Espagnolette Handle Nesting in Window Lock Case

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lock devices for double-leaf doors and windows face challenges in simplifying the actuation of locking rods without increasing installation space, as known designs either require a flat hand lever for difficult operation or a large construction volume for the actuating handle.

Innovation Solution

The locking rod actuating handle is positioned inside the bolt or latch receiving recess in the passive wing lock's lock case, allowing for easy access and operation, with a return spring and guide groove to facilitate manual actuation and prevent jamming, and can be designed as an L-shaped or pivoting handle with a stop device for enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the actuating handle is lowered into a separate receiving chamber in its rest position, then the actuating handle can be easily accessed, but the construction volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility of actuating handleVSAvoidconstruction volume of lock case
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating handle is nested within the bolt receiving recess or latch receiving recess of the lock case. In its rest position, the handle is received inside these recesses, which are already part of the lock case structure. This nesting approach allows the handle to be accessible without requiring a separate receiving chamber, thus avoiding increased construction volume while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of stationary object

If the actuating handle is designed as a flat hand lever, then the construction volume is reduced, but the ease of actuation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstruction volume of lock caseVSAvoidease of actuation of locking rods
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating handle is designed with an L-shape configuration, where one leg provides a compact profile for reduced volume while the other leg extends to provide a sufficient actuation surface. This local differentiation of the handle geometry allows it to maintain a compact overall form while still providing adequate leverage and ease of actuation for the locking rods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Volume of stationary object

If the actuating handle is positioned inside the bolt receiving recess or latch receiving recess, then the construction volume is reduced and accessibility is improved, but the risk of jamming increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstruction volume of lock caseVSAvoidrisk of jamming of actuating handle
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A return spring is introduced as an intermediary element between the actuating handle and the locking mechanism. The return spring continuously applies a force to the handle, ensuring it returns to its rest position and preventing it from becoming stuck or jammed in the actuated position. This mediator element reliably resets the handle without increasing the overall construction volume

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This configuration simplifies the actuation of locking rods, reduces the risk of jamming, and maintains a compact design, ensuring easy operation and efficient locking mechanism functionality.

Implementation Method 1

The lock device preferably has a return spring. In this case, the actuating handle can be acted upon by the return spring. The return spring returns the latch bar actuator handle from the actuated position to the rest position.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

The lock case of the passive lock preferably has a guide groove and/or a guide slot for a guide pin fixed to the actuating handle. This simplifies manual actuation of the actuating handle and counteracts jamming of the actuating handle.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical guidance: Guided Rotor Compressor

Data Source

PatentEP2757216B1Lock device with espagnolette rod actuating handle
Publication Date: 2017.05.17 ASSA ABLOY SICHERHEITSTECHNIK GMBH
  • EP2757216B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2757216B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2757216B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The locking device has an active sash lock for mounting in or on an active leaf (1) with a lock box (10k) with a lock mechanism with an extendable and retractable lock bolt (10f) and an extendable and retractable latch (10r). A connecting unit (10n) is arranged in the lock box and is provided for an actuating handle for removing and retracting the lock bolt and the latch. A lock cylinder is connected for key operation with the lock bolt and the latch. Another connecting unit is arranged in another lock box (20k) of a passive sash lock (20).