Window Frame Groove Track for Accessory Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mounting essential installation elements like smoke sensors and sprinkler units near window arrangements poses a challenge due to the need for integration without compromising the appearance and functionality of the window system, which is often part of the building's roof and ceiling.

Innovation Solution

A window arrangement featuring grooves in the side frame members to form a track for accommodating accessory elements, allowing for flexible and reliable mounting of various devices such as sensors, lighting, and ventilation systems, with a connecting device providing a secure and aesthetically pleasing integration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If installation elements are mounted near the ceiling to ensure safe operation, then building safety is improved, but the appearance and functionality of the window arrangement is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebuilding safetyVSAvoidappearance of window arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The accessory elements (smoke sensors, sprinkler units, temperature sensors) are nested within the window arrangement structure itself, specifically mounted in the frame structures of the window systems. This allows installation elements to be positioned near the ceiling for safety while being integrated into the window framework, preventing visual compromise of the window appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple functions into the window arrangement structure: the frame structures serve both as structural support for the window system and as mounting locations for safety installation elements. By merging the window frame function with the mounting function, the design achieves both aesthetic integrity and safety requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Shape

If accessory elements are integrated into the window arrangement, then appearance is improved, but the complexity of mounting and integration increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveappearance of window arrangementVSAvoidmounting complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structures are pre-configured with integrated mounting provisions during the window system manufacturing process. This preliminary preparation of mounting locations and structures eliminates the need for complex field modifications or custom integration work, reducing mounting complexity while maintaining aesthetic integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The window frame structures are designed to serve multiple functions: providing structural support for the window system, enabling aesthetic integration of accessory elements, and facilitating simplified mounting through standardized integrated provisions. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If custom mounting solutions are created for each accessory element, then functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality of accessory mountingVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated mounting provisions in the frame structures are designed as universal features that can accommodate various types of accessory elements (smoke sensors, sprinkler units, temperature sensors). This standardized universal mounting capability provides functional versatility for different accessories while maintaining consistent, cost-effective manufacturing processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is segmented into standardized components within the frame structure that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation allows for efficient production of mounting elements that can be universally applied to different accessory types, reducing overall manufacturing cost and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP3011116B1A window arrangement comprising a plurality of window systems and at least one accessory element
Publication Date: 2017.03.22 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP3011116B1 patent drawing
  • EP3011116B1 patent drawing
  • EP3011116B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The window arrangement comprises a plurality of neighbouring window systems, each window system comprising a frame structure (1, 101) including a plurality of frame members including a pair of opposed side frame members (3, 105), and at least one accessory element (200). Each side frame member comprises a groove such that two grooves of juxtaposed side frame members of two neighbouring window systems form a track (100). The accessory element or elements (200) is connected to the window systems by means of the track.