Fence Panel Frame with Concealed Fixing Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fence panel systems face challenges with installation in confined spaces due to lack of clearance, requiring costly re-measurement and potential discarding of panels, and aesthetically unpleasing visible screws for securing.
Innovation Solution
A fence panel system featuring elongate frame members with panel spacers forming open-ended channels, secured by a second frame member that snaps or uses adhesive means, allowing for hidden fixing and tolerance in panel length, eliminating the need for precise measurement and visible screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If U-shaped or L-shaped rails are used to secure the fence panel, then the panel can be fixed to the structure, but visible screws and rails detract from the aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing screws are extracted from visible positions and relocated to the rear of the frame structure. The channel members are designed with rearward-facing fixing surfaces that allow screws to be concealed behind the frame, so only the minimal necessary components remain visible from the front, directly resolving the aesthetic contradiction
Solution Approach 2:
The channel members act as intermediaries between the fence panel and the structure. By positioning the fixing screws on the rear surface of the channel members and using the frame as a concealing element, the system mediates between the functional requirement of securement and the aesthetic requirement of hidden fixings
2Manufacturing precision
If the fence panel is manufactured and assembled before delivery, then quality control is improved, but adjustments cannot be made if it does not fit the confined space
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into multiple components: channel members, frame members, and end pieces that can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows on-site customization of the frame dimensions to accommodate measurement variations while maintaining manufacturing quality standards for each individual component
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic adjustability through the modular channel member design that can be positioned at different locations along the frame. This allows the assembled frame to adapt to different space requirements while maintaining the manufacturing precision of individual components
3Measurement precision
If precise measurement is taken before manufacturing, then the panel can be cut to exact size, but any measurement error requires discarding and re-manufacturing the panel
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of panel length tolerance by using the adjustable channel member system that can accommodate variations in panel length. Instead of requiring exact panel dimensions, the frame structure is designed to absorb measurement errors, eliminating the need to discard panels that are slightly too long or short
4Ease of operation
If the assembled frame is positioned above the rail for securement, then the panel can be fixed in place, but there is insufficient clearance in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The installation sequence is inverted: instead of positioning the assembled frame above the rail and lowering it down, the channel members are first attached to the frame from the front, allowing the frame to be assembled in place within the confined space, eliminating the need for vertical clearance
Data Source
AI summary
A fence panel system comprises a first elongate frame member having a plurality of panel spacers projecting from a rearward facing wall in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first elongate frame member, such that respective spacer pairs define open-ended channels therebetween that, in use, are adapted to receive fence panel ends. A second elongate frame member is adapted to secure to the first elongate frame member so as to close the open-ended channels for retaining the fence panel ends therein.