Power Window Operator Lock Mechanism Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing power window operators lack the ability to control the timing and speed of lock/unlock motions relative to open/close motions, which can lead to inhibited opening or closing due to locked sash lock assemblies, and they often require specific knowledge to switch between motorized and manual operation.

Innovation Solution

The power window operator design includes a motorized system with a drive rack and lock operator gear that controls the lock/unlock motion independently of the open/close motion, allowing for seamless switching between motorized and manual operation without requiring automation knowledge, ensuring the sash can open and close without being restricted by locked assemblies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the lock operator is connected directly to the operator arm without independent control, then the device complexity is reduced, but the sash lock assembly may inhibit opening or closing operations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanism complexityVSAvoidopening/closing operation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The power window operator separates the lock/unlock function from the open/close function by providing independent control mechanisms. The operator arm controls open/close motion while the lock operator independently controls lock/unlock motion, allowing each function to operate without interfering with the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lock operator is configured to unlock the sash lock assembly before the operator arm moves the sash from the closed position, and to lock the sash lock assembly after the operator arm completes closing the sash. This preliminary action prevents the locked sash lock assembly from inhibiting opening or closing operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If the power window operator provides only motorized operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to manual operation scenarios is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemotorized operation convenienceVSAvoidmanual operation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power window operator is designed with dual operation capability, allowing it to function both as a motorized power operator and as a manual operator. The operator arm can be rotated manually to open or close the sash, and the lock operator can be manually operated to lock or unlock the sash lock assembly, providing versatility for different operational scenarios.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11591840B1Power window operators, windows and methods
Publication Date: 2023.02.28 ANDERSEN CORPORATION
  • US11591840B1 patent drawing
  • US11591840B1 patent drawing
  • US11591840B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Power window operators, windows including the power window operators, and methods of using the same are described herein. The power window operators may offer the ability to control the timing and/or speed of the lock/unlock motion relative to the open/close motions of the operator arm of the power window operator and, if provided, a sash being driven by the power window operator.