Sliding Window Assembly with Transverse Sealing Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window and shutter assemblies with sliding sashes in fixed frames are complex, expensive, difficult to maintain, and aesthetically unappealing due to bulky hardware that limits sash positioning and sealing efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves independent rolling and transverse displacement means integrated into the crosspieces and guide rails, allowing for compact, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing designs that enable sash immobilization in intermediate positions with improved sealing and simplified maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex hardware solutions are used to ensure smooth sliding and transverse movement, then the reliability of the sliding mechanism is improved, but the device complexity and production cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The hardware system is segmented into independent functional modules: rolling means (rollers) for sliding movement, and transverse movement means (cremone bars with rollers) for lateral displacement. Each module performs a specific function independently, simplifying the overall system while maintaining reliability through functional decomposition
Solution Approach 2:
Rollers are introduced as intermediary elements between the sash and guide rails to enable smooth sliding movement. The cremone bars with rollers act as intermediaries to facilitate transverse movement and seal compression, replacing complex direct mechanical linkages with simpler rolling contact mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If bulky hardware is used to enable transverse movement and locking, then the functional capability is improved, but the aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to visible hardware and wider rails
Solution Approach 1:
The transverse movement mechanism is relocated from the visible face of the sash to the rear dimension, where cremone bars with rollers operate behind the sash profile. This hidden arrangement maintains full transverse movement capability while eliminating visual clutter and allowing thinner, more aesthetic sash profiles
Solution Approach 2:
The hardware elements (rollers, cremone bars) are extracted from the visible sash structure and positioned in concealed locations. The rolling means are mounted on the rear face of the sash, and transverse movement means operate from behind, removing bulky hardware from the aesthetic field while preserving functionality
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed locking positions are used in existing hardware, then the manufacturing simplicity is improved, but the adaptability to intermediate positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system transitions from fixed discrete positions to a dynamic continuous positioning capability. The cremone bars with rollers can engage with the guide rib at any position along its length, allowing the sash to be locked at any intermediate position while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through the use of continuous contact surfaces rather than discrete mechanical locks
4Reliability
If multiple locking strikes are added to long sashes to prevent conflict, then the reliability of locking is improved, but the device complexity and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide rib serves multiple functions: it guides the rolling means during sliding movement, provides a bearing surface for transverse movement, and acts as a continuous locking surface for cremone bars at any position. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple discrete locking strikes while maintaining reliable locking across the entire length of the sash
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 design reduces production costs, enhances aesthetics, and facilitates easy maintenance by allowing the sash to be immobilized in any intermediate position with reliable sealing, while minimizing the visual impact of hardware and maintaining effective sealing even in windy conditions.
Implementation Method 1
rolling means, arranged in a housing formed in the lower rail, intended to roll on the rolling rib
Implementation Method 2
compressible seals which are intended to be compressed between the opening and the frame by a displacement of the opening transversely to its sliding direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Assembly (1) for a window, French window (28), or shutter comprising a sash (2) sliding within a frame (3) along a sliding direction (II-II). Under a lower rail (5) of the sash (2) are arranged rolling means (18) designed to roll longitudinally on a rolling rib (9) of the frame (3), said rolling means (18) comprising at least one roller (19) movable transversely to the sliding direction (II-II) of the sash (2). Transverse movement means (21, 23) include support means (22) adapted to bear against the frame (3) to cause a relative movement of the sash (2) with respect to the frame (3) transversely to the sliding direction (II-II) of the sash (2) in order to compress seals arranged between the sash (2) and the frame (3).