Espagnolette Fitting Retainer with Segmented Projections

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing retaining elements for connecting rods in window fitting grooves lack reliable longitudinal fixation, leading to potential displacement and instability.

Innovation Solution

A rigid, inelastic projection is arranged transversely to the connecting rod's longitudinal direction, designed to press into the side wall of the fitting groove, providing support at two ends and ensuring secure positioning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If resilient projections are designed as protruding tongues held at one end and oriented perpendicular to the support surfaces, then the retaining element can engage behind groove projections, but the projections can be deformed perpendicular to their orientation and thus along the length of the fitting groove, resulting in unreliable longitudinal securing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveengagement capability behind groove projectionsVSAvoidlongitudinal securing of fitting component

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining element is divided into functionally distinct projections: resilient projections for transverse engagement and rigid projections for longitudinal engagement. This segmentation allows each projection type to specialize in its optimal function without interfering with the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retaining element combines materials with different mechanical properties - resilient material for projections requiring deformation capability and rigid material for projections requiring dimensional stability. This composite approach enables simultaneous achievement of adaptability and reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Force

If clamping fixing sections project beyond the drive rod and are supported against the side walls of the fitting groove, then the retaining element can provide clamping force, but longitudinal displacement of the fitting part along the fitting groove is still possible

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclamping forceVSAvoidlongitudinal fixation

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining element is divided into functionally distinct projections: resilient projections for transverse engagement and rigid projections for longitudinal engagement. This segmentation allows each projection type to specialize in its optimal function without interfering with the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the retaining element are given different mechanical properties - resilient projections for transverse engagement and rigid projections for longitudinal engagement. This local differentiation ensures that each area performs its specific function optimally.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If spring-loaded projections are designed to be resilient for engaging groove projections, then adaptability to different groove configurations is improved, but the projections can be deformed along the length of the fitting groove, compromising positional reliability

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveengagement with groove projectionsVSAvoidpositional accuracy in fitting groove

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining element is divided into functionally distinct projections: resilient projections for transverse engagement and rigid projections for longitudinal engagement. This segmentation allows each projection type to specialize in its optimal function without interfering with the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the retaining element are given different mechanical properties - resilient material for projections requiring deformation capability and rigid material for projections requiring dimensional stability. This local differentiation ensures that each area performs its specific function optimally.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 design enhances clamping force and stability, preventing longitudinal movement and ensuring the fitting part is reliably fixed within the groove, even in tight spaces, while simplifying production and reducing material usage.

Implementation Method 1

resiliently designed projections facing the side walls of the fitting groove

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a rigid projection is arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction of the drive rod and is designed to be inelastic for pressing into the side wall of the fitting groove

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP2444574B1Holder element of a fitting part of an espagnolette fitting

Publication Date: 2019.07.31 WINKHAUS

Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4

AI summary

The holder (6) has resiliently projection (19) and a support surface (14-16) supporting a face-plate and an operating rod of the fitting element. The resilient projection has a closed arc such that the plane of the arch of the resilient projection is in parallel to the support surface for supporting the faceplate.