Universal Architectural Covering Support Bracket
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing architectural covering supports for windows and doors require multiple installation methods and materials, leading to increased costs and complexity due to the need for various types of supports for different applications, and installers often lack clarity on the appropriate method until installation, resulting in additional manufacturing, supply, and storage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A method and support system that allows for selective mounting of architectural covering supports either by insertion into an architectural opening seal or adhesion to the surrounding area, using elongate elements with adjustable support brackets featuring insertion members with tongues or adhesive options, allowing for secure frictional engagement without additional tightening means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of architectural covering supports are provided for different installation methods, then adaptability to different applications is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket is designed with a universal first leg that can function in multiple ways: it can be inserted into the seal channel without adhesive, or adhesive can be applied to the same leg for adhesive mounting. This multi-functional design allows a single support type to serve different installation methods, eliminating the need for multiple specialized support types.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges previously separate mounting solutions (mechanical insertion and adhesive mounting) into a single unified support bracket design. The first leg serves as a common interface for both mounting methods, combining the functions of what were previously separate support types into one versatile component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of architectural covering supports are provided for different installation methods, then adaptability to different applications is improved, but manufacturing and supply costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket is designed with a universal first leg that can function in multiple ways: it can be inserted into the seal channel without adhesive, or adhesive can be applied to the same leg for adhesive mounting. This multi-functional design allows a single support type to serve different installation methods, eliminating the need for multiple specialized support types.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges previously separate mounting solutions (mechanical insertion and adhesive mounting) into a single unified support bracket design. The first leg serves as a common interface for both mounting methods, combining the functions of what were previously separate support types into one versatile component.
3Ease of operation
If adhesive is used to secure the elongate element, then ease of installation is improved, but reliability of mounting may be reduced for certain applications
Solution Approach 1:
The seal channel acts as an intermediary mechanical retention system that works alongside or independently of adhesive. The channel physically receives and holds the first leg, providing a reliable mechanical mounting path that supplements adhesive bonding, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal channel is pre-formed as part of the window frame structure, providing a ready-made mechanical retention path before installation. This preliminary preparation allows the first leg to be directly inserted and retained mechanically, ensuring reliable mounting without requiring complex installation procedures or compromising adhesive effectiveness.
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
This solution simplifies the installation process by providing flexibility in mounting options, reducing the need for multiple support types and lowering costs by allowing users to choose between adhesive and tongue-based insertion, thereby streamlining manufacturing and supply while ensuring secure attachment.
Implementation Method 1
fitting the first insertion member within the opening of the elongate element with the mounting surface and receiving surface frictionally engaging the respective facing support surfaces of the opening
Implementation Method 2
using adhesive, such as an adhesive tape, to secure the elongate element to a periphery of the architectural opening
Data Source
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AI summary
An architectural covering support and a method of enabling the mounting of such an architectural covering support selectively by either a first option of insertion into an architectural opening seal or a second option of adhesion to an architectural opening surround. The support may include an elongate element having one end defining an opening extending longitudinally into the elongate element and a support bracket having a first leg for fitment into the opening and a second leg for supporting an architectural covering. The method includes providing the first leg with a first insertion member having a mounting surface and an oppositely facing receiving surface, and fitting the first insertion member within the opening of the elongate element with the mounting surface and receiving surface frictionally engaging respective facing support surfaces of the opening. The method may also include providing the first leg with a tongue configured to be inserted into the architectural opening seal, or providing the first leg without such a tongue.