Snap-Fit Mitered Frame Assembly to Replace Glass with Plastic Sheets
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional picture framing using glass sheets is hazardous, aesthetically limiting, and difficult to secure due to seasonal material dimensional fluctuations, and glass breakage concerns.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly with mitered rail sections and snap-fitting splines secures a layered image arrangement between flexible transparent and opaque plastic sheets, eliminating the need for glass and allowing for attractive assembly and reliable fixation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If glass sheets are used to secure the image, then the image appears to float aesthetically, but the glass is dangerous to handle and subject to breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, fragile glass sheets with inexpensive, shatterproof plastic sheets (acrylic or polycarbonate). These plastic substitutes achieve the same aesthetic floating effect while eliminating breakage hazards and reducing cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter from glass to plastic, transforming the physical properties while maintaining the optical clarity and aesthetic appearance. This substitution provides the same visual effect without the harmful brittleness of glass.
2Reliability
If paired glass sheets are fixed within a rabbet in a wooden frame, then the image is secured, but it is difficult to secure the sheets reliably due to seasonal dimensional fluctuations in wood
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the frame into modular components: a base frame, separate corner pieces, and individual plastic sheets. This segmentation allows each component to be assembled independently and accommodates dimensional changes without compromising the overall security of the image.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter of the transparent sheets from glass to flexible plastic, which can better accommodate dimensional fluctuations in the wooden frame during seasonal changes without breaking or creating security issues.
3Shape
If an image with transparent surround is used, then the glass area serves cosmetically in place of an opaque mat, but the inside of the frame is visible which constrains attractive assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the optical parameter of the plastic sheets by applying opaque or translucent coatings, or by selecting plastics with inherent opacity. This allows the plastic to serve both as a protective cover and as a cosmetic mat, eliminating the need for separate matting materials and providing greater assembly flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a frame assembly includes a mitered frame base including a plurality of rail sections that are joined together in corners of the mitered frame base by a plurality of fasteners. Each rail section includes a first surface for receiving a layered image arrangement. The frame assembly also includes a plurality of mitered splines that are configured to snap-fittingly mate with the plurality of rail sections. Each spline having a second surface that faces the first surface of one of the respective rail sections for securing the layered image arrangement between the spline and the rail section. A corner gap is formed between ends of respective mitered splines in each corner of the frame assembly. A plurality of corner pieces are received within the corner gaps to complete the frame assembly, the plurality of corner pieces snap-fittingly engaging the plurality of rails sections.