Modular Corner and Rail Frame Assembly for Reusable Customization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing framing systems lack the ability to create customizable frames of different sizes and shapes, as they are limited in adaptability and versatility for various artwork and display needs.

Innovation Solution

A framing system comprising modular corner sections with finger joints and side rail channels, allowing for the creation of customizable frames by selecting and combining corner sections, corner support members, and side rails to accommodate various shapes and sizes, with optional display members for enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional fixed-size frames are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different artwork sizes and shapes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different sizes and shapesVSAvoidframe structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is divided into separate modular components: corner sections with finger joints and side rails with channels. This segmentation allows independent selection and combination of parts to create frames of various sizes and shapes while keeping each component relatively simple in design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The corner sections and side rails are designed as universal components that can be used in multiple frame configurations. The standardized finger joint and channel interfaces enable the same basic parts to serve multiple functions across different frame sizes and geometries.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple custom frames are manufactured for different sizes, then customization needs are met, but manufacturing complexity and inventory requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the frame into standardized corner and rail components, the system enables customization through combination rather than custom manufacturing. Each segment is simple to manufacture, but their combinations provide extensive customization capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Customization is achieved by changing the parameters of the modular components (such as the length of side rails) rather than redesigning entire frames. This allows size variations while maintaining the same basic manufacturing processes and component designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If modular components with multiple features are added, then functionality is enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple functions are merged into the basic corner and rail components. For example, corner sections provide both structural connection and mounting surfaces for display members, while side rails provide both frame structure and channels for adjustment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The modular components are designed with universal interfaces and features that enable multiple functions. The finger joints and channels serve both structural and adjustment purposes, reducing the need for separate specialized components.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11844447B2Customizable framing system and method of assembling same
Publication Date: 2023.12.19 HOLMES QUENTIN
  • US11844447B2 patent drawing
  • US11844447B2 patent drawing
  • US11844447B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a customizable frame system, which can be customized for both shape and size. In some embodiments only the corners are visible, and the structural rails are hidden. In other embodiments, the rails create a frame around the outside of the picture. The rails, and in some embodiments the corners, have a notch that allows the frame to be hung from various sides. The framing system can be supplied in standard sizes and custom sizes. Each corner can be a different shape and color or theme. They can be decorated or embellished with materials, objects or characters. The sides, rails and corners form reusable pieces to make different sizes for new frames.