Picture frame system and frame mounting method

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional picture frame hanging methods require multiple tools and can become misaligned over time if not securely attached to wall studs, lacking efficient leveling and spacing solutions.

Innovation Solution

A picture frame system with a wall-mountable inner portion and a removable outer portion, featuring interlocking fins and bubble levels for precise leveling and secure attachment to studs, allowing for easy frame spacing and front-accessible image changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional picture frame hanging methods are used with multiple tools, then frame mounting can be completed, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe mounting processVSAvoidtools required
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate tools and functions into a single integrated frame system. The frame includes built-in leveling mechanisms, mounting hardware, and alignment features all integrated into the frame structure itself, eliminating the need for separate bubble levels, spacing tools, and mounting devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame system performs its own leveling and alignment functions through built-in mechanisms. The frame includes integrated bubble levels, alignment fins, and self-positioning features that allow the frame to level and align itself during installation without requiring external tools or complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If picture frames are not securely attached to wall studs, then installation is simpler, but frames become out of level over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe stabilityVSAvoidinstallation process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The frame system includes pre-integrated mounting hardware and alignment features that are built into the frame structure before installation. The leveling mechanisms and mounting components are prepared in advance within the frame, allowing for secure stud attachment and long-term stability without requiring complex installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If multiple tools and leveling strings are used for frame installation, then precise leveling can be achieved, but the installation process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe levelingVSAvoidleveling tools
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple leveling and measurement functions into the frame structure itself. Bubble levels, alignment fins, and spacing mechanisms are all combined into the frame, eliminating the need for separate bubble levels, leveling strings, and spacing tools.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame system performs its own leveling and alignment through built-in mechanisms. The integrated bubble levels and alignment features allow the frame to self-level during installation without requiring external leveling tools or complex measurement procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 secure, level, and evenly spaced frame hanging with built-in bubble levels for precise alignment, and allows for easy image changes without removing the frame from the wall, improving user experience and maintaining frame stability.

Implementation Method 1

Each inner portion comprises an upper horizontal section; a lower horizontal section; a first vertical section extending between the upper and lower horizontal sections; and a second vertical section extending between the upper and lower horizontal sections. Opposite ends of each of the upper and lower horizontal sections are connected to opposite ends of the first and second vertical sections, forming four corners of the inner portion. At least one of the upper horizontal section and lower horizontal section includes a first level therein, and at least one of the first vertical section and second vertical section include a second level therein.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBubble level: Spirit Level

Data Source

PatentUS20240156282A1Picture frame system and frame mounting method
Publication Date: 2024.05.16 WALSH CHAD
  • US20240156282A1 patent drawing
  • US20240156282A1 patent drawing
  • US20240156282A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A picture framing system includes at least a first picture frame and a second picture frame, each picture frame including a wall-mountable inner portion configured to secure a picture therein and having mounting means, and an outer portion configured to removably secure to the inner portion. The upper inner portion includes equally spaced apart openings. The mounting means include a plurality of interlocking fins extending outwardly from each of the inner portions to facilitate connecting a first picture frame inner portion to a second picture frame inner portion. Picture frame components of the picture frame system and methods for using same to mount the picture frames are also disclosed.