Deformable Rib Corner Bracket for Window Blind Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of window blind frames is time-consuming due to the need for individual screw tightening, and existing solutions like snap-fit couplings are difficult to disassemble and costly.
Innovation Solution
A corner bracket design featuring a central body with angled connectors, each equipped with deformable ribs that create a friction fit with the frame members, eliminating the need for additional fixings like screws or snap-fit elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If screws are used to secure frame members to corner brackets, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the connection function and the fastening function into a single integrated corner bracket structure. The L-shaped connector combines the structural support role with the fastening role, eliminating the need for separate screws or additional fixings. This integration resolves the contradiction by providing both strong connection and quick installation through one unified component.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the fastening function from the corner bracket body and implements it through the deformable ribs that engage with the frame member channels. By separating the structural L-shaped connector from the fastening mechanism (deformable ribs), the design achieves both simplicity in the main structure and effectiveness in the connection, resolving the time-strength contradiction.
2Productivity
If snap-fit corner brackets are used, then installation speed is improved, but disassembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the ribs deformable rather than rigid. The deformable ribs can be compressed during insertion to engage with the frame member channels, providing secure attachment. For disassembly, the ribs can be compressed again to release the engagement. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction between quick installation and easy disassembly.
3Reliability
If additional fixings are used, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the structural support function and the fastening function into the single L-shaped corner bracket component. The connector itself provides both the structural L-shape for support and the deformable ribs for fastening, eliminating the need for separate screws, clips, or other additional fixings. This integration reduces device complexity while maintaining connection reliability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components into a single L-shaped corner bracket that can be universally applied at all four corners of the frame. This single design provides both structural support and fastening functions, and can be used in various frame configurations (rectangular, square, angled) without requiring different components, thus maintaining adaptability while greatly simplifying installation operations.
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
The friction-fit corner brackets provide a secure locking mechanism without additional fixings, simplifying installation and reducing costs, while allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
The frictional forces generated between the corner bracket connector and the frame member are sufficiently high that no further fixings are required
Implementation Method 2
each projecting rib is deformed by one or more body and/or wall portions of the frame member and the deformation of each projecting rib forms a friction fit
Data Source
AI summary
A corner bracket for a window blind frame, the corner bracket including a central body portion and extending from the central body portion a first connector and a second connector, wherein the second connector is angled relative to the first connector; each connector includes a locating arm, a friction plate and a stop surface; wherein each friction plate defines a pair of opposed surfaces and each surface carries thereon a respective outwardly projecting deformable rib; and wherein each locating arm further includes at least one further outwardly projecting deformable rib.