Integrated Tilt Latch and Sash Lock Assembly for Vinyl Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sash window designs for vinyl windows lack a simple and sturdy single-actuator assembly that can efficiently operate both the sash lock and tilt-latch mechanisms, often requiring complex structures and two hands for operation, and are not adapted for vinyl frames, leading to alignment issues and high manufacturing costs.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with a lever that moves among locked, unlocked, and tiltable positions, incorporating a rotor and latch bolt mechanism that allows for simultaneous operation of sash lock and tilt-latch functions, enabling easy assembly and reliable operation in vinyl windows by engaging and disengaging the keeper and latch bolt to control sliding and tilting movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate tilt-latch and sash lock mechanisms are used, then each function can be independently controlled, but the device complexity increases and two hands are required for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tilt-latch mechanism and sash lock mechanism into a single integrated assembly. The tilt latch bolt and sash lock rotor share common components including the housing, actuator lever, and mounting structure. This merging allows both functions to be operated with a single hand while reducing the overall number of separate mechanisms required in the window system.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator lever serves multiple functions: it can rotate the rotor to engage/disengage the sash lock, and it can also actuate the tilt latch bolt to engage/disengage the tilt function. This multi-functionality is achieved through the universal design of the lever that can transmit rotational motion to both the rotor and the tilt latch mechanism, eliminating the need for separate actuators for each function.
2Ease of manufacture
If complex sash lock and tilt-latch designs are used, then locking and tilting functions can be achieved, but manufacturing and assembly costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated latch assembly is divided into modular segments including the housing, rotor, latch bolt, keeper, and actuator lever. Each segment can be manufactured separately using standard machining processes and then assembled together. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each component to be produced independently with standard tolerances, reducing overall assembly complexity and cost while maintaining reliable locking and tilting functions.
3Ease of operation
If single-actuator assemblies from wood windows are used in vinyl windows, then both functions can be operated with one actuator, but alignment issues occur due to repeated opening and closing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the design parameters of the single-actuator assembly to accommodate vinyl window characteristics. The actuator lever is designed with adjusted rotational geometry and the rotor is positioned at optimized coordinates to maintain proper alignment throughout the operational cycle. These parameter changes ensure that repeated opening and closing does not cause misalignment, while still allowing single-actuator operation of both sash lock and tilt-latch functions.
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 provides a simple, sturdy, and cost-effective mechanism for vinyl sash windows, allowing single-handed operation and maintaining alignment, ensuring smooth and reliable sliding and tilting functionality while preventing upward sliding and allowing inward tilting for cleaning.
Implementation Method 1
The latch bolts are spring-biased outwardly for engagement with guide rails of the master frame
Implementation Method 2
an operator rotates the rotor to engage the keeper
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly comprising a tilt latch mechanism and a sash lock mechanism for a vinyl window that is slidable and tiltable. The latch assembly comprises a lever movable among a first, a second, and a third position to adjust the assembly among a respective locked, unlocked, and tiltable position. In the locked position, a portion of a rotor engages a keeper to prevent the window from being able to move. In the unlocked position, the window is movable upward and downward along the rails of the window frame. In the tiltable position, the window may be tilted on an axis to allow for cleaning the outer portion of the window from inside the house.