Window Alignment Device Using Threaded Connector and Guide Slot
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tools for aligning doors or windows within frame structures require long manufacturing times, high raw material costs, and complex installation processes due to precise machining operations and multiple tool parts, leading to increased costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A novel adjustment device comprising a guide member, support member, and connector with a threaded mechanism that allows for easy alignment and adjustment of doors or windows within a frame structure, using simple materials and processes like punching and lathing, reducing the need for precise interactions between tool parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If existing alignment tools are used, then alignment precision can be achieved, but manufacturing time increases and raw material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool is divided into separate modular components: a guide member with a slot, a support member, and a threaded connector. These segments can be manufactured independently using simple processes and assembled during installation, reducing overall manufacturing time while maintaining alignment precision through the coordinated function of each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded connector is designed to be received within the slot of the guide member, with the support member connecting to the connector. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to be integrated into a compact structure that achieves precise alignment without requiring complex machining of a single monolithic component.
2Manufacturing precision
If existing alignment tools are used, then alignment precision can be achieved, but raw material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool uses simple, inexpensive materials such as standard threaded connectors, flat guide members with slots, and basic support components. These elements can be manufactured from common materials using straightforward processes like punching and lathing, significantly reducing raw material costs while maintaining sufficient precision for alignment tasks.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing alignment tools are used, then alignment functionality is provided, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The guide member is pre-formed with a slot that accommodates the threaded connector, and the support member is pre-configured with appropriate mounting features. This preliminary preparation of components allows for rapid assembly during installation without requiring complex field adjustments or precise fitting operations, reducing installation time while maintaining alignment functionality.
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing alignment tools are used, then alignment capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is segmented into three simple components: a guide member with a slot, a threaded connector, and a support member. Each component has a single primary function and simple geometry, reducing device complexity compared to monolithic alignment tools with multiple integrated features. The segments work together through straightforward mechanical connection to achieve alignment capability.
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
The solution reduces manufacturing and installation times, lowers raw material costs, and simplifies the alignment process, making it easier to attach the tool to the object during manufacturing and distribute it as a low-cost kit with minimal direct interaction between tool parts.
Implementation Method 1
an elongated threaded connector having a head positioned at a terminal first end of the connector, an engaging piece where the head and the engaging piece are separated by a neck, and a second end of the connector configured to connect to the support, the guide configured such that the neck is capable of being inserted into the guide after the connector is connected to the support, and where rotation of the connector about a central longitudinal axis of the connector changes a distance between the guide and the support
Data Source
AI summary
An alignment device, systems and methods where the device includes a guide, a support and a connector which engages the guide and the support. The guide may be a relatively flat piece attachable to and edge of a frame for framing a window or a door. In one aspect the guide member a slot, support attaches to an object such as a window or a door (or is integral with an object such as a window or door) which is to be aligned with the frame. The connector threads within a hole associated with the object, such as a hole of a support connected to a jamb of a window. The connector engages a slot of the guide and the device allows for desired alignment of an object within a frame by transferring rotational movement to linear movement.