Spring Carriage Counterbalance for Side-Load Window Sashes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing counterbalance systems for side-loading window sashes are complex, expensive, and difficult to manufacture, requiring custom designs for different sizes and weights, and pose safety risks due to their complexity and assembly challenges, especially when the sash needs to be removable for cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A counterbalance system utilizing a spring carriage with coil springs that fits between the window frame and sash, anchored to the side jambs, with a locking mechanism that allows easy attachment and detachment, enabling the sash to be removed without inhibiting its operation, and adaptable to various window sizes and weights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a block and tackle counterbalance system is used for side-loading window sashes, then the sash can be counterbalanced, but the system becomes complex, expensive, and difficult to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the counterbalance function from the complex block and tackle system and implements it directly through coil springs mounted on the window frame. The springs are positioned to engage the sash at the top corner, eliminating the need for pulleys, ropes, and multiple moving parts while maintaining the counterbalance function.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a mechanical advantage system (block and tackle) to multiply force, the patent inverts the approach by directly applying spring force to counterbalance the sash weight. The coil springs provide the counterbalancing force in a direct, simple manner rather than through a complex mechanical transmission system.
2Reliability
If a custom counterbalance system is designed for each window size and weight, then the counterbalance is optimized, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal counterbalance system where the same coil spring mechanism can be used across different window sizes and weights. By mounting multiple springs on the window frame and adjusting their engagement points, the system can accommodate various sash configurations without requiring custom designs, thereby standardizing manufacturing while maintaining optimization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the counterbalance system uses multiple moving parts, then it can accommodate removable sashes, but safety risks increase due to assembly challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the counterbalance system into fixed components (coil springs mounted on the frame) and removable components (the sash itself). The springs remain permanently installed on the window frame, while the sash can be easily removed by disengaging from the spring engagement points at the top corners, eliminating the need for complex attachment mechanisms and reducing safety risks.
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 system provides a versatile, cost-effective, and reliable counterbalancing solution that allows for easy installation and removal of window sashes, enhancing safety and reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining the sash in an open position without the need for custom designs.
Implementation Method 1
at least one coil spring provides a counterbalancing force for the window sash
Implementation Method 2
a spring carriage holds the wound body of the coil spring. The spring carriage transfers the counterbalancing force to the window sash
Data Source
AI summary
A counterbalance system for a side load window assembly having a window sash and side frame jambs. A spring carriage is provided. The spring carriage has a first section that fits into a gap space between the window frame and the window sash. The spring carriage also includes a second section that passes under the window sash. A locking mechanism is disposed in the second section that selectively engages the side jambs and locks the spring carriage in place. At least one coil spring is provided. Each coil spring has a wound body that is held within the spring carriage. Each coil spring also has a first end that extends out of the spring carriage is anchored to one of the side frame jambs. The coil springs bias the spring housing upwardly. Since the window sash rests upon the housing, the window sash is counterbalanced.