mounting an object to a wall. The hanger system includes a central base section adapted to be mounted to the wall and defining an elongated horizontal channel. A pair of lateral base components or sliders are telescopically coupled to the central base section within the horizontal channel and configured to slide laterally between an inward position and an outward position. The sliders are disposed on opposite sides of a central axis of the base section and are retained by peripheral engagement slots that prevent unintentional disengagement and over-extension.

[0095] In certain embodiments, the central base section includes at least one mounting aperture to facilitate attachment to the wall surface using fasteners.

[0096] In some additional, alternative, or cumulative embodiments, the lateral base components/sliders include engagement features configured to cooperate with the central base section's peripheral engagement slots to ensure retention during adjustment.

[0097] Turning to the second embodiment, each slider supports a vertically oriented rail assembly defining a vertical track. A pair of frame-attachment hooks are movably coupled to the vertical tracks and configured to engage corresponding mounting points on the rear surface of the object. The hooks are adapted to slide vertically along the tracks and include a self-indexing mechanism that engages discrete detents or indents formed along the vertical tracks, allowing the hooks to be positioned at precise intervals without requiring additional locking components.

[0098] The adjustable hanger system allows independent two-axis positioning of the object-horizontal adjustments via the sliders and vertical adjustments via the hooks-enabling precise alignment without the need for reinstallation or additional wall perforations.

[0099] FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of an adjustable frame-mounting device 200 installed on a rear surface of a picture frame F. The device 200 includes two opposing lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 that can be extended and adjusted horizontally, each having a vertically oriented adjustment rail track 270, 272. The adjustment rail tracks 270, 272 each accommodate a frame-attachment hook 266, 268 configured to engage with mounting points on the frame F. The base components/sliders 204, 206 are spaced apart laterally and connected to provide stability and support for the frame F.

[0100] FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the adjustable frame-mounting device 200 of FIG. 1. The device 200 comprises a central base section 212 including three mounting apertures 216 configured to receive fasteners for attachment to a vertical wall surface, and opposing lateral base components/sliders 204, 206, each having a vertical adjustment rail track 270, 272. The sliders 204, 206 are positioned within horizontal adjustment tracks 274, 276 formed between the sidewalls 222, 224 and flanges 228, 229 and are shown extended outwardly in opposing directions (opposed arrows shown on sliders) to provide a range of adjustment for aligning a picture frame F. Each slider assembly terminates in a frame-attachment hook 266, 268, configured to engage mounting points on the rear of the picture frame F. Peripheral engagement slots 278 are disposed near the outer edges of the lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 to retain the lateral base components within the central base section 212 and prevent unintentional disengagement.

[0101] FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the central base section 212 of the adjustable frame-mounting device 200. The central base section 212 includes multiple mounting apertures 216 configured to receive fasteners for attachment to a vertical wall surface. Peripheral engagement slots 278 are disposed near the outer edges of the base section 212 to retain the lateral base components/sliders 204, 206, not shown, and to prevent the sliders 204, 206 from disengaging from the central base section 212. The rear surface is generally planar to ensure flush engagement with the wall surface.

[0102] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the adjustable frame-mounting device 200. The central base section 212 is depicted with three fasteners FS inserted through mounting apertures 216 for illustrative purposes only. The fasteners FS are intended to demonstrate attachment of the device 200 to a vertical wall surface and do not form part of the claimed design. Opposing lateral base components/sliders 204, 206, partially obscured in this view, are coupled to the central base section 212 within horizontal adjustment tracks 274, 276. The frame-attachment hooks 266, 268 are attached to the vertical adjustment rail tracks 270, 272.

[0103] FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the adjustable frame-mounting device 200. The central base section 212 is shown mounted to a vertical wall surface (not illustrated) via a fastener FS, depicted for reference purposes only. A lateral base component/slider 204, 206 extends outwardly from the central base section 212, positioned within horizontal adjustment tracks 274, 276. The frame-attachment hook 266, 268 projects forward from the vertical adjustment rail track 270, 272 and is configured to engage a corresponding mounting point on the rear surface of a picture frame. The fastener FS is shown for illustrative purposes only and does not form part of the claimed design.

