Window Handle Switching Elements for Peripheral Device Control

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window systems lack integration of multiple functions and control mechanisms for peripheral devices, often requiring complex cabling and separate controllers for different manufacturers' devices, making operation cumbersome and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A window with integrated switching elements on the handle or window, coupled to a controller that can actuate peripheral devices, including shading, ventilation, and lighting, using wireless or wired communication, with sensors and timers for automated control, and a detachable remote control functionality for easy operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple peripheral devices from different manufacturers are integrated into the window system, then the functionality and versatility of the window is improved, but the device complexity and number of separate controllers increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality integrationVSAvoidnumber of controllers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal controller that can manage multiple peripheral devices from different manufacturers through standardized communication protocols. The controller is designed with multiple input interfaces that can accommodate various device types (shading, ventilation, lighting, alarm systems) without requiring separate dedicated controllers for each device, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a communication protocol and interface layer that acts as an intermediary between the universal controller and peripheral devices from different manufacturers. This intermediary layer translates and standardizes the communication signals, allowing diverse devices to work together under a unified control system without requiring direct integration of each device's proprietary controller.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If switching elements are provided on the window handle for controlling peripheral devices, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity and cabling requirements increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accessibilityVSAvoidcabling complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical cabling systems with wireless communication technology. The switching elements on the window handle communicate control signals to the peripheral devices wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical cables running along the window frame and facade. This substitution maintains easy accessibility for control while significantly reducing installation complexity and aesthetic clutter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The window handle is designed as a multi-functional control unit that integrates both mechanical window operation and electronic control of peripheral devices. The handle serves dual purposes: traditional manual window opening/closing and wireless control of shading, ventilation, lighting, and alarm systems, thereby consolidating multiple control functions into a single accessible location without requiring separate control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Extent of automation

If sensors and automated control systems are added to the window, then the automation level and energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomated control capabilityVSAvoidsystem integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service automation where sensors automatically detect environmental conditions (light levels, temperature, humidity, presence) and trigger appropriate responses without requiring manual intervention. The system monitors its own state and peripheral devices, making adjustments autonomously based on predefined parameters and user-programmed preferences, thereby reducing the complexity of manual control systems while enhancing automation capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates pre-programmed automation routines and time-based scheduling that perform actions in advance based on predicted conditions. For example, the system can automatically adjust shading and ventilation before peak heat hours, or pre-activate lighting and climate control when occupants are expected to arrive. This preliminary action approach reduces the need for complex real-time decision-making algorithms and manual monitoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP1996779B1Window
Publication Date: 2015.04.22 SCHUECO INTERNATIONAL KG
  • EP1996779B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1996779B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP1996779B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A window, in particular a turn-and-tilt window, comprises a window handle (2) which has a handle (4) for manual movement, in particular rotation, of a window casement (3) of the window (1), wherein switching elements (19, 23, 24) are provided on the window (1) and/or window handle (2). According to the invention, the switching elements (19, 23, 24) are coupled to a controlling means for actuating at least one peripheral device (6-17) arranged at a distance from the window (1). As a result, a central switching system for various peripheral devices (6-17) can be formed on the window (1).