Modular Frame Assembly for Quick Graphic Sheet Replacement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing frame assemblies require professional setup and installation, especially for larger sizes, which can be time-consuming and costly, and lack flexibility in displaying different graphic images without significant retrofitting.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly comprising a framing member with a rabbet and an extrusion member with a channel and rabbet engagement portion, allowing for easy assembly and support of a graphic sheet with a polymer gasket, enabling off-the-shelf compatibility and easy graphic changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If professional setup and installation is used for large frames, then the frame assembly provides sturdy support and proper installation, but the installation time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is divided into separate modular components: framing members with integrated rabbets, extrusion members with channels, and removable sheets with graphics. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently and assembled quickly on-site without requiring professional installation, thus reducing installation time while maintaining assembly quality
Solution Approach 2:
The rabbets are pre-formed as integral parts of the framing members during manufacturing, and the extrusion members are pre-configured with channels. This preliminary preparation of joining features eliminates the need for complex field assembly operations, allowing users to assemble large frames quickly without professional installers
2Reliability
If professional installation is required for frame assemblies, then proper installation is ensured, but the cost and complexity of installation increase
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the frame assembly into standardized modular components with consistent rabbet and channel interfaces, the system reduces installation complexity. Each framing member can be independently installed, and the modular nature allows non-professionals to assemble the frame without dealing with complex integrated structures
Solution Approach 2:
The extrusion members with channels and the rabbet configurations serve multiple functions: structural support, graphic retention, and easy assembly/d disassembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components or tools, simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If custom retrofitting is done to display different graphic images, then the frame can accommodate specific graphics, but the time and cost for retrofitting increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sheet with the graphic is designed as a removable component that can be easily taken out and replaced. This dynamic design allows the graphic content to be changed without permanent modifications to the frame structure, enabling quick updates from days or weeks to minutes or hours
Solution Approach 2:
By separating the graphic (on the sheet) from the frame structure, the system allows independent replacement of the graphic component. The standardized interface between the sheet gasket and extrusion channel ensures that different graphics can be swapped quickly without custom retrofitting of the frame itself
4Adaptability or versatility
If custom retrofitting is performed on existing frames, then specific graphic display requirements are met, but the complexity and cost of modification increase
Solution Approach 1:
The extrusion members are designed with universal channels that can accommodate different sheet sizes and graphics while maintaining the same basic interface. This universality allows the frame to adapt to various graphic requirements without requiring custom retrofitting for each application
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of modifying the frame to fit specific graphics, the design inverts the approach by making the graphics (on removable sheets) adaptable to the standardized frame interface. This reversal eliminates the need for complex frame modifications while maintaining versatility
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a frame assembly including a framing member and an extrusion member. The frame assembly further includes a sheet having a graphic thereon. The sheet includes a gasket at a perimeter thereof, and the gasket is positioned in a channel of the extrusion member such that the channel supports the sheet.