Adjustable Window Security Device with Sliding Magnet Track

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window security systems lack flexibility in allowing users to select a preferred partially open position for venting, as the pre-set vented position may not align with the user's ideal choice.

Innovation Solution

A security device with a magnetic member housed in a track system that allows adjustable positioning along a window, enabling the magnetic member to be slid to different locations for varying venting positions, while maintaining anti-intruder protection by using a contact switch to transmit closed or open signals based on the magnetic member's proximity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If two magnets are attached to the window at fixed positions, then the security device can detect closed and vented positions, but the end user cannot adjust the preferred vented position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of vented positionVSAvoidcomplexity of magnetic member positioning mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic member is made adjustable rather than fixed, allowing it to be repositioned along the window jamb to different vented positions. The housing contains a magnetic member that can be moved to different locations and secured at desired positions, providing dynamic adaptability while maintaining security functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the magnetic member housing is made longer to allow adjustment, then the magnetic member can be positioned at multiple locations, but the device occupies more space on the window

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of adjustable positionsVSAvoidlength of housing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The housing is segmented into functional zones: a magnetic member reception area, an elongate body providing structural support and housing for the magnetic member, and mounting features. The elongate body extends along the window jamb to provide adjustment range, but the magnetic member itself remains compact within the housing structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Length of stationary object

If the magnetic member is made smaller to reduce housing size, then the device is more compact, but the magnetic field strength may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesize of magnetic memberVSAvoidsecurity detection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic member is positioned at specific locations within the housing to optimize its function. The housing contains the magnetic member in a reception area that positions it effectively for detecting window positions. The magnetic member's size and position are optimized to provide sufficient magnetic field strength for reliable reed switch activation while maintaining a compact overall device size.

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

Provides users with the flexibility to select their preferred venting position, ensuring both security and functionality by allowing adjustable venting without compromising the security system's functionality.

Implementation Method 1

magnetic member located in a housing... A contact switch adapted to provide a first output signal, or a normal closed signal, to a security system when the contact switch is in proximity to the magnetic member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS7312705B2Security device with adjustable magnet location
Publication Date: 2007.12.25 RESIDEO USA LLC
  • US7312705B2 patent drawing
  • US7312705B2 patent drawing
  • US7312705B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A security device that is adapted to be affixed along a window to provide anti-intruder protection while providing the ability to open the window a variable amount for venting an area. The security device comprises a magnetic member, located in a housing, and means for mounting the magnetic member at a desired location along the housing. The means for mounting the magnetic member may comprise a track extending substantially along the length of the housing and means for slidingly engaging the magnetic member along the track, whereby the magnetic member may be engaged at a desired location. The security device further comprises a contact switch adapted to provide a closed signal to a security system when the contact switch is in proximity to the magnetic member and an open signal when the contact switch is not in proximity to the magnetic member.