Locking Bar Fitting Anti-Levering Strip for Window Frames

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking bar fittings for windows and doors can be vulnerable to unauthorized opening through levering, as the locking elements can be released using tools like screwdrivers, compromising burglary protection and aesthetics due to bulky frame configurations required for enhanced security.

Innovation Solution

A dimensionally stable metal strip with increased flexural rigidity, featuring longitudinal webs and an extruded profile, is indirectly connected to the frame member, covering locking elements and bars, making it impossible to bend open using tools, and can be retrofitted with self-tapping screws and an undercut groove for easy assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the locking bar fitting is directly connected to the frame member using only form-fitting engagement, then the assembly is simple and easy to install, but the locking elements are vulnerable to unauthorized opening through levering with tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveburglary protectionVSAvoidconnection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A dimensionally stable strip is introduced as an intermediary element between the locking bar fitting and the frame member. This strip serves as a mediator that provides both mechanical reinforcement against levering attacks and a stable mounting surface for screw connections, thereby enhancing burglary protection without requiring direct complex integration into the frame member structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The solution combines different connection methods (form-fitting engagement and screw fixation) on the same strip structure. The strip itself can be made from dimensionally stable materials that resist deformation, creating a composite connection system that leverages both mechanical engagement and threaded fastening to achieve high reliability against burglary attempts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If separate grooves are arranged next to one another for locking element and locking bar, then burglary protection is improved, but the frame spar becomes bulky and does not meet visual requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveburglary protectionVSAvoidframe profile
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of arranging grooves side-by-side in the horizontal dimension which increases frame width, the invention uses a single groove for form-fitting engagement while adding screw fixation in the vertical dimension through the strip. This dimensional transition allows burglary protection to be achieved without increasing the frame spar width, maintaining aesthetic requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If the locking bar fitting is securely connected to prevent levering, then burglary protection is enhanced, but retrofitting becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveburglary protectionVSAvoidretrofitting process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The anti-levering reinforcement is segmented into a separate removable strip that can be independently installed and removed. This segmentation allows the strip to be fitted onto existing frame members with standard grooves, enabling retrofitting without modifying the original frame structure or locking mechanism, thus maintaining ease of installation while enhancing security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2871306B1Assembly with a locking bar fitting on a frame construction
Publication Date: 2018.08.08 SCHUECO INTERNATIONAL KG
  • EP2871306B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2871306B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2871306B1 patent drawingFigure 3a

AI summary

An arrangement of a locking bar fitting (2) on a frame member (1) of a sash frame of a window or door, wherein the locking bar fitting (2) has at least one locking bar (3) held on the frame member (1) and at least one locking element (4) with a locking pin (5) attached thereto, wherein at least one strip (7) at least partially covering at least a part of the locking bar fitting (2) is firmly connected to the frame member (1).