Outswinging Window Sash Wash Mode Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Casement windows face challenges in balancing egress and cleaning accessibility, as the sash's movement into the window opening reduces emergency egress space and makes exterior cleaning difficult due to proximity to the jamb.
Innovation Solution
A window assembly with a dual operational and wash mode, featuring a hinge assembly and actuator arm that allows the sash to move from a perpendicular position to a position where the exterior can be accessed for cleaning without compromising egress, using a worm gear assembly and links to manage the sash's movement between closed, open, and wash positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sash is moved to the egress position (perpendicular to the frame), then emergency egress capability is improved, but exterior cleaning accessibility deteriorates because the sash is too close to the window jamb
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly introduces a dynamic third position (wash mode) between the closed and fully open positions. The sash can be held at an intermediate angle where the exterior surface is accessible for cleaning while maintaining structural stability through the hinge assembly and drive mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The operation is segmented into distinct modes (closed, wash, egress) with the wash mode being a separate, dedicated position. The drive mechanism allows independent positioning at the wash mode without requiring the sash to be fully open, separating the cleaning function from the egress function
2Ease of operation
If the sash is moved into the window opening during rotation to egress position, then the window operation is simplified, but the clear opening area for egress is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is designed to minimize lateral movement of the sash during rotation. The sash rotates primarily on its hinge axis without significantly encroaching into the window opening, dynamically maintaining a larger clear opening area while still achieving full opening capability
3Area of stationary object
If the sash is kept in the closed position, then exterior cleaning is difficult to access, but egress space is maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The wash mode provides a dynamic intermediate position where the sash is partially open, creating optimal geometry for exterior cleaning access while maintaining adequate egress space. This position is stabilized by the hinge assembly and can be held without requiring the sash to be fully open
Solution Approach 2:
The window assembly serves multiple functions through different positions: the wash mode enables exterior cleaning, the egress position maximizes emergency exit capability, and the closed position provides security and weather protection. A single mechanism handles all these functions
Data Source
AI summary
A window assembly including a frame having an interior portion with an inner surface, and a sash having an interior portion and an exterior portion. The window assembly includes an operational mode and a wash mode. In the operational mode, the sash is movable from a closed position to a position in which the sash is generally perpendicular with the frame. In the wash mode, the sash is movable to a position where the exterior of the sash faces toward the interior frame.