Roof Window Spring Attachment Dynamics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing roof windows with pressure spring auxiliary opening devices suffer from excessive force exertion on side frame and sash members, leading to insulation deterioration, potential damage, and an undesirable aesthetic appearance due to the fixed point of attachment of pressure springs.

Innovation Solution

The pressure spring is rotatably attached to an arm, which is connected to a foot that moves in a longitudinal direction, allowing the pressure spring to neutralize forces not contributing to opening the window, thus reducing stress on the frame and sash members and improving aesthetics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the pressure spring is fixedly attached to the side frame and sash members, then the auxiliary opening function is provided, but large constant forces are exerted on the members causing offset and insulation deterioration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauxiliary opening functionVSAvoidwindow structure integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the attachment point of the pressure spring movable rather than fixed. The foot is configured to move in the longitudinal direction along the side frame member during window opening, allowing the pressure spring to dynamically adjust its position and neutralize harmful forces while maintaining the auxiliary opening function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the pressure spring is fixedly attached to provide auxiliary opening force, then the window can be helped to open, but the forces cause damage and deformation over time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewindow opening assistanceVSAvoidwindow service life
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The movable attachment mechanism allows the pressure spring system to adapt during operation, reducing cumulative damage. The foot's ability to move longitudinally during opening movement prevents the spring from exerting maximum force on fixed attachment points throughout the entire opening stroke, thereby extending the window's service life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the pressure spring is arranged to extend on the interior side of the frame during pivotal movement, then the opening function is maintained, but an undesirable aesthetic appearance is created

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveopening functionVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The movable foot attachment allows the pressure spring to be positioned and oriented more favorably during the opening movement. By allowing longitudinal movement of the attachment point, the spring can be arranged to extend on the exterior side of the frame during pivotal movement, maintaining the opening function while achieving a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This configuration reduces the likelihood of frame and sash member offset and deformation, maintaining insulation properties and enhancing the window's appearance by neutralizing forces that do not aid in opening, ensuring smooth operation and longevity.

Implementation Method 1

The pressure spring provides a spring force pushing the frame and sash members away from each other, thus forcing the window towards an open position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Implementation Method 2

The free movement of the foot in the longitudinal direction has the effect of substantially neutralizing any component of force exerted by the pressure spring in the longitudinal direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce neutralization through movable attachment:

Data Source

PatentEP2960411B1Smoke ventilating roof window arrangement
Publication Date: 2019.08.21 VKR HOLDING AS
  • EP2960411B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2960411B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2960411B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A roof window having a frame (101) and a sash (102), each having a top member (103, 107), a bottom member (104, 108) and two side members (105, 109), the sash (102) being pivotally connected to the frame (101) so that a pivotal opening movement of the sash (102) in relation to the frame (101) moves the window between a closed position and a fully opened position, wherein the window comprises a pressure spring (106), the pressure spring (106) over at least a part of the opening movement pushing the sash (102) against the fully opened position of the window, the pressure spring (106) at a first position (A) being rotatably attached to a first of the side sash members (109).