Lifting Device Linkage Modulates Bias Force for Variable Inclination Windows

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lifting devices for openable structures, such as windows, face challenges in adapting to different installation inclinations, leading to inconsistent moment forces during opening and closing, limiting their flexibility and controllability across various installation situations.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of a linkage mechanism in the braking device of the slide shoe, comprising two brake members connected by a link at an angle with the guidance portion, allows for a broader range of force modulation, enabling the same lifting device to be used in structures with varying inclinations, and includes features like a hinge connection, U-shaped or rod-shaped guidance portions, and friction-adjusting layers for enhanced functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a high degree of bias is used to assist opening movement when the first member forms a small angle relative to the second member, then the opening assistance is improved, but the bias becomes too high for the remaining part of the opening movement and the device cannot place the first member in an arbitrary position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening assistanceVSAvoidpositioning flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The braking device dynamically modulates the bias force through a linkage mechanism with two brake members connected by a link extending at an angle. This dynamic adjustment allows the bias to be high during initial opening movement and automatically reduce as the first member opens, enabling arbitrary positioning throughout the opening range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The linkage mechanism changes the effective bias parameter during operation. As the first member opens, the geometry of the linkage (link extending at an angle to guidance portion) causes the bias force to vary, providing high assistance initially and reducing it subsequently, thereby achieving both opening assistance and positioning flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If the structure is installed in a surface with small inclination, then a high degree of bias is required to assist opening movement, but the bias will be too high for the remaining part of the opening movement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening movement assistanceVSAvoidinstallation situation adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The braking device with the linkage mechanism provides universal adaptability to different installation situations. The mechanism can accommodate various inclination angles by modulating the bias force appropriately, making the same lifting device suitable for both small and large inclination installations without requiring redesign.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamic modulation capability of the linkage mechanism allows the device to adapt to different installation inclinations. The bias force automatically adjusts based on the operational phase and installation angle, providing optimal performance across various installation scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If the bias is adjusted to match the weight moment during opening, then the opening operation is optimized, but the bias and friction must be overcome during closing resulting in a higher moment during closing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening operation efficiencyVSAvoidclosing moment
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The braking device converts the harmful effect of friction during closing into a beneficial controlled deceleration. By modulating the bias through the linkage mechanism, the device ensures that the combined bias and friction forces during closing are properly managed, allowing controlled closing operation while maintaining optimal opening performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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 solution provides a flexible and reliable lifting device that can handle different installation conditions by modulating the force and moment effectively, allowing the window to be opened and closed smoothly across a wider range of angles, even in structures with varying roof inclinations, and optimizes the hysteresis effect for improved operation.

Implementation Method 1

a braking device, wherein said braking device modulates the force resulting from the bias

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

a lifting arm having two ends, one end intended to be pivotally connected with the first or second member of the structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

the other end associated with a biased slide shoe intended to be movable with respect to the second or first member of said structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP1873323B1A lifting device and a window comprising such a lifting device
Publication Date: 2011.05.18 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP1873323B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1873323B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP1873323B1 patent drawingFigure 4a~4b

AI summary

The lifting device (10) has a lifting arm (14), one end of which is intended to be pivotally connected with the first or second member of the structure and the other end associated with a biased slide shoe (20) intended to be mounted on the second or first member of said structure. In order to modulate the force from the bias, a braking device is provided in the slide shoe.