Installation Facilitator for Window Fixture Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional window and door installation methods require drilling through the fixture, which can be inefficient and may compromise the structural integrity of the window or door.
Innovation Solution
The use of facilitators, which are pre-attached to the window or door frame and feature connection elements that allow for secure attachment to the rough opening without drilling through the fixture, thereby simplifying and streamlining the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional drilling methods are used to secure the fixture to the rough opening, then the fixture can be firmly attached, but the structural integrity of the window or door is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (the facilitator or installation plug) that mediates between the fixture and the rough opening. This facilitator is inserted into the fixture's facilitator receiver and provides a mounting surface for fasteners, allowing the fixture to be secured without drilling through the fixture frame itself, thus preserving structural integrity while achieving firm attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is segmented into separate components: the fixture frame, the facilitator (installation plug), and the fasteners. The facilitator is a separate element that can be independently installed into the fixture and then used to attach the fixture to the rough opening, separating the drilling/attachment function from the fixture structure itself
2Reliability
If conventional drilling and screwing methods are used, then the fixture can be securely installed, but the installation process is time-consuming and requires multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The facilitator is pre-formed with all necessary features including the facilitator receiver, mounting surface, and alignment characteristics. This preliminary preparation allows the installer to simply insert the facilitator and drive fasteners without needing to mark drilling points, select drill bits, drill pilot holes, or choose appropriate screws, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions into the single facilitator component: it provides structural support, serves as a mounting base for fasteners, ensures proper alignment, and facilitates secure attachment to the rough opening. This consolidation of functions into one component streamlines the installation process
3Reliability
If multiple facilitators are used at different locations on the fixture, then the attachment is more secure and balanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The facilitator is designed as a universal component that can be used at multiple locations on the fixture (top, bottom, sides) with the same basic design and installation procedure. Each facilitator performs the same function of providing a mounting surface for fasteners, allowing for scalable installation security without increasing procedural complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are solutions for an installation facilitation system for installation of fixtures, such as windows or doors, within rough openings. The installation facilitation system includes a facilitator coupled to, or attachable to, a peripheral portion of a fixture, the facilitator including a connection element enabling a mechanical fastener to pass through the connection element to engage an attachment surface adjacent the fixture without insertion of the mechanical fastener through the fixture.