Fitting System Frame Element for Modular Functional Units

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Solution Overview

Problem

The production and assembly of modular functional units for building openings, such as windows or doors, are complicated by the need for precise installation and provision of recesses, especially for larger sets, which increases manufacturing effort and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A frame element with a central opening and a surrounding frame body that serves as a fastening section and receiving space for modular functional units, allowing for easier attachment and accommodation of multiple units, and can be pre-assembled with the frame or sash, simplifying the manufacturing and assembly process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If modular functional units are attached directly to the frame or sash at predetermined positions, then the functional units can be installed, but the manufacturing effort and complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing effortVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A frame element is introduced as an intermediary component between the frame/sash and the modular functional units. This frame element includes a receiving space that accommodates the functional units and fastening sections that enable attachment to the frame or sash. This intermediary structure simplifies the overall manufacturing process by providing a standardized interface for installing multiple functional units without requiring complex predetermined positioning in the frame or sash itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If recesses are provided in the frame or sash profile to accommodate modular functional units, then the functional units can be installed, but the manufacturing process is complicated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The frame element is segmented into distinct functional sections: fastening sections for attachment to the frame or sash, a receiving space for accommodating modular functional units, and optional cable duct sections. This segmentation allows the frame element to be manufactured as a separate, standardized component that simplifies the overall manufacturing process, as the complex receiving space geometry is isolated to this single component rather than requiring modifications to the frame or sash profiles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple modular functional units are assembled in a variety of arrangements, then the fitting system becomes versatile, but the assembly process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvearrangement flexibilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame element is designed with universal fastening sections and a standardized receiving space that can accommodate multiple different types of modular functional units in various arrangements. The receiving space is configured to accept functional units with different orientations and positions, enabling versatility without requiring complex assembly procedures. The standardized interface allows different functional units to be interchangeably installed in the same frame element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4018065B1Fitting system and structural element
Publication Date: 2024.08.21 MACO TECHNOLOGIE GMBH
  • EP4018065B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4018065B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4018065B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A fitting system for a structural element which has a frame and a wing which is movable relative to the frame comprises at least one modular functional unit which comprises an electric drive and is designed, when in the installed state, to move the wing between at least two different functional states by means of the electric drive. The fitting system also comprises a frame element which has a central opening and a frame body running around the central opening. The frame body has a fastening section for fastening the frame element to the frame or to the wing and is designed such that it defines a holding space for accommodating the at least one modular functional unit, in particular when in the fastened state.