Fenestration Screen Carrier With Locking Pivot Rider
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved sliding and pivot fenestration units and components that provide enhanced functionality and versatility in operation, particularly in sliding doors and windows with hinged or pivoting panels.
Innovation Solution
The fenestration units incorporate a locking pivot wheel assembly, height-adjustable features, and slide and pivot mechanisms that allow panels to transition between sliding and pivoting modes, with locking and unlocking mechanisms to inhibit or allow movement based on panel position, and include screen carriers for additional functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a locking pivot rider assembly is used to enable both sliding and pivoting operations, then the versatility of the fenestration unit is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the locking mechanism and multiple operational modes
Solution Approach 1:
The rider assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: it enables both sliding operation (when unlocked) and pivoting operation (when locked). The same rider structure serves dual purposes by incorporating a locking mechanism that transitions the system between different operational modes, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is integrated directly into the rider assembly rather than being a separate system. The cam follower, lock pin, and rider components work together as a unified assembly, combining the pivoting and locking functions into a single integrated structure that reduces overall system complexity despite adding versatility
2Reliability
If a lock pin mechanism is used to inhibit sliding movement during pivoting, then the reliability of operation mode control is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional locking components
Solution Approach 1:
The lock pin mechanism is actuated automatically by the cam follower as the rider rotates during pivoting operation. The system self-regulates the locking state based on the rotational position, eliminating the need for external control mechanisms or additional actuators to engage or disengage the lock
Solution Approach 2:
The lock pin is positioned and configured in advance to engage with the rider's conical surface at the appropriate moment during rotation. The cam follower is pre-positioned to contact the conical surface and drive the lock pin into the locked position before pivoting begins, ensuring reliable mode transition without requiring real-time control adjustments
3Ease of operation
If the lock pin is biased from extended to retracted position, then the ease of operation is improved by automatic unlocking, but the loss of energy increases due to the biasing member
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member replaces complex mechanical control systems that would otherwise be needed to actively retract the lock pin. Instead of using motors, actuators, or complex spring mechanisms, a simple biasing force provides automatic unlocking, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member provides continuous passive force to keep the lock pin retracted, allowing the system to automatically return to the unlocked state without external energy input. The mechanism serves itself by using the inherent elastic or gravitational force of the biasing member to maintain the ready-to-slide position
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding and pivoting fenestration unit, such as a sliding door, with screen. Embodiments of the fenestration unit include a locking and height-adjustable pivot rider, a head slide, a screen carrier, and a method of operation.