Component-Based Flexible-Sheet Frames for Large-Opening Enclosures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current approaches for adding customizable frames or doors to large openings in homes or buildings are limited, often requiring permanent, bulky solutions that lack flexibility, ease of installation, maintenance, and customization options, and are prone to rot and moisture damage.
Innovation Solution
A component-based frame and flexible sheet system featuring articulating frame segments, lineal track bodies, and interchangeable components that allow for easy installation, customization, and maintenance-free operation, including features like lites, panels, and screens, with components that can be easily removed or replaced.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If permanent fixed door frames or structural frames are added during construction, then structural strength and stability are improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame system is divided into multiple modular components including header frames, jamb frames, corner pieces, and panel frames that can be independently assembled and configured. Each frame segment is a self-contained unit with standardized connection points, allowing the overall structure to achieve required strength through proper component assembly rather than requiring a complex monolithic frame design.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame components are designed with universal connection mechanisms that can accommodate various door types, panel configurations, and opening sizes. The standardized corner pieces and joining elements serve multiple functions including structural connection, alignment reference, and adjustment capability, reducing the need for specialized components for different installation scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customizable frames and doors are added to large openings, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but ease of manufacture and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The frame system uses segmented modular components that can be independently manufactured using standardized processes. Each frame piece is produced as a separate unit with pre-drilled connection points and standardized dimensions, simplifying manufacturing while allowing unlimited customization through different combinations of segments during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accommodates customization by allowing parameter changes in frame configuration rather than requiring custom-manufactured components. Users can adjust frame heights, widths, and panel arrangements by selecting different combinations of standardized segments, maintaining ease of manufacture while achieving adaptability through modular reconfiguration.
3Shape
If traditional frames made of wood are used, then aesthetic integration is improved, but reliability and durability worsen due to rot and moisture
Solution Approach 1:
The frame components utilize composite material construction combining corrosion-resistant metals such as aluminum or stainless steel with aesthetic finishes that can replicate wood grain patterns or provide contemporary metallic appearances. This composite approach delivers the durability and moisture resistance of metal while maintaining aesthetic qualities similar to traditional wood frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame system applies different material properties to different locations based on functional requirements. High-moisture exposure areas like exterior frame surfaces use corrosion-resistant materials with protective coatings, while interior visible surfaces can use materials optimized for aesthetics. This local quality differentiation ensures reliability where needed while maintaining aesthetic integration elsewhere.
4Manufacturing precision
If complex installation processes with multiple tools are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation and installation time worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Critical precision features are built into the frame components during manufacturing before installation. Corner pieces include pre-positioned connection points, alignment pins, and reference surfaces that automatically establish correct geometric relationships during assembly. This preliminary action ensures manufacturing precision is achieved through factory fabrication rather than requiring complex field adjustments during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame system incorporates self-aligning and self-leveling features that automatically compensate for minor installation variations. Connection mechanisms include built-in tolerance accommodation through adjustable fasteners and flexible joining elements that self-adjust during assembly, eliminating the need for specialized tools or expert intervention while maintaining installation precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame and flexible sheet system for an opening includes a top lineal track body with a top weather-stripping lineal, a bottom lineal track body, and an assembly component with articulating frame segment pair, swinging frame segment, and bottom weather-stripping lineals. The system further comprises an engagement and rolling component for the first top corner of the articulating frame segment pair, an engagement and pivoting component for the second top corner, and a bottom lineal track insert anchoring the bottom corner. The articulating frame segment pair is configured to hang from the top lineal track body. This system provides a versatile and efficient solution for enclosing and securing openings to spaces.