Venetian Blind Operator for Pivoting Windows

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fenestration systems with Venetian blinds in pivoting windows, such as casement and awning types, face challenges in controlling the blind's orientation and position when access is restricted by screens or storm windows, as traditional operators require removal of these obstructions for operation.

Innovation Solution

An inside operator mechanism with arms or prongs that engage a boss on the primary operator, allowing longitudinal movement to control the blind's tilt orientation or position within the window frame, even when the window is closed, thereby aligning and engaging with the primary operator to effect corresponding movements without needing to remove obstructions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a primary operator is carried in the sash frame for controlling Venetian blind slats, then the blind control function is integrated into the window system, but access to the primary operator is limited when screens or storm windows are installed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveblind control accessibilityVSAvoidoperator accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

An inside operator is introduced as an intermediary device that couples between the user and the primary operator. The inside operator includes arms that can engage with the primary operator's boss portion, allowing control transmission through the screen/storm window barrier without requiring removal of these protective elements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If the window sash is closed for security and insulation, then energy efficiency and security are improved, but access to the primary operator becomes restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewindow security and insulationVSAvoidoperator accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into two independent operators: the primary operator carried in the sash frame and the inside operator carried in the window frame. This segmentation allows the inside operator to remain accessible when the sash is closed, while still being able to engage and control the primary operator when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If arms or prongs are provided on the inside operator to engage the primary operator, then control transmission is enabled, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol transmissionVSAvoidoperator mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of making the primary operator accessible through the screen, the design inverts the approach by placing a simplified inside operator on the accessible side (inside the window frame) that actively engages with the primary operator when the sash is closed, transmitting control in the reverse direction from what would be intuitive.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS9140059B2Venetian type blind operator

Publication Date: 2015.09.22 SUNRISE WINDOWS

AI summary

A window assembly comprising a window frame and a window sash is disclosed. The sash is supported on the window frame for pivotal movement between an open position and a closed position. The sash supports an insulated glass unit with an internal blind and includes a primary operator connected to the blind so that linear movement of the primary operator causes movement of said blind. When the sash is closed, a secondary operator supported in the window frame engages the primary operator so that linear movement of the secondary operator causes a corresponding linear movement of the primary operator.