Window Latch Member with Multiple Coupling Points for Intermediate Sash Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing window systems lack an efficient mechanism to maintain sashes at intermediate positions, particularly to accommodate air conditioning units of varying sizes, while ensuring secure locking and easy operation.

Innovation Solution

A window latch member with an elongated body featuring multiple first openings for coupling with a window catch and multiple second openings for coupling with a sash lock, allowing the sashes to be maintained at intermediate positions and accommodating different air conditioning unit sizes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional single-position window lock is used, then the structure is simple, but the window cannot be maintained at intermediate positions and cannot accommodate different air conditioning unit sizes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to maintain sash at intermediate positions and accommodate different AC unit sizesVSAvoidstructure of window latch mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The window latch mechanism is segmented into multiple discrete coupling points (first openings for window catch, second openings for sash lock) arranged at different positions along the sash. This segmentation allows the window to be locked at various intermediate positions while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The window latch mechanism serves multiple functions: it can lock the window at fully closed position, at intermediate positions for ventilation, and can accommodate different sizes of air conditioning units. The multiple coupling points provide universal adaptability for different locking scenarios without requiring separate mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple coupling points are added to accommodate different AC unit sizes, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of different air conditioning unit sizesVSAvoidnumber of openings and coupling points

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of adding multiple locking mechanisms along the vertical dimension, the patent utilizes the horizontal dimension by providing multiple coupling points spaced at different horizontal positions. This dimensional approach allows accommodation of different AC unit sizes without significantly increasing vertical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The window latch mechanism provides dynamic adaptability through multiple coupling points that can engage at different positions. This allows the system to dynamically adjust to different AC unit sizes and positions, transforming a static single-position lock into a dynamic multi-position system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20250075542A1Window latch

Publication Date: 2025.03.06 SMITH MARTASZ

AI summary

A window latch member for a window with a first sash and a second sash includes a body having an elongate shape with two ends. The first end includes multiple first openings configured to couple with a window catch. The second end includes multiple second openings configured to couple with a sash lock. The window latch member is retrofit to a window assembly.