Espagnolette Fitting Pivotable Limiting Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing espagnolette fittings for windows and French doors are uncomfortable to operate when switching between limiting and removing the opening width limitation, due to complex handling mechanisms and limited adjustability.
Innovation Solution
The connecting rod fitting design allows disconnection of the limiting device in the open position, with a pivotably mounted limiting element and dual coupling means for secure positioning, enabling easy switching between locking, ventilation, and open positions, and includes an actuator for secure movement control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a stop piece is inserted in a slot to limit opening width, then the opening width is limited, but the slot also limits opening width when the stop piece is removed and the handling is uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting element is designed to be dynamically switchable between two states: connected to the frame-side fitting arrangement (limiting opening width) and connected to the sash-side fitting arrangement (removing limitation). This dynamic reconfiguration allows the device to adapt its function based on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between limiting and removing limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive rod changes the positional parameter of the limiting element between two discrete positions. In the first position, the limiting element connects to the frame-side fitting; in the second position, it connects to the sash-side fitting. This parameter change enables easy switching between limiting and removing the opening width limitation through a single operational action.
2Reliability
If the limiting device has a slider guided along an opening limiter with a locking stop, then the opening width is limited, but the handling is very uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting device is segmented into distinct functional components: the limiting element, the drive rod, and two separate coupling means (frame-side and sash-side fittings). This segmentation allows the limiting element to be independently positioned and connected to either fitting arrangement, simplifying operation while maintaining reliable limiting functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the limiting element fixed to the frame and requiring complex mechanisms to release it, the invention inverts the approach by allowing the limiting element to be equally easily connected to either the frame-side or sash-side fitting. This inversion simplifies the release mechanism and makes handling comfortable while maintaining reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the limiting element is pivotably mounted on one of the fitting arrangements, then the connection can be disconnected, but the construction becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The limiting element serves multiple functions through its pivotable mounting: it can connect to the frame-side fitting arrangement to limit opening width, or connect to the sash-side fitting arrangement to remove the limitation. This multi-functionality is achieved through a relatively simple pivotable mounting mechanism, providing adaptability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivotable mounting acts as an intermediary mechanism between the limiting element and the fitting arrangements. This intermediary allows easy connection and disconnection while maintaining structural simplicity, enabling the limiting element to adapt between different operational modes without requiring complex mechanisms.
4Reliability
If dual coupling means are used for positive coupling, then the limiting element is reliably held, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into two separate coupling means: a frame-side coupling and a sash-side coupling. The limiting element can be positively coupled to either one, but not both simultaneously during normal operation. This segmentation provides reliable holding when connected while simplifying the overall device structure compared to a single complex coupling mechanism.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A drive rod fitting (3) for a window sash (2) that pivots against a frame (1) has a limiting device (7) for selectively limiting the opening width or allowing the movement of the sash (2). A pivotally mounted limiting element (14) can be optionally connected to a sash-side fitting assembly (13) or a frame-side fitting assembly (12). The limiting element (14) is actuated by a sliding drive rod (5).