Pulley-Driven Motorized Window System for Wireless Retrofit Automation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing smart home technologies face challenges in automating motorized windows, including high costs for replacement, limited retrofit solutions for various window designs and sizes, difficulty in extending control wiring, power management issues, and the need for wireless control with minimal power consumption.

Innovation Solution

A wireless automated window system featuring a motorized frame with pulley wheels and a slidable segment, powered by rechargeable batteries with solar charging, and equipped with sensors for remote control and communication via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave networks, allowing for integration with cloud-based systems and user control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If motorized window systems are installed in existing buildings, then automation capability is improved, but wiring complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewindow automationVSAvoidcontrol wiring

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional wired mechanical control systems with wireless communication technology. The motorized window system communicates with control devices through wireless signals, eliminating the need for complex control wiring throughout the building while maintaining full automation capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary between the motorized window and control devices. This intermediary enables automated control without requiring physical wiring connections, simplifying installation in existing buildings while preserving automation functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Extent of automation

If motorized window systems are installed in existing buildings, then automation capability is improved, but retrofit adaptability is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewindow automationVSAvoidretrofit compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs the motorized window system with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate various window types, sizes, and configurations. The system includes adaptable mounting brackets and power connection options that work with both new installations and retrofits, making it versatile across different building scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs adjustable and reconfigurable mounting components that can be dynamically adapted to different window geometries. The mounting system allows for position adjustments and configuration changes to fit various retrofit scenarios without requiring custom-designed solutions for each window type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Use of energy by moving object

If solar panels are added to charge batteries, then power sustainability is improved, but system complexity and visual obstruction increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebattery chargingVSAvoidpower management system

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates the solar panel directly into the window structure itself, combining the solar energy harvesting function with the window's existing framework. This merging approach eliminates the need for separate, externally mounted solar panels and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining power sustainability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The window structure serves multiple functions: it provides the building envelope function while simultaneously housing integrated solar panels for power generation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, simplifying the overall power management system while achieving energy sustainability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 cost-effective automation of motorized windows with minimal modifications, providing efficient power management, extended battery life, and seamless remote control, while accommodating different window sizes and designs, enhancing home automation capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a pulley wheel affixed to and driven by the motor; a linear flexible material that forms a continuous belt, the linear flexible material wrapping around the pulley wheel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPulley: Pulley

Implementation Method 2

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10808446B2Pulley-driven automated window or door system

Publication Date: 2020.10.20 D&D SW LLC

AI summary

A motorized window with one or more motors and a frame with a slidable segment is disclosed. A drive system with pulleys engages with a belt or chain mounted to the frame or slidable segment. Rotating a first pulley in a first rotational direction causes the first pulley to pull the slidable segment in a first linear direction. Rotating the first pulley in a second rotational direction causes the first pulley to pull the slidable segment in a second linear direction. Preferably, a controller controls the operation of the motors. Sensors inform the controller, and user input via a mobile device enables both direct user control and programming of the controller.