Silicone Edge Graphic Mount With Offset Suction Cups for Window Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Convention centers and hotels face challenges in allowing graphics to be mounted on windows and walls without causing damage, as traditional mounting methods are either cumbersome or prohibited due to potential damage risks.
Innovation Solution
A silicone edge graphic system using suction cups that are offset from the frame, allowing the graphic to be mounted on windows without direct contact, thereby minimizing damage to the surface, and optionally supported by a window sill or ground for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional mounting methods (screws, nails, adhesives) are used to attach graphics to windows, then secure mounting is achieved, but damage to the window surface occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful mounting components (screws, nails, adhesives) are extracted from the system and replaced with suction cups that attach to the window surface without penetrating or chemically bonding to it. The graphic is mounted through the frame structure that holds the suction cups, separating the mounting function from the graphic display function.
Solution Approach 2:
Suction cups serve as an intermediary between the frame and the window surface, providing a non-damaging attachment mechanism. The suction cups create a vacuum seal against the glass, transferring the mounting load without direct contact between the frame and the window, thus protecting the window from damage.
2Ease of operation
If suction cups are directly attached to the frame, then mounting simplicity is improved, but the frame contacts the window surface causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The suction cups are positioned in a third dimension - offset from the frame's rear surface toward the window. This creates a spatial separation where the suction cups can contact the window surface while the frame remains offset, preventing direct contact between the frame and window. The offset distance is specifically designed to allow suction cup engagement while maintaining frame clearance.
3Shape
If the graphic is mounted close to the window surface, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but damage to the window occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is extracted from direct contact with the window surface, allowing the graphic to be positioned close to the window for aesthetic purposes while the frame structure itself remains offset. The suction cups provide the attachment function, enabling the frame to be positioned optimally without compromising window integrity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure and damage-free mounting of visual materials on windows, allowing for effective advertisement and messaging without harming the mounting surface, while maintaining aesthetic appeal by hiding mechanical mounting devices.
Implementation Method 1
a suction cup attached to the frame, the suction cup defining an engagement surface that generates a vacuum against the mounting surface of the window to mount the silicone edge graphic to the window
Data Source
AI summary
A silicone edge graphic mountable to a window with suction cups is shown. The silicone edge graphic may have a frame where the suction cups are attached to the frame and offset from the frame so that the frame is not touching a mounting surface of the window or the wall of the window when mounted to mitigate damage to the window or wall. When the silicone edge graphic is mounted to the window, the frame may rest on a support surface, such as a window sill or the ground, to provide additional support for the weight of the silicone edge graphic.