Collapsible Decorative Frame Assembly for Lower Shipping Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Decorative systems are often bulky, leading to higher shipping costs due to their size and weight, as they are typically fixed and cannot be collapsed or folded for storage or shipping.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible decorative system comprising a base, first and second frame assemblies, a decorative covering, and a mount assembly that allows the frames to fold or collapse, reducing the system's profile and enabling efficient storage and shipping by transforming from a collapsed state to an assembled state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the decorative system is made as a fixed object, then the structural stability is improved, but the shipping cost and storage space increase due to bulky size
Solution Approach 1:
The decorative system is divided into multiple collapsible frame assemblies that can be segmented and folded into compact configurations. Each frame assembly includes collapsible sides that can be folded inward, allowing the entire structure to be broken down into smaller manageable sections for efficient shipping and storage while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The decorative system incorporates dynamic collapsible mechanisms that allow the frame assemblies to transition between expanded and collapsed states. The sides are designed with folding capabilities that enable the structure to adapt its volume, providing structural stability when needed and compact form for shipping, effectively resolving the contradiction between fixed stability and collapsible volume.
2Volume of stationary object
If the decorative system is made collapsible, then the shipping cost and storage space are reduced, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the decorative system into modular frame assemblies with standardized collapsible mechanisms, the patent reduces assembly complexity. Each module can be independently collapsed and stored, then easily reassembled by connecting pre-designed joints, making the complex folding mechanism manageable through standardization and modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs intermediary connection elements and guide structures that facilitate the collapsing and assembling process. These intermediary components act as mediators between the moving parts, providing alignment features and connection points that simplify the assembly process despite the collapsible nature of the structure.
3Volume of stationary object
If the decorative system is made collapsible, then the shipping cost is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible mechanism is divided into discrete segmented components with standardized dimensions and tolerance specifications. By segmenting the folding mechanism into separate joints, hinges, and connection points, the patent reduces manufacturing precision requirements compared to a monolithic collapsible structure, as each component can be manufactured independently within standard tolerances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the design of the collapsible joints, such as using standardized angles, lengths, and connection geometries. By defining specific geometric parameters and tolerances for the folding mechanisms, the patent achieves reliable collapsible functionality without requiring excessive manufacturing precision, balancing performance with manufacturability.
Data Source
AI summary
A decorative system includes a base, a first frame assembly, a second frame assembly, a decorative covering, and a mount assembly, wherein the decorative system can be placed in a use state and a collapsed state. The base provides the foundation of the decorative system. The first frame assembly comprises a first frame, which generally is a skeleton or support framework. The second frame assembly comprises a second frame, which also is generally a skeleton or support framework. The decorative covering includes a covering having a decorative feature, for example, transparent, translucent, and opaque portions. The mount assembly provides support, and can be in communication with the first and second frame assemblies for assembly of the decorative system. The decorative system can further comprise a light string system that can be carried by at least one of the first frame assembly, the second frame assembly and/or the decorative covering.