Tilt Latch Retainer for Fenestration Sash Insertion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fenestration units with tilt latch systems face challenges in the initial insertion and replacement of tilt latch assemblies, particularly in existing sashes, which can be complex and require additional reinforcement to resist mechanical deformation.

Innovation Solution

A tilt latch retainer apparatus with a reinforcement member, interlocking flange, and tilt latch assemblies is designed for easy insertion and replacement, providing structural reinforcement to the check rail by forming a U-shaped channel and using a common tilt latch actuator to move latch bolts between engagement and retracted positions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If tilt latch assemblies are installed in existing sashes, then the sash can be tilted for cleaning or maintenance, but the insertion and replacement process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of insertion and replacementVSAvoidcomplexity of insertion and replacement process

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The tilt latch system is divided into modular components: a retainer member with channels that houses the tilt latch assembly, allowing the latch to be inserted and removed as a complete module rather than individual parts. This segmentation enables simple snap-fit installation into the sash while maintaining secure retention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tilt latch assembly is extracted as a removable module from the retainer member, allowing it to be easily removed and replaced without disassembling the entire sash or latch mechanism. The retainer member remains permanently installed in the sash, while the latch assembly can be independently replaced when malfunctioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Strength

If reinforcement is added to the check rail to resist mechanical deformation, then structural integrity improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresistance to mechanical deformationVSAvoidcomplexity of reinforcement structure

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcement member is merged with the retainer member into a single integrated component. The U-shaped channel structure of the retainer member simultaneously serves as both the housing for the tilt latch assembly and the reinforcement element for the check rail, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement brackets or braces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer member performs multiple functions: it retains the tilt latch assembly through its channel structure, reinforces the check rail against mechanical deformation through its U-shaped geometry, and provides mounting surfaces for the latch components. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated reinforcement parts.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If the tilt latch assembly is designed for secure retention in the sash, then reliability improves, but the ease of replacement for maintenance decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretention securityVSAvoidease of replacement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The retention mechanism uses spring-loaded latches that dynamically adjust to secure the tilt latch assembly firmly in the retainer member during normal operation. When replacement is needed, the latches can be easily actuated to release the assembly, providing both secure retention and easy replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer member acts as an intermediary between the sash and the tilt latch assembly, providing a standardized interface that ensures secure retention through its channel structure while simultaneously enabling easy replacement through its removable design. The retainer member absorbs the complexity of secure mounting while presenting a simple replacement interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10180015B1Tilt latch retainer apparatus and sashes incorporating same

Publication Date: 2019.01.15 ANDERSEN CORPORATION

AI summary

The tilt latch retainer apparatus and sashes incorporating the same described herein may provide a convenient construction for both initial insertion of a tilt latch assembly into a sash and/or for replacement of a tilt latch assembly in an existing sash. The tilt latch retainer apparatus and sashes incorporating the same may also provide reinforcement of the check rail on a sash including the tilt latch retainer apparatus such that the check rail including the tilt latch retainer apparatus is more resistant to mechanical deformation due to forces exerted on the check rail.