Bio-Composite Fixed Window Frame With Metal Exterior Cover

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window frames with wooden fixed frames face issues of high bulkiness due to thick metal strips for structural support, reducing the width of the opening and pane, and are aesthetically unappealing, while wooden frames are prone to weather damage.

Innovation Solution

A window frame using bio-composite material with resin and rice husk fibers, mimicking wood texture and providing enhanced mechanical and structural properties, and featuring a new fixed frame design with a supporting profile made of resin and natural fibers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If thick metal strips are used for structural support in wooden fixed frames, then mechanical strength and structural integrity are improved, but the frame becomes bulky and the width of the opening and transparent pane is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoidframe volume
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies composite materials by combining metal strips with wooden elements to create a hybrid structure. The metal reinforcement is integrated within or alongside wooden components, providing the necessary mechanical strength while avoiding the need for thick, bulky metal sections. This composite approach allows the frame to meet structural requirements with reduced overall volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Illumination intensity

If wooden fixed frames are used to achieve aesthetic appeal and thermal insulation, then appearance and insulation performance are improved, but the frames become susceptible to weather damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetic appealVSAvoidweather resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses composite materials combining wood and metal, where the wood provides aesthetic appeal and thermal insulation properties, while the metal components provide durability and resistance to weather damage. This composite construction allows the wooden elements to be protected from direct exposure to harsh environmental conditions while maintaining their visual and insulating benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The metal strips act as an intermediary protective layer between the wooden frame and the external environment. This intermediary structure shields the wood from direct contact with weather agents such as rain and sunlight, thereby protecting the wooden elements from degradation while allowing the wood to maintain its aesthetic and insulating functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If metal profiles are used to cover wooden frames for weather protection, then durability is improved, but the aesthetic appeal and wood texture are lost

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovedurabilityVSAvoidaesthetic appeal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of completely covering wooden frames with metal profiles, the patent integrates metal strips as structural components within the composite construction. This allows the wood to remain exposed and visible, preserving its aesthetic appeal and texture, while the metal provides the necessary durability and weather resistance. The metal and wood work together in a unified composite structure rather than one material covering the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentEP4667698A1Window/door frame comprising a newly developed fixed frame
Publication Date: 2025.12.24 DGT
  • EP4667698A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4667698A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4667698A1 patent drawingFigure 2A

AI summary

Frame (100) for windows or French doors of a building; the frame (100) comprises a fixed frame (TF) suitable for being arranged in an opening of the wall (M) and anchored to said wall (M), and a leaf (A) movably connected to the fixed frame (TF) and comprising a wooden frame (TA); wherein the fixed frame (TF) comprises four elements (2) joined at right angles, each comprising a supporting profile (3) of bio-composite material and a covering profile (4) of metal material joined to the supporting profile (3) to cover a face of the supporting profile (3) facing the exterior of the building.