Integrated Drive Locking System for Smoke Extraction Sash

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing smoke and heat exhaust systems with window or door sash systems face challenges in reliably locking the sash in a closed position, particularly due to incorrect triggering by external factors like wind or children, leading to potential incomplete closure and security issues.

Innovation Solution

A drive system integrated with a locking device and dual securing mechanisms, where a first trigger secures the locking device in an unlocked position until the sash is fully closed, and a second trigger ensures simultaneous operation to prevent incorrect unlocking, utilizing a single drive for both opening and locking functions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single release mechanism is used to unlock the locking device, then the system is simpler in design, but the reliability of preventing incorrect unlocking is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism designVSAvoidprevention of incorrect unlocking
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The single release mechanism is segmented into two interdependent release mechanisms (first and second release mechanisms). Each mechanism controls a portion of the unlocking process, and both must be actuated simultaneously to achieve full unlocking. This segmentation prevents incorrect unlocking while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking device is designed with preliminary positioning features that require both release mechanisms to be actuated before the locking device can move to the unlocked position. This preliminary action sequence ensures that accidental or premature unlocking cannot occur, as both release mechanisms must be engaged in the correct sequence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If multiple locking points are distributed around the sash circumference, then security is improved, but the assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of closed positionVSAvoidassembly of locking points
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple locking points are merged into a single integrated locking device that can engage with multiple counter-elements distributed around the sash circumference. The locking device acts as a unified component that simultaneously controls all locking points, eliminating the need for separate assembly operations at each location and reducing overall assembly complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking device is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it engages with counter-elements at different locations around the sash, provides distributed security, and is controlled by a single actuation system. This multi-functionality allows one component to achieve what would otherwise require multiple separate locking mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of manufacture

If the locking device is integrated into the sash or frame, then assembly is simplified, but the precision of locking positioning must be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration of locking deviceVSAvoidlocking position accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated locking device incorporates self-aligning features and tolerance-compensating mechanisms that allow it to automatically position itself accurately during assembly. The design includes features such as self-centering elements and adjustable components that eliminate the need for high-precision manufacturing, as the locking device itself performs the positioning function during installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking device design allows for parameter adjustments during assembly, such as adjustable engagement positions and flexible mounting options. These parameter changes enable the system to accommodate variations in manufacturing tolerances while maintaining accurate locking positioning, thereby reducing the stringency of precision requirements during manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3757335B1Drive system for a wing
Publication Date: 2024.09.11 GEZE GMBH
  • EP3757335B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3757335B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3757335B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a drive system for a sash of a door or window, in particular for a smoke and heat extraction system, comprising: an actuating element for a locking device for locking the sash to a frame of the door or window, which is integrated into the sash or the frame; and a drive which is coupled to the sash, the frame and the actuating element in such a way that the sash can be moved between an open position and a closed position by the drive and the locking device can be adjusted between an unlocked and a locked position via the actuating element when the sash is closed.