Fenestration Status Monitoring Using Single Sensor Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fenestration status monitoring systems require multiple sensors and additional components, which increase complexity, cost, and compromise aesthetic appeal by requiring additional space and visible installations.
Innovation Solution
A consolidated status monitoring assembly using a single sensor and sensor operator to detect the closed and locked conditions of a fenestration assembly, eliminating the need for multiple sensors and controllers, and integrating the monitoring system seamlessly within the fenestration components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple sensors and controllers are used to monitor fenestration status, then detection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (detecting closed position and locked status) into a single sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a sensor that detects both the closed position of the panel and the locked status through a unified detection mechanism, eliminating the need for separate sensors and controllers while maintaining reliable detection of security status.
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensor assembly performs multiple functions: it detects whether the panel is in the closed position and whether the locking mechanism is locked. This multi-functional sensor replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized sensors, reducing system complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors and controllers are installed, then monitoring accuracy is improved, but aesthetic appeal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple sensing functions into a single compact sensor assembly, the patent eliminates the need for multiple visible components on the fenestration assembly. This single integrated assembly can be discreetly positioned while maintaining accurate monitoring of both closed and locked conditions, preserving the aesthetic appearance of the fenestration.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If additional components are added for status monitoring, then detection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple detection capabilities into a single sensor assembly that can detect both panel position and locking status. This consolidation reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured, procured, and installed, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining comprehensive detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal sensor assembly performs multiple detection functions with a single component, reducing the bill of materials and assembly complexity. This multi-functional approach lowers manufacturing costs compared to implementing separate specialized sensors for each detection function.
Data Source
AI summary
A fenestration assembly includes a fenestration frame and at least one panel rotatably coupled with the fenestration frame. A locking mechanism is coupled with the fenestration frame and the panel, and includes at least one latch and at least one latch fastener. In a secure configuration the panel is in a closed position and the latch is coupled with the latch fastener. In an unsecure configuration the panel is in an open position or the latch is decoupled from the latch fastener. A status monitoring assembly is configured to monitor the secure and unsecure configurations, and includes a sensor operator coupled with one of the fenestration frame or the panel, and a sensor coupled with the other of the panel or the fenestration frame. The sensor is configured to detect the sensor operator if the panel is in the closed position and the latch is coupled with the latch fastener.