Automated Window Force Mapping Retrofit

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing automated window systems require costly replacement of window frames and skilled construction for motorized control, making it difficult to retrofit existing sliding windows with smart automation.

Innovation Solution

An automated window mechanism with a motor, encoder, and sensor system that maps the force required to move the window along its path, allowing for precise control and stopping if deviations exceed a predetermined threshold, enabling cost-effective and skill-independent retrofitting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a complete replacement of existing window frame is used for motorized control, then automated window operation is achieved, but installation cost and construction skill requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated window operationVSAvoidinstallation cost and construction skill

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the automation function into separate components: a motor assembly that can be independently installed on existing windows without replacing the entire frame. This segmentation allows retrofits while maintaining cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The motor assembly is designed as a universal solution that can be attached to various existing window types and frames. The standardized mounting interface and adaptable design enable automated operation across different window configurations without requiring custom frame replacements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If force mapping monitoring is implemented to detect deviations, then operational safety and precision improve, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational safety and precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors motor current, voltage, and velocity to create a force map that reflects actual window movement conditions. This feedback mechanism detects deviations from expected force patterns, enabling real-time safety monitoring and precision control while maintaining manageable system complexity through integrated sensor data processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 efficient, precise, and safe automated control of existing sliding windows with minimal construction skill and cost, ensuring reliable operation and energy efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a sensor configured to monitor at least one of current, voltage and velocity to thereby determine a force required of the motor to move the moving portion along the path

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical measurement: Ohm's Law

Implementation Method 2

a motor coupled to a moving component of a window and being configured to move the moving component relative to a window frame

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11686146B2Force mapping for automated window mechanism

Publication Date: 2023.06.27 D&D SW LLC

AI summary

An automated window mechanism having a motor and a force measuring component. A movement path is defined for the window movement relative to a window frame. The force-measuring component measures the force required to move the window along the movement path. The force required is stored as a force map and is a function of position along the path. Deviations from the force map cause the motor to take measures which may include stopping the motor.