Collapsible Insect Screen Frame Using Hinged Partial Profiles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing clamping frames for insect screens are often bulky and difficult to handle, requiring specialized logistics and tools for installation and storage, which complicates their handling and transportation.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible clamping frame design featuring side profile elements divided into partial profiles connected by hinge joints or captive devices, allowing for easy folding and unfolding without tools, reducing bulk and enabling simpler logistics and handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If the tension frame is designed as a complete, non-collapsible unit, then it provides high structural stability and rigidity, but it becomes bulky and difficult to handle, store, and transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidease of handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The tension frame is divided into multiple partial profiles (typically two per side) that can be separated and folded relative to each other. This segmentation allows the frame to be collapsed into a compact configuration for easy storage and transport, while maintaining full structural stability when extended and assembled, directly resolving the contradiction between stability and ease of handling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If the tension frame is designed as a complete, non-collapsible unit, then it provides high structural stability, but it requires specialized logistics and tools for installation and storage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidlogistics complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the frame into collapsible partial profiles, the invention eliminates the need for specialized logistics and storage facilities. The frame can be compacted to a fraction of its extended size, allowing it to be shipped through normal shipping channels and stored in standard conditions, thereby reducing logistics complexity while maintaining structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tension frame incorporates dynamic hinge joints that allow the partial profiles to pivot between folded and extended positions. This dynamic capability enables the frame to adapt its configuration based on operational needs, transforming from a compact stored state to a stable installed state without requiring specialized tools or complex logistics procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the lateral profile elements are divided into multiple sub-profiles, then the frame becomes collapsible and easier to handle, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of handlingVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The division of lateral profile elements into sub-profiles connected by hinge joints creates a collapsible structure that is easier to handle. While this segmentation does increase structural complexity compared to a single-piece frame, the added complexity is minimal and localized to the joint areas, while providing substantial benefits in portability and storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

When collapsed, the partial profiles are arranged next to each other in a nested configuration, with the sub-profiles positioned adjacently rather than consecutively. This nesting arrangement maximizes compactness while minimizing the overall structural complexity, as the profiles simply occupy adjacent spaces rather than requiring complex interlocking mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 collapsible design reduces the clamping frame's size by up to a quarter of its original area when folded, facilitating easier handling, storage, and transportation without the need for specialized shipping, while maintaining stability in the extended position.

Implementation Method 1

the respective hinge joint is designed such that it is locked in its extended position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHinge joint: Hinge

Implementation Method 2

another locking element or other locking function is provided that prevents the partial profiles from unintentionally folding over when clamped

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical locking: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentEP4382718A1Tensioning frame for an insect screen
Publication Date: 2024.06.12 LIENERT ACHIM
  • EP4382718A1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP4382718A1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP4382718A1 patent drawingFigure 7

AI summary

The invention relates to a tension frame (2) for an insect screen for installation in a building opening such as a window, comprising two opposing lateral profile elements (6), wherein the opposing lateral profile elements (6) are each divided into partial profiles (10) and the partial profiles (10) are each connected by a hinge joint (12), wherein the hinge joint (12) can be moved from an extended position to a folded position and can be locked in the extended position, so that the tension frame (2) can be folded from an extended state to a folded state. This allows the tension frame (2) to be reversibly folded, making it less bulky and suitable for shipping.