Installing sign/frame to window mullions? Is it possible?

[White Haus]

We've got a customer looking to install a 4' x 8' snap frame that will go across a corner of a skywalk in a fairly high traffic setting. They don't want a base/floor stand of any sort. (see picture/mockup)

Found a 4' x 8' snap frame, no problem.

Where the problem is, however, is that they don't want to drill into the mullions to install. My idea was to buy/fabricate some kind of clamping system that I could fasten the snap frame to. Am I crazy? I can't find anything even remotely close and I'm at a dead end. I do have access to some great fabricators/welders but I don't even know how to design something like this from scratch. Customer is getting impatient and has now said they MIGHT be okay with drilling into the mullions.

Mullions are 2.5" wide by approx 6" deep. Frame weight is approximately 35 lbs.

I guess what I'm wondering is if anyone has ever come across this - either with or without drilling into mullions to support a sign frame?

I don't like coming here and begging for help...........but here I am with my tail between my legs.

Sincerely, lost and confused.

 

[Gino]

So, how far up is the ceiling ?? Can you suspend anything from above ?? If so, you could take the brunt of the weight and hang it from above and just use the mullions for stabilizers. Super thin fish line would work or piano grade cables. Hardly see them, if at all.

 

[White Haus]

So, how far up is the ceiling ?? Can you suspend anything from above ?? If so, you could take the brunt of the weight and hang it from above and just use the mullions for stabilizers. Super thin fish line would work or piano grade cables. Hardly see them, if at all.

Actual ceiling is probably 2-3 stories up. (no full view pictures from my site check of course)

There are beams running above (pics attached), but then I could still only support from the ends. I suppose that would still take most of the load like you said....

Do you think drilling into the mullions/frames is a no-no? I'm kind of anticipating this voiding the window warranty or something like that.

 

[Moze]

My thoughts....

Fab some U-channel brackets that slide over the mullions. Through-drill and tap the legs to allow for two 1/4 - 20 bolts on each side. Make the inside web about 1/4" wider than the mullions to allow for 1/16" rubber pads and .060" aluminum shims on each side (pads against the mullions, bolts against the shims). Use the bolts as clamps. On the outer web, fab angled braces to attach to the frames.

Simple, doesn't damage the mullions, easy install.

 

[ColorCrest]

My idea was to buy/fabricate some kind of clamping system that I could fasten the snap frame to.

Google "manfrotto super clamp." Retailers sometimes use them but hide the clamp itself behind a small attached, painted guard to keep prying hands away. The adjustment handle is removable. You might need to jenga 8 of them in total and also fab some angled stud pieces.

 

[Billct2]

I was thinking the same as Moze. Designed and fabricated well they would look good too

 

[White Haus]

My thoughts....

Fab some U-channel brackets that slide over the mullions. Through-drill and tap the legs to allow for two 1/4 - 20 bolts on each side. Make the inside web about 1/4" wider than the mullions to allow for 1/16" rubber pads and .060" aluminum shims on each side (pads against the mullions, bolts against the shims). Use the bolts as clamps. On the outer web, fab angled braces to attach to the frames.

Simple, doesn't damage the mullions, easy install.

Thank you Moze, I really like this idea. I'll propose this to the customer and see if they're game to go this route.

Thanks for all the great suggestions, I wish I would've asked you guys sooner!

I'll keep y'all posted with the progress.

 

[Johnny Best]

Like the clamps idea, no holes drilled

 

[ColorCrest]

2.5 inch you say? Pads? Angled @ 45?

Not a slam-dunk, but here is the Made in U.S.A. version I prefer to the Manfrotto...