This invention relates generally to mounting tools, and, more particularly, to slide mounting tools and methods of using same.
Proper functioning of drawers or pull-out shelves in cabinetry, desks, entertainment centers and the like, requires careful installation of a slide comprised of a stationary component section and a moving component section. Together, these two sections allow the moving component to slide in and out of an opening in the stationary component. Such slides are commonly referred to as “drawer slides” even when used for shelves. Although both sections need to be installed properly, the stationary component section is known to be particularly difficult to align accurately.
The stationary component section of various types of slides can be installed against a vertical surface (typically in pairs on either side of an opening) in a substantially horizontal position lengthwise, but with its width portion oriented “vertically” with edges positioned on the top and bottom, i.e., on “edge”. Alternatively, the stationary component sections can be installed in the center of the opening, again in a substantially horizontal position lengthwise, but with its width portion oriented “horizontally” with edges positioned on either side, i.e., in a “flat” position. One type of slide installed against a vertical surface is a bottom mount slide. With the bottom mount slide, two stationary component sections are typically installed on edge on either side of the opening in the stationary component. A moving component, sized to be inserted into this opening, has a corresponding pair of moving component (slide) sections located on each outer side. (The corresponding moving component sections of these slides are typically installed on a drawer nearest the bottom surface, hence the term “bottom mount” slide). However, current alignment tools for aligning the stationary component (slide) sections within the stationary component are specific to particular brands and/or sizes of slide such that there is no flexibility to accommodate varying sizes and/or types of slides. As a result, many different sizes and types of tools are needed to install different brands and sizes of stationary component sections for bottom mount slides. Additionally, many alignment tools rely on springs to pinch the top and bottom surfaces of the stationary component (slide) section and hold it in place. However, the presence of a spring limits the height of the stationary component section that can be installed and hence the overall height of the slide that can be used.
In addition to bottom mount slides, there are also various types and sizes of extension slides, each having a stationary component section and a moving component section as described above. Extension slides include full-extension slides and partial-extension slides. Partial extension slides include both European-styled low profile slides, commonly referred to as “Euro” slides, and bottom center mount slides. A full-extension slide is typically installed so that the section containing the extender portion, i.e., the “extender,” is located on the stationary component and is therefore considered part of the stationary component section of the slide. In contrast, partial extension slides are typically installed so that the section containing the “extender” is installed on the moving component, such that the non-extending section of the slide is the stationary component section.
Full-extension slides can be installed on edge to, i.e., against, vertical surfaces (typically in pairs on either side of an opening) or in a flat position in the center of an opening as center bottom mount slides. However, with regard to partial extension slides, only the Euro slide can be installed both on vertical surfaces and in the center of the opening. Partial extension slides designed to be used only as center bottom mount slides are not intended to be installed on edge to vertical surfaces.
It should be noted that both fill and partial extension slides are useful in most any type of application, including “Euro” cabinets which have no face frame as well as conventional face-frame cabinets. However, there are currently no “alignment” tools made specifically for installation of the stationary component section of either the full-extension slide or the center mount bottom slide. Instead, various makeshift devices, such as templates with pilot holes, are used to install the stationary component section of a full-extension slide. Additionally, there are no tools designed specifically for aligning moving component sections of center-mounted slides onto moving components. Similarly, center bottom mount slides are currently installed using a tape measure, and possibly a level to align the slide properly within the stationary component. Such devices can be cumbersome to use and require at least a two-step process for installation. Although there are alignment tools available for installing the stationary component section of a Euro slide, these tools have the same limitations as described above (for bottom mount slides installed on vertical surfaces) with regard to being brand and/or size specific.
For the reasons stated above, and for other reasons stated below which will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the present specification, there is a need in the art for improved slide mounting tools and methods.
A magnetic slide mounting tool having at least one magnet for mounting a slide to a surface is disclosed. In one embodiment, the slide is a stationary component slide section which can be magnetically coupled to the slide mounting tool either on edge or in a flat position and installed on a stationary component. In one embodiment, the stationary component slide section is part of a bottom mount slide or an extension slide. In one embodiment, the extension slide is a full-extension slide. In another embodiment, the extension slide is a partial extension slide, such as a Euro slide or center mount bottom slide.
In one embodiment, at least one magnet is oriented substantially vertically on the magnetic slide mounting tool for magnetic coupling with the stationary component section during alignment and installation of the stationary component slide section on edge against a vertical surface. In another embodiment, at least one magnet is additionally or alternatively oriented substantially horizontally on the magnetic slide mounting tool for magnetic coupling with the stationary component slide section of the slide during alignment and installation of the stationary component slide section in a flat position. In one embodiment, one or more of the magnets are combined with cups to increase their magnetic force. In a particular embodiment, rare earth magnets are used.
