Window Film Frame Assembly with Adhesive Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Window films applied to transparent panels like windows face challenges due to their flimsy nature, leading to physical distortions and compromised optical properties, along with adhesive issues that complicate installation and reduce their effectiveness for thermal insulation and reuse.
Innovation Solution
A window film frame assembly with a frame defining an opening, featuring pressure-sensitive adhesive portions and a flexible film sheet structure that conforms to the frame's shape, minimizing distortions and eliminating the need for adhesives, thus simplifying and speeding up the installation process while maintaining optical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If window films are applied directly to glass surfaces, then installation cost is reduced, but the films cannot be easily removed or reused for thermal insulation in subsequent heating seasons
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the window treatment into separate functional components: a reusable frame assembly with adhesive portions for thermal insulation that can be removed and stored, and a separate decorative film that can be applied and removed without damage. This segmentation allows the frame to be reused across heating seasons while the film serves its decorative purpose.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly acts as an intermediary between the glass surface and the decorative film. The frame provides the adhesive bonding function to the glass, while the film simply covers the frame opening. This intermediary structure enables easy removal and reuse of the frame for thermal insulation purposes.
2Loss of energy
If thin window films are applied to frames, then thermal insulation is improved, but the films cannot maintain their planar shape and develop physical distortions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a thin flexible film that can conform to the frame opening while maintaining its optical properties. The film's flexibility allows it to be applied without creating permanent distortions, and it can be removed and reapplied without losing its planar characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame assembly is prepared in advance with adhesive portions attached to the glass surface before the film is applied. This preliminary preparation ensures that the film is supported by the rigid frame structure, which maintains the planar shape and prevents physical distortions during and after installation.
3Manufacturing precision
If heat is applied to shrink window films after installation, then optical properties are improved, but installation time and labor requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The frame assembly is pre-prepared with adhesive portions on the glass surface before the film is applied. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for post-installation heat shrinking, as the film can be directly applied to the prepared frame structure and will conform properly without requiring additional time-consuming heat treatment steps.
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 enables reliable, cost-effective, and quick installation of window films over windows, reducing labor and potential damage, while maintaining the films' optical properties and enhancing thermal insulation without causing permanent flaws.
Implementation Method 1
one or more pressure-sensitive adhesive portions on at least one side of the frame
Implementation Method 2
a generally flexible film sheet structure attached to the one or more pressure-sensitive adhesive portions for covering the frame opening, wherein the film sheet structure has stiffness so as to conform to the shape of the film structure across the frame opening
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and kit adapted for installation over windows or the like. Included is a window film frame assembly that comprises a frame having a plurality of frame segments and a plurality of connector members. Pressure-sensitive adhesive strips are attached to one side of the frame and serve to attach a generally flexible film sheet structure thereto. The film sheet structure is provided so as to conform to the shape of the frame across the frame opening. The film sheet structure does not have an exterior surface coated with an adhesive material.