Auto Cam Lock for Sliding Window Latching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window latching mechanisms, such as check rail locks and sliding latch bolts, often fail to automatically latch when the window is closed, leading to incomplete closure and potential damage, as the operator may not notice the window is fully secured or closed.
Innovation Solution
A cam latch mechanism with a spring-driven actuating mechanism that automatically engages when the window is closed, disengaging for opening and re-engaging when the window is closed, ensuring secure latching without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a check rail lock with sweep cam is used, then the window can be locked, but the handle can be rotated so that the sweep cam is extended even when the sash is open, preventing full closure and causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The cam latch mechanism dynamically adjusts its position based on the sash state. The cam rotates automatically to extend when the sash is closed and retract when the sash is opened, eliminating the need for manual handle rotation and preventing the extended position from interfering with sash closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism automatically performs the latching action without requiring manual intervention. The cam and spring assembly self-actuates to engage the keeper when the sash is closed, and self-retracts when opened, making the system autonomous and eliminating operator error.
2Reliability
If a sliding latch bolt is used, then the window can be secured, but the bolt must be held in a retracted position and either releases as soon as the window is raised or must be manually released
Solution Approach 1:
The cam latch provides dynamic positioning automatically. When the sash is closed, the cam rotates to extend and engage the keeper. When the sash is opened, the cam automatically retracts. This eliminates the need for separate bolt holding mechanisms and automatic release systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the bolt holding and release functions from separate mechanisms and integrates them into the cam's rotational movement. The cam's extension and retraction automatically perform both the securing and releasing actions, simplifying the overall device complexity.
3Extent of automation
If a cam latch mechanism is used, then automatic latching can be achieved, but the mechanism must be confined in a retracted position by the keeper during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The actuating mechanism uses a spring-loaded cam that dynamically extends and retracts based on the sash position. The spring provides the restoring force to return the cam to its retracted position after engagement, creating an automatic cycle that requires no additional control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam latch operates in a periodic cycle: extending to engage the keeper when the sash is closed, retracting when the sash is opened, and automatically re-extending when the sash returns to the closed position. This periodic action eliminates the need for complex control systems.
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 a simple and comfortable automatic latching solution that ensures windows are fully closed and secured, preventing unintentional opening and damage, while being easy to manufacture, assemble, and install.
Implementation Method 1
a cam resilient means for giving the cam a resilient force adapted to drive the cam to rotate from the retracted position to the extending position
Implementation Method 2
an actuator resilient means for giving the actuator a resilient force adapted to drive the actuator to move from the retracted position to the extending position
Data Source
AI summary
An auto cam lock is disclosed here. The disclosed auto cam lock comprises a lock housing assembled with a cam and an actuator; a cam adapted to rotate between an extending position and a retracted position, the cam being adapted to be engaged with and retained by the lock housing when the cam is in the retracted position; a cam resilient means for giving the cam a resilient force adapted to drive the cam to rotate from the retracted position to the extending position; an actuator operatively coupled with the cam, said actuator being adapted to move between an extending position and a retracted position, and said the actuator being adapted to release the cam from the cam's retracted position retained by the lock housing when the actuator moves from the actuator's extending position to the actuator's retracted position; and an actuator resilient means for giving the actuator a resilient force adapted to drive the actuator to move from the retracted position to the extending position.