Vertical Skylight Sash with Nested Scissor Operator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized skylights face challenges in providing a large aperture for smoke ventilation, independent of wind direction, while minimizing precipitation entry and maintaining a slim frame with a concealed motorized mechanism that does not extend below the skylight frame, and allowing for the reuse of components with regular skylights.
Innovation Solution
The skylight employs a parallel vertical displacement mechanism using 4 scissor mechanisms and rigid chain operators, which are compact, integrated within the frame, and symmetrically arranged to support high loads, allowing for a large opening that is independent of wind direction and enables efficient smoke ventilation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized opening mechanism is used to enable vertical parallel displacement, then the skylight can be operated automatically, but the mechanism extends below the frame which affects appearance and assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The operator mechanism is nested within the frame structure itself. The frame is designed to contain the motorized opening mechanism internally, with the operator positioned inside the frame rather than extending below it. This nesting approach allows the mechanism to be concealed while maintaining full functionality, resolving the contradiction between automation and aesthetic appearance.
2Ease of operation
If a hinge and rotation mechanism is used, then the skylight can open easily, but it is not suitable for smoke ventilation requiring large aperture
Solution Approach 1:
The skylight employs a dynamic opening mechanism that transitions from a closed position to a fully raised position through vertical parallel displacement. This dynamic movement allows the sash to be raised high above the frame, creating a large aperture for smoke ventilation while maintaining ease of operation through motorized actuation. The mechanism adapts its position continuously rather than rotating on a hinge.
3Length of moving object
If 4 scissor mechanisms are used for vertical displacement, then the opening height is increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scissor mechanisms are merged with the frame structure itself. The frame is designed to incorporate the scissor linkages as integral components, where the frame members serve dual purposes as both structural elements and mechanical linkage components. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining the vertical displacement capability.
4Area of stationary object
If the frame is made slim to maximize opening area, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the structural strength to support the opening mechanism is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The frame utilizes composite construction with optimized material properties. The frame members are designed with composite structures that provide high strength-to-weight ratios, allowing for a slim overall appearance while maintaining the structural strength necessary to support the motorized opening mechanism and sash. The composite design enables the frame to be both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A flat roof skylight which opens by vertically moving the sash (2). The skylight uses scissor mechanisms (4) to guide the moving sash (2) and rigid chain operators (12) to move the sash (2) and support the load of the sash (2). The guide mechanisms (4) and/or operators (12) may be integrated in the frame (1) / sash (2).