Interlocking Fastener Assembly for Tension-Based Image Display Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting and displaying images, such as stretching canvas over a stretcher frame or using staples/adhesives, fail to provide a professional and artistically appealing display while ensuring image integrity, often requiring secondary supports to prevent warping.
Innovation Solution
An image display assembly featuring a foldable base with interlocking fasteners that form nearly perfect 90° corners, using a convex equiangular polygonal planar body with cantilever tabs and v-grooves for secure assembly, allowing for efficient production of high-quality, professional-looking displays that can be hung or stand alone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional mounting methods (staples or adhesive) are used to secure images to frames, then the image can be displayed, but the appearance is not professional and the image integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening methods (staples, adhesives) with a tension-based mechanical system. The image is stretched taut across the frame and secured through tension distribution, eliminating the need for visible staples or adhesive while maintaining image integrity and achieving a professional appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mounting approach from point-based fastening (staples/adhesive at specific locations) to distributed tension across the entire image surface. This parameter change in the mounting mechanism allows the image to be held taut and secure without compromising its appearance or integrity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If secondary support structures (rigid back panels, foam) are added to prevent warping, then the assembled position is secured, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the need for secondary support structures (rigid back panels, foam) by using the frame itself in combination with tension-based mounting. The image tension system directly prevents warping without requiring additional support elements, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The image mounting system is self-sufficient through tension distribution. The image itself, when properly stretched and secured to the frame, provides its own support and warping resistance without needing separate secondary support structures. The system serves itself through the inherent tension in the mounted image.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex support structures are used to ensure professional appearance, then the display quality improves, but the production time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mounting function into two simple components: the frame structure and the tension-based image securing mechanism. This segmentation allows for simple, modular construction that can be produced efficiently without complex support structures, while still achieving professional display quality through proper tension distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastener for an image display assembly comprising a polygonal planar body having a ventral surface with at least one fastening member extending from the ventral surface. The fastening member comprises a fastening member body and at least one cantilever tab extending from the fastening member body. Each cantilever tab comprises a fastener retainer facing the ventral surface. Also provided is an image display assembly comprising retaining features; an assembled image display comprising said image display assembly and said fastener; a kit comprising said image display assembly and said fastener; a method of creating an image display; and use of said image display assembly and said fastener to create an image display.