Magnetic Latch Bolt for Sliding Window Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch devices for sliding window sashes lack sufficient security, as they may appear latched when they are not, or require manual manipulation to latch, leading to potential unauthorized entry.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic latch mechanism that automatically engages when the window sash is in the closed position without mechanical triggering, using a bolt with magnetic attraction to secure into a strike, ensuring the latch remains engaged even under external forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If mechanical triggering between moving and fixed elements is used for relatching, then automatic relatching occurs, but the sash may not be fully triggered and remain unlatched
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical triggering system with a magnetic field-based system. The magnetic actuating element generates a magnetic field that automatically attracts the bolt to the strike without requiring mechanical contact or triggering between the sash and frame, eliminating the reliability issues associated with mechanical triggering.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the moving sash element and the fixed frame element. Instead of direct mechanical triggering, the magnetic field mediates the interaction, providing a more reliable and consistent latching mechanism that does not depend on precise mechanical alignment or contact.
2Ease of operation
If manual manipulation is required to achieve latching, then the latch can be operated, but security is compromised as the sash may appear latched but remain unlatched
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system performs the latching action automatically without requiring manual manipulation. The magnetic actuating element automatically attracts the bolt to the strike when the sash is in the closed position, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the risk of apparent latching without actual latching.
3Force
If mechanical force is applied to operate the latch, then the bolt can engage the strike, but the sash may move away and fail to latch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes mechanical force with magnetic attraction. The magnetic actuating element generates a magnetic field that attracts the bolt to the strike without applying mechanical force to the sash, preventing the sash from moving away and failing to latch.
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
Provides enhanced security by ensuring the window sash is always latched when closed, resisting external forces and eliminating the need for manual manipulation, thus preventing unauthorized entry.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic actuating element, and biasing means coupled between the magnetic actuating element and the bolt whereby when the latch is disposed relative to a strike in a position where the bolt can engage with the strike a magnetic attraction between the strike and the magnetic actuating element occurs
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly for use with a window sash sliding mounted with a window frame. The latch includes at least one bolt (18) moveable in a body (10) between a retracted position and a projecting position. In the projecting position the bolt 18 is engageable in cavity in a strike (12). A connecting mechanism in the form of cranks (20) couple the bolt 18 to an operating member (14), which is part of latch furniture (11). A magnetic actuating element (29) and a biasing element (33) are coupled to the bolt (18) whereby when the latch body (10) is disposed relative to a strike (12) in a position where the bolt (18) can engage with the strike (12) a magnetic attraction between a magnetic part (26) of the strike and the magnetic actuating element (29) occurs to draw the bolt (18) into latching engagement with the strike (12).