The present invention further provides an apparatus comprising an upper handle contiguous with a lower handle, wherein one or more magnets are secured to the upper handle; a substantially horizontal component contiguous with the upper handle, wherein one or more magnets are secured to the substantially horizontal component; and a substantially vertical component contiguous with the lower handle.
The present invention also provides a method comprising magnetically coupling a stationary component slide section with a magnetic slide mounting tool. In one embodiment, the method further comprises contacting the stationary component slide section with a stationary component using the magnetic slide mounting tool. In one embodiment, the stationary component slide section is positioned using markings on the magnetic slide mounting tool.
The present invention further provides a method comprising grasping a magnetic slide mounting tool; magnetically coupling a first slide section to the magnetic slide mounting tool; contacting the first slide section with a first surface using the magnetic slide mounting tool, positioning the first slide section on the first surface for use with a second slide section located on a second surface; and securing the first slide section to the first surface. In one embodiment, the first surface is part of a stationary component and the second surface is part of a moving component. In one embodiment, the first surface is a substantially vertical planar surface. In one embodiment, the first surface comprises a front substantially horizontal surface and a rear substantially vertical surface. In one embodiment, the slide contacts the rear substantially vertical surface indirectly with a socket.
The magnetic slide mounting tool allows a user, for the first time, to properly align slides of varying sizes, brands, types and shapes with just a single device. Embodiments of the invention further provide an apparatus comprising a non-magnetic slide mounting tool having a first substantially vertical surface clampable to a stationary component, such as a cabinet, the non-magnetic slide mounting tool further having a second substantially vertical surface perpendicular to the first substantially vertical surface. In one embodiment the first substantially vertical surface is clampable to the stationary component with the second substantially vertical surface extending in an outwardly-facing direction. In one embodiment, a moving component, such as a drawer or shelf, can be balanced on top of two non-magnetic slide mounting tools when the tools are clamped to either side of an opening in the stationary component, wherein a moving component slide section can be aligned and installed on the moving component in a position to interact with a stationary component slide section installed on the stationary component. In one embodiment, the moving component slide section is engaged with the stationary component slide section during installation of the moving component slide section on the moving component. In one embodiment, the stationary component is a structure selected from the group consisting of cabinets, desks, armoires, entertainment centers, dressers, pantries and trucks and the moving component is a drawer or shelf. In one embodiment the apparatus further comprises a substantially horizontal tab portion contiguous with a substantially horizontal support portion in contact with the first and second substantially vertical surfaces; wherein the tab portion is designed to contact a top surface of a front rail secured to the stationary component.
In one embodiment, the first substantially vertical surface is clampable to the stationary component with the second substantially vertical surface extending in an inwardly-facing direction. In one embodiment, the stationary component is a frameless cabinet and a moving component is balanced on top of two non-magnetic slide mounting tools when the tools are clamped to either side of an opening in the stationary component, wherein a moving component section of a slide can be aligned and installed on the moving component in a position to interact with a stationary component slide section installed on the stationary component. In one embodiment, two moving component sections of two slides can be aligned and installed on opposing outer surfaces of the moving component, each in a position to interact with a stationary component slide section installed on a vertical surface of the stationary component.
In one embodiment, a stationary component section of a slide can be aligned on a top surface of the non-magnetic slide mounting tool clamped in an inwardly-facing direction, and installed on edge against a vertical surface, the stationary component section positioned to interact with a moving component slide section installed on a moving component, such as a drawer or slide. In one embodiment, two stationary component slide sections are installed on edge against a vertical surface for use with two moving component sections installed on either side of the drawer or shelf. In one embodiment, the stationary component section is part of a bottom-mount slide, a full-extension slide or a partial-extension slide. In one embodiment, the non-magnetic slide mounting tool is made from materials selected from the group consisting of wood, metal and plastic.
The invention further comprises an apparatus comprising a first substantially vertical surface; a second substantially vertical surface substantially perpendicular to the first substantially vertical surface and connected to the first substantially vertical surface at one end; and a substantially horizontal surface contiguous with the second substantially vertical surface. In one embodiment, the apparatus further comprises a hatch mark section connected to the first and second substantially vertical surfaces. In one embodiment, the apparatus can be used to install a stationary component section of a slide to a stationary component or a moving component section of a slide to a moving component.
