Adjustable Fenestration Interlock Assemblies for Building Tolerance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Fenestration systems face challenges in accommodating changes in building structure dimensions and angles due to lack of sufficient adjustment features, particularly in multi-panel sliding doors where precision fitting is compromised by building structure imperfections and movement.

Innovation Solution

The development of adjustable interlock assemblies for sliding fenestration systems, which allow for adjustments in position and shape to match changing building opening dimensions, using fixed base and head track positions with adjustable intermediate portions, and cam mechanisms to maintain optimal interlock engagement without requiring removal of sliding panels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If fixed interlock structures are used in sliding fenestration systems, then manufacturing and installation are simplified, but the system cannot accommodate changes in building structure dimensions and angles

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of interlock structureVSAvoidability to accommodate building structure changes

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The interlock assembly incorporates adjustable components that allow the interlock structure to be repositioned and reconfigured after installation. The adjustment mechanism enables the interlock assembly to adapt to changes in building structure dimensions and angles, transforming a static fixed structure into a dynamic adjustable one that maintains proper engagement with sliding panels despite structural variations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows modification of key parameters including the position of the interlock structure relative to the building opening, the angle of the interlock members, and the spacing between interlock components. These parameter changes enable the interlock assembly to accommodate variations in building structure while maintaining functional engagement with sliding panels.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable interlock assemblies are implemented, then adaptability to building structure changes is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability to building opening variationsVSAvoidcomplexity of interlock assembly

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The interlock assembly is divided into distinct modular components including the base member, interlock members, and adjustment mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function and enables independent adjustment of different parts of the assembly, simplifying the overall design while providing the necessary adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

An adjustment mechanism serves as an intermediary component between the fixed base member and the interlock members. This intermediary element facilitates the transmission of adjustment forces and enables controlled repositioning of the interlock structure without requiring complete disassembly or complex reconfiguration of the entire system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If intermediate portions of panel interlock members are moved to adjust for building structure changes, then sealing and engagement are improved, but the number of moving parts increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvequality of interlock engagementVSAvoidnumber of moving parts

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adjustment capability is localized to specific intermediate portions of the panel interlock members rather than requiring adjustment of the entire structure. This localized adjustment approach allows precise correction of engagement issues at specific points while maintaining the stability and simplicity of other parts of the interlock assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 precise adaptation to building structure changes, ensuring optimal sealing and movement of sliding panels while maintaining structural integrity and accessibility, without the need to disassemble or reposition existing components.

Implementation Method 1

In one or more embodiments, the adjustment mechanism comprises a cam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Data Source

PatentUS10422173B1Interlock assemblies for fenestration systems and methods

Publication Date: 2019.09.24 ANDERSEN CORPORATION

AI summary

Interlock assemblies for sliding fenestration systems that provide for adjustment of the position and/or shape of the interlock assemblies and methods of adjusting the position and/or shape of the interlock assemblies are described herein. The interlock assemblies for sliding fenestration systems may be adjusted after installation to accommodate changes in the position and/or shape of the sides of building opening on which a stationary interlock structure is mounted.