Composite Connecting Element for Frame Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting elements between sills and jambs often require separate manufacturing steps and additional processing, leading to increased costs and potential leakage issues due to the need for separate sealing elements and multiple cutting dies for various shapes.
Innovation Solution
A composite connecting element formed from two materials with different properties, where the second material is integrated into the first to create an inseparable, integral whole, providing a watertight and airtight seal without separate processing or cutting dies, suitable for various frame types and materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate sealing elements and multiple cutting dies are used for various shapes, then different frame configurations can be accommodated, but manufacturing costs increase and leakage risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connecting element and sealing element into a single integrated component. The sealing element is formed as one piece with the connecting element, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and multiple cutting dies. This integration reduces manufacturing steps, lowers costs, and eliminates leakage risks while maintaining adaptability to different frame configurations through the molded shape of the single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials to create the integrated connecting and sealing elements. Different materials with complementary properties are combined - rigid materials for structural support and flexible materials for sealing functions. This allows a single component to perform multiple functions (structural connection and weatherproof sealing) simultaneously, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Reliability
If separate sealing elements are interposed between connecting element and jamb, then watertight and airtight seals can be achieved, but additional processing steps and potential leakage points are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is merged directly into the connecting element structure. The sealing element is formed as an integral part of the connecting element through molding, creating a unified component that eliminates interfaces between separate sealing components and the connecting element. This integration removes potential leakage points at interfaces while maintaining effective sealing through the molded sealing geometry.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cutting dies are provided for different shapes, then various frame configurations can be manufactured, but manufacturing costs and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal molding process that can produce multiple shapes and configurations of the integrated connecting and sealing elements. A single molding system can accommodate different frame configurations by adjusting the mold cavity, eliminating the need for multiple specialized cutting dies. This multi-functional approach maintains productivity while supporting various frame shapes and configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting element for providing a connection between a sill and a jamb of a frame, which connecting element comprises a first part with first material properties and a second part with second material properties, which second material properties differ from the first material properties, and wherein the second part is connected inseparably to the first part. The invention also relates to a frame with at least one such connecting element. The invention further relates to a method for manufacturing such a connecting element.