In one embodiment, the invention additionally or alternatively comprises a method for installing slides on a surface. The method comprises installing first slide sections on either side of an opening in a first surface; clamping a tool to each side of the opening; extending a second slide section engaged with each first slide section; balancing a second surface on the tools; and positioning the second slide sections on the second surface. In one embodiment, the first slide section is installed with a magnetic mounting tool. In one embodiment the first slide section is a stationary component section and the second slide section is a moving component section. In one embodiment, the first surface is connected to a frame and the tools are clamped in an outwardly-facing direction. In one embodiment, the first surface is not connected to a frame and the tools are clamped to the first surface in an inwardly-facing direction.
In one embodiment, the invention further comprises securing the second slide section to the second surface. In one embodiment, the second slide section is secured to the second surface with screws. In one embodiment, the first surface is a stationary component, such as a cabinet, and the second surface is a drawer or shelf. In one embodiment, the second slide section is further extended using a trip mechanism located in the first slide section to provide access to a rear portion of the second surface and second slide section to allow the second slide section to be secured to the second surface in the rear portion. In one embodiment, the invention further comprises unclamping the tools from the first surface. In one embodiment, a moving component section of a full-extension slide is aligned and mounted with this tool.
In one embodiment, the invention additionally or alternatively comprises a method for installing slides on a surface. The method comprises clamping a tool to one side of an opening in the surface in an inwardly-facing direction; balancing a slide section on top of the tool against the surface; and positioning the slide section on the surface. In one embodiment, the method further comprises installing the slide section to the surface. In one embodiment, the slide section is a stationary component section and the surface is a stationary component, such as a cabinet. In one embodiment, a stationary component section of any type of slide is aligned and mounted with this tool.
The invention further comprises a method comprising clamping a non-magnetic slide mounting tool having a support portion to a stationary component; and aligning a slide section with the non-magnetic slide mounting tool, the slide section positioned against a first vertical surface inside the stationary component. In one embodiment, the slide section is positioned using markings on the non-magnetic slide mounting tool. In one embodiment, the slide section is a stationary component section or a moving component section. In one embodiment, the non-magnetic slide mounting tool is clamped in an outwardly-facing direction to a front rail secured to the stationary component. In one embodiment, the method further comprises balancing a moving component on two tools clamped to opposing outer surfaces of the stationary component, wherein a moving component section of a slide can be installed on the moving component in a position to interact with a stationary component slide section installed on the stationary component. In one embodiment, each moving component section is in a position to interact with a stationary component slide section installed on a vertical surface of the stationary component. In one embodiment, the non-magnetic slide mounting tool is clamped in an inwardly-facing direction. In one embodiment, the method further comprises installing a second slide section against a second vertical surface inside the stationary component. In one embodiment, the slide section is positioned in a flat position between front and back surfaces of the stationary component. In one embodiment, the mounting tool has a substantially horizontal planar surface.
In one embodiment, prior to installing, the slide section is moved along a top surface of the substantially horizontal planar surface until properly positioned. In one embodiment, the slide further has a substantially vertical planar surface and, prior to installing, the slide is moved along a bottom surface of the substantially horizontal planar surface until the slide touches a front surface of the substantially vertical planar surface.
In one embodiment, the invention further comprises a method comprising aligning and installing a stationary component section of a full-extension slide on a stationary component with a magnetic slide mounting tool; and aligning and installing a moving component section of a full-extension slide on a moving component with a non-magnetic slide mounting tool.
In one embodiment, the invention further comprises a mounting system comprising a first mounting tool for magnetically coupling and aligning a stationary component slide section of a slide on a stationary component, the mounting tool having at least one magnet; and a second mounting tool for aligning a stationary component slide section of a slide on a stationary component or a moving component slide section on a moving component, the second mounting tool clampable to the stationary component.
In one embodiment, the invention further comprises a kit comprising a first mounting tool for aligning a stationary component slide section on a stationary component, the mounting tool having at least one magnet; a second mounting tool for aligning a moving component slide section on a moving component, the second mounting tool having a toe portion and clampable to the stationary component; and instructions for using the first and second mounting tools.
The magnetic mounting tools thus allows, for the first time, a user to not only magnetically couple a stationary component section of virtually any type of slide to a stationary component, but provides a design that allows an extension slide to be extended while clamped to the stationary component, thus allowing a single user to align, clamp, extend and install a stationary component section of a slide without any outside assistance. The non-magnetic mounting tools also allows, for the first time, a single user to align and install moving component sections, as well as stationary component sections of slides without any outside assistance.
