Self-Balancing Double-Hung Window Cable Pulley Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing double-hung window assemblies lack an efficient mechanism for balancing and positioning sashes, leading to difficulty in moving and maintaining sashes in desired positions, especially when dealing with varying sash sizes and weights.
Innovation Solution
A self-balancing double-hung window mechanism utilizing a fixed length cable, pulley, and adjustable bracket assemblies that allow for equal and opposite movement of upper and lower sashes, with fine-tuning capabilities through adjustment members to accommodate different sash sizes and weights, while also forming a continuous jamb wall for air and moisture sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed length cable with pulley is used to balance sashes, then sashes can balance each other to assist movement, but the mechanism lacks adaptability for varying sash sizes and weights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the bracket assembly adjustable rather than fixed. The adjustment member allows the distance between the cable attachment point and sash support point to be varied, enabling the mechanism to adapt to different sash weights and sizes while maintaining the same basic structural components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of cable attachment position by incorporating an adjustment member that modifies the effective length or positioning of the cable relative to the sash. This allows the balancing mechanism to be tuned for different sash configurations without requiring completely different hardware.
2Ease of operation
If traditional balancing mechanisms are used, then sashes can be balanced, but difficulty remains in moving and maintaining sashes in desired positions
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is designed to be self-adjusting through the interaction of its components. As the sash moves or settles, the adjustment member allows the system to automatically find and maintain its equilibrium position, reducing the need for manual intervention while ensuring reliable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism incorporates inherent feedback through the cable-pulley-bracket system. When the sash is moved to a desired position, the tension in the cable and the geometry of the bracket assembly provide natural feedback that helps maintain that position, allowing users to easily set and hold sashes at various heights.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable bracket assemblies are used to accommodate varying sash sizes, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: the bracket body, the adjustment member, and the connection points. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall assembly more adaptable while keeping individual parts relatively simple and manageable.
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 mechanism enables effortless balancing and positioning of sashes, accommodating various sizes and weights, while ensuring a sealed environment by preventing air and moisture passage between jamb channels, thus enhancing user convenience and window performance.
Implementation Method 1
The pulley may support the cable. The housing may support the pulley for rotation relative to the housing.
Implementation Method 2
The fixed length cable may include first and second ends. Movement of one of the sashes in a first direction causes corresponding movement of the other one of the sashes in a second direction opposite the first direction.
Implementation Method 3
The adjustment member may threadably engage the first bracket.
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanism is provided for balancing and positioning a sash of a self-balancing double-hung window assembly. The mechanism may include a fixed length cable, a pulley, first and second brackets and an adjustment member. The fixed length cable may include first and second ends. The pulley may support the cable. The first bracket may include one or more attachment points relative to the first end of the cable and may include an upper end and a lower end. The second bracket may be movable relative to the first bracket and may be configured to support the sash. The adjustment member may engage and extend through the lower end of the first bracket and may be movable relative to the first bracket to cause corresponding movement of the second bracket relative to the first end of the cable.