Window Meeting Rail Connection System with Single-Screw Anchor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window meeting rail connection systems are either too complex with many fasteners, not self-locating, or not structurally sound for all weather conditions, making it difficult to easily remove and reinstall the meeting rail for accessing large objects through a window.
Innovation Solution
A connection system featuring an anchor attached to the window jamb, a meeting rail with snap-fit ends, and a single screw or pin for secure tightening, allowing the meeting rail to be easily removed and reinstalled from inside the building, utilizing a deformable anchor with tabs and a profiled pin for secure locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple screws or fasteners are used to attach the meeting rail to the window frame, then the structural soundness is improved, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated connector that attaches the meeting rail to the window frame. This connector incorporates both the anchoring mechanism and the fastening element, eliminating the need for multiple separate screws or fasteners while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides structural attachment, allows for easy removal and reinstallation, and maintains weather sealing. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components.
2Strength
If multiple screws or fasteners are used to attach the meeting rail, then the structural soundness is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates the fastening and release mechanisms into a single component that can be operated from inside the building. This allows the meeting rail to be securely attached during normal operation but easily removed when needed, without requiring multiple fasteners to be manipulated.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to be operable from the interior side of the window frame, allowing the user to remove or install the meeting rail without needing to access the exterior side or use specialized tools. The single fastener can be manipulated from inside the building.
3Reliability
If the meeting rail is securely fastened to the window frame, then the reliability under weather conditions is improved, but the ease of removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a permanently fixed state to a removable state through a simple operational action. The single fastener can be released from inside the building, allowing the meeting rail to be easily removed even though it was securely attached to withstand weather conditions during normal operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the meeting rail is removed to allow object movement through the window, then the accessibility is improved, but the structural integrity of the window assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly transitions from a complete enclosed state to an open state by removing only the meeting rail while leaving the anchor and frame intact. The single fastener allows for this temporary modification without compromising the overall structural integrity of the window assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection system comprising an anchor connected to the window frame, a meeting rail having ends that may be snap fit to the anchor, and a single screw to tighten and true-up the connection once it is installed in the anchor. The connection system allows the meeting rail to be removed and replace from inside the building. In an alternative embodiment the disclosure details a kit for detachably securing a meeting rail to a frame jamb. The kit comprises separate anchors that are removably secured to the first and second side of the jamb frame and a profiled pin for insertion into the anchor for securing the meeting rail to the anchor and upon manual rotation of the pin the meeting rail and frame jambs are secured together.