Clip Fastener System for Non-Penetrating Window Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional window installation methods using penetrating fasteners are unsightly and create holes that can lead to water intrusion, necessitating a secure and aesthetically pleasing alternative.

Innovation Solution

A clip fastening system comprising a frame with a flange and C-channel clips that secure the window frame within a window opening without using penetrating fasteners, utilizing a barb and groove mechanism for secure engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If penetrating fasteners are used to secure the window, then the window is securely fastened, but the fasteners are unsightly and create holes that can lead to water intrusion

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecuring strengthVSAvoidwater intrusion and aesthetic appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A non-penetrating clip fastener is introduced as an intermediary component to secure the window frame to the rough opening. The clip engages with the window frame's groove and the rough opening's flange without penetrating either structure, thereby maintaining their integrity while providing secure fastening. This eliminates holes that could allow water intrusion and avoids unsightly visible fasteners.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The fastening system is divided into separate components: a clip fastener, a window frame with groove, and a rough opening with flange. The clip acts as a discrete element that bridges the connection between the window frame and rough opening without requiring penetration, allowing each component to maintain its structural integrity while achieving secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If penetrating fasteners are used to secure the window, then the window is securely fastened, but the fasteners create holes through the window frame and building structure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecuring strengthVSAvoidintegrity of window frame and building structure

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The non-penetrating clip serves as a mediator that provides the necessary connection between the window frame and rough opening without compromising the integrity of either structure. By engaging with the groove and flange externally, it maintains the stability and composition of the window frame and building structure while achieving secure fastening.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system is segmented into external engagement points (groove and flange) and a separate fastening element (clip). This segmentation allows the window frame and building structure to remain intact without holes, while the clip provides the necessary securing function through external engagement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10538952B2Clip fastener system for a window

Publication Date: 2020.01.21 DECO FLASH LLC

AI summary

A clip fastening system for securing a window in a window opening without the use of penetrating fasteners is disclosed. The clip fastening system includes a flange that extends in an inward direction from and around the window opening, a groove that is formed through a facing of a window frame of the window and that extends around the perimeter of the window frame, and a clip mutually engaged with the flange and the groove, thereby securing the window frame within the window opening.