Roof Window Lock Casing With Impact-Absorbing Deformation Slits

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing roof windows are prone to damage and inadvertent opening when subjected to sudden, severe load changes such as impacts, as the mounting brackets become overly stiff, causing other parts to break while attempting to maintain the window's position.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating deformation sections, specifically deformation slits adjoining arcuate tracks in the lock casing, to allow controlled plastic deformation and absorb energy during impacts, thereby reducing strain on the window structure and preventing unintended opening.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If mounting brackets are made amply stiff to hold the window in place under severe weather conditions, then the window's position stability is improved, but other parts of the window break during impacts and the window may inadvertently open

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow position stabilityVSAvoidwindow structure strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The lock casing is designed with inherent deformation capacity to absorb impact energy before it can damage other window components. The casing's structural design allows it to yield and deform under extreme loads, cushioning the blow and preventing the window from being forced open while maintaining overall position stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The lock casing's structural parameters are optimized to balance stiffness and deformability. By adjusting material properties, wall thickness, and geometric features, the casing achieves sufficient rigidity for normal operation while retaining the ability to deform controllably under impact loads, resolving the contradiction between stability and strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If the lock casing is made of sturdy material and sufficient dimensions to allow substantial deformation without breaking, then the deformation capability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelock casing deformation capabilityVSAvoidlocking assembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The locking assembly is divided into modular components, with the lock casing as a distinct replaceable unit. This segmentation allows the casing to be designed with optimized deformation characteristics without complicating the entire locking system, as each module can be independently designed, manufactured, and replaced.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lock casing is designed as a sacrificial component that can be replaced after absorbing impact energy. Rather than designing the entire locking assembly for extreme durability, the casing serves as a cost-effective, replaceable element that protects more critical components, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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

The solution effectively absorbs energy from sudden impacts, protecting the window structure and preventing it from opening inadvertently, while maintaining the window's structural integrity and allowing for easy replacement of the lock casing.

Implementation Method 1

at least one deformation section configured to allow the locking assembly to undergo plastic deformation when the roof window is subjected to a sudden, severe load change such as an impact

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPlastic deformation: Plasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3626904B1A roof window with an improved lock casing
Publication Date: 2021.05.05 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP3626904B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3626904B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

In a roof window comprising a frame, a sash, and a locking assembly (10) connecting the sash with the frame, the locking assembly (10) is provided with at least one deformation section (31, 32, 33, 34) configured to allow the locking assembly (10) to undergo plastic deformation when the roof window is subjected to a sudden, severe load change such as an impact. The deformation sections are provided as deformation slits (31, 32, 33, 34) in the lock casing (20) of the locking assembly (10).