Artwork Support Frame With Adaptive Force Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support structures for works of art, such as wooden frames or paintings, fail to adapt the applied force effectively to environmental fluctuations in humidity and temperature, leading to deformation and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A support system with a force application device equipped with an actuator unit, control unit, and sensors to adjust the force based on environmental conditions and artwork characteristics, using adjustable actuators like DC motors and piezo elements, and a control system to optimize force application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If metal springs are used to apply force to counteract deformation, then the support structure provides continuous force application, but the force cannot be adapted to environmental fluctuations and material properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static metal springs with a dynamic actuator unit that can actively adjust the applied force. The actuator unit includes a motor-driven mechanism with a movable arm that can change its position and applied force based on real-time sensor feedback about environmental conditions and artwork deformation, enabling adaptive support rather than fixed force application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control system where sensors continuously monitor environmental parameters (temperature, humidity) and artwork state (deformation, position). This data is fed back to the control unit, which adjusts the actuator unit's force output accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables the support structure to automatically adapt to changing conditions without manual intervention
2Stability of the object's composition
If the support frame is firmly connected to the artwork, then stable force application is achieved, but the force is either too large or too small in details depending on environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the firmly connected static support into a dynamic system where the actuator unit's arm can move along the support frame. This movement capability allows the system to maintain stable connection to the artwork while dynamically adjusting the force magnitude and application point based on real-time conditions, resolving the contradiction between stability and adaptability
3Reliability
If fixed force is applied by support structures, then simple structure is maintained, but deformation cannot be prevented under fluctuating environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs sensor units that continuously monitor environmental conditions (temperature, humidity) and artwork deformation. This feedback information is processed by a control unit that automatically adjusts the actuator unit's force output to prevent deformation. The feedback mechanism enables reliable deformation prevention while keeping the control logic automated rather than requiring complex mechanical adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical spring-based force application system with an electromechanical system. The actuator unit uses motor-driven mechanisms controlled by electronic sensors and a control unit, substituting passive mechanical force application with active electromechanical control. This enables adaptive force adjustment while maintaining relatively simple hardware architecture
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively counters deformation by dynamically adjusting force to ambient conditions and artwork properties, preventing damage by ensuring optimal force application.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor unit comprises at least one weighing device, in particular comprising a strain gauge
Implementation Method 2
The actuator unit preferably comprises at least one DC motor. Advantageously, a DC motor can apply the necessary force to counteract deformation of the artwork
Implementation Method 3
the actuator unit can also be designed differently and, for example, include a piezo element or an air pressure damper to apply the necessary force
Data Source
Figure 1~2

AI summary
The invention relates to a support system (1) at least for supporting and reshaping works of art (100), in particular wooden frames or paintings on wooden panels: a support frame structure (2), wherein a force application device (3) for applying a force and a fastening device (4) for dissipating the force are accommodated on the support frame structure (2); and wherein the fastening device (4) for fastening the support frame structure (2) to the work of art (100); and wherein the force application device (3) has an actuator unit (5) for applying the force to the work of art (100).