Cam-Based Window Lock Gearbox Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing espagnolette window and door lock systems face challenges in securely positioning the gearbox during fabrication and installation, as they require a handle for proper alignment and retention, making it difficult to ensure the lock is correctly positioned and securely attached without screws.
Innovation Solution
An assembly featuring rotatable cams with tooth forms and spigots, which can be connected to a window gearbox using peening or clips, and a moulding that fits into a T-shaped slot, allowing for adjustable securement without screws, ensuring the gearbox remains firmly in place during transit and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If retaining screws are used to secure the gearbox to the window, then the gearbox is firmly fixed in position, but the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for retaining screws by extracting the fastening function and replacing it with a cam-based mechanical locking system. The cam mechanism provides firm fixation through its geometric shape and rotational locking action, eliminating the complexity of screw installation while maintaining gearbox stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam acts as an intermediary element between the gearbox and the window handle. It mediates the connection by providing a mechanical interface that secures the gearbox in position during fabrication and installation, replacing the need for separate retaining screws.
2Ease of operation
If the gearbox is secured without a handle, then the installation process is simplified, but the lock is not securely positioned and may move during handle fitting
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is pre-installed on the gearbox during fabrication, performing the preliminary action of positioning and securing the gearbox before the handle is fitted. This preliminary securing action ensures the gearbox remains stable and does not move during subsequent handle installation, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and positioning reliability.
3Manufacturing precision
If the gearbox is fabricated with the lock in place, then the lock positioning can be ensured, but it is difficult to supply the window with the lock securely positioned without a fitted handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the installation process into distinct phases: first, the cam mechanism is installed on the gearbox during fabrication to ensure precise lock positioning; second, the cam provides continuous securing during transit and installation; third, the handle is fitted later without disturbing the locked position. This segmentation maintains manufacturing precision while providing installation flexibility.
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
The assembly securely attaches the window lock gearbox to the window vent profile, maintaining its position until final fitting, ensuring correct alignment and secure fixation without the need for screws, facilitating efficient and accurate installation.
Implementation Method 1
As the cam is rotated, the cam causes the moulding to expand so that edges of the moulding clamp onto edges of the slot
Implementation Method 2
The camming faces of each cam may have a tooth form which allows the cam component to rotate in one direction and prevents the cam from rotating in the opposite direction
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An assembly 1 for connecting a first component 2 to a second component 7 comprises a first component 2 and a cam 3. The cam 3 is connectable to the first component 2. When the cam 3 is rotated the first component 2 can be connected to the second component 7.