Picture-Frame Rolling Curtain for Seamless Window Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window coverings do not provide a seamless transition between a closed state that resembles a picture and an open state that resembles a window frame without a curtain, while also ensuring wind resistance, stability, and hermetic sealing.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly with a movable sheet that transitions between a closed position mimicking a painting and an open position appearing as a window frame, featuring wind-resistant design, stability, and hermetic sealing, with mechanical and manual operation options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a traditional curtain is used, then it provides privacy and wind resistance when closed, but it does not provide a seamless transition to a window frame appearance when open and does not ensure hermetic sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The curtain is designed to be movable within the frame between a closed position where it provides picture-like appearance and privacy, and an open position where it rolls into the frame to reveal the window frame. This dynamic transformation allows the same structure to serve multiple visual functions without requiring separate mechanisms for each state.
Solution Approach 2:
The curtain is mounted within the frame such that when opened, it rolls into the frame structure itself, creating a nested appearance where the curtain becomes part of the frame assembly. This nesting allows the curtain to disappear into the frame structure, providing a clean transition from closed to open state.
2Shape
If a movable sheet is used to transition between closed and open positions, then visual appearance is improved, but wind resistance and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The curtain is designed to roll into the frame in a curved or cylindrical manner rather than folding or collapsing flat. This rolling motion maintains the integrity of the curtain material and allows it to be stored compactly within the frame while maintaining its ability to provide wind resistance when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The curtain is divided into segments or panels that can move independently within the frame. This segmentation allows the curtain to be operated in sections, providing control over its deployment and retraction while maintaining overall structural integrity and wind resistance properties.
3Reliability
If the curtain is made hermetically sealed, then privacy and security are improved, but the mechanism for opening and closing may become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The curtain is designed with a self-operating mechanism that allows it to be opened and closed through simple user interaction. The rolling mechanism within the frame can be activated through a cord, chain, or manual operation, eliminating the need for complex motors or automated systems while maintaining hermetic sealing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
A simple intermediary mechanism such as a cord, chain, or manual lever is used to activate the curtain's rolling motion. This intermediary element provides a straightforward interface for user operation while the internal rolling mechanism handles the complex task of deploying and retracting the curtain material maintaining seal integrity.
4Shape
If the sheet rolls into the frame when open, then the picture appearance is improved, but the mechanism for achieving this rolling motion may increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The complex rolling mechanism is replaced with a simpler system using flexible cords or chains that guide the curtain material as it rolls into the frame. Instead of using motors, gears, or complex actuators, the invention uses basic mechanical elements like cords that can be pulled or engaged to initiate the rolling motion, significantly reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The curtain rolling mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through simple user input. When a user pulls a cord or engages a mechanism, the curtain automatically begins to roll into the frame through gravity and the guidance of flexible guides, eliminating the need for powered systems or complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame assembly with a sheet for a window or door space provides a frame and a sheet mounted in the frame such that the sheet is movable within the frame between a closed position wherein the sheet provides the appearance of a painting and an open position wherein the sheet rolls into the frame and provides the appearance of nothing being in the frame.