Frame apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frames require multiple mounting clips and a backing, which are costly, prone to breakage, and difficult to assemble, leading to a need for a simpler frame apparatus with fewer components.
Innovation Solution
A frame apparatus featuring an annular display frame with a rabbet containing a transparent front panel, a rear panel, and an annular spacer frame that engages the display frame to lock the stack in place, eliminating the need for multiple clips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple mounting clips and a backing are used to retain the backing in the frame, then the frame can adequately secure the backing, but the assembly becomes complex, manufacturing cost increases, and the components are prone to breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (mounting clips and backing) into a single integrated annular spacer frame. The spacer frame's outer surface engages directly with the rabbet engagement portions, eliminating the need for separate mounting clips while maintaining secure retention capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular spacer frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural support element, a mounting mechanism (replacing multiple clips), and a retention device for the stack. This multi-functional design reduces component count while maintaining or improving securing capability.
2Reliability
If multiple mounting clips are used to secure the backing, then adequate retention is achieved, but assembly becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the functions of multiple mounting clips into a single annular spacer frame, the assembly process is simplified from installing multiple separate components to installing one integrated piece, significantly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer frame is designed with engagement portions that segment the retention function around the annular structure, allowing for straightforward alignment and installation into corresponding rabbet features without complex assembly sequences.
3Reliability
If multiple mounting clips are used to retain the backing, then secure retention is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Consolidating multiple mounting clips into a single annular spacer frame reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, inventoried, and assembled. This integration lowers manufacturing complexity and associated costs while maintaining the necessary securing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular spacer frame's multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mounting clips and backing structures, reducing the bill of materials and simplifying the manufacturing process across multiple components.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame apparatus for displaying a flat article and a combined frame apparatus and flat article. In one aspect, the frame apparatus includes a display frame defining a rabbet, a stack positioned in the rabbet, and a spacer apparatus. The rabbet is defined by a floor and a wall. The wall includes an engagement feature which may be a channel. The spacer apparatus is configured to be positioned in the rabbet and engagement features thereof extend into the channel in the wall of the rabbet to couple the spacer apparatus to the display frame. The spacer assembly may also be in contact with the stack to hold the stack in the rabbet.