Interlocking Panel Frame with Frictional Channel-Wall Grip

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing framed panel systems lack a secure and efficient method to mount and hold panels in place, particularly in architectural designs, where panels may be subject to various materials and structural demands.

Innovation Solution

A frame system composed of two interconnected components with 'Christmas tree' shaped walls and channels, providing frictional contact to securely hold panel ends within chambers, allowing for secure mounting and alignment of panels in architectural features like railings, walls, and ceilings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional mounting methods are used for panels, then installation is simple, but the panel securing reliability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel securing reliabilityVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into two separate components: a first frame component with a channel and a second frame component with a wall. These components are assembled together to form a complete frame structure that secures the panel. The segmentation allows for easier manufacturing and assembly while providing reliable panel securing through the interlocking channel-wall configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If panels are securely held in place, then mounting stability is improved, but the difficulty of installation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The second frame component's wall is inserted into the channel of the first frame component, creating a nested configuration. This nesting provides stable mounting by securing the panel ends within the chamber formed by the two components, while the design maintains ease of installation through a straightforward insertion and friction-fit assembly process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Reliability

If frictional contact is used to hold panels, then secure mounting is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidchannel-wall fit precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The design utilizes frictional contact between the wall and channel surfaces to secure the panel. By optimizing the dimensional parameters of the wall and channel (such as width, depth, and surface texture), the system achieves reliable mounting security through friction while maintaining reasonable manufacturing precision tolerances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 frame system effectively secures panel ends within chambers, ensuring stability and easy installation, accommodating different panel types such as mesh, perforated, and solid panels, while allowing for versatile mounting options through frictional contact and optional welding.

Implementation Method 1

The first frame component and the second frame component remain connected together based on the contact between the second wall and sides of the first channel and the first wall and the sides of the second channel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8769909B2Panel capture frame
Publication Date: 2014.07.08 MCNAMEE STEVE V
  • US8769909B2 patent drawing
  • US8769909B2 patent drawing
  • US8769909B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A frame for a panel is constructed from two frame components. One of the frame components has a first wall and a first channel and the second frame component has a second wall and a second channel. The first frame component is mated to the second frame component with the first wall of the first frame component inserted in and making frictional contact with the second channel of the second frame component and the second wall of the second frame component inserted in and making frictional contact with the first channel of the first frame component. Portions of the panel are held between and make contact with the first frame component and the second frame component such that an end of the panel is located within a chamber defined between the first frame component and the second frame component.