Sign Frame Connector Assembly for Damage-Resistant Packaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional packaging methods for wire frame signs often result in damage during shipping due to bending or puncturing of the wire frame, and the flexible plastic display section is at risk of being compromised.

Innovation Solution

A sign design featuring a frame assembly with connector pieces that secure the frame members together, reducing the likelihood of bending and protecting the ends from piercing the packaging, while also serving as a mechanism for easy assembly and stowing during shipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If conventional packaging methods are used for wire frame signs, then the packaging is simple, but the wire frame is bent or punctures the packaging during shipping

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepackaging simplicityVSAvoidframe integrity during shipping

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The frame assembly is divided into separate linear members that can be individually packaged and secured, preventing bending while maintaining packaging simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector pieces are pre-positioned on the frame members before packaging, securing the members in place to prevent damage during shipping without requiring complex packaging structures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If the ends of long wire frame members are exposed during packaging, then assembly is simple, but the ends puncture the packaging or damage the plastic display section

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidpackaging penetration and damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The connector pieces are pre-attached to the frame members, covering the exposed ends before packaging to prevent punctures while maintaining ease of assembly

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connector pieces act as intermediary elements between the frame member ends and the packaging, preventing direct contact and potential damage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If the frame members are not secured during packaging, then packaging is simple, but the frame members become bent during shipping

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepackaging simplicityVSAvoidframe member straightness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The connector pieces are pre-positioned to secure frame members in their correct positions and orientations before packaging, preventing bending while keeping packaging simple

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The connector pieces serve dual functions as both assembly connectors and packaging securing elements, combining multiple functions into a single component

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11875710B2Signage and method of packaging the same

Publication Date: 2024.01.16 GILL STUDIOS INC

AI summary

A sign having a display section formed from two pliable sheets and a frame assembly having members joined by various connector pieces. The connector pieces may include couplers and corner pieces. The connector pieces may be used to construct the frame assembly. The connector pieces may also be used to stow the frame assembly when the sign is not in use or being packaged for shipment and also during shipment. For example, the connector pieces may cover the ends of frame assembly members to keep them organized and to keep the members from piercing packaging or other parts of the sign.