Tilt Latch Actuator Prevents Window Frame Impact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tiltable window sashes often result in damage to the window frame when the tilt latch does not remain unlocked, causing the latch to slam into the frame during transitions between open and closed positions.
Innovation Solution
A tilt latch system with an actuator and engagement mechanism that moves between locked and unlocked positions, featuring a button assembly and cartridge assembly with a biasing device, ensuring the latch remains unlocked during open positions and automatically returns to the locked position when the sash is closed, preventing damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tilt latch remains locked when the sash is open, then the sash can be securely held in the open position, but the latch may slam into the window frame causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically unlock before the sash can be slammed into the frame. The actuator and engagement mechanism are positioned and dimensioned such that during the sash closing motion, the engagement mechanism disengages from the latch in advance, preventing the harmful impact while maintaining secure holding when open
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the motion of the sash itself as feedback to control the latch state. As the sash moves during opening or closing, the relative motion between the actuator and engagement mechanism automatically triggers the unlock/lock sequence, creating a self-regulating system that responds to the actual sash position and velocity
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the tilt latch is unlocked during open positions, then frame damage is prevented, but the sash may not remain securely held
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system transitions from a static locked/unlocked state to a dynamic system where the engagement mechanism moves relative to the actuator during sash operation. The engagement mechanism is designed to be engaged during open positions for security, then automatically disengage during closing motion, adapting its state based on the dynamic conditions of sash movement
3Device complexity
If a simple latch mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the latch cannot automatically respond to sash position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism serves itself by using the kinetic energy and motion of the sash to automatically trigger the unlock/lock sequence. The actuator and engagement mechanism are designed so that normal sash operation during opening and closing automatically controls the latch state changes without requiring external actuators, sensors, or power sources
Solution Approach 2:
The latch system is divided into separate functional components: the actuator mounted on the sash, the engagement mechanism mounted on the frame, and the biasing device. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together to achieve automatic response to sash position changes
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 ensures safe and damage-free operation of tiltable window sashes by maintaining the latch in an unlocked position during open states and automatically locking when the sash is closed, enhancing the alignment of operational forces and preventing window frame damage.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing device biased out of the cavity by the biasing device
Data Source
AI summary
A tilt latch system that comprises an actuator movable from a first position to a second position; a lock-out member movable from a retracted position to an extended position upon movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position; and an engagement member movable from an engaged position to a disengaged position upon movement of the actuator from the first position to the second position is provided. The actuator and the engagement member are maintained in the second and disengaged positions, respectively, when the lock-out member is in the extended position. The actuator and the engagement member are automatically biased to the first position and the engaged position, respectively, upon movement of the lock-out member from the extended to the retracted position. The tilt latch system may further comprise a lock-out device and/or be optionally utilized in a modular configuration.