Hidden Uplifting Frame with Gear Chain Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current hidden sliding frames face challenges with insufficient waterproofing due to limited space for sealing, and existing uplifting frames compromise visibility with visible aluminium profiles. Additionally, locking mechanisms in sliding frames are easily accessible and tamper-prone.

Innovation Solution

A hidden uplifting sliding frame is developed with a locking mechanism mounted on the vertical side profile, utilizing three gears and a chain to convey rotary handle motion to a remote connection gear, allowing the frame to be fully integrated into the case while providing rubber waterproofing and secure locking.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the frame is built-in into the floor and surrounding walls to achieve hidden frame effect, then the user's field of vision is maximized, but the vital space for fitting sufficient frame sealing means is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser's field of visionVSAvoidspace for sealing means
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from a traditional horizontal sealing approach to a vertical sealing dimension by implementing an uplifting mechanism that lifts the sash vertically to engage rubber sealing means. This dimensional change allows sufficient sealing space to be achieved without compromising the hidden frame's visual area, as the sealing occurs in the vertical dimension rather than competing for horizontal space within the wall embedding.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs nested structures where the sash is inserted into the case within the wall opening, and the lifting mechanism is integrated within the sash profile itself. The rubber sealing means are positioned within the vertical profile of the sash, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes space utilization. This nesting allows the sealing system to be compact yet functional, resolving the contradiction between limited space and adequate sealing capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of manufacture

If brushes are used as waterproofing means in limited space, then installation is simple, but waterproofing is incomplete compared to rubber insulating materials

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidwaterproofing effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical state and configuration of the sealing system by introducing a vertical lifting parameter. The sash is lifted vertically by a specific distance to compress the rubber sealing means against the case, creating an effective waterproof seal. This parameter change (vertical displacement) transforms the sealing mechanism from a passive brush system to an active compression system, significantly improving waterproofing effectiveness while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs composite sealing by combining rubber insulating materials with brush elements. The rubber provides the primary waterproofing barrier through compression, while the brushes offer secondary sealing and debris prevention. This composite approach leverages the advantages of both materials - the reliability of rubber waterproofing and the simplicity of brush installation - creating a multi-layer sealing system that addresses both concerns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of operation

If the locking mechanism is positioned at the overlapping point of vertical frames, then locking is achieved, but the lock is easily accessible and tamper-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidsecurity against tampering
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the handle mechanism from the traditional overlapping profile position and relocates it to the vertical side panel of the sash. This extraction removes the vulnerability of having the lock at the easily accessible overlapping point. The handle is now positioned on the exterior vertical surface, which is less accessible and more secure, while still maintaining the locking function through the connection to the lifting mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces the lifting mechanism as an intermediary between the handle and the locking action. Instead of direct locking at the overlapping point, the handle operates the lifting mechanism, which then indirectly achieves the locking effect by positioning the sash and engaging the rubber sealing means. This intermediary mechanism provides security by decoupling the handle position from the traditional vulnerable overlapping area while maintaining functional effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of operation

If aluminium profile is used for lifting mechanism and handle, then lifting function is achieved, but the profile cannot be hidden and limits glass panel surface

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelifting functionVSAvoidglass panel surface
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements nesting by placing the lifting mechanism within the vertical profile of the sash itself, which is then inserted into the case within the wall opening. The handle is positioned on the exterior surface of the vertical panel, and the mechanical components are nested within the profile structure. This nested arrangement allows the lifting mechanism to be functionally effective while remaining visually hidden, maximizing the glass panel surface area and achieving the hidden frame aesthetic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 achieves maximum visibility and waterproofing by integrating the frame into the case, ensuring seamless aesthetics and enhanced security with rubber and brush-based waterproofing, while maintaining low manufacturing costs.

Implementation Method 1

utilizing three gears and a chain to convey rotary handle motion to a remote connection gear

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical transmission: Gear

Implementation Method 2

utilizing three gears and a chain to convey rotary handle motion to a remote connection gear

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChain drive: Chain

Data Source

PatentEP3568548B9Hidden uplifting frame with locking mechanism
Publication Date: 2021.11.10 SEU PLASTICS ONE MAN LLC
  • EP3568548B9 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3568548B9 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3568548B9 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention belongs to the field of mechanical sliding frames and refers to a locking mechanism (1) using three gears, the handle gear (17), the connecting gear (18) and the locking gear (19). The gears are spaced apart and are surrounded by a chain (20), the rotary movement of the handle (4) enters the mechanism (1) from the handle gear shaft (9). The chain (20) conveys the motion to the connection gear (18), the movement exits through an output shaft (23) to the frame uplifting mechanism (21) located inside the vertical side profile (2) of the sash (3). When the sash is closed, the handle gear (17) is located in part B of the mechanism (1) which remains outside the walls, while the connecting gear (18) is located in part A of the mechanism that enters the walls along with the vertical a side profile (2) of the sash (3) and the lifting/lowering mechanism of the frame.