Overhead frame corners

Solution Overview

Problem

Overhead frame corners with perpendicular centerline orientations of T-handle bolts and set screws lead to increased storage space requirements and snagging issues when bundling in the alpha orientation, complicating storage and retrieval.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of secondary fasteners positioned within the distal rectangular periphery of overhead frame components, utilizing an over-center lever-actuated draw latch assembly to secure alpha-oriented frames rigidly, reducing protrusions and storage width.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If T-handle bolts and set screws are oriented perpendicular to the frame plane, then the primary fastening function is achieved, but the storage width and protrusions increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening strengthVSAvoidstorage width

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions the secondary fasteners from a perpendicular orientation (extending outward from the frame plane) to a parallel orientation (aligned with the frame plane). This dimensional reorientation allows the fasteners to be positioned within the distal rectangular periphery, eliminating protrusions and reducing storage width while maintaining fastening capability through the draw latch mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Strength

If T-handle bolts and set screws are positioned at centerline orientation, then the primary fastening is achieved, but snagging occurs during storage and retrieval

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening strengthVSAvoidsnagging

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions the secondary fasteners from a perpendicular orientation (extending outward from the frame plane) to a parallel orientation (aligned with the frame plane). This dimensional reorientation allows the fasteners to be positioned within the distal rectangular periphery, eliminating protrusions and reducing storage width while maintaining fastening capability through the draw latch mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Ease of operation

If secondary fasteners are positioned outside the distal rectangular periphery, then the fastening function is achieved, but the bundled width increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefastening functionVSAvoidbundled width

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the secondary fasteners to be nested within the distal rectangular periphery of the frame components. The draw latch mechanism and its components (latch member, strike member, actuator) are configured to fit within the existing frame geometry, eliminating the need for additional outward protrusions and minimizing the bundled width while maintaining full fastening functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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

Enables rigid, positionally stable bundling of frame components in the alpha orientation, minimizing storage space and eliminating the need for temporary securing materials, while preventing snagging during storage and retrieval.

Implementation Method 1

over-center lever-actuated draw latch assembly to secure alpha-oriented frames rigidly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS11448953B2Overhead frame corners

Publication Date: 2022.09.20 BALLEW TONY J

AI summary

Improved corners for overhead frames having primary and secondary fasteners that are located within the distal rectangular periphery of alpha oriented overhead frame components so that the width of bundled overhead frames is reduced; protrusions leading to snagging are eliminated; obstructions to the preferred, industry-wide, disassembled frame orientation are precluded; and frame components may be rigidly bundled into the alpha orientation without the wasteful and time-consuming use of temporary materials.