Window Lock Automatic Latch Retention Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window locks require manual intervention to unlock and relock, making it difficult for users to adjust window frames without manually holding the lock in the unlocked configuration, especially for those unfamiliar with the lock's operation.
Innovation Solution
A window lock with an automatic latch retention mechanism that automatically adjusts to a locked configuration when the window is closed and remains unlocked when the window frames are adjusted, featuring a rotatable handle that visually indicates its configuration and a retention mechanism using a rotatable disk, rocker arm, trigger, and biasing members to maintain the latch in the retracted position until the frames are closed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an automatic window lock is used that automatically locks upon closing, then the window can be automatically secured without manual intervention, but the user must manually hold the handle to keep the latch in the retracted position during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism performs self-service by automatically retaining the latch in the retracted (unlocked) position through the interaction between the cam surface and the latch member's retention surface, eliminating the need for manual holding during window operation while maintaining automatic locking capability
2Ease of operation
If the lock remains unlocked until closed without automatic retention, then the window can be opened without holding the handle, but the user must inspect the lock closely to determine its status
Solution Approach 1:
The handle provides visual status indication through its angular position relative to the window frame - when the handle extends substantially perpendicular to the plane of the window frame, it clearly indicates the unlocked status, making it easily detectable without close inspection
3Ease of operation
If a rotatable handle is used to unlock the window, then the lock can be manually operated, but the handle must be held in position to maintain the unlocked configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the cam surface on the handle, the retention surface on the latch member, and the biasing member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together to automatically retain the unlocked position without adding significant overall complexity
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 easy operation of the window without manual retention in the unlocked configuration, providing a clear visual indication of the lock's status and ensuring automatic locking when the window is closed, facilitating easy adjustment and operation by users familiar or unfamiliar with the lock.
Implementation Method 1
The latch member is biased by a spring to its extended position so that, when the window is closed, the latch slides toward the keeper
Data Source
AI summary
A window lock with an automatic latch retention mechanism and an associated method of securing adjustable frame members of a window are provided. The lock generally includes a housing that can be secured to a first window frame member, a latch member slidably mounted in the housing, a rotatably handle configured to actuate the latch member, and a retention mechanism configured to automatically retain the latch member in the retracted position until the first and second window frame members are relatively adjusted to a closed configuration. The lock can automatically adjust to a locked configuration when the window is closed and remain in an unlocked configuration while being adjusted. The rotatable handle, which can be used to retract the latch member, is configured to provide an indication of the configuration of the lock so that a user can easily identify whether the lock is locked or unlocked.