Top-Hung Roof Window Actuator and Locking Mechanism
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional roof windows lack seamless manual and electrical operation, especially during emergencies when electric power is unavailable, and require high force to compress seals for secure locking.
Innovation Solution
A top-hung roof window with a motorized electric actuator and a dual-part locking mechanism that allows manual and electrical operation, featuring a handle for manual unlocking and a balancing arrangement for reduced operational force, ensuring the sash can be moved and locked securely in both modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized electric actuator is provided for electrical operation, then automation and convenience are improved, but the ability to operate manually during emergencies or installation is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed to serve dual purposes: it functions as a motorized actuator during normal operation and as a manual cranking mechanism during emergencies or installation. The actuator housing includes a cranking opening that allows manual insertion of a crank tool, and the internal gear mechanism can be manually operated to move the sash when electrical power is unavailable.
2Reliability
If a compressible seal or gasket is provided to seal the sash to the frame, then sealing performance is improved, but the force required to compress the seal increases operational difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
A balancing arrangement consisting of counterweights is provided to offset the weight of the sash and the force required to compress the seal. The counterweights are connected to the sash through a linkage mechanism that translates the rotational motion of the actuator into linear motion, providing mechanical advantage and reducing the force required at the actuator input.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is provided to secure the sash in closed position, then security is improved, but the complexity of the mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is integrated with the actuator assembly, eliminating the need for separate locking components. The actuator includes a locking cam that engages with a locking surface on the sash when the sash is in the closed position, providing automatic locking upon closure. This integration reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall mechanism.
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 seamless electric and manual operation, allowing the window to be opened and closed with low force, ensuring secure locking and easy manual operation even without electrical power, while maintaining any open position due to friction and actuator assistance.
Implementation Method 1
allowing the sash to be movable to any open position against the action of a balancing arrangement and to be holdable in any open position due to friction and actuator assistance
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 2a~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A top hung roof window (1) with a rectangular frame (2) and sash (3). The sash (3) is pivotable about a horizontal axis at the top of the roof window (1). The sash (3) is manually movable and electrically movable. A handle (18) allows moving the sash (3) manually. A motorized electrically operated linear actuator (40) can move the sash (3) electrically. The sash actuator (40) is not self-locking and is movable by the sash (3) when the latter is manually moved by an operator. The sash (3) is configured to be electronically locked and unlocked and to be manually unlockable. A motorized electronically operated lock is provided for locking and unlocking the sash (3). The lock comprises two cooperating parts, a first part at or in the vicinity of the bottom of the frame (2) and a second part at or in the vicinity of the bottom of the sash (3). The second part is operably connected to a handle (18) or button (29) for manual unlocking of the sash (3). At least the first part or the second part is motorized for electric operation of the lock. The first part is provided with a first engagement member and the second part is provided with a second engagement member. At least one of the engagement members is electrically movable between an unlocking position wherein the engagement members can engage one another and a locking position wherein engagement members can interlock but neither engage- nor disengage one another. The second engagement member is manually movable from its locking position to its unlocking position.