Single Control Box for Dual Window Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal insulation and solar protection installations for buildings with multiple openings require high-cost, complex systems with duplicated control mechanisms for independent actuators, which are inefficient and difficult to install for openings of different types.
Innovation Solution
A single system with two overlapping openings of different types, housed in a compact, easy-to-install box, using a single electronic control card and actuators with motors and reduction gears, allowing independent control of each opening type without mechanical interference, and adaptable to various configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two independent actuators are installed for thermal insulation and solar protection, then both functions are achieved, but cost increases due to duplicated control means
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two independent actuator systems into a single integrated actuator that controls both the solar protection opening and thermal insulation opening. The actuator housing contains a single motor and control unit that drives both openings through a unified mechanical transmission system, eliminating duplicated control means while maintaining both protective functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator is designed with multi-functionality to control different types of openings (solar protection and thermal insulation) with different movement requirements. The actuator can independently adjust each opening's position, angle, and speed through a programmable control unit that adapts to the specific functional requirements of each opening type.
2Device complexity
If a system with openings of the same type is used, then control is simplified, but adaptability to different opening types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow it to adapt its operation mode based on the specific opening type being controlled. The control unit can switch between different control algorithms and mechanical transmission configurations to accommodate solar protection openings, thermal insulation openings, or combinations thereof, maintaining simplicity while achieving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator system allows for parameter changes in motor speed, torque, positioning accuracy, and mechanical transmission ratios to match the specific requirements of different opening types. The control unit can be programmed with different operational parameters for solar protection (prioritizing speed and coverage) versus thermal insulation (prioritizing positioning precision and sealing).
Data Source
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AI summary
The system (40) has two actuators (50, 60) comprising motors (52, 62) for driving hinged jibs (56, 66) that are attached with opening frames (20, 30). A hollow box (42) accommodates the motors of the actuators. An electronic control board (48) is communicated with the actuators and configured to either dependently or independently control the actuators. An output shaft (54) of the motors and the hinged jibs extend out of the hollow box. The actuators are placed on two sides of the control board in the hollow box.