Picture frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing picture framing systems are inflexible in size, lack structural rigidity, and are costly due to the complexity of cutting tools required, with folded card frames being too large to post and requiring complex assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A modular framing system using flat blanks that can be cut to length to create versatile box frames with pop-up sections, providing structural rigidity and allowing for various dimensions through predefined cutting positions and integrated bracing strips, enabling easy assembly into a deep frame format.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If folded card frames are used, then assembly is simple, but structural rigidity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into separate modular components: flat blanks that form the frame structure and separate matting pieces. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the blanks provide structural rigidity through their folded box construction while the matting provides the necessary clearance and artwork support.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame blanks are transformed from flat 2D pieces into 3D box structures with depth. By folding the blanks to create raised outer mouldings with hollow cavities, the frame gains structural rigidity and creates the necessary clearance space for artwork insertion and removal.
2Ease of manufacture
If fixed size frames are used, then manufacturing is simple, but versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The frame system transitions from fixed dimensions to adjustable dimensions. Blanks are provided with predefined cutting positions that allow users to customize frame sizes while maintaining structural integrity. The modular design with standardized components enables adaptation to various frame dimensions without complicating the basic manufacturing process.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex cutting tools are used, then precision is improved, but production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Cutting positions are pre-marked on the blanks during manufacturing. This preliminary action allows standard, less expensive cutting tools to achieve the required precision by following the pre-indicated positions, rather than requiring complex automated cutting equipment to determine positions during the cutting process.
4Strength
If deep box frames are used, then structural rigidity is improved, but posting difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed as a flat 2D blank that folds into a 3D box structure. In its flat state, the frame is thin and can be easily posted or mailed. When assembled, it transforms into a deep box frame with sufficient structural rigidity and clearance for artwork, effectively utilizing the third dimension only when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A picture framing blank (2) is made of laminar, creasable and foldable material that is adapted to form one side of a frame and a portion of a mat for mounting of an art work. The blank has first and second ends (4, 6) with elongate parallel inner and outer edges (8, 10) extending between the ends; and crease lines (28) parallel to the edges defining four strips (18, 20, 22, 24) which together create a hollow four sided rectangular box profile, and an outermost bracing strip (26) with a width substantially equal to a diagonal of said box profile. When folded the strips create a flattenable, pop up box section containing the bracing strip diagonally positioned across the hollow box section. Four blanks can be fitted together to form a frame.