Window Screen Corner Connector Joint Integrity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional framed window screens made from extruded aluminum rails often become loose or disjointed at the corners due to inadequate connectors, leading to reassembly or replacement during assembly and installation, causing additional expense and inconvenience.
Innovation Solution
An improved corner connector featuring an L-shaped member and V-shaped groove support with a rib and stanchion, providing a seamless and secure connection between adjacent rails, enhancing the durability and stability of the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connectors are used to join aluminum rails, then the framed window screen can be assembled, but the joints become loose or disjointed during handling and installation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple functional segments: an L-shaped member for insertion into rail channels, a V-shaped groove support for frictional engagement, a rib connecting these elements, and a stanchion at the terminal end. Each segment performs a specific function to collectively ensure joint integrity while maintaining assembly feasibility.
2Ease of manufacture
If the connector design is simplified for ease of assembly, then assembly becomes easier, but the frame lacks sufficient durability and rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the connector have specialized geometries optimized for their specific functions: the L-shaped member fits into rail channels, the V-shaped groove support engages rails through friction, the rib provides structural connection, and the stanchion seals the joint. This localized optimization achieves both ease of assembly and frame stability.
3Productivity
If standard connectors are used, then the framed window screen can be installed, but reassembly or replacement is required due to loosening or breaking during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is pre-designed with integrated features including the L-shaped insertion member, V-shaped groove support for frictional engagement, connecting rib, and terminal stanchion. This preliminary design ensures the connector maintains joint integrity throughout installation without requiring reassembly or replacement, improving installation efficiency while ensuring reliability.
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 improved corner connector ensures a more durable and rigid frame, preventing loosening or disassembly during handling and installation, reducing the need for reassembly or replacement and enhancing the overall integrity of the window screen.
Implementation Method 1
The groove support frictionally engages the large grooves of the adjacent rails
Data Source
AI summary
A framed window screen formed from four (4) rails which each include a channel, a wide groove and a narrow groove and are each cut at a forty-five degree (45°) angle at the terminal ends. A durable, sturdy corner connector joins each rail one to another, which may be molded from a durable polymeric material having an L-shaped member, a groove support and a stanchion. The groove support is V-shaped and joined to the L-shaped member by a rib. Each end of the L-shaped member of the connector is inserted into adjacent rail channels with the groove support positioned in the wide grooves of the adjacent rails. Once the screen frame is assembled using the connectors, a suitably cut screen wire can be placed over the frame with the edges proximate the narrow groove whereby a rubber seal is inserted to maintain the screen in the narrow groove by friction.