Window Support Frame Using Opposing Forces Without Building Damage

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a safe and non-damaging support system for objects placed near or partially outside building windows, particularly in urban areas, to prevent objects from falling and comply with stringent safety regulations without modifying the building.

Innovation Solution

A modular apparatus comprising first, second, and third members that exert opposing forces on the interior and exterior surfaces of a building to securely hold objects in place, using adjustable components made of lightweight yet strong materials like steel, aluminum, or fiber-reinforced plastic, allowing for various object sizes and building configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If support structures are built into the building to secure objects at windows, then the objects are securely supported, but the building is permanently altered or damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity of object supportVSAvoidbuilding damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The support system is divided into multiple independent components: interior support elements that attach to the window interior surface, exterior support elements that attach to the window exterior surface, and connecting elements that bridge between them. This segmentation allows the system to provide reliable support without requiring permanent modification to the building structure, as each component can be independently installed and removed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary support elements (such as brackets, clips, or adapters) that mediate between the object and the window structure. These intermediaries distribute the load across multiple attachment points on both the interior and exterior surfaces, providing secure support while minimizing damage to the building through reversible attachment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional support structures are used to hold objects outside windows, then objects are secured, but safety regulations are violated due to falling hazards

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveobject securityVSAvoidfalling hazard

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the support system into interior and exterior components connected by bridging elements, the patent creates a redundant support structure that prevents object failure. The interior components provide primary support while exterior components provide secondary support and stabilization, ensuring objects remain securely held even under adverse conditions like wind or accidental impact.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support system incorporates protective features such as safety cables, redundant attachment points, and load-distributing structures that are built into the design from the beginning. These elements provide beforehand cushioning by distributing forces and preventing catastrophic failure, thereby eliminating falling hazards before they can occur.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Ease of operation

If a non-modular support system is used, then installation is simple, but the system cannot accommodate various object sizes and building configurations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidaccommodation of various objects

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support system employs adjustable and reconfigurable components that can be dynamically adapted to different objects and building configurations. Interior and exterior support elements come in multiple sizes and types, and connecting elements can be adjusted in length and angle, allowing the same basic system to accommodate various object sizes while maintaining simple installation procedures through standardized attachment mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs universal support components that can serve multiple functions and accommodate various objects. The modular elements are designed with standardized interfaces and adjustable features that allow them to work with different object types, sizes, and weights, as well as different building window configurations, thereby providing both versatility and ease of installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9909712B1Supporting an object at a window of a building by applying opposing forces to an interior surface and an exterior surface of the building with a first member and second member joined about their intermediate sections

Publication Date: 2018.03.06 NATION WIDE PRODUCTS LLC

AI summary

An apparatus for supporting an object at a window of a building comprises a first member, a second member, and a third member. The first member extends along at least a partial width of the window and abuts an interior surface of the building. The first member is configured to support the object by exerting an outward force on the interior surface of the building in response to a downward force exerted by the object. The first member also comprises at least two sections extending from the interior of the building to the exterior of the building. These sections may extend from the interior of the building to the exterior of the building about respective distal ends of the first member. The sum of the forces applied on the surfaces of the building are sufficient to secure the object to the building.