Expandable Storm Door Frame with Adjustable Header
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storm door frames require U-shaped brackets along the sides when the door is smaller than the entry opening, which complicates installation and is not adjustable for varying door sizes.
Innovation Solution
An expandable door frame system comprising an adjustable header assembly, lock-side assembly, and hinge-side piece that can be mounted onto a door jamb and header, allowing for customizable dimensions to fit storm doors of any size by using adjustable screws and stops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional storm door frames use U-shaped brackets along the sides, then the frame can be installed in entries, but the installation becomes complicated and the frame is not adjustable for varying door sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is made dynamically adjustable through telescoping side assemblies that can extend or retract to accommodate different door widths, and adjustable header assemblies that can be positioned at various heights. This replaces the fixed conventional frame with one that adapts to different door dimensions without requiring complex brackets or multiple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly is designed as a universal system that can accommodate storm doors of various sizes within a range. The combination of telescoping side assemblies, adjustable header assemblies, and positioning mechanisms creates a single multi-functional frame that replaces multiple fixed-size frames, eliminating the need for U-shaped brackets and specialized installation hardware.
2Shape
If conventional frames require U-shaped brackets for smaller doors, then the frame can fit the entry, but additional components increase manufacturing cost and structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into modular components including header assemblies, side assemblies, and positioning mechanisms that can be manufactured separately and assembled on-site. This segmentation allows each component to be produced using standard manufacturing processes without requiring complex integrated designs or specialized bracket components.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping side assemblies and adjustable headers provide dynamic adjustment capability built into the basic frame structure, eliminating the need for additional U-shaped brackets or extension components. This integrates the adaptation function directly into the primary frame elements, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable frame for a storm door mounted onto the header and door jamb in an entrance, a frame kit, and method of installation. The expandable frame includes an expandable header assembly, an expandable lock-side assembly and a hinge-side piece. The header assembly includes a frame mount and a header stop mounted onto the underside of the header, the hinge-side piece is mounted vertically against the door jamb on one side of the entry, and the lock-side assembly includes a lock-side stop and a frame mount mounted vertically onto the door jamb opposite the hinge section. A user can adjust the position of the header assembly and lock-side assembly to accommodate a door having smaller dimensions than the height and width of the entrance.