Adjustable Window Protection Rods for Custom Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window protection methods are often cumbersome, expensive, and difficult for elderly individuals to install, especially during harsh weather conditions like hurricanes and tornadoes.
Innovation Solution
A window protective system comprising adjustable extender rods, a brace, wedges, and a shield made of flexible material, which can be easily mounted inside a window frame to provide custom-fit protection against environmental elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional window protection methods (plywood, heavy boards) are used, then protection effectiveness is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective system is divided into multiple components: extender rods that can be adjusted to fit different window sizes, braces that connect the rods, and shields that attach to the braces. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and adjusted, making the overall system easier to install while maintaining protection effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The extender rods are designed to be adjustable in length and position, allowing the system to adapt to various window configurations. The rods can be extended or retracted to match different window dimensions, providing both ease of installation across multiple windows and reliable protection tailored to each specific opening.
2Adaptability or versatility
If custom-fit protection is provided for different window sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protective system is designed as a universal solution that can fit multiple window sizes and configurations. The extender rods, braces, and shields are standardized components that can be combined in various arrangements to accommodate different opening dimensions, eliminating the need for completely different systems for each window size.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter adjustments in the extender rod lengths and positions to match specific window dimensions. By changing the physical parameters of the components (length, position, angle), the same basic system design can adapt to various window sizes without increasing overall device complexity.
3Loss of substance
If reusable protective systems are implemented, then loss of substance is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates due to installation/removal processes
Solution Approach 1:
The protective system components are pre-assembled and pre-configured to simplify the installation process. The extender rods, braces, and shields come ready-to-install, requiring minimal on-site assembly. This preliminary preparation reduces both material waste (by enabling reuse) and installation complexity (by simplifying the mounting process).
Data Source
AI summary
A device that can be mounted inside a window frame for protection during hurricanes and tornadoes instead of hanging plywood. The “XFrame” has two adjustable metal rods (able to adjust the length of the bars to fit in a window frame). The two bars may be bolted together in the middle and adjustable at an angle, such that a user can adjust both the length of the bars and the angles to make them fit into virtually any size window frame. The user may adjust the bars to fit approximately inside the window frame and then engage the tension mechanism to lock them in place tightly.