Adjustable Finishing Bracket for Retractable Shade Concealment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional concealment structures for retractable patio shades, screens, and shutters inhibit access to storage and deployment mechanisms, leading to reduced maintenance and potential early equipment failure, while also being unsightly and detracting from the finished ceiling.

Innovation Solution

An adjustable finishing bracket assembly with an L-bracket, hook bracket, and hanger bracket system that allows for horizontal, vertical, and angular positioning of a wood plank to conceal and secure retractable devices, enabling easy access and alignment with the patio ceiling without requiring tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If a concealment structure is placed around the window treatment storage box and deployment motor, then the aesthetic appearance of the finished ceiling is improved, but access to the window treatment equipment is inhibited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidaccess to equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The concealment structure is divided into modular components: a permanent frame structure and removable panel sections. The panels can be detached to provide access to the motor and window treatment equipment, while the frame maintains the aesthetic appearance when panels are in place.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The access function is extracted from the main concealment structure by using separate removable panels. These panels can be taken out independently to access equipment, while the main frame remains in place to maintain aesthetics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Shape

If a concealment structure is placed around the window treatment storage box and deployment motor, then the aesthetic appearance of the finished ceiling is improved, but the likelihood of routine maintenance is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidmaintenance frequency
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The concealment structure is segmented with removable panels that facilitate routine maintenance access. The permanent frame maintains aesthetics while the removable panels enable easy removal for maintenance activities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The design enables homeowners to perform routine maintenance themselves by simply removing the panels, without requiring professional service or complex disassembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the window treatment includes a retractable shade with storage area and deployment mechanism, then the functionality of the patio is improved, but an unsightly addition is created to the finished ceiling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepatio functionalityVSAvoidceiling appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The window treatment mechanism (roller tube, shade, motor) is nested within the concealment structure. The entire functional assembly is contained within the decorative frame and panels, hiding it from view while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The concealment structure acts as an intermediary element between the functional window treatment mechanism and the finished ceiling. It mediates by hiding the mechanical components while allowing them to function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11933038B2Finishing bracket
Publication Date: 2024.03.19 BEYOND THE GRAIN LLC
  • US11933038B2 patent drawing
  • US11933038B2 patent drawing
  • US11933038B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An adjustable finishing bracket assembly for use in concealing retractable shades, screens, hangers and the like. The assembly employs an L-bracket having slots for horizontal positioning and threaded apertures for securing to a hook bracket. The hook bracket has adjustment slots for securing to the L-bracket and a U-shaped distal end. The hook bracket is securable to the L-shaped bracket and a hanger bracket. A level bolt is connected to the L-shaped bracket. The adjustable finishing bracket provides horizontal, vertical and angular positioning of the wood plank to assure the wood plank is properly aligned and provides an easily removable wood plank for access to the retractable mechanisms.