In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific preferred embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present inventions. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
Slide mounting tools are disclosed. As shown in
The magnetic mounting tool 100 can be any suitable size and shape as long as it can perform the intended function. Preferably, the magnetic mounting tool 100 is designed to not only allow for proper grasping by the user, but also to allow for virtually any size and type of slide to be securely coupled to at least one of the magnets 110 and 112 and installed in the desired location.
In one embodiment the length of the magnetic mounting tool 100, which essentially comprises the length of the upper handle 102, is between about six (6) to 12 in or more (about 15.2 to 30.5 cm), depending on the length of the stationary component portion being installed. In a particular embodiment, the magnetic mounting tool 100 is used with stationary component portions that do not exceed about ten (10) in (about 25.4 cm) in length and the maximum length of the magnetic mounting tool 100 is about 11.5 in (about 29.2 cm). In one embodiment, the magnetic mounting tool 100 has an overall maximum height of between about five (5) and seven (7) in (about 12.7 and 17.8 cm), i.e., the height of the upper handle 102 and lower handle 106 combined. The approximate height of the magnetic mounting tool 100 away from the lower handle 106, which is essentially the height of the upper handle 102 alone, is about three (3) to four (4) in (about 7.6 to 10.2 cm), although this dimension will vary, particularly in embodiments where the upper handle 102 is tapered as in
In one embodiment the upper handle 102 is narrower than and contiguous with the lower handle 106, although the invention is not so limited. However, the upper handle 102 should be of a sufficient width in its lower portion to house the desired number of upper magnets 110 (See
The lower handle 106 should be sized to allow a user to easily grasp the magnetic mounting tool 100. If the lower handle 106 is too tall in height, its usefulness in smaller stationary components will be limited. If the lower handle 106 is too small, it will not provide sufficient support for the user during use. In one embodiment, the lower handle 106 has an opening 124 sized for all four fingers of a small to large-sized hand to grasp the magnetic mounting tool 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the opening 124 is between about two (2) and five (5) in (5.1 and 12.7 cm) in height and about one (1) to four (4) in (2.5 and 10.2 cm) in length. In another embodiment, the opening 124 is between about three (3) and four (4) in (7.6 to 10.2 cm) in height and about 1.5 to three (3) in (3.8 to 7.6 cm) in length.
The top surface 105 of the horizontal component 104 is designed to be used in conjunction with the vertical magnet 110 (as well as any horizontal magnet 112 present) to align a slide (not shown) on its edge against a substantially vertical surface. The top surface 105 of the horizontal component 104 is preferably designed so that a slide can be coupled to the top surface 105 on either side of the upper handle 102, thus providing added flexibility for the user, although the invention is not so limited. In an alternative embodiment, the horizontal component 104 is located on only one side of the upper handle 102. Preferably the width of the top surface 105 (of the horizontal component 104) extending out on either side of the upper handle 102 is sufficient to support any type of slide being installed. Additionally, if the magnetic mounting tool 100 is intended to also be used to install slides in a flat position such that there is a horizontal magnet 112, the horizontal component 104 needs to be sufficiently wide to house the horizontal magnet 112, as discussed below. Therefore, in such embodiments, use of the horizontal magnet 112 and bottom surface 107 should preferably also be taken into account when designing the proper width for the upper surface 105. In one embodiment, the width of the top surface 105 on either side of the upper handle 102 is at least as wide as the width of the slide being installed. In most embodiments, the width of the top surface 105 on either side of the upper handle 102 is at least about 25% up to about 150% the width of the slide being installed. If the horizontal component 104 is too wide in comparison with the slide being installed, it will make the magnetic mounting tool 100 more difficult to use. In a particular embodiment, the width of the top surface 105 on either side of the upper handle 102 is between about 0.4 and one (1) in (one (1) and 2.5 cm).
Preferably the length of the horizontal component 104 is of a dimension that allows coupling of a variety of slides. Specifically, it is desirable that a gap 114 exist between the end of the horizontal component 104 and the front surface 109 of the vertical component 108 as shown in
The horizontal component 104 need only be as thick as required to perform its intended function and preferably does not flex during use. In one embodiment, the horizontal component 104 has a minimum thickness equal to the thickness of the one or more horizontal magnets 112. In the embodiment shown in
The bottom surface 107 of the horizontal component 104 is designed to be used in conjunction with the horizontal magnet 112 and, in most embodiments, the front surface 109 of the vertical component 108, to align a slide that is oriented horizontally, i.e., in a flat position. Specifically, the front surface 109 of the vertical component 108 provides a surface perpendicular to the surface on which the slide is being installed, which allows the slide to be properly squared during installation. The bottom surface 107 of the horizontal component 104 is preferably wider than the horizontal magnet 112, although the invention is not so limited.
