Window Drive Mechanism Cam Slide Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current window drive mechanisms for horizontally projecting windows are bulky, costly, and require additional space, limiting window size and aesthetic appeal, with complex mechanisms that increase installation time and maintenance concerns.
Innovation Solution
A compact window drive mechanism using a bracket and cam slide system with a rotatable elongate arm and actuator arm, which moves the window sash between open and closed positions using a minimal number of parts, concealed within the window frame, eliminating the need for bulky shafts and cranks, and allowing for easy installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional beveled gears and shafts are used to open and close the window, then the window can be operated, but the mechanism becomes bulky and requires additional space between the frame and sash
Solution Approach 1:
The drive mechanism is divided into separate functional modules: a crank assembly, a cam slide assembly, and an elongate arm assembly. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently positioned, allowing the mechanism to be compact while maintaining ease of operation. The cam slide separates the rotational motion from the linear motion, enabling a more compact arrangement than traditional integrated shaft systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from traditional planar gear arrangements to a three-dimensional configuration where the elongate arm rotates in one plane while the cam slide moves linearly in another direction. This dimensional separation allows the components to be arranged more efficiently in space, reducing the overall volume required for the drive mechanism while maintaining full operational capability.
2Ease of operation
If chain actuators with gears spaced along the frame are used, then the window can be opened and closed, but the frame size must be increased to house the mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The crank assembly and cam slide assembly are merged into a single integrated unit that operates together. The crank rotates to directly drive the cam slide in a coordinated manner, eliminating the need for separate chain actuators and multiple gears spaced along the frame. This merging reduces the overall space required and allows the mechanism to be housed within a smaller frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex chain actuator system with multiple gears is extracted and replaced by a simpler direct-drive mechanism using a single crank and cam slide. This extraction removes unnecessary intermediate components, reducing the space required for the mechanism while maintaining the essential function of opening and closing the window.
3Ease of operation
If scissors linkages with chain drive are used, then the sash can be moved, but additional space is required limiting window size
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using scissors linkages that require significant space for their geometric configuration, the mechanism inverts the approach by using a compact crank-cam slide-elongate arm sequence. The motion is generated in reverse order: rotational motion from the crank directly drives the cam slide, which then actuates the elongate arm to move the sash. This inverted sequence achieves the same sash movement with minimal space requirements.
4Ease of operation
If multiple complex mechanisms are used in the drive assembly, then the window can be operated, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The crank assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the primary rotational motion, acts as a mounting bracket for the cam slide, and serves as a structural support element. The cam slide assembly simultaneously guides the elongate arm motion and provides the mechanical advantage for sash movement. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of separate components needed, simplifying installation while maintaining full operational capability.
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 space-efficient, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing window drive mechanism that securely opens and closes windows with a single motion, reducing maintenance needs and allowing for adaptable installation in various window sizes, while preventing unwanted opening and enhancing security.
Implementation Method 1
a cam slide moveably coupled to the bracket. The cam slide is moveable along a length of the bracket
Implementation Method 2
An elongate arm is rotatably coupled to the bracket substantially adjacent to a first end of the arm
Data Source
AI summary
A window drive mechanism includes a bracket and a cam slide moveably coupled to the bracket. In one option, the bracket is coupled to a window frame. An elongate arm is rotatably coupled to a sash substantially adjacent to a first end of the arm. In one option, the elongate arm is rotatably coupled to the bracket substantially adjacent to a second end of the arm. In another option, the elongate arm is moveably coupled to the cam slide between the first end and the second end. An actuator arm is coupled to the cam slide and operable to move the cam slide. A method for making a window assembly optionally includes providing a window frame and coupling a window drive mechanism to the window frame.