Coupling Element Covering Element Conceals Screw Heads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling elements for doors and windows with shutter-like and tilt-and-turn openings are aesthetically unpleasing, expose screws to atmospheric agents, and reduce the durability of the hardware.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element with a covering element that conceals screw heads using snap-fit wings or magnetic fixing means, providing a sleek appearance and protecting screws from environmental exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional coupling elements with exposed screws are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates and screws are exposed to atmospheric agents
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element is divided into two functional segments: the base coupling element that provides the closing function, and the separate covering element that provides aesthetic protection. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently while maintaining overall functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering element acts as an intermediary component between the coupling element and the external environment. It mediates the conflict by protecting the screws from atmospheric agents while maintaining the aesthetic appearance, without interfering with the closing function of the coupling element.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If covering elements are added to conceal screw heads, then aesthetic appearance and screw protection improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic fixing system replaces traditional mechanical screw-fixing methods. The covering element is retained to the coupling element through magnetic attraction between the magnet in the coupling element and the ferromagnetic material in the covering element, eliminating the need for additional mechanical fasteners and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixing mechanism transitions from a permanent mechanical connection (screws) to a controllable magnetic connection. The magnetic field strength and ferromagnetic material properties are optimized to provide sufficient holding force while allowing easy removal when needed, changing the parameter of connection strength from fixed to adjustable.
3Ease of operation
If screws are exposed for easy installation, then installation simplicity is maintained, but durability against atmospheric agents deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The covering element is designed to be installed after the coupling element is securely fastened to the frame. This preliminary action sequence ensures that the structural function is established first, then the protective covering is added to shield the screws from atmospheric agents, thereby extending durability without complicating the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering element serves as an intermediary protective layer between the exposed screws and the external environment. It shields the screws from moisture, corrosion, and other atmospheric agents while maintaining visual appeal, thus extending the service life of the coupling element without interfering with the installation process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances visual appeal, protects screws from damage, and simplifies installation while maintaining durability and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet (242) fixed to the fixing portion (214) within a corresponding shaped seat (241), the covering element (224) being made of ferromagnetic material
Implementation Method 2
an elastic deformation of the covering element (24) allows the second opposite tooth (32) to engage by snap action the corresponding undercut (34)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~8
AI summary
A coupling element (10) for perimeter hardware for doors or windows of the type with shutter-like opening, with tilt-and-turn opening and the like, comprising - at least one fixing portion (14), which has a first resting contact face (15) and a second opposite exposed face (16), with at least one through hole (17) that lies between the first face (15) and the second face (16), and - at least one engagement portion (19), with a seat (20) for a hardware closure detent, and an opening (21) for accessing the seat (20), the coupling element (10) comprising at least one covering element (24) to be fixed, by way of fixing means, on the second face (16) of the at least one fixing portion (14), so as to cover the at least one through hole (17).