[0104] FIG. 8 is a three-quarter perspective view of the adjustable frame-mounting device 200 shown in an extended configuration. The central base section 212 supports opposing lateral base components/sliders 204, 206, each movably coupled within upper and lower horizontal adjustment tracks 274, 276. Each lateral base component/slider 204, 206 supports a vertical adjustment rail track 270, 272, on which the frame-attachment hooks 266, 268 are slidably mounted to provide vertical adjustability. The hooks 266, 268 are configured to engage with mounting points on the rear surface of a picture frame. Peripheral engagement slots 278 are disposed near the outer edges of the lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 to retain them within the central base section 212 and prevent disengagement. The central base section 212 includes multiple mounting apertures 216 configured to receive fasteners for attachment to a vertical wall surface. The device 200 is shown in an extended position to illustrate the full range of adjustment and the spatial relationship between components.

[0105] Accompanying FIGS. 3-10 show an adjustable frame-mounting device 200 adapted to be mounted to a wall surface for holding or hanging objects such as picture frames, photographs, or mirrors.

[0106] As shown in FIG. 3, the device 200 comprises a central base section 202 configured for attachment to a wall surface W and a pair of lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 disposed on opposite sides of the central base section 212. Each lateral base component/slider 204, 206 includes a vertically oriented adjustment rail track 270, 272 terminating in a frame-attachment hook 266, 268. The frame-attachment hooks 266, 268 are adapted to engage with corresponding mounting points on the rear surface of a picture frame F.

[0107] As best illustrated in FIG. 4, the central base section 212 defines an elongated horizontal channel within which the lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 are telescopically coupled. The sliders 204, 206 are configured to move laterally within the horizontal channel between an inward position and an outward position. Peripheral engagement slots 278 are provided along the edges of the central base section 212 to retain the lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 and prevent unintentional disengagement or over-extension.

[0108] Each lateral base component/slider 204, 206 supports a vertically oriented adjustment rail track 270, 272. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 8, the adjustment rail tracks 270, 272 are configured to receive and guide frame-attachment hooks 266, 268 that are movable between an upper position and a lower position. The vertical adjustment rail tracks 270, 272 are formed with a series of discrete detents or indents, which cooperate with corresponding indexing elements on the frame-attachment hooks 266, 268. This self-indexing mechanism enables the user to precisely adjust the vertical position of the hooks 266, 268 and maintain their placement without requiring additional locking components.

[0109] In FIG. 5, a rear elevation view of the central base section 212 illustrates multiple mounting apertures 216 configured to receive fasteners FS for affixing the device 200 to a wall surface W. The rear surface of the base section 212 is generally planar to ensure flush engagement with the wall surface.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 6, a top plan view depicts the central base section 212 with fasteners FS inserted through mounting apertures 216 for illustrative purposes only. The fasteners FS demonstrate the means of attachment to the wall surface and do not form part of the claimed design.

[0111] In FIG. 7, a side elevation view illustrates the relationship between the central base section 212, the horizontal adjustment tracks 222, 224 and the vertical adjustment rail tracks 270, 272. The frame-attachment hook 266, 268 projects forward from the vertical rail track 270, 272 and is configured to engage a mounting point on the rear surface of the picture frame F.

[0112] FIG. 8 provides a three-quarter perspective view of the device 200 shown in an extended configuration. The lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 are shown fully extended from the central base section 212, illustrating the range of horizontal adjustment. The frame-attachment hooks 266, 268 are shown in vertical rail tracks 270, 272, which allow independent vertical positioning of each hook for fine alignment of the picture frame F.

[0113] The adjustable frame-mounting device 200 thus provides independent two-axis positioning-horizontal via the lateral base components/sliders 204, 206 and vertical via the frame-attachment hooks 266, 268-allowing precise alignment of the mounted object without requiring reinstallation or additional perforations in the wall surface.

