Closure Frame Corner Joint Assembly
Solution Overview
Problem
Current building closure assemblies, such as patio screens and doors, require laborious and costly alignment and assembly at the corners due to the need for multiple screws in butt joints, making the fabrication process inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A corner joint design featuring rail inserts and threaded fasteners with nuts, along with a washer plate and gasket, to securely connect end and side rails in a butt joint configuration, facilitating easier and more economical assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple screws are used to form a butt joint at each corner of the frame, then the joint strength and alignment are improved, but the assembly complexity and labor cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple screw fasteners into a single integrated corner joint assembly where one fastener simultaneously secures multiple frame members together, eliminating the need for separate screws at each corner and simplifying the assembly process while maintaining joint strength
Solution Approach 2:
The corner joint assembly is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it provides structural strength, ensures alignment, and simplifies assembly all in one integrated unit, replacing the need for multiple separate fastening operations
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple screws are used to form a butt joint at each corner of the frame, then the joint stability is improved, but the fabrication cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The corner joint assembly is pre-configured with integrated fasteners and alignment features before installation, allowing for quick assembly at the construction site without requiring multiple separate fastening operations, thereby improving fabrication efficiency while maintaining stability
3Ease of manufacture
If a simplified corner joint design is used, then the fabrication cost and assembly time are reduced, but the alignment precision and sealing effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The corner joint assembly incorporates integrated alignment features and sealing components that act as intermediaries to ensure precise alignment and effective sealing, maintaining manufacturing precision while simplifying the overall fabrication process
Data Source
AI summary
A closure frame includes at least one end rail, at least one side rail and a corner joint between ends of the corner and side rails. The corner joint includes a rail insert secured within a first of the rails. A threaded fastener is secured against rotation within the insert and extends from an open end of the first rail into a second of the rails. A nut is disposed within the second rail in threaded engagement with the end of the fastener and clamps the second rail against the open end of the first rail. The corner joint preferably is a butt joint, and a pair of rail inserts preferably are disposed within the end of the first rail so that a pair of threaded fasteners extend into the second rail and are engaged by associated nuts in the second rail. A washer plate preferably is disposed in the second rail beneath the nuts, and a gasket preferably is disposed between the second rail and the open end of the first rail to seal the corner joint.