Segmented Spring Window Opening Aid for Variable Torque

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window opening support devices either cause the sash to remain stationary at a current opening angle when the operating force is removed or require excessive effort to open the window outside the first partial opening angle range, failing to provide both easy operation within the first partial angle range and sufficient support outside it.

Innovation Solution

A spring device with multiple springs connected in series, featuring different spring constants, where one main spring and one or more auxiliary springs are used to provide adjustable support across various opening angle ranges, ensuring the window can be easily opened with reduced operator force and maintaining the current opening angle when force is removed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single spring device with high spring constant is used to provide sufficient support outside the first partial opening angle range, then the operating force is reduced outside the first range, but the sash frame cannot remain at the current opening angle within the first partial opening angle range because the spring force causes the window to open further automatically

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperating force outside first partial opening angle rangeVSAvoidsash frame position stability within first partial opening angle range

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The opening angle range is divided into at least two partial opening angle ranges, with different spring constants optimized for each range. The first spring constant is optimized for the first partial opening angle range to provide stability, while the second spring constant is optimized for the second partial opening angle range to reduce operating force.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The opening support device dynamically adjusts its spring constant based on the current opening angle. The device transitions between different spring constants as the window moves between partial opening angle ranges, allowing the system to adapt its mechanical properties to the operational requirements of each range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Stability of the object's composition

If a single spring device with low spring constant is used to allow the sash frame to remain at the current opening angle within the first partial opening angle range, then the sash frame remains stable within the first range, but excessive operating force is required outside the first partial opening angle range

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesash frame position stability within first partial opening angle rangeVSAvoidoperating force outside first partial opening angle range

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The spring constant parameter is changed based on the opening angle range. The device uses different spring constants (k1 for first range, k2 for second range) to optimize performance for each operational phase, transitioning between these parameters as the window opens.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If the spring travel is increased to provide sufficient support across the entire opening angle range, then the spring force is maintained throughout the range, but the device complexity and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveopening support across entire opening angle rangeVSAvoidspring device structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The spring device is segmented into multiple springs with different spring constants arranged in parallel. This allows each spring to contribute to the support force in different opening angle ranges, providing comprehensive support without requiring excessive travel from a single spring.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple springs with different characteristics are combined in parallel to create a composite spring system. The first spring with spring constant k1 and the second spring with spring constant k2 work together, with each contributing differently based on the opening angle, achieving comprehensive support with moderate travel.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 solution allows for effortless window operation within the first partial opening angle range while providing sufficient support outside this range, reducing the required operating force and ensuring the window remains at the desired angle without additional force, thus addressing the limitations of prior devices.

Implementation Method 1

The spring device (8) has a first spring constant k1 in the first partial opening angle range and a second spring constant k2 in the second partial opening angle range

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2620575B1Opening aid for a window, door or the like, and a corresponding window

Publication Date: 2020.02.26 ROTO FRANK DST MARKEN GMBH & CO KG

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

The aperture support device has an aperture support working spring element (8) which is provided between the blind frame (2) and a wing frame (3) of the window (1). The aperture support working spring element is connected in series with several springs (9) with different spring constants. The spring has a main spring and auxiliary spring such that spring rate of auxiliary spring is smaller than the spring rate of main spring. An independent claim is included for window.