Convertible Frame Assembly With Removable Divider Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frame manufacturing methods are costly and struggle to achieve a desirable aesthetic finish when creating frames with multiple display windows, and there is a need for a cost-effective solution that allows easy conversion between single and multi-window frames without damaging the outer frame.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly comprising an outer frame with a core and a cap layer, coupled with a divider member made of a different material that extends across the display opening to divide it into multiple windows, allowing for easy conversion between single and multi-window configurations while maintaining a visually appealing aesthetic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a single material construction is used for the entire frame, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the aesthetic finish and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly uses composite materials by combining an outer frame made of one material with a divider member made of a different material. This allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and aesthetic requirements, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and aesthetic quality.
2Strength
If the frame is manufactured as a single integrated piece, then structural integrity is improved, but the ability to convert between single and multi-window configurations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into separate components: an outer frame and a removable divider member. This segmentation maintains the structural integrity of the outer frame while enabling easy conversion between single-window and multi-window configurations by simply adding or removing the divider member.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly incorporates dynamic convertibility through the removable divider member, allowing the frame to transition between different configurations (single-window or multi-window) based on user needs, while the outer frame itself remains structurally intact and unchanged.
3Adaptability or versatility
If expensive materials are used to achieve desirable aesthetic finish, then the aesthetic quality is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame uses composite construction with an outer frame and divider member made of different materials, allowing cost-effective material selection for each component while achieving desirable aesthetic finishes. This resolves the contradiction by enabling aesthetic quality without uniformly using expensive materials throughout the entire frame.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame assembly comprising an outer frame and a divider that divides a display opening of the outer frame into at least a first display window and a second display window. In one embodiment, the divider is molded while components of the outer frame are extruded. In another embodiment, the divider is coupled to the outer frame by sandwiching a portion of the divider between a glazing and the outer frame, and wherein relative movement between the divider and the outer frame is prohibited by interference between retaining features of one or both of the divider and the outer frame. The divider can be removed from the outer frame by simply removing the glazing and taking the divider out of the rabbet without damaging the outer frame. The same outer frame can be used without the divider. In another embodiment, the materials of the outer frame and divider are selected to achieve low cost production with improved visual characteristics.