Modular Wooden Counterframes for Precise Pitched-Roof Window Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window installation in pitched roofs faces challenges with non-reproducible structural holes, requiring custom-made wooden frames that are time-consuming and costly, and existing solutions like multiframe structures and adapting frames do not meet the requirements for thermal insulation and water tightness.
Innovation Solution
A modular wooden counterframe system comprising groups of battens with precise measurements and compatible shapings, allowing for easy assembly into a universal and adaptable counterframe system for different roofing stacks and windows, using pre-cut battens and fixing means like wood screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom-made wooden frames are prepared for each structural hole, then the counterframe can be adapted to non-reproducible measurements, but the production time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The counterframe is divided into multiple modular elements (side elements, transverse elements, corner elements) that can be independently manufactured with standardized dimensions and then assembled on-site to match the specific measurements of each structural hole, eliminating the need for complete custom fabrication while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The modular elements are designed with universal features such as standardized connection mechanisms and adjustable components that allow the same elements to be used across different structural hole configurations, enabling a single set of standardized components to serve multiple measurement requirements
2Productivity
If standardized counterframes are used, then production efficiency increases, but they cannot accommodate variations in structural hole measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The counterframe elements incorporate adjustable and reconfigurable features that allow the standardized modular components to be dynamically adapted to different structural hole measurements through on-site assembly variations, rather than requiring fixed predetermined dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
While the overall modular system uses standardized dimensions for manufacturing efficiency, specific local features such as connection points, sealing interfaces, and positioning elements are designed to be locally adaptable to match the unique characteristics of each structural hole opening
3Manufacturing precision
If custom preparation is performed for each counterframe, then precise fit is achieved, but the complexity of the manufacturing process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The counterframe manufacturing process is segmented into standardized production of modular elements followed by simplified on-site assembly, transferring the precision requirements to the factory manufacturing stage where standardized processes excel, while the on-site phase requires minimal complex operations
Solution Approach 2:
The modular elements are pre-manufactured with precise dimensions, connection features, and positioning elements in a controlled factory environment, so that when assembled on-site, the precision is already built-in and no complex field adjustments are needed
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 6a~6c
Figure 7~8
AI summary
The invention relates to a modular system for making counterframes (36) in particular for windows (44) with pitched roofs (38). The modular system provides for the assembly of a plurality of frames (28, 28a, 28b) in turn formed by groups of four battens (10, 10', 14, 14', 10a, 10b, 14a, 14b) with defined heights (A, B; H1, H2, H3), which define a kind of kit, to construct the counterframe (36) with the height (H) determined, preferably directly on the construction site.