Abstract:
A wall-mounted component can be flush-mounted into a wallboard by first installing a panel with a receiver bracket flush into a wallboard. Once the panel is installed, the component can be inserted into the receiver bracket at which point a locking mechanism automatically or manually engages to lock the component into the wall. The locking mechanism is concealed from view so that a casual observer does not see how the component is affixed to the wall, yet is accessible from the waifs exterior for routine service and maintenance, as well as reinstallation of updated components.
Abstract:
A panel with multiple openings and brackets can be used to flush-mount multiple components in a wallboard. The panel is installed flush with the wallboard and the junction between the panel and the wallboard is plastered or drywalled to create a uniform appearance. Wall-mounted components can then be installed into the brackets into openings that have been pre-measured and cut to ensure that the components are aligned with precision relative to one another before installation even begins.
Abstract:
A wall-mounted docking station for a portable computer connects the portable computer to a media entertainment system. The media entertainment system can have multiple zones throughout a room and/or a building, and can play audio, video, images, or other media stored on the portable computer to any zone or a combination of zones. Preferably, the docking station also provides power to the portable computer, and could optionally provide both power and data connectivity over a power line.
Abstract:
An installation mount for an in-wall component has a sloped spackle rim around a recessed opening. The recessed opening is shaped to accept either a sanding shield or a component cover. While the sanding shield is in the recessed opening, an installer could spackle the front surface of the installation mount and can then sand the spackle away until the sanding shield is exposed, creating a surface that is flush with the rest of the wall. The sanding shield could then be so that the sanding shield could be used to protect the interior of the installation mount during sanding, while the component cover could be used while the component cover is in use to protect the component and provide a flush-mount look and feel.
Abstract:
A docking station for a handheld computer is provided. The docking station is installed in a wall and has multiple buttons that can send command signals to the handheld computer. The buttons could be programmed to provide a variety of different signals to the handheld computer, but generally allow a user to operate and manage the computer while it is docked. The docking station can also receive commands or other signals from the handheld computer and increase the functionality of the computer, for example by projecting a movie onto a screen, by transmitting music to a remote speaker or by connecting the computer to a network. In some embodiments, multiple docking stations could be networked together to allow for a dramatic increase in the functionality of the computer.
Abstract:
Mounting systems are described for installing components in walls or other structural barriers. A preferred mounting system has a rear bracket and a component holder that supports the component, and that cooperate with each other to sandwich the structural barrier. An intermediate piece mates with the component holder, and has a hole through which a portion of the component can extend. A cover mates with the component holders, and is preferably recessed within the intermediate piece such that the outward facing surface of the cover is flush with a spackle rim.
Abstract:
A panel with a bracket is used to install a component to a wallboard. The panel is inserted into an opening to a wallboard, and the junction between the panel and the wallboard is taped and spackled so that the wallboard and panel appear to be a single object. When the component is fully coupled to the bracket, the front of the component is slightly recessed from the front of the panel. A component cover could then be inserted into the newly created recess so that the component appears to be completely flush with the wallboard.
Abstract:
A wall-mounted docking station for a portable computer connects the portable computer to a media entertainment system. The media entertainment system can have multiple zones throughout a room and/or a building, and can play audio, video, images, or other media stored on the portable computer to any zone or a combination of zones. Preferably, the docking station also provides power to the portable computer, and could optionally provide both power and data connectivity over a power line.
Abstract:
Devices that are mounted onto building surfaces can generally be divided into the following categories: speakers, lighting, controllers, air vents, power/data interfaces, fire response interfaces, and cameras. Typically, all of these devices have very different appearances, since they are made by different companies. Here, an installer takes components from at least three different categories, and installs them on surfaces of a building so that they all share the same appearance.
Abstract:
A flangeless mounting system, suitable for in-wall speakers and other objects, includes a panel that replaces a substantial section of wallboard instead of being installed behind the wallboard. In preferred embodiments a rim extends outwardly from a first surface of the panel by a distance of less than ½ inch, and preferably by only ⅛ inch or even 1/16 inch. The face of the object can be quite large, up to 40 in2 or more, and still be relatively small with respect to the panel. Panels are contemplated that have a width at least two, three or more times that of the face of the object, and along with optional wings are wider than the stud separation in the wall.