Actuation Device for Espagnolette Fitting Connecting Rod

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing drive devices for espagnolette fittings, which combine manual and motorized drive means, result in large dimensions and delayed movement due to complex constructions, particularly when using electromagnets for coupling, leading to increased costs and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A movable coupling mechanism is introduced between the motorized drive means and the drive rod, allowing for a form fit that can be easily engaged or released, driven by a single motorized drive means, simplifying the structure and enabling delay-free operation with a compact actuating device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If a movable coupling means is introduced between the motorized drive means and the drive rod, then the drive mechanism achieves delay-free operation and reduced structural complexity, but the device requires additional components for the coupling mechanism

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrive delayVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a movable coupling means as an intermediary component between the motorized drive means and the drive rod. This coupling means includes a driver fastened to the drive rod and at least one drive element that can be moved into or out of the driver's movement range. The coupling means acts as a mediator that enables delay-free power transmission while maintaining simple construction through straightforward engagement and disengagement mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If a single motorized drive means is used to drive both the connecting rod and the coupling means, then the construction is simplified and costs are reduced, but the motor must perform multiple functions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrive means constructionVSAvoidmotor function versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the universality principle by designing a single motorized drive means that performs multiple functions: it directly drives the connecting rod and also drives the coupling means between its two positions. The motorized drive means is constructed to accommodate both driving tasks through a unified design, reducing overall device complexity and cost while maintaining the ability to perform multiple functions through proper mechanical arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the drive element is pivotally or slidably guided for releasing or generating positive locking, then the control of connecting rod movement is simplified, but the mechanism requires additional guidance structures

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositive locking controlVSAvoidguidance structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic principles by making the drive element pivotally or slidably guided rather than fixed. This allows the drive element to dynamically adjust its position and orientation during operation, enabling simple control of positive locking and releasing. The dynamic guidance structures permit smooth transitions between locked and unlocked states while maintaining relatively simple construction through common mechanical guidance techniques.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP1947274B1Actuation device for a fitting on a connecting rod
Publication Date: 2009.12.16 WINKHAUS
  • EP1947274B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP1947274B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5
  • EP1947274B1 patent drawingFigure 6~7

AI summary

Drive arrangement comprises a moving coupling device (11) arranged between a drive unit (7) and a connecting rod (9). The coupling device is arranged in a first position for interlocking between the drive unit and the connecting rod and in a second position for unlocking the connection. The coupling device has an adjusting unit connected to the drive unit. Preferred Features: The coupling device has a catch fixed to the connecting rod and a drive element which can be moved by the adjusting unit into or from the moving region of the catch.