Sash Lock with Automatic Trigger and Visual Indicator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manually checking multiple windows for their locking status is time-consuming and inefficient, as existing sash lock mechanisms lack an effective automatic locking feature and clear visual indication of their locked or unlocked status.
Innovation Solution
A sash lock with an automatic locking mechanism that includes a spring-driven tongue, which extends into a locking position when a trigger contacts the keeper, and a visual indicator on a pull tab to signal the lock's status, using a color change to differentiate between locked and unlocked positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual checking of each window is performed to verify locking status, then accurate status verification is achieved, but time consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a visual feedback mechanism through color-coded indicators (red for locked, green for unlocked) that provide immediate status information without requiring manual verification. The indicator system automatically reflects the locking state, enabling remote or rapid assessment of multiple windows simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary indicator mechanism that mediates between the locking mechanism and the user. Instead of directly observing the lock position, users view the color-coded indicator that represents the lock status, simplifying the verification process across multiple windows
2Productivity
If automatic locking mechanism is implemented, then locking efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service automatic locking mechanism where the lock automatically engages when the window sash is lowered to the closed position. The mechanism uses the window's own weight and position to trigger the locking action through a trigger member that releases the tongue, eliminating the need for manual locking operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic components including a spring-driven tongue that automatically extends to engage the keeper, and a trigger mechanism that responds to the window's position. The system transitions between locked and unlocked states dynamically based on the sash position, providing automatic locking without complex control systems
3Ease of operation
If visual indicator is added to signal lock status, then user convenience is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded visual indicators (red for locked status, green for unlocked status) that change based on the locking state. This provides immediate, intuitive visual feedback to users without requiring complex displays or electronics, maintaining simplicity in manufacturing while greatly improving user convenience
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 automatic locking mechanism ensures windows are securely locked when closed, and the visual indicator simplifies the verification of lock status, enhancing security and convenience by providing a clear visual cue for users.
Implementation Method 1
The locking mechanism has a tongue that has a retracted position when the lock is in an unlocked configuration and an extended position when the lock is in a locked configuration. The tongue is preferably spring driven from the retracted position to the extended position.
Data Source
AI summary
A sash lock comprises a housing, latch member, activator arm, and trigger. The latch member is spring biased to slide from an unlocked position towards a locked position. The activator arm and trigger are pivotally mounted within the housing, with a torsion spring biasing the trigger relative to the activator arm, to cause the activator arm to pivot and contact the latch member. When the latch member is moved to the unlocked position, the biased activator arm engages the latch member to retain it in the unlocked position, while the biased trigger member pivots to have a portion protrude out of the housing. Upon closing the sash member, an angled surface of a keeper contacts a curved surface of the protruding trigger to cause it to counter-rotate and drive the activator arm to disengage from the latch member and automatically permit biasing of the latch member into the locked position.