Modular Window Frame Snap-Fit Cladding Attachment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window assemblies face challenges in efficiently connecting and integrating components made from different materials, such as vinyl, aluminum, and wood, which can lead to issues with air and moisture infiltration, and require multiple fasteners and sealants, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A modular extrusion-based window frame system that includes snap-fit connections for cladding, trim, and interior members, allowing for the formation of various window styles from a single base frame platform, using a unified cross-sectional profile for base frame members to reduce part types and assembly time, and incorporating snap-fit and push-fit mechanisms for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate mechanical fasteners and sealants are used to connect components of different materials, then the connection between materials is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated extrusion system. The base frame extrusion incorporates built-in attachment arrangements that simultaneously provide mechanical support and connection interfaces for different materials (vinyl, aluminum, wood), eliminating the need for separate fasteners and sealants. This merging of functions reduces device complexity while maintaining adaptability across material types.
Solution Approach 2:
The base frame extrusion is designed as a universal component that can attach to multiple types of cladding members, trim members, and interior members made from different materials. The attachment arrangements are configured to accommodate various material types through standardized interfaces, allowing a single extrusion design to serve multiple connection purposes without requiring material-specific connection methods.
2Reliability
If multiple fasteners and sealants are used for connecting components, then secure attachment is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple connection functions into a single extrusion component that provides both structural support and attachment capabilities. By combining the functions of multiple fasteners and sealants into one manufactured part, the system reduces the total number of components required, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining secure attachment through the integrated attachment arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The extrusion is designed to be self-attaching through its built-in attachment arrangements, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations. The attachment arrangements are configured to automatically secure cladding members, trim members, and interior members to the base frame extrusion during assembly, reducing labor and material costs associated with multiple separate fastening steps.
3Productivity
If a single base frame platform is used for multiple window styles, then the productivity and flexibility increase, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base frame extrusion is designed as a universal platform with a unified cross-sectional profile that can accommodate multiple window styles (casement, double hung, sliding, fixed). The attachment arrangements are strategically positioned and configured to support various sash frame configurations and operation mechanisms, allowing a single extrusion design to produce diverse window products without requiring multiple specialized frame profiles.
Solution Approach 2:
The extrusion is designed with distinct functional zones including attachment arrangements, drainage paths, and mounting interfaces that can be independently configured for different window styles. This segmentation of functions within a unified profile allows manufacturing systems to produce a single standardized extrusion that can be adapted to multiple window configurations through selective assembly of components rather than requiring precision customization of the extrusion itself.
Data Source
AI summary
An extrusion for a multiple configuration window base frame is disclosed. In one aspect, the frame includes a main body defining an interior-side surface and an opposite opening-side surface extending between first and second ends. To facilitate use with different window types, part or all of the opening-side surface can be formed in a parallel arrangement with the interior-side surface. The frame can include a first attachment arrangement located proximate the main body first end that is configured for attachment to one or more cladding members. In one aspect, the first attachment arrangement includes a first clip member having a first outer portion and a first inner portion that define a first female receiving area and having a first overhang portion extending at least partially across the female receiving area to enable a snap-fit connection between the main body and the cladding member.