Integrated Sash Lock and Tilt Latch with Screwless Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window hardware for single hung and double hung sliding sash windows lacks an efficient and easy-to-install integrated sash lock and tilt latch solution that allows for secure sliding and pivoting functionality without mechanical fasteners.
Innovation Solution
An integrated sash lock and tilt latch fastener system that includes a lock assembly with a locking cam and pivotable lever arm, and a latch assembly with a biasing means and flexible funnel members, allowing for secure engagement and operation without screws, with a single handle member for cooperative actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an integrated sash lock and tilt latch system is implemented, then functional integration and ease of operation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sash lock and tilt latch into a single integrated fastener assembly that mounts to the meeting rail. The lock assembly with locking cam and the latch assembly with latch member are merged into one unit, allowing both locking and tilting functions to be controlled by a single handle member, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining manageable complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated fastener assembly provides multiple functions within a single device: the locking cam prevents sliding movement, the latch member prevents pivoting movement, and both are actuated by the same handle member. This multi-functionality allows the system to perform both sash locking and tilt latching operations without requiring separate mechanisms, improving operational convenience.
2Ease of manufacture
If screwless installation is implemented, then ease of installation and removal are improved, but installation reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The lock assembly and latch assembly are designed as separate but integrated components that can be independently installed into the meeting rail. The lock assembly with its locking cam and the latch assembly with its latch member are segmented such that each can be inserted and secured without mechanical fasteners, allowing for easy installation and removal while maintaining secure positioning through the rail's structural features.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a pivotable lever arm with post extending into meeting rail hollow is added, then interconnection capability between lock and latch assemblies is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotable lever arm with its post extending into the meeting rail hollow serves as an intermediary component that connects the lock assembly and latch assembly. The lever arm's post interacts with the latch member's funnel-shaped opening, enabling the locking cam's movement to automatically actuate the latch member, thereby improving interconnection capability while keeping the added complexity manageable through a single intermediary element.
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 secure locking and pivoting of sliding sash windows, facilitating easy installation and removal, while allowing for sliding and pivoting functions without mechanical fasteners, enhancing user convenience and window maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The locking cam is configured to rotate out from a cavity in the housing to engage a keeper on the master window frame
Implementation Method 2
The biasing member of the latch assembly may be configured to normally bias the latch member so that a portion of the tongue protrudes out from the meeting rail
Implementation Method 3
The flexible funnel member may deflect during such engagement, so that the post of the pivotal lever arm protruding into the interior hollow of the meeting rail may be received within an opening formed by the fixed funnel member and the flexible funnel member
Data Source
AI summary
A combination sash lock and tilt latch secures a sash window that is slidable and tiltable with respect to a master window frame. The fastener includes a lock assembly and latch assembly. The lock assembly is releasably mounted upon the sash window meeting rail without screws, using legs received within corresponding openings in the rail. The lock assembly is releasably secured thereto by a spring causing engagement between the legs and rail openings. The lock assembly includes a pivotable cam to releasably engage a keeper on the master frame, and a pivotable arm extending into the meeting rail. The latch assembly includes biasing means and a latch member with a plurality of openings, each configured to receive the post of the lock assembly, within the meeting rail, with the lock assembly installed thereon in any one of a plurality of positions corresponding to said openings in said latch member.