Motorized Sash Lock with Sweep Cam and Gear Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Sliding windows are difficult to automate due to the lack of a reliable automatic system to lock the sash, leading to potential damage to motors and windows, and increased vulnerability to breaches when sash locks are not manually operated.

Innovation Solution

A motorized system that automatically unlocks and locks the sash using two motors, one on each side of the lock, with a standard cammed sweep lock mechanism, preserving structural integrity and sealing characteristics, and utilizing a gear system and position sensors for coordinated movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manually rotated sash locks are used on motorized hung windows, then the window security is improved, but the motor and drive system may be damaged due to user forgetfulness

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewindow securityVSAvoidmotor damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The sash lock system automatically detects the window's position and locks/unlocks itself without requiring manual user intervention. The system monitors sash movement and autonomously engages or disengages the locking mechanism, eliminating the risk of motor damage from user forgetfulness while maintaining continuous security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates sensors that detect the sash position and provide feedback to the control system. This feedback mechanism enables the automated lock to know when the window is closed and locked, and when it should be unlocked for operation, preventing motor damage while ensuring security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Object-affected harmful factors

If sash locks are removed entirely to prevent motor damage, then the risk of motor damage is reduced, but the window becomes vulnerable to breach

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemotor damage riskVSAvoidwindow security

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The automated sash lock system serves itself by automatically locking when the window closes and unlocking when the window opens, eliminating the need for manual operation while maintaining security. This removes the vulnerability of having no lock while preventing motor damage through automated control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical locking system with an automated electromechanical system that uses motors and control electronics to perform the locking function, substituting human operation with automated mechanisms to achieve both safety and security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Shape

If powered sash systems do not use sash locks due to aesthetic concerns, then the appearance is improved, but the window performance is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaesthetic appearanceVSAvoidwindow performance

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the motor housing and sash lock mechanism into a single integrated unit, merging previously separate components into one unified structure that maintains clean aesthetics while providing both motorized operation and secure locking functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sash lock mechanism is nested within the motor housing, placing the locking components inside the existing motor assembly. This nesting approach maintains the sleek external appearance while housing the necessary locking mechanisms, preserving both aesthetics and performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Length of moving object

If two motors are used in the sash lock system, then the profile is reduced and symmetry is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelock profile heightVSAvoidmotor system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the locking function into two separate motors positioned on opposite sides of the sash, with each motor responsible for one side of the locking mechanism. This segmentation reduces the overall profile height and creates symmetry, while the modular structure actually simplifies the control architecture by making each motor's function independent and straightforward.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

Enables reliable automatic locking and unlocking of sash windows without compromising structural or sealing integrity, reducing the risk of damage and breaches, while maintaining a low profile and symmetrical aesthetics.

Implementation Method 1

a motor; a rotating element connected to the motor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the rotating element has at least one of a worm gear and a lead screw

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWorm drive: Worm Drive

Data Source

PatentUS11220845B2Powered sash lock and control systems therefor

Publication Date: 2022.01.11 ANDERSEN CORPORATION

AI summary

A system for locking a position of an operable sash in a window frame has a motor, a rotating element connected to the motor, and a sweep cam. The sweep cam is configured to rotatably engage a keeper disposed on a sash disposed opposite the operable sash. A spur gear operatively connects the rotating element to the sweep cam.