Espagnolette Fitting with Reversing Gear for Independent Locking and Tilting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing espagnolette fittings for windows and balcony doors do not allow for tilting of the sash relative to the frame while maintaining locking functionality, as both espagnolettes are locked or unlocked simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

Designing the espagnolette fitting with two drive bolts where one bolt creates the locking position and the other creates a tilted position, with one bolt being positioned further from the locking edge, allowing for independent locking and tilting functions, and utilizing a reversing gear with a toothed rack and gear wheel to facilitate these movements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If both drive bolts are used to lock the sash in the frame simultaneously, then the locking reliability is improved, but the ability to tilt the sash is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking reliabilityVSAvoidtilting capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The locking function is segmented into two independent drive bolts: the first drive bolt handles locking/unlocking operations, while the second drive bolt handles tilting operations. This segmentation allows each bolt to perform its specific function independently, resolving the contradiction between maintaining locking reliability and enabling tilting capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between different operational states: in the locked position, both drive bolts engage the locking edge for secure locking; in the tilted position, only the second drive bolt engages while the first is retracted, allowing the sash to tilt. This dynamic configuration enables both locking reliability and tilting capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the second drive bolt is positioned further from the locking edge, then the tilting function is enabled, but the locking effectiveness is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetilting functionVSAvoidlocking effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking edge is segmented into two distinct engagement zones: a first engagement zone closer to the locking edge for the first drive bolt that provides strong locking, and a second engagement zone further from the locking edge for the second drive bolt that enables tilting. This spatial segmentation allows each drive bolt to optimize its position for its specific function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If a reversing gear is added to enable independent drive bolt movements, then the tilting capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetilting capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A reversing gear acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two drive bolts, converting the rotational motion of one drive bolt into opposite rotational motion of the other. This intermediary mechanism enables independent control of the two drive bolts with a single actuator, achieving tilting capability while managing device complexity through a well-established mechanical principle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If both drive bolts are retracted from the locking edge in the central position, then the structural effort for rotary opening is reduced, but the locking security is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural effortVSAvoidlocking security
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically configures the engagement state of drive bolts based on the desired operation: in the locked position, both drive bolts engage the locking edge for maximum security; in the rotary open position, both are retracted to minimize structural effort; in the tilted position, only the second drive bolt engages. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between structural effort and locking security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables the sash to be tilted relative to the frame while maintaining secure locking, reducing structural complexity and enhancing stability, with a pre-assembled design for simplified assembly and increased security against unauthorized unlocking.

Implementation Method 1

a gear wheel (26) arranged between the two espagnolettes (16, 17), both toothed racks (27, 28) meshing, and that the gear wheel (26) is mounted on a stationary component

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGear mechanism: Gear

Data Source

PatentEP2921622B1Drive bolt fitting
Publication Date: 2016.12.21 WINKHAUS
  • EP2921622B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2921622B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~4b

AI summary

A locking bolt fitting (4) for a window has two locking bolts (16, 17) that can be actuated in opposite directions. The locking bolts (16, 17) are positioned opposite a frame assembly (14) which has a recess (29) for receiving the locking bolts (16, 17). One locking bolt (16) creates a locked position of the window, while the other locking bolt (17) allows the window to be moved into the tilt position.