Window Coupling Device Indicating Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for window sash operators lack a reliable method for users to determine whether the coupling device is in a locked or unlocked position, leading to difficulties in assembly, maintenance, and potential unintentional release of the sash from the frame during operation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an indicating means, such as a spring-loaded abutment or an elastic projection, that communicates the rotational position of the shaft member to the user, ensuring reliable locking and unlocking without unintentional position switching, and optionally eliminating the need for a handle by using a screwdriver slot for rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If no indicating means is provided, then the coupling device structure remains simple, but the user cannot determine whether the coupling device is in locked or unlocked position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an indicating means as an intermediary element that mediates between the shaft member's rotational position and the user's perception. The indicating means includes a visible indicator that moves with the shaft member rotation, providing clear visual feedback about the locked/unlocked state without adding complex control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicating means utilizes visual indicators that change position or appearance based on the shaft member's rotational state. The indicator provides color or position changes that clearly distinguish between locked and unlocked positions, making the state easily recognizable to users.
2Ease of operation
If the shaft member can rotate freely, then operation is easy, but unintentional release may occur during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a detent mechanism that applies preliminary counter-action to prevent unintentional rotation. The detent engages with notches or positions on the shaft member to create stable locked and unlocked states, requiring deliberate user action to transition between states while preventing accidental movement during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The detent mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by creating mechanical resistance before unintended rotation can occur. The engagement between the detent and shaft member notches prevents small rotational movements that could lead to accidental release, while still allowing intentional rotation when the user applies sufficient force.
3Ease of operation
If a handle is provided for rotating the shaft member, then rotation is easier, but the coupling device becomes more complex and larger
Solution Approach 1:
The shaft member is designed to be self-serving by incorporating direct rotation capability without requiring a separate handle. The shaft member itself can be rotated directly by the user, eliminating the need for additional rotating components and simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The shaft member serves multiple functions: it acts as both the rotating element for locking/unlocking and as the indicator carrier. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate handles or indicators, reducing device complexity while maintaining operational ease.
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
Enables users to readily and reliably determine the locked or unlocked state of the coupling device without lifting the window sash, preventing unintended release and enhancing operational safety and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
said indicating means comprise a spring-loaded abutment means abutting said connection section of said shaft member
Implementation Method 2
In another embodiment said indicating means is in the form of an elastic projection projecting towards and abutting said connection section of the shaft member
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A coupling device connects an operator chain of a chain operator to a sash member (1) of a window. The coupling device comprises a securing means (10) adapted to be secured to said sash member (1), a first coupling member (3), which at a first end is designed for connection with said free end of said operator means (2) and at a second end has a mouth (5a) of a cut-out (5), and a second coupling member (6) comprising a shaft member (6a) rotationally secured to said securing means (10). Said shaft member (6a) comprises a connection section (8) with a first transverse dimension (a) corresponding to a width of said mouth (5a) and a second, larger dimension (b) corresponding to a width of said cut-out (5), and rotating means (7) for rotating said shaft member (6a). The coupling device further comprises an indicating means (11) secured to said securing means (10) and abutting said shaft member (6a) such as to indicate to a user, by operation of said rotating means (7), the rotational position of said shaft member (6a).