Referring to
As shown in
The vertical component 108 further contains lips 113 as described above. During use, a slide being installed on edge to a vertical surface is coupled with the top surface 105 in such a way so that one end abuts one of the lips 113. In this way, a slide can be installed away from the outermost edge of a stationary component the same distance as the thickness of the lip 113, i.e., distance 213, shown in
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
The magnet openings 220 and 320 shown in
Any suitable type of magnet 110 and 112 can be used in this device. The magnets 110 and 112 can also have at least any of the shapes noted above for the openings 220 and 320. In one embodiment, the magnets 110 and 112 are high-powered magnets, each having a direct-pull strength of up to 30 lbs (13.6 kg), although it is not expected that the direct-pull strength required to install the various types of slides is not greater than about 25 lbs (11.3 kg). In most embodiments the direct-pull strength required is between about one (1) and 50 lbs (0.45 and 22.7 kg), although higher direct-pull strength capabilities can be provided if desired. As noted above, in one embodiment magnet cups 318 are used to hold the magnets 110 and/or 112. Magnet cups 318 are known to increase the attractive power of a magnet by up to a factor of four. In another embodiment cups 318 are only used with magnets 110.
In one embodiment, rare-earth magnets are used. In one embodiment two rare-earth magnets having a diameter of between about 0.5 and one (1) in (1.3 and 2.5 cm) are used. In a particular embodiment, two 0.75 in (1.9 cm) diameter rare-earth magnet and cup assembly made by Lee-Valley Tools Ltd., having offices in Ogdensburg, N.Y., are used for the vertical magnets 110 and one or two diameter rare-earth magnets also made by Lee-Valley Tools Ltd. are/is used for the horizontal magnet 112. In other embodiments, various other larger or smaller diameter magnet and cup assemblies or individual magnets are used.
The magnetic mounting tool 100 can be made of any suitable material able to perform the intended function. In one embodiment the magnetic mounting tool 100 is made of wood, wood composites, any type of plastic (e.g., nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, and so forth), any type of magnetic metal or metal alloy (e.g., steels), nonmagnetic metal alloy (e.g., aluminum, aluminum alloys), and so forth. In one embodiment 6063-T5 aluminum alloy is used. In another embodiment, a glass-filled, type 66 nylon is used. Use of a plastic adjustable holding device 100 may also provide a more rigid holding device as compared with certain types of conventional aluminum devices. If desired, the openings 220 and 320 can be reinforced with any type of material, such as hardened steel.
The components of the adjustable holding device 100 can be made using any suitable process, such as extrusion, injection molding, casting, and so forth. When produced in a die with an extrusion process, material-savings techniques can also be used, including forming openings in the handles 102 and 106. Furthermore, if the openings are made substantially symmetrical, the material flows through the die more easily and uniformly. In one embodiment, the tool 110 is made by joining together two symmetrical halves at the seam 230 (See
An added benefit of using injection molded plastic for the magnetic mounting tool 100 is that it allows the cups 318 to be inserted into the mold and secured into place during the molding process without causing weakening of the magnetic mounting tool 100. Since temperatures are generally lower as compared with aluminum or metal fabrication processing, use of an injection molding process has the added benefit of preventing weakening of the cups 318. The injection molding process is also more efficient, thus reducing costs, as compared with the time and labor involved in machining guides into a comparable aluminum or metal guide.
In other embodiments, only a portion of the magnetic mounting tool 100 is made by injection molding and other components, such as the horizontal component 104 and vertical component 108 are secured separately. In such embodiments, the horizontal and vertical components, 104 and 108, respectively, may be one continuous piece of material, if desired.
The various commercial slides used in the industry can be installed by the magnetic slide mounting tool on virtually any substantially flat surface or between two surfaces, such as in a center bottom mount installation. The slides can also be installed in either a vertical or horizontal orientation, depending on the particular application, as described herein. Stationary component sections can be installed in pairs to a vertical surface on either side of an opening in the stationary component or centered in the opening, typically with just the ends secured to the stationary component, either directly or indirectly. Such stationary components include, but are not limited to, any type of cabinet for indoor or outdoor use (including Euro-style and cabinets having face frames), armoires, entertainment centers, desks, including any type of computer desk, file cabinet, pantry, dresser, and so forth, to include virtually any type of object that has an opening designed to house a moving component intended to move back and forth on the slide or slides. Virtually any type of slide can be installed, including any type of extension slide, bottom center mount slide, bottom mount slide and the like, as discussed above. This includes, but is not limited to, over-the-top slides, drop-front slides, door slides (e.g., concealed, flipper, pocket), heavy duty slides for rolling tool cabinets, truck storage cabinets, etc.
