Segmented Curved Window Frame Assembly With Eccentric Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
The production of arched window frames is complex and difficult due to the need for precise alignment and gluing of trapezoidal segments, which is time-consuming and costly, and existing methods lack simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The use of mechanical connectors that apply compressive force to the segments, allowing for precise alignment and connection without the need for precise edge execution during the gluing process, with integrated eccentrics for easy actuation and removable connectors for efficient assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If segments are connected by gluing with surface finishing machines, then the arched shape can be created, but the production process becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The frame component is divided into multiple separate segments that are connected through mechanical connectors rather than being formed as a single piece. This segmentation allows for simpler individual component manufacturing while achieving the overall arched shape through assembly of standardized segments with connectors.
2Manufacturing precision
If segments are precisely aligned and glued together to form a polygon, then the arched shape is achieved, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connectors are designed with integrated alignment features that automatically position segments correctly during assembly. The connectors pre-establish the geometric relationships between segments, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment and gluing operations while maintaining high precision.
3Manufacturing precision
If the glued polygon is shaped after assembly, then accuracy is achieved, but the edge connection does not need to be perfectly precise
Solution Approach 1:
By using mechanical connectors to join segments, the system separates the connection function from the shaping function. The connectors provide robust mechanical joining without requiring perfect edge precision, while the overall arched shape is achieved through the geometric arrangement of segments and connectors, allowing flexibility in edge manufacturing tolerances.
4Strength
If multiple connectors are used to press segments together, then strong fixation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connector integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides mechanical connection between segments, applies pressing force to ensure contact pressure, and incorporates alignment features. This merging of functions achieves strong fixation without proportionally increasing device complexity, as one integrated connector replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate components.
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
Enables the production of arched window frames with high precision and cost-effectiveness, allowing for simultaneous connection of multiple segments without waiting for adhesive to dry, and the connectors can be removed after the adhesive has set, ensuring strong and precise fixation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one end of which can be connected to an eccentric. By rotating the eccentric, the attached pull element of the connector is subjected to such a load that the segment connected to the pull element is pulled firmly against the other segment
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The frame component is used for manufacturing window sashes or window frames and has at least two segments (1 to 3) whose end faces (4, 5) lie against each other and are firmly connected to form the frame component. At least one mechanical connector (16, 17) serves to connect them, exerting a pressing force on the end faces (4, 5) of the segments (1 to 3). The segments (1 to 3) lie against each other with their end faces (4, 5) beneath this force. The connector (16, 17), which is arranged in the area of the adjoining end faces (4, 5) of the segments (1 to 3), applies a pressing force to the segments (1 to 3) perpendicular to their adjoining end faces (4, 5).