Flexible Securement Device for Interchangeable Molding

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for securement devices that allow for the easy replacement and interchangeability of moldings and trims on surfaces, as individual aesthetic preferences vary, and existing solutions do not adequately address the requirement for secure and removable fixtures.

Innovation Solution

The development of securement devices featuring flexible and resilient retainer structures with curved ends that fit into dovetail or similar openings in moldings, allowing for secure attachment and easy removal, along with integral structures like cup shapes and V-shape portions, and snap-fastener designs for modular components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If molding is secured permanently to a surface, then stability and strength are improved, but replaceability and adaptability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurement strengthVSAvoidreplaceability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The securement device is divided into separate components: a base portion attached to the surface, a stem portion connecting to the molding, and a retainer structure with curved ends. This segmentation allows the molding to be securely held while enabling replacement by simply detaching and reattaching the modular components without damaging the surface or molding.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer structure incorporates flexible and resilient curved ends that can dynamically adjust during installation and removal. The curved ends flex to engage with the dovetail opening during attachment and can be deliberately deformed to release during removal, providing both secure holding and easy replaceability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If securement devices use complex fastening mechanisms, then securement strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurement strengthVSAvoidease of installation and removal

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible curved ends of the retainer structure serve a dual function: they automatically engage with the dovetail opening when the molding is positioned, providing securement without manual intervention, and they can be manually deformed to release the molding when removal is desired. The structure self-secures during installation and self-releases during removal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer structure utilizes flexible and resilient curved ends that can be deliberately deformed by hand to engage or disengage from the molding's dovetail opening. This flexibility allows easy manual operation for installation and removal while maintaining strong securement when engaged, eliminating the need for complex tools or mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Ease of operation

If securement devices are designed for easy removal, then ease of operation is improved, but securement strength deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of removalVSAvoidsecurement strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The retainer structure incorporates flexible and resilient curved ends that dynamically respond to applied forces. During normal conditions, they maintain strong engagement with the dovetail opening. During removal, deliberate deformation beyond the elastic limit allows the curved ends to disengage, providing easy removal while maintaining securement strength during service.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The securement device utilizes changes in the physical state of the curved ends - specifically, their flexibility and resilience properties. The curved ends operate within their elastic range during securement, providing strong holding force. During removal, the material is deliberately deformed beyond this range to release the engagement, allowing easy removal without compromising the securement mechanism's integrity for future use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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

These devices provide secure attachment and easy removal of moldings and trims, accommodating various shapes and sizes, and enable the use of interchangeable components to satisfy diverse aesthetic preferences, enhancing flexibility and adaptability in decorative fixtures.

Implementation Method 1

flexible and resilient retainer structures with curved ends that fit into dovetail or similar openings in moldings

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

snap-fastener designs for modular components

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Fastening: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS20190048597A1Securement Devices for Securing Molding to a Surface, and Methods of Securing Molding to a Surface

Publication Date: 2019.02.14 LEAVEY DENNIS

AI summary

This disclosure includes a securement device for securing molding to a surface. The securement device has a base attached to a surface. A stem extends from the base and has a top portion opposite from the base. A pair of flexible curved structures extends laterally from opposite sides of the stem toward the base.