Rigid Transparent Screen Panel with Grid Apertures for Impact Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing screen systems are prone to puncturing or fraying from environmental debris and impact, requiring full replacement or substitution with sturdier, non-airflow-permitting materials like glass doors, and existing methods do not allow for easy replacement of screens on existing door or window frames.

Innovation Solution

A method to replace an existing screen with a protective, rigid, transparent screen member featuring a grid pattern of spaced apertures, secured within a door or window frame using adhesives or tape, allowing for easy installation and airflow while providing a sturdy barrier.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional screen is used, then airflow can pass through, but the screen is easily punctured or frayed by environmental elements and impact

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescreen durabilityVSAvoidvulnerability to puncturing and fraying
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a composite structure combining a rigid transparent panel (such as acrylic or polycarbonate) with a grid pattern of recessed areas. This composite design provides both durability against impact and puncturing, while maintaining airflow through the grid pattern. The rigid material resists environmental degradation better than traditional screen materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If glass door or transparent material is used to provide sturdier barrier, then protection is improved, but airflow cannot pass through

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotective barrier strengthVSAvoidairflow capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a rigid transparent panel with a grid pattern of apertures or recesses that function as porous structures. This allows airflow to pass through the panel while the solid portions provide structural strength and protection. The grid pattern optimizes the balance between structural integrity and airflow permeability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

3Ease of manufacture

If existing screen replacement methods are used, then installation is simple, but the screen cannot be securely attached to existing door or window frames

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidattachment security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the attachment system into multiple independent fastening points around the perimeter of the panel. This segmentation allows the panel to be securely attached to existing frames at multiple locations, providing both installation simplicity and reliable attachment. Each fastening point can be independently secured to the frame structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If a rigid screen member with grid pattern is used, then protection and airflow are improved, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotective barrier performanceVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates pre-drilled holes or pre-formed attachment features during the manufacturing of the rigid transparent panel. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex field measurements and drilling operations during installation, reducing installation complexity while maintaining the protective grid pattern structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11525302B2Protective screen system and method of installation
Publication Date: 2022.12.13 EARLES JASON
  • US11525302B2 patent drawing
  • US11525302B2 patent drawing
  • US11525302B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A protective screen system and method of installation for preventing bugs and insects from passing through a door or window opening, as well as preventing pets, such as dogs and cats from causing damage to a protective screen. The system and method include removing an existing screen from a door or window frame and inserting a protective screen member through a front face of the frame. The protective screen member is a rigid, transparent panel having a plurality of spaced apertures forming a grid pattern. The protective screen member is positioned through an opening of the frame and within a groove thereof such that an entire outer perimeter of the protective screen member is seated within the door or window frame. The protective screen member is secured to the frame via application of a fastener such as an adhesive or tape.