In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to further utilize some type of handheld clamp 475 during installation as shown in
After installation, the stationary component section 440 is positioned for use with a corresponding moving component section 545 of the Euro slide installed on a moving component 570 as shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In most embodiments, it is advantageous to utilize a clamp to assist in securing the magnetic mounting tool 100 to the stationary component during installation of the stationary component section 650 although the invention is not so limited. The clamp can be secured in any desired manner as long as it performs the intended function.
As noted above, each stationary component section 640 has the extender 612 which is movable with a ball-bearing arrangement as is known in the art. These slides are extendable up to double their original length. Full-extension slides 640 can be relatively small and lightweight, i.e., about one (1) lb to ten (10) lbs (about 0.45 to 4.5 kg) up to very large, heavy slides weighing up to 50 lbs (22.7 kg) or more.
After installation, the stationary component section 640 of the full-extension slide is now properly positioned for use with a corresponding moving component section 845 installed on the side of a drawer, such as the drawers 870 shown in
In the embodiment shown in
The full-extension slide can also be used in a bottom center mounted installation. Additionally, specially-designed center bottom mount slides can also be used for bottom center mount installations.
As
In operation, the magnetic mounting tool 100 is grasped by either the upper handle 102 or lower handle 106 and magnetically coupled to a slide, such as the stationary component portion of the Euro slide 440 shown in
If desired, the markings 302 on the lower handle 106 can be used to properly align the stationary component section on the vertical surface as described herein. If desired, additional clamping means can be used to secure the stationary component section of any type of slide against the vertical surface as described herein. A sufficient number of fasteners, such as screws can then be secured in the holes located on the stationary component section of the slide, in order to properly secure this section to the vertical surface. In most embodiments, the fastener holes located in the area of the magnetic mounting tool 100 are also visible and accessible while the slide is magnetically coupled to the magnetic mounting tool 100, such that fasteners can be inserted in this section of the slide as well. Additionally, with the full-extension slide, fastener holes can be made visible by extending the extendable portion of the stationary component, even while the stationary component section is coupled to the magnetic mounting tool 100 and in contact with the vertical surface. In this way, virtually any type, size or brand of bottom mount slide or extension slide designed for installation on a vertical surface, including the full-extension slide and Euro slide, can be properly aligned and installed on a vertical surface by one person.
With regard to installation of a stationary component section 940 of a center bottom mount slide as shown in
In one embodiment, the invention further comprises a method for installing slides on a surface as shown in
In one embodiment, the present invention additionally or alternatively comprises one or more non-magnetic slide mounting tools (hereinafter “non-magnetic mounting tool”), which can also be referred to as “mounting brackets.” The one or more non-magnetic mounting tools can be used to align and install one or more moving component sections of any slide which is not bottom-mounted. Such “non bottom-mounted” slides shall be referred to hereinafter as “center-mounted slides” although it is understood that this can include slides that are mounted above or below the centerline, although not along a top edge or a bottom edge of a moving component. Such “center-mounted slides” include, but are not limited to, full-extension slides, partial-extension slides, and the like. The one or more non-magnetic mounting tools can additionally or alternatively be used to align and install the stationary component section of any type of slide having a substantially flat surface. In one embodiment, the one or more non-magnetic mounting tools are modified to accommodate stationary component sections of bottom-mount slides.
As shown in
The non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are each comprised of a substantially horizontal planar surface (hereinafter “horizontal component”) 1104, a first substantially vertical planar surface (hereinafter “first vertical component”) 1108A connected thereto and a second substantially vertical planar surface (hereinafter “second vertical component”) 1108B perpendicular to the first vertical component 1108A. The horizontal component 1104 includes a tab portion 1101 which extends beyond the first vertical component 1108A in one direction and a support portion 1103 which extends beyond the first vertical component 1108A in the opposing direction, and which is connected to the second vertical component 1108B. The horizontal component 1104 further has a top surface 1105 and a bottom surface 1107. The first vertical component 1108A has a first front surface 1109 and a first back surface 1111. The second vertical component 1108B has a first side surface 1113 and a second side surface 1115. In one embodiment, all of the above components are integral with each other, being made from a single piece of material. In another embodiment, all of the components are integral except for a hatched section (1228) shown in
Each non-magnetic mounting tool 1100A and 1100B can be any suitable size and shape as long as it can perform the intended function. However, the pair of non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B do not necessarily need to be the same size and shape. Preferably, the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are designed to allow for proper clamping by the user during installation of either stationary or moving component slide sections. The non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are designed to allow a moving component to balance on top of two such tools clamped to either side of an opening in a stationary component. Preferably, the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are also designed to allow for stationary component sections of slides having substantially flat bottoms to rest on top during installation of the stationary component section. In one embodiment, the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are designed to accommodate the lip of a stationary component section of a bottom mount slide. In one embodiment, one or more of the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B contain a suitable gap for accommodating such a lip.
