Canvas Frame Push-Fit Assembly for Hidden Tensioned Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching large canvases to rigid frames using ropes or flexible links are prone to loosening under weather conditions, making them difficult to detach and reattach, and are aesthetically unpleasing as they are visible to the viewer.
Innovation Solution
A push-fit fastening system comprising a pair of identical push-fit fastening members with lugs that fit through eyelets and engage with notched or toothed portions within a U-shaped housing in the frame, allowing for secure attachment and easy detachment without cords or ropes, and enabling tensioning of the canvas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ropes or flexible links are used to attach canvas to frame, then the canvas can be attached to the frame, but the ropes tend to loosen under weather conditions and wind pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rope-based mechanical fastening system with a direct push-fit engagement system. The canvas edge with eyelets is inserted directly into the frame's U-shaped housing with notched portions, eliminating ropes and flexible links entirely. This substitution provides a rigid, weather-resistant connection that maintains both reliability and stability without the loosening problems of rope-based systems.
2Ease of manufacture
If ropes or flexible links are used to attach canvas to frame, then the canvas can be attached to the frame, but the ropes are visible to the viewer and drive away the viewer from the message
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the visible rope elements from the attachment system. By using a push-fit mechanism where the canvas edge with eyelets inserts directly into the frame housing, the attachment components are hidden within the frame structure or become integrated with the canvas edge, eliminating the visible ropes that detract from the message and aesthetic appearance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If each link is removed one by one or all ropes are undone for canvas replacement, then the canvas can be detached from the frame, but the process is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the attachment system into independent push-fit engagement points at each eyelet location along the canvas edge. Each section can be independently inserted or removed from the frame housing by simply pushing or pulling the canvas edge, allowing rapid canvas replacement without the time-consuming process of untying or removing multiple rope links one by one.
4Reliability
If the canvas is attached directly to the frame without ropes, then the attachment is more reliable and aesthetic, but the eyelets need to be hidden from view
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the eyelets and attachment mechanism are integrated within or along the canvas edge, which then inserts into the frame's U-shaped housing. The notched portions of the housing engage with the eyelet structure, nesting the functional attachment elements within the frame-canvas interface, thereby hiding the eyelets from external view while maintaining reliable direct attachment.
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
Enables rapid, easy attachment and detachment of canvases without disassembling the frame, maintains tension under harsh weather conditions, and hides the eyelets from view, facilitating frequent message changes and extended service life.
Implementation Method 1
Each of the push-fit fastening members comprises at least one lug arranged to engage the corresponding toothed or notched portion of the open housing when in use. Advantageously, the lug has an elasticity such that it can pass from one tooth to another when a force is exerted thereon.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for attaching a flexible or rigid canvas (2) comprising eyelets (24) to a support comprises a rigid frame (4, 4′, 5, 6) forming the support, a first attachment means arranged to be directly secured to the canvas (2) and a second attachment means provided within the frame and capable of receiving the first attachment means. The second attachment means is formed of an open housing (3). The housing comprises two walls (4, 4′) which are spaced apart and are arranged opposite to each other. Each wall is provided on its internal surface (4″, 4′″) with a notched or toothed portion arranged to hold the first attachment means when in use.