Window Lock Structure for Split Air Conditioner Pipe Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
During the installation of split air conditioners, the flexible refrigerant pipe extending through the window causes the original locking mechanism to fail, allowing the window leaf to be blown open, leading to rainwater intrusion and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A window lock structure comprising first and second lock members mounted on the window frame and leaf, respectively, connected by a connection member to limit the opening degree of the ventilation slit, using adjustable elements like Velcro or cable ties to restrain the window leaf.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the window is opened to maximum state to allow outdoor unit delivery, then the installation convenience is improved, but the window leaf cannot be completely closed causing safety hazards and rainwater intrusion
Solution Approach 1:
The window locking function is segmented into two independent parts: the original locking mechanism and the new limit mechanism. The limit mechanism consists of separate components (limit component with limiting member, and limiting component with limiting structure) that work independently from the original lock, providing an additional layer of safety without interfering with installation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection member acts as an intermediary element that connects the first lock member mounted on the window frame to the second lock member mounted on the window leaf. This intermediary component transmits the limiting action from the fixed side to the movable side, enabling the opening degree limitation function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the flexible refrigerant pipe extends through the window, then the personal installation capability is improved, but the original locking mechanism fails to work
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system transitions from a static binary state (locked/unlocked) to a dynamic controlled range. The window leaf can be positioned at different opening degrees within the limited range, allowing the flexible refrigerant pipe to pass through while maintaining security. The limit component enables continuous adjustment within bounds rather than fixed positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The limit mechanism is pre-configured to prevent the window from reaching the fully open position before the harmful effect (wind blowing the window open) can occur. By establishing the opening degree limit in advance, the system proactively counteracts the potential safety hazard rather than reacting to it after it occurs.
3Reliability
If the window leaf is constrained by the original locking mechanism, then the window security is improved, but the refrigerant pipe installation is complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The limit mechanism provides more locking control than the original mechanism alone, but only in the dimension of opening degree limitation. The locking strength and security features match the original mechanism, avoiding excessive complexity while achieving the additional safety function of preventing full opening.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a window lock structure and an air conditioner assembly. The window lock structure includes a first lock member, a second lock member, and a connection member. One of the first lock member and the second lock member is mounted on the window frame, and another of the first lock member and the second lock member is mounted on the window leaf. The connection member is configured for connecting the first lock member and the second lock member to limit an upper limit of an opening degree of the ventilation slit. The technical solution provided by the present application can prevent the window leaf from being completely blown open, thereby causing the problem of rainwater drifting into the room.