Frictional Material Sheet Securing Assembly with Ball Joint Clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing screen sheets to frames, such as spline-based systems, face challenges including difficult installation, need for specialty tools, lack of reusability, potential damage from excessive forces, and limited multi-purpose usage, leading to waste and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A frictional securing assembly comprising a Base Piece and a Clamp Arm connected via a ball joint, allowing radial motion to secure a material sheet without specialized tools, enabling easy installation, reinstallation, and protection against excessive forces, while allowing for various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spline-based systems are used to secure screen sheets to frames, then the screen sheet can be firmly secured, but the installation becomes difficult and requires specialty tools
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into modular clamp segments that can be independently installed and adjusted. Each clamp segment functions as a separate unit that can be attached to the frame, allowing installation without specialized tools while maintaining secure holding capability through distributed clamping points.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of forcing the screen into an indentation using a spline (traditional approach), the invention inverts the approach by using clamps that apply outward pressure on the frame to secure the screen. This reversal of the securing mechanism eliminates the need for specialty spline installation tools.
2Shape
If the screen sheet is trimmed to the exact smallest size to cover the opening, then the edges look neat and symmetrical, but the sheet cannot be reused if dislodged
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp system allows dynamic adjustment of the screen sheet position and tension. The clamps can be loosened and repositioned, enabling the screen sheet to be removed, repositioned, or replaced without damage. This dynamic capability maintains edge neatness through adjustable positioning while enabling reusability through easy removal and reinstallation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp mechanism enables easy recovery and reuse of the screen sheet. If the screen becomes dislodged or damaged, it can be quickly removed from the clamps and a new sheet installed in its place, or the same sheet reinstalled if undamaged. This replaces the traditional approach where trimmed sheets become single-use and must be discarded.
3Reliability
If the screen sheet is impacted with excessive force, then the screen may remain secured, but damage to the door frame can result
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp system incorporates built-in compliance and stress distribution features that cushion impact forces before they reach the frame. The clamps are designed to deform or flex under excessive force, absorbing impact energy and preventing direct transmission to the frame structure, thereby protecting against frame damage while maintaining screen security.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp mechanism allows for adjustable clamping force parameters. The clamps can be tightened to provide secure holding under normal conditions, but are designed to release or yield under excessive force, changing the securing parameter from rigid to compliant to prevent frame damage. This parameter change protects the frame while maintaining reliable securing during normal use.
4Ease of manufacture
If specialty tools like screen window spline roller and rubber strip hook are purchased, then the screen can be installed, but the installation process takes significant time
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp system uses universal, multi-purpose tools that can be used for both installation and adjustment of the screen sheet. Standard tools like screwdrivers or Allen keys can install and adjust the clamps, eliminating the need for specialized spline rollers or rubber strip hooks. This universal tool approach reduces installation time while maintaining installation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp mechanism is designed for self-service installation without requiring specialized tools. The clamps can be easily attached to the frame and adjusted by hand or with common tools, allowing the installer to complete the task quickly without learning specialized techniques or investing in proprietary tooling. This self-service design significantly reduces installation time.
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
The assembly simplifies the installation and reinstallation of material sheets, reduces damage risk, eliminates the need for specialized tools, and allows for reuse and multi-purpose use, providing a secure and aesthetically pleasing solution.
Implementation Method 1
frictionally securing a Material Sheet in between the Base Piece and the Clamp Arm
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly to frictionally secure a material sheet to a surface or to cover an opening for any frame that includes a Base Piece secured to the desired area and a Clamp Arm connected to the Base Piece via a ball and joint allowing radial motion of the Clamp Arm. Using any standard flat-headed tool to apply force, the Clamp Arm can move to an open or secured position allowing repeated uninstall and re-install of a material sheet. Excess length of the Material Sheet is forced into the cavity in the Base Piece and hidden, avoiding the need for the Material Sheet to be cut to the exact smallest size to cover the area, giving the edges a straight, clean look, with the Material Sheet taut.