Slip Fit Guide System for Concealed Closure Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing guide systems for retractable closures, such as doors and curtains, face challenges in providing a secure, aesthetically pleasing, and tamper-resistant solution that is easy to install and maintain, while also accommodating various opening sizes and types, and ensuring that attachment fixtures are not visible.
Innovation Solution
A slip fit guide system comprising a first member fixed to a structure, a coupling element, and a second member that is movable relative to the first member, forming a channel to receive a closure, with a wedge mechanism to secure the second member and an anchor for attachment, allowing for smooth operation and concealment of attachment components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a traditional guide system uses visible attachment fixtures to secure the closure, then the installation is straightforward, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes visible attachment fixtures from the exterior view by extracting the fastening function into the channel structure. The closure is secured through the channel using concealed fasteners, eliminating the need for external visible fixtures while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide system employs nested structures where the closure fits within the channel formed by the guide members. The attachment fixtures are nested within the channel structure rather than being externally visible, creating a compact hierarchical arrangement that hides fastening components.
2Reliability
If the guide system uses a secure locking mechanism to prevent tampering, then the reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide system merges the guiding function and the locking function into a single integrated channel structure. The channel both guides the closure movement and provides the locking mechanism through its geometry and concealed fasteners, eliminating the need for separate complex locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The channel structure provides self-locking through its geometric design that naturally prevents tampering. The concealed fasteners and the interlocking geometry of the guide members create an inherent security feature that does not require additional active locking mechanisms.
3Reliability
If the guide system uses a fixed structure to ensure stability, then the reliability improves, but the adaptability to various opening sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The guide system transitions from a completely fixed structure to a semi-adjustable configuration. The guide members can be positioned and secured at different locations along the channel, allowing the system to adapt to various opening sizes while maintaining structural stability through the rigid channel framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide system is divided into modular guide members that can be independently positioned and secured. This segmentation allows the same channel structure to accommodate different opening sizes by adjusting the position and number of guide members while maintaining overall structural 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
The guide system facilitates easy installation and repair, provides a secure and aesthetically pleasing solution for retractable closures, and ensures that attachment fixtures are not visible, while accommodating various opening sizes and types, offering a compact and tamper-resistant locking mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The head may comprise a wedge configured to secure the second member between the head and a first surface of the first member
Implementation Method 2
The wedge may include a deflectable arm configured to deflect when the second member contacts the deflectable arm
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a guide system includes a first member configured to be fixed to a structure. A coupling element is fixed to the first member. A second member is moveable relative to the first member. The second member is configured to receive the coupling element to couple the first member to the second member. There is a channel between the first member and the second member when the first member is coupled to the second member. The channel is configured to receive a portion of a closure.