In one embodiment the length of the non-magnetic mounting tools, 1100A and 1100B, which essentially comprises the length of the horizontal component 1104 (i.e., the tab portion 1101 and the support portion 1103) is between about six (6) to 12 in or more (about 15.2 to 30.5 cm), depending on the length of the stationary component section being installed. For installation of a stationary component section of a bottom mount slide, the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B may be up to 20 inches in length. In a particular embodiment, the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are used with stationary component sections that do not exceed about ten (10) in (about 25.4 cm) in length such that the maximum length of the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are about 11.5 in (about 29.2 cm). In one embodiment, each non-magnetic mounting tool 1100A and 1100B has an overall maximum height of between about three (3) and seven (7) in (about 7.6 and 17.8 cm), i.e., the height of the first vertical component 1108A and thickness of the horizontal component 1104 combined (or otherwise the maximum height of the second vertical component 1108B).
If the first and second vertical components, 1108A and 1108B, respectively, are too tall in height, the usefulness of the non-magnetic mounting tool in smaller stationary component sections will be limited. If they are too small, the tool will not provide sufficient support for the user during use. Additionally, the width of the first vertical component 1108A and the length of the second vertical component 1108B should each be sized to accommodate a clamp to provide a secure connection to the stationary component section during installation of the particular slide portion being installed. In one embodiment, the first vertical portion 1108A has a width of at least about 0.75 in up to about two (2) in or more. In one embodiment, the first vertical portion 1108A has a height of about two (2) to six (6) in.
In most embodiments, the maximum height of the second vertical portion 1108B is substantially the same as the height of the first vertical portion 1108A, although the invention is not so limited. In the embodiments shown in
In one embodiment, as shown in
The hatch marks 1202 are used to assist in aligning a slide (or a pair of slides) against a substantially vertical surface. For example, if a drawer needs to be placed at a certain height, appropriate measurement lines can be marked on the vertical surface of the stationary component, corresponding with the desired height of the stationary component section of the slide being installed. The hatch marks 1202 present on the front surface 1113 of the first vertical section 1108A are visible when the non-magnetic mounting tool 11008A or 11008B is clamped in an outwardly-facing position on its respective side of the stationary component (e.g., left-sided non-magnetic mounting tool 1108B is clamped to the left side of the stationary component). The hatch marks 1202 present on the back surface 1111 of the first vertical section 1108A are visible when the non-magnetic mounting tool 1108A or 1108B is clamped in an inwardly-facing position on the reverse side of the stationary component (e.g., when the left-sided non-magnetic mounting tool 1108B is clamped to the right side of the stationary component). For clarity in reading the hatch marks 1202, each mark can be alternately long and short, although the invention is not so limited. Typically such hatch marks 1202 are about 0.5 in (1.3 cm) apart, although any distance can be provided for the convenience of the user. In one embodiment, the hatch marks 1202 are contained in a hatch mark section 1228 and joined to the first vertical section 1108A at a seam 1230 as shown, although this section 1128 can still be considered a part of the first vertical section 1108A.
Referring again to
Preferably the length of the horizontal component 104 is of a dimension that provides adequate support for the component being installed, i.e., the moving component itself or the stationary component section of a slide.
The horizontal component 1104 need only be as thick as required to perform its intended function and preferably does not flex during use. In one embodiment, the horizontal component 1104 has a minimum thickness of between about 0.13 and 0.5 in (about 0.3 and 1.3 cm). In most embodiments, the horizontal component 1104 is less than about 0.25 inches and the stationary component section 640 of a slide is installed at least about 0.25 inches above a front rail 690 as described above in
The tab portion 1101 of the horizontal component 1104 is preferably sufficiently long to be used as a support tab over a face frame rail. In one embodiment, the tab portion 1101, i.e., the portion of the horizontal component 1104 which extends beyond the first vertical component 1108A, is between about 0.5 and three (3) inches in length. In one embodiment, the tab portion 1101 is about 0.75 to 1.25 inches in length.
