Magnetic Window Screen Corner Keys for Easy Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for attaching window screens to window frames, particularly those with extruded plastic frames, are cumbersome and difficult to uninstall due to the use of retention pins and leaf springs, which can malfunction and obscure the pin positions, making it hard to remove the screens without excessive force or guesswork.
Innovation Solution
A magnetically attachable window screen system using screen corner keys with central magnetic members and orthogonally opposed flanges that securely attach to corner key mates within the window frame channels, providing a self-aligning and easy-to-install solution for various window shapes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If retention pins with biasing means are used to attach window screens, then the screen can be held securely in position, but the installation and removal process becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical retention pin and biasing spring system with a magnetic attachment system. Magnets are embedded in the window frame and correspondingly positioned elements on the screen frame create magnetic attraction forces that securely hold the screen in place while allowing easy removal by simply pulling the screen away from the frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex biasing mechanism and retention pin structure from the screen assembly, eliminating the need for concealed spring-loaded pins. Instead, simple magnetic elements are used that provide secure attachment without requiring complex installation procedures.
2Shape
If retention pins are concealed within the window screen, then the screen structure remains clean, but the pin positions become invisible and difficult to locate for removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces magnetic elements as intermediaries between the window frame and screen frame. These magnets are positioned on the screen frame and create visible or detectable magnetic fields that indicate the attachment locations, making it easy for users to locate and release the screen without needing to see concealed pins.
3Ease of operation
If force is applied to remove the window screen, then the screen can be detached from the frame, but the screen frame members may be broken
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical retention system with magnetic attachment, allowing screen removal through simple pulling motions rather than forceful manipulation. The magnetic force provides secure attachment during normal use but allows easy, damage-free removal when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic attachment system provides a controlled release mechanism that prevents damage before it occurs. The magnetic force holds the screen securely during normal operation but allows smooth, gradual removal without sudden forceful detachment that could break the screen frame members.
4Ease of operation
If multiple attempts are made to locate the retaining posts, then the screen can be removed, but time is wasted and user frustration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses magnetic elements as visible intermediaries that indicate the attachment locations on the screen frame. Users can easily locate these magnetic positions without needing to probe or guess where concealed retention pins are positioned, significantly reducing search time and frustration.
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 magnetic attachment system allows for effortless installation and removal of window screens, ensuring secure positioning without the need for forceful manipulation, as the magnetic attraction holds the screen frame members together, enhancing user convenience and reducing the risk of damage.
Implementation Method 1
The central magnetic member of the inserted corner key relies upon magnetic attraction to respective corner key mates that are installed in the screen channel of the window frame
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetically attachable window screen for attachment to a window frame. The window screen includes a plurality of screen frame members. Each frame member includes a first end and a second end wherein the first and second ends are operable to receive a flange member. The window screen also includes a screen corner key with a central magnetic member and two orthogonally opposed flanges extending outwardly in a single plane from the central magnetic member. The flange members of the screen corner key are inserted into the first and second ends of orthogonally opposed adjacent screen frame members to form a fully assembled screen frame. The window screen also includes a plurality of corner key mates inserted into each corner of the screen channel of the window frame. The central magnetic member of the inserted corner key is operable for magnetic attraction to respective corner key mates.