Self-Locking Eyeglass Frame Assembly Without Screws

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing eyeglass systems require tools or complex mechanisms for assembly, disassembly, and lens replacement, lacking a stable and tool-free mounting system for eyeglass components.

Innovation Solution

A self-locking eyeglass system with a nose bridge and frame elements featuring complementary adapter elements and connection elements, allowing manual assembly and disassembly without tools, using eyeglass lenses as locking elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional mounting methods (screws, nails, rivets, strings) are used to secure the nose bridge to the frame element, then the mounting stability is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring tools for assembly and disassembly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidassembly convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The eyeglass lens serves a dual function: both as the optical component and as the locking element that secures the nose bridge to the frame element. When the lens is inserted into the frame, it automatically locks the nose bridge in place without requiring any additional tools or fastening operations by the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple functions into single components: the eyeglass lens simultaneously provides optical correction and mechanical locking function; the adapter element integrates both the mounting interface and the locking mechanism. This merging eliminates the need for separate screws, nails, or other fastening components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If traditional fastening components (screws, nails, rivets) are used to secure the nose bridge, then the mounting stability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional loose parts

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemounting stabilityVSAvoidnumber of components

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If heat treatment is used to connect the eyeglass lens to the frame element (as in WO 87 05 123), then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture and ease of operation worsen due to requiring specialized equipment and processes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces thermal processing methods with a purely mechanical insertion system. The eyeglass lens is secured to the frame element through mechanical engagement with the adapter element and connection elements, eliminating the need for heating equipment, temperature control systems, and thermal expansion/contraction processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical insertion system allows the lens to be automatically secured through simple placement into the frame, with the connection elements providing self-aligning and self-securing features that do not require specialized manufacturing equipment or complex processing steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Ease of manufacture

If manual force without heat is used to curve/bend the frame edge towards the eyeglass lens (as in US 2 132 106), then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the manufacturing precision and reliability worsen due to potential deformation and unstable connection

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidconnection precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the bending/deformation method with a precise mechanical engagement system. The adapter element and connection elements provide defined geometric interfaces that ensure accurate positioning and stable connection without requiring plastic deformation of the frame material.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies specialized connection elements at specific locations on the frame element and nose bridge where mechanical engagement is required, while the rest of the components can be manufactured using standard processes. The connection elements provide localized precision without requiring overall deformation of the frame structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP4258041B1Self-locking eyeglass system

Publication Date: 2025.12.03 LINDBERG AS

Figure 1A~1D
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3A~3D

AI summary

Self-locking eyeglass system, comprising a frame element and an additionally frame element and also a nose bridge (9), where the nose bridge (9) connects the frame elements (2) and locking elements (3) in form of eye glass lenses. Each of the frame elements additionally comprises a connection element, which is intended for connecting with the locking element, and wherein the frame element is non-interrupted in its external circumference, and wherein the connection element is provided on the inner side. The nose bridge comprises an adapter element, which matches a recess in the frame elements, wherein the nose bridge has a connection element, which coincides with the frame element's connection element, when the nose bridge is mounted in the at frame elements' recess. The nose bridge is secured to the frame elements by the locking element, whereby a convenient, flexible and uncomplicated way to assemble, separate, replace and service a self-locking eyeglass system is achieved.