Universal Window Frame Assembly Corner Key Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current window frame assembly systems require different components for various installation methods, such as new construction, full frame replacement, and pocket replacement, leading to increased complexity and costs in manufacturing and installation.
Innovation Solution
A universal window frame assembly with a combination of structural features, including a head jamb, sill jamb, side jambs, and corner keys, that can be used for multiple installation types, featuring a fin groove for nailing fins and adjustable frame depth, allowing for installation in new construction or as a replacement window with existing drywall returns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different window frame assembly components are used for each installation method (new construction, full frame replacement, pocket replacement), then the structural integrity and suitability for specific installation types is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The window frame assembly is designed with a universal head jamb configuration that can accommodate multiple installation methods. The head jamb includes a fin groove for nailing fins (suitable for new construction and full frame replacement) and is configured to work with both fin groove installation and pocket installation methods. This multi-functional design allows the same frame assembly to be reliably installed using different methods without requiring method-specific components, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different window frame assembly components are used for each installation method, then the suitability for specific installation types is improved, but the manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly employs universal components including a head jamb with integrated fin groove, sill jamb with flange configuration, and corner keys that can be used across all installation methods. This universality allows manufacturers to produce a single set of components that serve multiple installation purposes (new construction, full frame replacement, pocket replacement), eliminating the need to manufacture separate component sets for each installation type, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges previously separate components into a unified system. The head jamb integrates both the fin groove reception capability and the configuration for pocket installation into a single component. The corner keys serve multiple functions by being usable with both fin groove installation and pocket installation. This merging of functions into single components simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces the variety of parts that must be produced.
3Reliability
If different window frame assembly components are used for each installation method, then the installation requirements are met, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The universal frame assembly components are designed to work with multiple installation methods without requiring different parts. Installers can use the same head jamb, sill jamb, and corner keys whether installing via fin groove method or pocket method. This universality eliminates the need for installers to learn and manage multiple component sets, reducing installation time and complexity while still meeting all installation requirements for different methods.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing a universal window frame assembly. A window frame assembly can include a plurality of frame members, wherein at least one of the frame members comprises a first profile frame member and at least one of the other frame members comprises a second profile frame member. The at least one first profile frame member and the at least one second profile frame member seat together to form the frame assembly. Head and side jamb members of a window frame can have a common first profile, and a sill jamb member can have a second profile. The frame members can be connected with corner keys configured to engage one or more openings in the first and second profiles. The sill jamb member can provide a sill slope angle.