[0114] In yet other words, as described hereinbefore, the present invention relates to adjustable mounting system for securing an object to a wall, the system comprising: a base structure adapted to be mounted to the wall and defining a first adjustment axis; at least two support members movably coupled to the base structure along the first adjustment axis, the support members configured to vary their spacing relative to each other to accommodate different mounting point positions on the object; and at least two attachment elements, each attachment element supported by a respective support member and movably coupled thereto along a second adjustment axis substantially perpendicular to the first adjustment axis, the attachment elements being configured for engagement with mounting points on the object. The system is configured to allow independent adjustment of the attachment elements along the first and second adjustment axes to enable precise alignment of the object on the wall.

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, the base structure comprises a central base section defining an elongated horizontal channel.

[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, the support members comprise a pair of lateral base components slidably coupled to the horizontal channel.

[0117] In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral base components are retained within the central base section by peripheral engagement slots configured to prevent disengagement and over-extension.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment elements are configured to move along a vertically oriented track on the respective support members.

[0119] In the illustrated embodiment, the vertically oriented track includes discrete detents or indents configured to engage a self-indexing mechanism on the attachment elements to enable precise vertical positioning.

[0120] In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment elements comprise hooks configured to engage mounting elements of the object such as D-ring mounts or a wire extending in a width direction and disposed on the rear surface of a picture frame.

[0121] In the illustrated embodiment, the base structure and support members are constructed from a material selected from the group consisting of plastic, metal, and composite materials.

[0122] This provides an arrangement of mounting apparatus in which couplers for supporting the object can be located beyond limits of the track. In this manner, the track may be sized shorter in length than a desired maximum spacing of the couplers, which may make the apparatus easier to conceal by the object when mounted or hung.

[0123] Also, this provides an arrangement in which a mounting height for the object may be adjusted while the track remains in fixed position on the wall. As such, two-dimensional adjustment of mounting position of the object can be provided.

[0124] There is also disclosed herein a method for mounting an object to a wall. The method generally comprises: providing a track 102/202 mounted to the wall W and supporting plural carriers 104, 106/204, 206 movable in a longitudinal direction of the track, which carriers support couplers 166, 168/266, 268 for receiving the object such that the object is mountable to the wall; positioning the carriers 104, 106/204, 206 in spaced apart relation such that a distance between opposite outer ends 104B, 106B/204B, 206B of the carriers is no more than a corresponding dimension of the object; and supporting the object on the couplers of the spaced apart carriers, whereby the object is mounted to the wall.

[0125] Positioning the carriers in spaced apart relation may comprise moving at least one of the carriers from a retracted position wholly registered with the track to an extended position in which the carrier projects longitudinally beyond a respective end of the track. In this manner, spacing between the couplers which engage the object to be hung can be adjusted. The relative distance between the couplers (providing by displacing the carriers) depends primarily on the corresponding dimension of the object to be mounted. The larger the spacing and closer in magnitude to a width of the object, the more stable the mounted condition of the object (with respect to the apparatus 100/200) and more closely the object can be oriented to being horizontally level.

[0126] The method may further comprise repositioning at least one of the couplers relative to a corresponding one of the carriers in a crosswise direction to the longitudinal direction. As such, a mounting height of the object relative to the wall can be adjusted even when the track 102/202 is fixed in position on the wall.

[0127] In some instance, the method further comprises repositioning the object relative to the wall while the object is supported on the couplers. In this case, repositioning the object may comprise displacing the carriers along the track and in fixed relation to each other, as to reposition the object horizontally of the wall. Further, repositioning the object may comprise repositioning the couplers relative to the carriers and in fixed relation to each other, as to reposition the object vertically of the wall, thereby adjusting a height relative to an underlying support surface (such as a tabletop or floor).

[0128] This provides an arrangement for supporting an object on plural movable mounting locations which can be adjusted in position to suit a corresponding dimension of the object to be mounted or to reposition the object once in a mounted condition.

[0129] It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the aspects of the disclosed embodiments. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the aspects of the disclosed embodiments.