Flexible Activation Mechanism for Window Locking Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window locking systems are complex and expensive, relying on eccentric solutions to convert linear movements into rotational movements for activating brake mechanisms, which are inefficient and costly.

Innovation Solution

A flexible activation mechanism using a leaf spring that can deform elastically to transfer rotational movements to a cylinder, housed in a cylinder housing with engagement means, allowing for a strong and simple mechanical connection that can withstand varying loads and optimize torque application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If an eccentric solution is used to convert linear movement into rotational movement, then the window can be locked in different positions, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow locking in different positionsVSAvoidmechanical transmission system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a flexible membrane (thin film) as the activation means that can be displaced over the corner under elastic deformation. This flexible membrane replaces the complex eccentric mechanical transmission system, directly transferring movement from the handle to the brake mechanism while maintaining the ability to lock the window in different positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical eccentric transmission system with a more direct activation mechanism. The flexible membrane acts as a mediator that converts the linear movement of the handle directly into activation of the brake, eliminating the need for complex eccentric linkages and reducing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If a complex mechanical transmission system is used to transfer movement over the corner, then the locking function is achieved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism functionVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible membrane provides a simple yet reliable way to transfer movement over the corner. This thin film component is easier and less expensive to manufacture compared to complex mechanical transmission systems, while still achieving the required locking function reliably.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The flexible membrane serves as an intermediary element that simplifies the transmission of movement. Instead of using complex mechanical linkages, the membrane directly connects the handle movement to the brake activation, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining functional reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Strength

If the cylinder is held in a cylinder housing with engagement means, then the construction strength and uniform functioning are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecylinder position stabilityVSAvoidcylinder housing structure
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cylinder housing with engagement means provides self-positioning and self-stabilization for the cylinder. The engagement means automatically secure the cylinder in the correct position under varying loads without requiring additional external fixing mechanisms, thereby improving strength while adding minimal complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Ease of operation

If the knob engages with the cam control from the outer side of the cylinder, then the torque applied to the knob is reduced, but the mechanical connection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque requirementVSAvoidknob-cam control connection
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of having the knob engage with the cam control from the inner side of the cylinder (conventional approach), the patent inverts the arrangement by having the knob engage from the outer side. This inversion reduces the torque required to operate the mechanism while the elongated body locked between the cylinder housing and cylinder maintains the mechanical connection's strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

The solution provides a cost-effective and efficient mechanism for locking windows in various positions by enabling easy bending around corners and distributing torque effectively, enhancing the system's stability and ease of use while minimizing space occupation.

Implementation Method 1

a flexible activation means (2) which can be displaced over the corner under elastic deformation and thereby push or pull the connection portion (3) transferring a rotational movement to the cylinder (4)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4056796B1A system for use in a window
Publication Date: 2024.08.14 MILA BESLAG
  • EP4056796B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4056796B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

System for a corner in a door a window or another object which system comprises a corner section with a first surface portion (20) and a second surface portion (30) positioned substantially perpendicular to each other. These are intended for embedding in a track in the corner of a door, a window or another object which comprises a brake activation upon rotation of a rod. The system comprises: a rotatable cylinder (4) for engagement with the rod so as to enable it to activate the brake, and a flexible activation means (2) which can be displaced over the corner under elastic deformation and thereby push or pull a connection portion (3) transferring a rotational movement to the cylinder (4). The connection portion (3) comprises a knob (5) adapted to a sliding engagement with a cam control (6) of the cylinder which cam control (6) and knob (5) are mutually adapted in such a way that the cylinder (4) rotates around its center axis (c) when the knob (5) is pulled in the longitudinal direction of the cylinder (4) while the knob (5) is engaged with the cam control (6) and moved in same.