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

VSEngineering 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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce adaptation to environmental conditionsVSAvoidsupport structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

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

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce application stabilityVSAvoidforce adjustment to conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

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

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If fixed force is applied by support structures, then simple structure is maintained, but deformation cannot be prevented under fluctuating environmental conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeformation preventionVSAvoidsupport system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

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

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrain gauge: Piezoresistive Effect

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDC motor: Electromagnetic Induction

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezo element: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4596255A1Support system, method
Publication Date: 2025.08.06 KÖNIG CARLO
  • EP4596255A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4596255A1 patent drawing
  • EP4596255A1 patent drawing

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).