Reconfigurable Framed Panel Assembly With Tool-Free Flush Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional framed components for decorative or informational purposes are difficult to reconfigure and maintain, often requiring trial-and-error assembly, leading to instability and an unsightly appearance when mounted on walls or surfaces, and are not easily adaptable for changing the displayed content.
Innovation Solution
A framing system with a base panel assembly and frame that can be joined without separate fasteners, using connectors such as projecting posts and slots, and a biasing mechanism to ensure secure and adjustable mounting, allowing for easy reconfiguration and change of ornamental or informational objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional hanging systems use hooks or wires to suspend the frame, then the unit can be mounted on vertical wall surfaces, but the upper region becomes spaced outwardly from the wall surface creating an unsightly angled appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a mounting bracket with mounting members (screws/bolts) that attach directly to the wall, and a frame assembly that connects to the bracket. This segmentation allows the frame to be mounted flush against the wall while maintaining simple installation through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
A mounting bracket serves as an intermediary component between the wall surface and the frame. The bracket provides a stable attachment point with mounting members that secure it to the wall, while its rearward extension receives the frame assembly, enabling flush mounting without the frame components projecting from the wall.
2Ease of operation
If conventional systems use frictional holding forces to maintain piece alignment, then the pieces can be easily assembled and disassembled, but the alignment is imprecise and parts may shift even after suspension
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces friction-based holding with a positive mechanical locking mechanism. The locking member (latch or clip) engages with a locking surface on the frame assembly, creating a deterministic mechanical connection that maintains precise alignment without relying on friction forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting bracket incorporates a specific local feature (locking member and locking surface) that provides precise positioning at the critical connection point between the bracket and frame assembly, while other portions of the system maintain general ease of assembly.
3Strength
If conventional systems require multiple separate fasteners to join the base panel assembly and frame, then the connection can be secure, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into a single integrated locking member. The locking member simultaneously provides the securing action and maintains alignment, eliminating the need for multiple separate fasteners and reducing assembly complexity while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member is designed to be self-retaining, where the mechanical engagement between the locking member and locking surface automatically maintains the connection without requiring additional fasteners or complex assembly steps. The system serves itself through the inherent mechanical interlocking.
Data Source
AI summary
A framing system having a base panel assembly configured so that an ornamental/informational object can be incorporated into the base panel assembly so as to be viewable from in front thereof. A frame extends around a peripheral region of the base panel assembly. Connectors on the base panel assembly and frame cooperate so as to allow the base panel assembly and frame to be: a) moved from a separated relationship relative to each other into an operatively joined relationship; and b) releasably maintained in the operatively joined relationship as an incident of the base panel assembly and frame changing from the separated relationship into the operatively joined relationship, without requiring use of any separate fasteners, once the operatively joined relationship is achieved.