Window Trim with Live Hinge and Scored Segmentation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Commercially available window trims with adhesive edges often result in aesthetically undesirable adhesive showing around the frame or creating dirt-catching spaces, and require inventory of various sizes or on-site cutting for fitting.
Innovation Solution
A flat, elongated window trim with a longitudinally extending web forming a live hinge, scored for divisibility, and adhesive bands with removable backings to ensure a clean, adjustable fit and finished edge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If adhesive edge is applied to the frame of the replacement window, then the trim can be easily installed, but the adhesive may show around the periphery of the frame or create a dirt catching space
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive edge is extracted from the visible periphery of the trim and repositioned to the interior side, away from the frame edge. This allows the adhesive to perform its function while remaining hidden from view and preventing dirt accumulation at the exposed edge.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive application is moved from a two-dimensional surface problem to a three-dimensional spatial solution by positioning the adhesive in depth (inboard of the nub) rather than at the edge, creating a finished outer edge that conceals the adhesive.
2Ease of manufacture
If flat strips of plastic are adhesively applied to the replacement window frame, then the trim can cover the gap, but the adhesive may show around the periphery or create a dirt catching space
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive is extracted from the exterior visible surface and relocated to the interior side of the trim, allowing the exterior edge to remain clean and adhesive-free while maintaining the bonding function.
3Ease of manufacture
If extruded metal and plastic parts are inserted into the gap, then the gap can be covered, but the installer requires an inventory of different sized parts or must cut parts to size on site
Solution Approach 1:
The trim incorporates score lines that allow it to be easily divided into different widths on-site, transforming a static fixed-size product into a dynamically adjustable component that can be customized to fit various gap sizes without requiring multiple inventory items.
Solution Approach 2:
The trim is designed with pre-scored division lines that enable it to be segmented into different widths, allowing a single trim design to serve multiple size requirements through simple on-site division rather than requiring multiple pre-manufactured size variants.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the trim width is made adjustable to fit different window openings, then versatility is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The trim incorporates pre-scored division lines that enable it to be segmented into different widths, allowing a single trim design to serve multiple size requirements through simple on-site division rather than requiring multiple pre-manufactured size variants.
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
Enables easy installation with a clean, finished edge by allowing adjustable width and bendability, avoiding adhesive visibility and the need for multiple sizes, while maintaining a cosmetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
a first band of adhesive affixed to the rear face of the first land inboard of the nub along first edge and extending proximate the score line and a second band of adhesive affixed to the rear face of the second land inboard of the nub along the second edge
Implementation Method 2
a longitudinally extending web formed of a plasticized PVC co-extruded with first and second lands formed of rigid PVC, said web forming a flat live hinge
Data Source
AI summary
An adhesive backed window trim bendable and divisible along a hinge separating the trim into two strips with score lines in each strip. A nub is formed along the side edges of the window trim for use in providing a finished edge concealing the adhesive when the undivided trim or the trim strips are used during installation of a replacement window or the like. The trim is co-extruded from a rigid PVC and plasticized PVC with shallow furrows on the rear face forming the score lines.