Fenestration Head Slide for Sliding-and-Pivoting Panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for improved sliding and pivot fenestration units that offer enhanced functionality and versatility in operation.

Innovation Solution

The fenestration system includes a frame with a sliding and pivot panel configuration, utilizing a locking pivot wheel assembly that allows the panel to slide and pivot, and a screen carrier that facilitates the operation of a screen with the panels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a panel is configured to both slide and pivot, then the versatility of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation versatilityVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the sliding and pivoting functions into a single integrated mechanism. The panel assembly includes a panel, rider, and pivot assembly that work together as one unit, allowing the panel to perform both sliding motion along the track and pivoting motion outwardly from the frame without requiring separate mechanisms for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The rider assembly serves multiple functions: it guides the panel along the track during sliding operation, supports the pivot assembly, and provides structural connection between the panel and frame. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed while enabling both sliding and pivoting operations.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a locking mechanism is added to enable pivot mode, then the functional capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism is designed to engage and disengage automatically based on the panel's position and motion. When the panel is pushed outwardly beyond the frame plane, the lock automatically engages to secure the panel in pivot mode. When the panel returns to the sliding position, the lock automatically disengages. This self-actuating design eliminates the need for manual operation or complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism transitions from a static component to a dynamic one that responds to the panel's motion. The lock engages and disengages based on the panel's position relative to the frame, adapting its state automatically during operation to enable mode switching without requiring additional control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the panel can pivot outwardly beyond the frame plane, then the ventilation and access capability is improved, but the risk of sliding during pivot operation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening capabilityVSAvoidoperational stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism engages in advance before the panel reaches its fully pivoted position, securing the panel to prevent unintended sliding. The lock activates when the panel begins its outward motion, ensuring that once the panel is in pivot mode, it remains stable and cannot slide along the track during the pivoting operation or when subjected to external forces like wind or user interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250290365A1Fenestration System With Head Slide
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 PELLA CORP
  • US20250290365A1 patent drawing
  • US20250290365A1 patent drawing
  • US20250290365A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sliding and pivoting fenestration unit, such as a sliding door, with screen. Embodiments of the fenestration unit include a locking and height-adjustable pivot rider, a head slide, a screen carrier, and a method of operation.