The first vertical component 1108A can also be of any sufficient size and shape as long as it can perform its intended function. In most embodiments the first vertical component 1108A is wider than the horizontal component 1104 to accommodate a hatch section 1228 as shown in
The non-magnetic mounting tools 1108A and 1108B can be made of any suitable material able to perform the intended function. In one embodiment the non-magnetic mounting tools 1108A and 1108B are made of wood, wood composites, any type of plastic (e.g., nylon, polyethylene, polystyrene, and so forth), any type of magnetic metal or metal alloy (e.g., steels), nonmagnetic metal alloy (e.g., aluminum, aluminum alloys), and so forth. In one embodiment 6063-T5 aluminum alloy is used. In another embodiment, a glass-filled, type 66 nylon is used. Use of plastic non-magnetic mounting tools 1108A and 1108B may also provide a more rigid holding device as compared with certain types of conventional aluminum devices.
As with the magnetic mounting tool 100 described above, the non-magnetic mounting tools 1108A and 1108B can be made using any suitable process, such as extrusion, injection molding, casting, and so forth.
Once the stationary component section 640 is installed, a moving component section 1345 can be inserted into or engaged with the stationary component section 640 in preparation for installation of the moving component section 1345 onto a moving component. In the embodiment shown in
The moving component section 1345 can then be extended as shown in
A moving component such as a drawer or shelf can then be balanced on the left-sided and right sided non-magnetic mounting tools, 1100A and 1100B, respectively. In the embodiment shown in
The process is repeated on the other side of the drawer 870. At this point the moving component sections 1345 are properly installed on both side of the drawer 870 for proper engagement with the stationary component sections 640, and the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B can be removed.
In an alternative embodiment, the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B are clamped to the stationary component 660 with the support portion 1103 facing inwardly, as is shown in
Clamping the non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B in this inwardly-facing orientation is useful for a variety of operations. For example, the arrangement in
This arrangement shown in
The non-magnetic mounting tools 1100A and 1100B can also be clamped in an inwardly-facing direction to stationary components having frames, to assist with alignment and installation of a stationary component section 640 of a slide on the stationary component 660.
In one embodiment, the invention additionally or alternatively comprises a method for installing slides on a surface as shown in
In one embodiment, the invention additionally or alternatively comprises a method for installing slides on a surface as shown in
Embodiments of the present invention contain components arranged at right angles to each other. As a result, the various embodiments of the slide mounting tool are able to reference a stationary component slide section substantially perpendicular to a vertical surface in a structure, such as a framed or frameless cabinet. In one embodiment, the mounting tool holds the slide section in place with magnets. In another embodiment, the slide rests on a top surface of a substantially horizontal component of the mounting tool. In yet another embodiment, a pair of slide mounting tools provides support for a moving component, thus allowing installation of a moving component section of a slide substantially perpendicular to a vertical surface of the moving component, properly aligned for engagement with a stationary component section of a slide.
With use of the slide mounting tools of the present invention, near-perfect alignment of a variety of slide types, brands and sizes can now be obtained easily in a variety of structures with a single portable tool. In one embodiment, either stationary component sections and/or moving component sections of slides can be installed. In one embodiment, a combination of tools is used to align both stationary component sections of slides and moving component sections of slides. In a particular embodiment, a kit is provided comprising a first mounting tool for aligning a stationary component slide section on a stationary component, the mounting tool having at least one magnet; a second mounting tool for aligning a moving component slide section on a moving component, the second mounting tool having a toe portion and clampable to the stationary component; and instructions for using the first and second mounting tools.
Users can now, for the first time, align and install stationary component sections of slides having varying heights, thicknesses and lengths, oriented on edge or in a flat position on virtually any surface without the need to switch to a different tool, use a makeshift device and/or involve a second user. In one embodiment, the use of a stream-lined design together with one or more magnets allows stationary component sections of slides to be aligned and installed quickly and accurately. This is unlike conventional devices, which are designed for specific slides or are otherwise makeshift devices not intended specifically for use as slide alignment and installation devices. In one embodiment, markings on the handle aid in the positioning of the slide relative to other components at a glance. The installed slides are properly positioned quickly and easily, thus reducing labor costs and increasing ease of operation. Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that any arrangement which is calculated to achieve the same purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This application is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the invention. It is intended that this invention be limited only by the following claims, and the full scope of equivalents thereof.
This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/507,319 filed on Sep. 30, 2003, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
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