Actuated Tilt-Turn Roof Window With Fixed-Handle Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tilt and turn type roof windows require unintuitive user operations to select between tilt and turn modes, are aesthetically unappealing, and may suffer from mechanical complexity leading to reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A tilt and turn type roof window with an electrically driven actuator that allows intuitive operation by maintaining the first handle in a fixed position during both tilt and turn modes, featuring a lock that interlocks the interconnecting part with the fixation frame, enabling the actuator to operate the movable unit without manual pre-selection of modes, and incorporating a second lock for enhanced security and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a first handle is used to unlock a lock that directly interlocks the fixation frame and movable unit, then the window can be opened, but the user operation becomes unintuitive and complex requiring multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the unlocking function from the first handle and relocates it to the control device. The first handle is removed from the unlocking operation entirely, leaving only the simple function of selecting opening mode. The control device assumes full responsibility for unlocking the lock, eliminating the need for users to manually manipulate handles in specific sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical handle-based unlocking system with an electronic control system. The control device uses electrical signals to actuate the lock mechanism, substituting complex mechanical handle operations with simplified electronic control. This allows the first handle to remain in a fixed position while still enabling mode selection, as the unlocking action is performed electronically rather than mechanically through handle manipulation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple handles are used to control different functions (unlocking and mode selection), then functionality is achieved, but the number of components increases and aesthetics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the control device universal by integrating multiple functions into a single electronic unit. The control device handles both mode selection (replacing the need for a second handle) and unlocking operations (replacing the first handle's unlocking function). This multi-functional electronic control eliminates the need for multiple separate mechanical handles while maintaining all necessary control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the mode selection function from a hypothetical second handle and integrates it into the control device. By removing the need for a second handle entirely and consolidating all control functions into the electronic control device, the system achieves versatility without increasing the number of visible external components.
3Ease of operation
If manual pre-selection of opening mode is required, then mode control is achieved, but user interaction time increases and operation becomes less intuitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the control device automatically determine and prepare the appropriate opening mode based on pre-stored operational parameters or sensor inputs. Instead of requiring users to manually select modes each time, the system has pre-configured modes and can automatically select or switch between them based on conditions such as window position, weather sensors, or user preferences stored in memory.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device performs self-service by automatically managing mode selection without requiring user intervention. The system monitors its own state and autonomously determines the appropriate opening mode, eliminating the need for users to spend time manually selecting between tilt and turn modes. The first handle simply remains in its fixed position while the electronic system handles all intelligent decision-making.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a tilt and turn type roof window (1) for a building. A movable unit (3) is in a tilt mode (TIM) configured to turn relative to the fixation frame (2) around a tilt axis (AX1). The movable unit (3) is in a turn mode (TUM) configured to be turned by an actuator (9) relative to the fixation frame (2) around a turn axis (AX2). The movable unit (3) is supported by an interconnecting part (11, 11a, 11b) and is configured to move relative to the interconnecting part (11, 11a, 11b) around said turn axis (AX2) in the turn mode (TUM). A first handle (8) is configured to be moved from a first handle position (HP1) to a second handle position (HP2) by a human user so as to set the movable unit (3) in the tilt mode (TIM). A first lock (12,12a 25) is configured to interlock the interconnecting part (11, 11a, 11b) and a fixation frame (2) of the window 1. The first lock (12, 25) is configured to be in an unlocked state in the tilt mode (TIM) so that the interconnecting part (11, 11a, 11b) is movable relative to the fixation frame (2). The actuator (9) is configured to provide a turning of the movable unit (3) around the turn axis (AX2) while the first lock (12, 25) is in the locked state and while the first handle (8) remains in said a first handle position (HP1).