Reflective Decorative Assembly with Intersecting Frame Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reflective decoration systems are time-consuming to install, lack uniformity, and have difficulty in achieving desired visual effects due to individual disk placement and limited movement, as well as interference from light sources by objects or people.
Innovation Solution
A reflective decoration assembly featuring a frame with intersecting supports and disc attachment posts that allow for easy installation and customization, along with integrated light emitters for enhanced visual appeal, and deformable disc retaining heads for secure disc placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If disks are installed one at a time by pressing a pin through a preformed aperture, then customization of each sign is achieved, but installation time is very consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling complete rows of disks on frame supports in a controlled environment before field installation. The disks are pre-positioned on the frame supports with proper spacing and alignment, so that during installation, entire rows can be quickly mounted as complete units rather than installing individual disks one at a time in the field.
2Adaptability or versatility
If disks are installed one at a time individually, then customization is possible, but uniform spacing between disks is difficult to ensure
Solution Approach 1:
The frame supports are designed with pre-determined spacing features that ensure uniform disk placement. During pre-assembly, disks are positioned on the frame supports at consistent intervals, guaranteeing uniform spacing across the entire sign before field installation occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame supports act as an intermediary structure that facilitates uniform disk spacing. The supports provide a standardized framework with predetermined attachment points, ensuring that disks are evenly spaced while still allowing for customization of the overall sign design and disk selection.
3Ease of manufacture
If a solid sheet is used to support discs, then installation is facilitated, but movement of discs is limited and visual appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solid support sheet into individual frame supports that are spaced apart. Instead of a continuous solid backing, the support structure is divided into discrete elements (frame supports) that hold disks at specific locations, allowing disks to move freely between supports while maintaining installation simplicity.
4Illumination intensity
If light sources are spaced away from disks and aimed at the visible surface, then the shimmering effect is improved, but light is blocked when objects or persons come between the light source and disks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the light source from a external position to an integrated position within the frame structure itself. By embedding light sources in the frame supports, illumination is provided from multiple dimensions and angles, ensuring that light reaches the disks from behind and the sides, making it difficult for objects or persons to block the light path while still creating the desired shimmering effect.
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
The solution enables efficient and uniform installation of reflective disks with customizable shapes and sizes, while ensuring consistent spacing and improved visual effects by integrating light sources within the frame structure, minimizing interference from objects or people.
Implementation Method 1
an embodiment of the present invention includes a light emitter, such as an LED or light pipe, at least one of the disc retaining heads
Implementation Method 2
the disks are coated with a reflective material and, when viewed from a distance, the array of moving disks provides the appearance of a shimmering surface
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is an assembly and method for providing a reflective decoration assembly that includes a frame having a pair of opposing frame edges and a plurality of first frame supports, where each frame support is arranged in a plane with at least two other first frame supports, is arranged in a plane defined by the pair of opposing frame edges, has a portion between the pair of opposing frame edges, and is substantially parallel to at least one other first frame support. The reflective decoration assembly also features a plurality of second frame supports, each being arranged in an intersecting configuration with at least two of the first frame supports. Disc attachment posts have a first end attached to the frame and a second end separated from the first end, the second end having a disc retaining head thereat.