Trim Molding Coping Device for Non-Square Wall Angles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional methods for fitting trim molding in corners, such as miter-cutting, often result in gaps due to non-square angles caused by framing issues and imperfections, and require the use of nails, glues, or adhesives for securing.

Innovation Solution

A trim holding device with an 'F' shape configuration and interchangeable cutter blades for coping and mounting finish trim molding without nails, glues, or adhesives, featuring a manual coping device and extruded metal or plastic construction, and finish trim molding with channels for secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If miter-cutting is used to fit trim molding in corners, then the joint appears square and symmetrical, but gaps appear due to non-square wall angles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejoint symmetryVSAvoidcorner fit accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of cutting the trim at angled miters to match ideal square corners, the invention inverts the approach by using a coping device that cuts the trim to match the actual non-square corner angle. The device measures and replicates the specific corner angle, allowing the trim to fit precisely against the wall while maintaining a clean joint appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The coping device allows adjustment of cutting parameters to match varying corner angles. By changing the cutting angle parameter based on the actual wall corner measurement, the device adapts to different installation conditions and eliminates gaps caused by non-square corners.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If traditional mounting methods using nails, glues, or adhesives are used, then the trim molding can be secured to walls, but the process requires multiple materials and cleanup

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidmounting process simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coping device combines the coping function and mounting function into a single integrated tool. The device not only cuts the trim to the correct angle but also provides mounting capabilities through integrated mounting members, eliminating the need for separate nails, glues, or adhesives and simplifying the overall installation process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Manufacturing precision

If pre-fabricated corners are used to accommodate non-square angles, then corner fit accuracy improves, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorner fit accuracyVSAvoidtool simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coping device is designed with adjustable and adaptable features that allow it to dynamically adjust to different corner angles and trim sizes. Rather than requiring different pre-fabricated corners for different angles, the single device can be adjusted to match any corner angle, providing the versatility of multiple specialized tools in one adaptable instrument.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10081953B2Assembly for coping and mounting trim molding
Publication Date: 2018.09.25 ARMACOST GREGORY SCOTT
  • US10081953B2 patent drawing
  • US10081953B2 patent drawing
  • US10081953B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for installing a finish trim molding on a wall, the method includes mounting a trim holding device on the wall, the trim holding device comprising a mounting bracket configured to mount in facing contact with the wall, the mounting bracket further comprising a pair of mounting flanges disposed on the mounting bracket, the pair of mounting flanges being substantially horizontal and extending perpendicularly outward away from the mounting bracket and the wall; and mounting the finish trim molding onto the trim holding device, the finish trim molding defining a pair of channels, the pair of channels being substantially horizontal and defined perpendicular to a vertical rear surface of the finish trim molding, the pair of channels configured to receive the pair of mounting flanges.