Spring-Loaded Picture Frame Hardware for Universal Art Object Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing picture framing hardware components lack versatility, often requiring additional hardware and being restrictive in accommodating various art objects, leading to increased cost, complexity, and risk of damage during assembly and repositioning.
Innovation Solution
A multifaceted picture framing hardware component using a combination of leaf spring latches, compliant pads, and a leaf spring tongue, designed to distribute high compression force evenly across a large surface area, allowing for secure mounting of diverse art objects without pre-location, and featuring recessed ejector pins to prevent scratching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate hardware components are used to secure art objects to mats and frames, then the art object can be securely mounted, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate hardware components (corner holders, mounting clips, compression elements) into a single integrated hardware component that performs all functions: securing the art object to the mat, attaching to the frame, and providing compression force. This eliminates the need for multiple separate parts while maintaining secure mounting reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated hardware component is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a corner holder, mounting clip, compression element, and art object retainer all in one piece. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity and cost while achieving reliable secure mounting of diverse art objects.
2Ease of operation
If adhesive hardware is used to mount art objects, then mounting is simplified, but removing the adhesive is difficult and time consuming while risking damage to components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces adhesive bonding with a mechanical system consisting of removable hardware components that provide compression force and secure the art object through physical attachment points. This mechanical system maintains ease of mounting while enabling easy removal and repositioning without damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The hardware component incorporates spring elements that provide dynamic compression force, allowing the mounting system to be easily assembled and disassembled. The elastic properties enable the component to maintain constant pressure while being readily removable for repositioning or replacement.
3Reliability
If high compression force is applied to secure the art object, then the mounting is secure, but the risk of damage to the art object or frame components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hardware component distributes compression force across multiple contact points and uses compliant elements that adapt to local conditions. The force is applied locally at specific attachment points rather than concentrated at single points, reducing damage risk while maintaining overall mounting security.
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates compliant pads and spring elements that act as cushioning between the compression force and the art object/frame components. These elements absorb excess force and prevent direct transmission of high compression loads that could cause damage, while still maintaining secure mounting.
4Ease of manufacture
If standard size hardware components are used for standard frames, then manufacturing is simplified, but versatility to accommodate various art objects is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated hardware component is designed with universal features that allow it to accommodate various art object sizes, shapes, and thicknesses within a wide range. The spring elements and adjustable compression mechanisms enable the same standard component to securely mount diverse art objects in standard frames without requiring custom variations.
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 easy, secure, and cost-effective mounting of a wide range of art objects in standard and custom frames, reducing the risk of damage and simplifying repositioning, while maintaining aesthetic appeal and durability.
Implementation Method 1
leaf spring latches, compliant pads, and a leaf spring tongue, designed to distribute high compression force evenly across a large surface area
Data Source
AI summary
A one piece inexpensive essentially universal compressive loading type hardware component that is quickly installed/uninstalled particularly designed for clamping a variety of common objects, e.g.; photos, canvas paintings, books, etc. directly onto the back of a common mat board comprising an appropriately sized aperture to provide a popular sized border within many common popular back-loading off-the-shelf picture frame assemblies with or without glaze. In particular, installing at least two said hardware components is required for complete installation eliminating need for other type fasteners to complete the assembly. More particular, adjusting art object location is easily performed by sliding said art object laterally under load of said hardware component due to the effective distribution of compressive loads to secure said assembly while mitigating risk of damage to said art object, mat and frame as well as employing a particular manufacturing process to mitigate risk of fatigue.