Window Escape System With Stowed Human Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional escape systems from windows are not easily accessible and require assembly before use, making them difficult to deploy during emergencies like fires or earthquakes.
Innovation Solution
An integrated window escape system with a fenestration unit that includes a stowed human support and a cable wound around a shaft, featuring a non-powered speed limiting device to control descent speed, allowing for easy deployment and safe egress without the need for assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional escape systems are stored separately from windows, then they can be kept simple and inexpensive, but they are not readily accessible and require assembly before use
Solution Approach 1:
The escape system is merged with the window fenestration unit by embedding the human support within the window frame structure. The human support is positioned within the frame opening and can be deployed directly from the window assembly, eliminating the need for separate storage locations and pre-assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The human support is pre-positioned within the window frame in a stowed position during manufacturing or installation. This preliminary placement allows the system to be ready for immediate deployment during an emergency without requiring assembly or retrieval from separate storage.
2Ease of operation
If the human support is embedded into the window frame, then accessibility is improved, but the window structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The human support is nested within the window frame structure, utilizing the existing frame opening and space. This nesting approach allows the escape system to be housed within the window assembly without requiring a completely separate external mounting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The window frame serves multiple functions: it provides the structural boundary for the window opening and simultaneously houses the human support for escape purposes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated structures while maintaining escape system readiness.
3Reliability
If a speed limiting device is added to control descent speed, then safety is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The speed limiting device operates automatically based on the descent conditions without requiring external control or power sources. The device self-regulates the descent speed through mechanical means, eliminating the need for complex electronic controls or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The speed limiting device acts as an intermediary between the human support and the cable system, mechanically regulating the descent speed through friction or mechanical resistance without requiring complex electronic or hydraulic systems.
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 system enables quick and safe descent from windows by embedding the human support within the fenestration unit, with a speed limiting device controlling the descent speed, thus improving accessibility and ease of use during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
A cable is wound about a shaft supported by the frame. The cable is connected to the human support.
Implementation Method 2
A speed limiting device is connected to the shaft for controlling the speed of descent of the human support.
Data Source
AI summary
An escape system for descending a person from a window is disclosed. The escape system may be mounted above a window through which a person may egress and descend to the ground. The escape system includes a fenestration unit having a frame and a human support embedded into the frame in a stowed position. The human support carries a person during descent. A cable is wound about a shaft supported by the frame. The cable is connected to the human support. The escape system further includes a speed limiting device connected to the shaft that controls the speed of descent.