Insect Screen Frame Segmentation for Narrow Window Gaps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing insect screens with metal frames and mounting wings have a minimum gap thickness that is too wide for optimal burglarproofing due to the thickness of the metal mounting wing, which compromises the narrow gap required between stationary and movable window parts.

Innovation Solution

A modular insect screen design featuring a base part and a separate locking part with cooperating snap locks, where the locking part has a minimal thickness mounting wing made of plastic and a metal base part for strength, allowing for a narrower gap and easy assembly/disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a metal extruded profile is used for the mounting wing to ensure sufficient strength, then the structural integrity is improved, but the gap thickness between stationary and movable window parts increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidgap thickness
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into two separate parts: a base part and a locking part. The locking part contains the mounting wing and can be locked to the base part, allowing the mounting wing to be made thin (for narrow gap) while the base part provides the necessary structural strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame combines different materials: the locking part is made of plastic (allowing thin mounting wing) and the base part is made of metal (providing strength). This composite structure resolves the contradiction between thin profile requirement and strength requirement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Ease of manufacture

If a single integrated frame structure is used to simplify manufacturing, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the adaptability for different mounting configurations is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidmounting configuration flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is segmented into a base part and a locking part that can be assembled together. This modular design allows the locking part with mounting wing to be adapted to different window configurations while the base part can be standardized for easy manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The base part serves multiple functions: providing structural support, serving as a mounting surface for the locking part, and enabling different locking part configurations. This universal base design maintains manufacturing simplicity while enhancing adaptability.

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

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

This design enables a narrower gap between window parts for improved security while maintaining structural integrity and ease of replacement of damaged components, with the locking part being protected within the base part for enhanced durability.

Implementation Method 1

cooperating locking members for locking the locking part to the base part while clamping the gauze between both parts

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 2

clamped therein by an elongate flexible member, for example made out of rubber material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2143870B1Insect screen
Publication Date: 2017.01.25 HUNTER DOUGLAS IND BV
  • EP2143870B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2143870B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP2143870B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

An insect screen for mounting in a window opening comprises a surrounding frame (1) defining a central opening and a gauze (8) spanning said central opening and connected to the frame with its circumferential edge. The frame is provided with an outwardly projecting mounting wing (3) to be received between a stationary part (9) and a movable part (10) of the window. The frame comprises a base part (4) and a separate locking part (5), wherein said base part and locking part are provided with cooperating locking members for locking the locking part to the base part while clamping the gauze between both parts, and wherein the mounting wing is part of the locking part.