Modular Window Frame with Complementary Fasteners

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional window frame assembly methods are complex and time-consuming due to mitered corners requiring special tools and multiple connectors, and once installed, accessory frames are often permanently attached, making removal or replacement expensive and difficult.

Innovation Solution

A modular window frame design featuring complementary fasteners on both interior and exterior faces, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly with snap-fit connectors, and a method for securing frame members with reinforcement members and fasteners to form non-chamfered corners, enabling flexible and efficient installation and reconfiguration of window assemblies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If mitered corners are used to join frame members, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the assembly complexity and time increase due to requiring special tools and multiple connectors

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecorner appearanceVSAvoidassembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame members are divided into separate sections with standardized ends that can be joined using simple connectors rather than complex mitered joints, allowing independent assembly of frame segments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Connector elements serve as intermediaries between frame members, simplifying the joining process by replacing complex mitered corner assemblies with standardized connector pieces that facilitate easier assembly

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If accessory frames are permanently attached to the base frame, then the structural stability is improved, but the adaptability and ease of replacement deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidaccessory frame replaceability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system transitions from permanent fixed connections to dynamic reversible connections using removable fasteners, allowing the accessory frame to be securely attached during use but easily detached when replacement or adjustment is needed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system is segmented into separate fastener components that can be independently engaged and disengaged, allowing the accessory frame to be separated from the base frame without damaging either component

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If traditional fastening methods are used for frame members, then the structural strength is improved, but the installation time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveframe joint strengthVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Fastener components are pre-positioned or pre-assembled on frame members during manufacturing, so that during installation only the final connection step is required, significantly reducing on-site assembly time while maintaining joint strength

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11371280B2Modular frame design

Publication Date: 2022.06.28 PELLA CORP

AI summary

A modular window assembly including a base frame, an interior frame cover, and an exterior frame cover. The base frame has a first complementary fastener located on an exterior face and a second complementary fastener located on an interior face. Each of the interior and exterior frame covers have a complementary fastener configured to releasably mate with the first and second complementary fasteners of the interior face and exterior face, respectively.