Screen assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing screen assemblies for office environments are difficult to install and configure, often requiring extraneous fastening devices, which complicates customization and increases weight, making them less portable.
Innovation Solution
A screen assembly design featuring a core with integrated retainer members that allow for easy installation of covers without additional fasteners, providing a lightweight and customizable solution with integrated edge treatments and connectors for accessories.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional frames and fastening devices are used to install covers and provide finished appearance, then the screen has structural support and aesthetic completion, but the weight increases and portability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer member integrates multiple functions: it provides structural support for the screen, serves as the framing element, and acts as the fastening mechanism for the cover through its resilient limbs and gripping members. This consolidation eliminates separate frames and fasteners, reducing overall weight while maintaining strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer member is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural support, edge treatment, and cover retention capabilities. The resilient limbs can grip covers while the base engages with the screen core, making the single component serve multiple purposes that traditionally required separate elements.
2Reliability
If traditional installation methods with multiple fasteners and connection devices are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer member's resilient limbs automatically engage with the cover material through their gripping members, creating a self-retaining mechanism that does not require additional fasteners or complex assembly steps. The design allows the cover to be simply inserted and retained by the elastic action of the limbs.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient limbs are designed with flexibility to deform and grip the cover material securely. The elastic properties allow the limbs to flex during installation and then maintain constant retention pressure, providing reliable attachment without complex mechanical fasteners.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional frames and multiple components are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but the screen becomes less portable and harder to reconfigure
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the frame, fastener, and edge treatment into a single retainer member, the overall component count and weight are reduced, making the screen easier to move and reconfigure while maintaining structural integrity through the integrated design.
4Reliability
If covers are installed with extraneous fastening devices, then secure attachment is achieved, but the exterior appearance becomes non-uniform and customization is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer member is positioned at the edge of the screen where it can provide secure attachment for the cover while remaining hidden or minimal in appearance. This integration allows the cover to have a clean, uniform exterior without visible fasteners or separate framing elements disrupting the aesthetic.
Data Source
AI summary
A screen assembly includes a core having an edge and first and second opposite side surfaces. A retainer, or edge treatment, is coupled to the edge of the core and extends outwardly from the core. The retainer includes first and second resilient limbs having respective edge portions defining a mouth. First and second cover portions overly the core and exterior surfaces of the retainer. The first and second cover portions wrap around the first and second limbs and are disposed through the mouth such that the edges of the first and second cover portions are retained by the limbs. Various screen supports and accessory interface members also are provided.