Direct Action Window Lock Handle Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window locks for sliding windows do not provide an intuitive and secure locking mechanism that automatically engages when the window is closed, as they often require the handle to be moved in the opposite direction of the window sash opening, and lack a clear visual indication of the locked state.
Innovation Solution
A window latch mechanism with a handle that moves in the same direction as the window sash when opening, featuring a spring-biased engagement element that automatically locks when the window is closed and remains unlocked when open, providing a visual indicator of the lock's status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the handle is moved in the opposite direction of the window sash opening (as in conventional locks), then the locking mechanism can be released, but the operation becomes non-intuitive and confusing for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional handle operation direction. Instead of moving the handle opposite to the sash opening direction, the handle now moves in the same direction as the sash opening. This is achieved through a direct linkage mechanism where the handle is operatively coupled to the engagement element, allowing the handle to move from a first position to a second position in a first direction corresponding to the direction the sliding sash moves to an open position, thereby making the operation intuitive and eliminating confusion.
2Ease of operation
If the engagement element is automatically biased to the locked position (as in conventional locks), then security is maintained, but the handle cannot be easily held in the unlocked position when the window is open
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second spring element as an intermediary component to mediate between the first spring element (which biases the engagement element to the locked position) and the handle. The second spring element is operatively coupled between the handle and the engagement element, allowing it to counteract the biasing force of the first spring element when the handle is in the unlocked position. This enables the handle to be easily held in the unlocked position when the window is open, while maintaining security when closed.
3Reliability
If the handle returns to the first position automatically when the window is closed (as in conventional locks), then the locking mechanism engages automatically, but there is no clear visual indication of the lock's status
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes to provide visual indication of the lock's status. The handle or associated components are configured to display different colors or color patterns depending on whether the window is locked or unlocked. When the handle moves to the second position (unlocked), the color changes to indicate the unlocked state, and when it returns to the first position (locked), the color changes back to indicate the locked state, thereby providing clear visual feedback to users.
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
Ensures secure locking when the window is closed and easy operation when opening, with a clear visual cue indicating the lock's status, enhancing security and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
The engagement element is biased toward the extended locked position by a spring element
Data Source
AI summary
A window latch for a sliding window having a sliding sash including a latch plate and a housing. The housing includes an engagement element movable relative to the housing from a locked position operatively engaged with the latch plate to an unlocked position disengaged from the latch plate. A handle is operatively coupled to the engagement element and movable from a first position to a second position in a first direction corresponding to the direction the sliding sash to which the handle is attached moves to an open position. The handle operatively moves the engagement element from the locked position to the unlocked position as the handle is moved in the first direction toward the second position.