Insect Screen Tensioning Frame with Self-Locking Retaining Tab
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clamping frames for insect screens are difficult to assemble and can be easily removed by unauthorized parties, lacking adequate security against theft.
Innovation Solution
A clamping frame design featuring adjustable retaining tabs with a self-locking actuation mechanism, where the retaining tab is actively held in a retracted position by a restoring force, requiring minimal user effort for assembly and providing enhanced security against unauthorized removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If spring-loaded retaining tabs are used to allow easy insertion, then assembly is simplified, but the frame can be easily removed by unauthorized parties
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining tab system transitions from a static spring-loaded design to a dynamic actuator-controlled design. The retaining tab can be actively moved between retracted and extended positions through actuator displacement, allowing the system to adapt its state based on assembly or security requirements rather than relying solely on spring force.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mechanism incorporates a self-locking feature that automatically maintains the retaining tab in the extended position without requiring continuous active force. Once actuated to the extended position, the self-locking mechanism holds the tab engaged with the frame, providing passive security against unauthorized removal.
2Ease of operation
If retaining tabs are held in retracted position against spring force during assembly, then insertion is facilitated, but manual holding force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator mechanism automatically maintains the retaining tab in the retracted position during assembly without requiring the operator to continuously apply holding force. The mechanism itself provides the force needed to overcome the spring force, simplifying the insertion operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual holding force requirement is replaced by an actuator-driven mechanical system. Instead of relying on operator dexterity to hold the tab against spring force, a powered actuator with self-locking capability performs the holding function automatically.
3Reliability
If the actuating mechanism actively holds the retaining tab in the extended position, then theft protection is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator mechanism incorporates a self-locking feature that automatically maintains the retaining tab in the extended position without requiring continuous active force or complex control systems. The self-locking mechanism provides passive security through its inherent mechanical design.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mechanism is designed to automatically transition to and maintain the extended position through its self-locking feature, preparing the security function in advance. The mechanism proactively engages the retaining tab with the frame, eliminating the need for continuous monitoring or adjustment.
4Ease of operation
If spring force pushes the retaining tab into extended position, then assembly is simplified, but unauthorized removal becomes easier
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator mechanism automatically maintains the retaining tab in the extended position with self-locking capability, providing active security without requiring complex assembly procedures. The system performs its own security function autonomously once actuated.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using spring force to push the tab into the extended position (which creates security vulnerabilities), the design inverts the approach by using actuator-driven force with self-locking to actively hold the tab in place. The security function is achieved through active control rather than passive spring force.
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
Facilitates easy and secure assembly of the clamping frame by eliminating the need for manual force to hold the retaining tab in the retracted position, while the self-locking mechanism prevents unauthorized removal by ensuring the tab remains engaged with the building opening.
Implementation Method 1
a restoring force acts on the retaining tab, pushing the retaining tab towards the retracted position. The tensioning element exerts an elastic restoring force
Implementation Method 2
the actuating mechanism holds the retaining tab in the extended position against the restoring force
Data Source
Figure 1~4C
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a tension frame (2) for an insect screen for installation in a building opening, comprising two opposing lateral profile elements (6), each of which has a retaining tab (4) designed for attaching the tension frame to the building opening. This retaining tab is adjustable relative to the respective profile element (6) between a retracted position and an extended position. An actuating mechanism (12) for adjusting the respective retaining tab (4) is provided. This mechanism includes a manually operable actuating element (14) attached to the profile element (6). The actuating element (14) is adjustable between a release position and a closed position and is connected to the retaining tab (4) via an adjusting element (20), such that the retaining tab (4) is adjusted when the actuating element (14) is actuated.The actuating mechanism (12) allows for simple manual adjustment of the retaining tab (4) and preferably secures it against unauthorized removal of the clamping frame (2) by the actuating mechanism (12).