Installation procedure and design for columns fully integrated product
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing installation systems for integrating appliances into cabinetry often fail to achieve proper alignment and spacing, leading to inadequate blending with surroundings and limited adjustment capabilities during and after installation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a template and variable thickness shims, along with depth gauges, to accurately measure and adjust the positioning of column products within openings, ensuring proper alignment and spacing by using shims of specific thicknesses and attaching fasteners for secure installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional installation systems are used, then installation process is simple, but alignment precision and spacing control are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing a template with pre-marked shim locations and depth gauge positions before the actual installation. The template includes predetermined locations where shims should be placed, allowing the installer to prepare the correct thickness shims in advance and position them accurately during installation, thereby achieving precise alignment without complex measurement procedures during the installation process itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed thickness shims are used, then manufacturing is simple, but adaptability to different spacing requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by providing shims with variable thicknesses (e.g., 0mm, 0.5mm, 1.0mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm) instead of a single fixed thickness. This allows the installer to select the appropriate shim thickness based on the specific spacing requirements between the column product and the opening, achieving adaptability to different installation scenarios while maintaining simple manufacturing processes for each individual shim thickness.
3Ease of operation
If cosmetic panel positioning is fixed during installation, then installation is straightforward, but ability to make positioning adjustments after installation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing removable shims as a mediating element between the column product and the opening. These shims can be easily inserted and removed during installation to achieve proper positioning, and their modular nature allows for future adjustments if needed. The template system also serves as an intermediary guide that can be reused for future adjustment work.
4Manufacturing precision
If precise measurement tools are used, then positioning accuracy is improved, but installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by providing a template that replicates the ideal positioning geometry of the column product within the opening. The template includes cutouts and markings that directly indicate where shims should be placed and what thickness is required, eliminating the need for complex measurements and calculations during installation. The template itself is a physical copy of the desired final position, allowing direct transfer of positioning information to the installation site.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for positioning and installing a column product includes coupling a template to a first side and a second side of an opening, using the template to position a depth gauge to the first side and the second side of the opening, selecting at least one shim from a plurality of thickness regions comprising a first thickness of 0.050 inches, a second thickness of 0.10 inches, a third thickness of 0.15 inches, a forth thickness of 0.20 inches, and a fifth thickness of 0.25 inches, using the template to position the plurality of shims to the first side and the second side of the opening, positioning the column product into the opening, and attaching one or more fasteners to the column product and coupling the column product to the first side and the second side of the opening.