Spacer-Locked Display Frame for Clip-Free Backing Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frames require multiple mounting clips for securing the backing, which adds manufacturing cost, complexity, and are prone to breakage, making them less robust and difficult to assemble.
Innovation Solution
A frame apparatus with an annular display frame, a transparent front panel, a rear panel, and an annular spacer frame that uses engagement grooves and locking tabs to securely lock the spacer frame in place, eliminating the need for multiple clips and enhancing assembly simplicity and robustness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple mounting clips are used to secure the backing in the frame, then the backing is adequately secured, but the manufacturing cost increases and the assembly becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate mounting clips into a single integrated annular spacer frame that surrounds the entire opening. This single piece structure performs the function of multiple clips while simplifying assembly to one component installation rather than multiple separate clip attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular spacer frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural spacer, provides mounting engagement through its flange and lip features, secures the backing, and maintains the spacing between glass and backing all in one component, replacing what previously required multiple specialized clips.
2Reliability
If multiple mounting clips are used to secure the backing in the frame, then the backing is adequately secured, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate mounting clips into a single integrated annular spacer frame that surrounds the entire opening. This single piece structure performs the function of multiple clips while simplifying assembly to one component installation rather than multiple separate clip attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular spacer frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a structural spacer, provides mounting engagement through its flange and lip features, secures the backing, and maintains the spacing between glass and backing all in one component, replacing what previously required multiple specialized clips.
3Reliability
If multiple mounting clips are used to secure the backing in the frame, then the backing is adequately secured, but the clips are prone to breakage and robustness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate mounting clips into a single integrated annular spacer frame that surrounds the entire opening. This single piece structure performs the function of multiple clips while simplifying assembly to one component installation rather than multiple separate clip attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular spacer frame is constructed as a uniform continuous structure without the discontinuities and connection points that characterize multiple separate clips. This homogeneous construction eliminates weak points where clips could break and provides consistent strength around the entire opening.
4Reliability
If multiple mounting clips are used to secure the backing in the frame, then the backing is adequately secured, but the assembly becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate mounting clips into a single integrated annular spacer frame that surrounds the entire opening. This single piece structure performs the function of multiple clips while simplifying assembly to one component installation rather than multiple separate clip attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The annular spacer frame is pre-formed as a complete integrated component with all mounting features already in place, eliminating the need for on-site assembly of multiple clips. The frame arrives ready-to-install as a single piece that can be mounted in one operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame apparatus for displaying a flat article and a combined frame apparatus and flat article. In one aspect, the frame apparatus comprises an annular display frame, a transparent front panel, a rear panel, and an annular spacer frame. The annular display frame comprises a rabbet defined by a floor and a wall, the wall comprising a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion. The annular spacer frame is coupled to the first and second engagement portions of the annular display frame by interaction between a first and second locking member of the annular spacer frame and the first and second engagement portions of the annular display frame. The first and second locking members extend into the first and second engagement portions and apply a compression force to retain a flat article between the transparent front panel and the rear panel.