Screened Enclosure Beam with Internal Inserts for Structural Integrity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-mating beam systems for screened enclosures have weaker structural integrity, are prone to sagging or shifting, and require precise alignment for proper installation, which can be challenging for homeowners or contractors.

Innovation Solution

The use of one-piece extruded beams with internal channels and spline grooves for secure screen panel attachment, along with internal supports and inserts for enhanced stability and design flexibility, particularly for large openings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If self-mating beam systems are used, then installation is simplified, but structural integrity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The beam system is divided into modular components (beam sections, connectors, internal supports) that can be easily assembled while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection interfaces

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system combines aluminum extrusions with internal support elements and connector components to create a composite structure that achieves both ease of assembly and high structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If conventional posts and beams are used for large openings, then structural support is provided, but the span capability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural supportVSAvoidspan capability

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Internal supports are positioned within the hollow interior of the beam to provide additional structural reinforcement without increasing the external dimensions, enabling longer spans while maintaining the same profile size

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

Internal support elements are nested within the hollow interior of the aluminum beam extrusions, allowing additional structural support to be contained within the existing beam structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Strength

If SMB systems include connectors, then structural integrity is improved, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple structural functions (beam connection, screen attachment, internal support) are merged into integrated components that simplify the overall assembly process while maintaining structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS12331505B2Support beam for screened enclosure and connectors therefore

Publication Date: 2025.06.17 NICO IP LLC

AI summary

A beam system for a screened enclosure that includes one piece support beams having an internal channel and three or more spline grooves on one or more exterior sides. The spline grooves are designed to accept and secure screen material. Inserts positionable within the interior channel of adjacent beams may provide increased structural support for larger openings in the screened enclosure. The inserts generally include a central pillar having angular caps attached to opposing lateral edges thereof so that an insert fits snugly within the interior channel of the support beam. The inserts may be secured within the support beams by fastening elements.