Integrated Power Window Operator With Self-Locking Arm

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power window operators for casement and awning windows require separate locks and complex mechanisms, increasing installation and maintenance costs due to the need for precise alignment and additional components.

Innovation Solution

Integration of a power drive mechanism with a lock mechanism, utilizing a motorized window operator that includes a guide pin and pivot pin system to control the movement of an operator arm, which self-locks when the window is closed, reducing complexity and costs by eliminating the need for separate sensing devices and additional motors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate locks and sensing devices are used to determine window unlock status, then the window can be protected from damage, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow protectionVSAvoidmechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is integrated directly into the operator assembly, combining the previously separate lock and power drive functions into a single unified mechanism. The lock pick and lock body are incorporated into the operator housing and arm structure, eliminating the need for separate sensing devices and triggers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The operator arm serves multiple functions: it acts as both the power transmission linkage and the lock actuator. The lock pick is integrated into the operator housing, allowing the same structural components to perform both window operation and locking functions simultaneously.

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

2Reliability

If multiple motors and planetary gear systems are used for precise alignment, then the window operation is reliable, but the manufacturing and installation cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is integrated directly into the operator assembly, combining the previously separate lock and power drive functions into a single unified mechanism. The lock pick and lock body are incorporated into the operator housing and arm structure, eliminating the need for separate sensing devices and triggers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The complex planetary gear systems and separate motors for lock actuation are removed from the design. Only a single motor remains, which drives the operator arm through a simplified gear mechanism, while the lock function is achieved through the integrated mechanical linkage of the operator arm itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Adaptability or versatility

If separate lock mechanisms are used, then the locking function is independent, but the overall system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking independenceVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is integrated directly into the operator assembly, combining the previously separate lock and power drive functions into a single unified mechanism. The lock pick and lock body are incorporated into the operator housing and arm structure, eliminating the need for separate sensing devices and triggers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 integrated solution simplifies the installation and maintenance of powered window drives, reduces costs, and ensures safe operation by automatically locking the window when closed, thereby protecting the drive mechanism and window from damage.

Implementation Method 1

a gear section that meshes with a matched helical angle worm gear driven by a motor. The worm gear causes the arm to be extended and retracted with rotational movement about a pivot in the center of the arm gear section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWorm drive: Worm Drive

Data Source

PatentUS10119318B1Integrated power window operator
Publication Date: 2018.11.06 ANDERSEN CORPORATION
  • US10119318B1 patent drawing
  • US10119318B1 patent drawing
  • US10119318B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Power window operators and windows incorporating the power window operators are described herein. The power window operators include both a guide pin and guide pin slot, as well as a pivot pin and pivot pin slot to control movement of an operator arm.