Motorized Recessed Window with Wireless Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Many recessed windows are difficult to open due to weight, expansion from heat, or age, posing challenges for the elderly or those lacking upper body strength, and manual operation is time-consuming and inconvenient.

Innovation Solution

A remote-controlled recessed window system with a motorized mechanism using opposing tracks within a wall channel, actuated by a wireless device, allowing the pane to slide between open and closed positions, and featuring an engagement member for locking, enabling convenient and distant operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual operation is used to open recessed windows, then the window can be opened, but it requires significant upper body strength and is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of window operationVSAvoidtime required for window operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation system with an automated motorized system. The motor assembly (including motor, gear assembly, and screw mechanism) automatically moves the pane along the tracks, eliminating the need for manual lifting and pushing forces, thereby resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and time required.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The window system performs its own operation through the motorized mechanism that automatically opens and closes the pane based on wireless signals. The engagement member automatically locks and unlocks the pane at designated positions, making the system self-sufficient without requiring continuous manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If manual operation is used to open recessed windows, then the window can be opened, but it poses challenges for the elderly or those lacking upper body strength

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility for elderly or weak usersVSAvoidupper body strength required
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent eliminates the need for upper body strength by replacing manual mechanical operation with an automated motorized system. The motor assembly generates the necessary force to move the pane along the tracks, completely removing the physical effort requirement from the user's side.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The wireless communication system acts as an intermediary between the user and the window operation. Instead of directly applying physical force to the window, the user simply activates a wireless device that transmits signals to control the motorized mechanism, thereby eliminating the strength requirement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If a motorized system is added to enable remote operation, then convenience and accessibility are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote operation capabilityVSAvoidcomplexity of window mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a nested structure where the motor assembly is integrated within the wall channel, the gear assembly is nested within the motor housing, and the engagement member is incorporated into the track system. This nesting approach consolidates multiple components into a compact integrated unit, reducing overall complexity despite adding motorized functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The motorized system serves multiple functions: it opens and closes the pane, locks and unlocks the pane at designated positions, and enables remote operation. The engagement member simultaneously provides positioning and security functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby managing complexity.

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

4Strength

If the pane is made heavy for durability, then the window is more robust, but it becomes harder to open manually

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow robustnessVSAvoidmanual opening difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction by replacing manual mechanical operation with an automated motorized system. The motor assembly generates the necessary force to move heavy panes along the tracks, allowing durable heavy panes to be operated easily without manual lifting effort.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The motorized system acts as a counterweight to the pane's weight, providing the necessary force to move and position heavy panes. The engagement member provides additional mechanical advantage by locking the pane at positions, effectively counteracting the weight issue.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Data Source

PatentUS10378266B2Remote controlled recessed window
Publication Date: 2019.08.13 WALDEN TERRY
  • US10378266B2 patent drawing
  • US10378266B2 patent drawing
  • US10378266B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A remote controlled recessed window. The remote controlled recessed window includes a channel disposed within a wall, wherein a pair of opposing tracks are disposed within the channel. A pane having a first side and a second side is disposed within a frame. The first side and the second side are slidably engaged with the pair of opposing tracks. A motor is disposed within the channel and is operably connected to the pane such that the motor can slide the pane along the pair of opposing tracks between an open position and a closed position. A wireless receiver is in electrical communication with the motor. A wireless device can communicate with the wireless receiver to actuate the motor.