Window Lock Adjustable Torsion Spring Preload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional window or door locks with torsion springs are not compatible with both handle and panic devices, requiring separate lock types and causing logistical and stock management issues due to the need for different preload settings.
Innovation Solution
A lock with adjustable torsion spring preload, allowing selection between two stable equilibrium positions via a mechanical adjusting mechanism accessible through the case, enabling use with either a handle or panic device without component removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a lock is designed with a fixed preload torsion spring for handle combination, then it works correctly with handle, but it cannot be used with panic device and requires separate lock types
Solution Approach 1:
The lock incorporates an adjustable preload mechanism that allows the torsion spring to be reconfigured between two stable equilibrium positions. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the same lock to adapt to different device types (handle or panic device) by changing the spring preload, eliminating the need for separate lock types while maintaining optimal performance for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical parameter of the torsion spring's preload force through a mechanical adjusting mechanism. By modifying this critical parameter, the lock can be adapted from handle configuration (higher preload) to panic device configuration (lower preload), achieving versatility without adding substantial complexity to the lock design.
2Reliability
If a lock uses high preload torsion spring for handle, then it ensures reliable return, but it creates extremely high manual opening forces when combined with panic device
Solution Approach 1:
The lock allows dynamic adjustment of the torsion spring preload between two stable equilibrium positions. When configured for panic device use, the mechanism reduces the spring preload to a lower level, thereby reducing the manual opening force required while still maintaining reliable operation. This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction between reliability and force requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention modifies the torsion spring's preload parameter to match different application requirements. For panic device combination, the preload is reduced from the handle configuration level, directly lowering the manual opening force while preserving the necessary reliability for the locking mechanism to function correctly.
3Reliability
If manufacturers supply separate locks for handle and panic device, then each lock is optimized for its specific use, but it creates logistical and stock management difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The lock is designed as a universal device that can function with both handle and panic device through its adjustable preload mechanism. By making the lock multi-functional, manufacturers can supply a single standardized lock type instead of two separate specialized locks, thereby simplifying inventory management and stock control while maintaining the reliability needed for each specific application through configuration rather than design differentiation.
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 flexible use with either handle or panic device by simple adjustment, reducing manual opening forces and aligning with regulatory standards, eliminating the need for separate lock types and simplifying inventory management.
Implementation Method 1
an automatic return torsion spring of the rotatable follower when the manual force actuating the control square pin is released
Implementation Method 2
mechanical adjusting means for adjusting the preload of a torsion spring configured to transform a rotational movement of a selector of the preload into a translation movement of an operating element on the torsion spring
Data Source
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AI summary
The lock for a window or door comprises a case (1) and inside the case (1) a fixed support (12), a latch (4) that is extractable from the case (1) to a lock closing position, a rotatable follower (11) that is provided with a housing (13) for a square pin for controlling retraction of the latch (4) into the case (1) to an opening position of the lock, an automatic return torsion spring (14) of the rotatable follower (11) as far as a limit stop (34), the torsion spring (4) having a first end (14A) rigidly coupled in rotation with the rotatable follower (11) and a second end (14B), there being further provided mechanical adjusting means of the preload of the torsion spring (14) acting on the second end (14B) of the spring (14).