Sliding Window Motor Control With Pinch-Safe Closing Zone
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated window systems require costly replacement and advanced construction skills to retrofit existing sliding windows for motorized control, making it difficult for homeowners to automate window operations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A motorized window mechanism with a force measurement component, processor, and memory that measures force deviations and operates in a safe state upon reaching predefined end points, allowing for cost-effective and skill-efficient automation of existing sliding windows.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a complete replacement of existing window frame is used for automated sliding windows, then motorized control functionality is achieved, but installation cost and construction skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated window system is divided into separate functional modules: a motor assembly, a transmission mechanism, and mounting components that can be independently installed on existing window frames. This segmentation allows the automation system to be added without replacing the entire window frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A retrofit mechanism serves as an intermediary between the existing manual window frame and the new motorized control system. This intermediate layer enables motorized operation while preserving the original window frame, avoiding costly complete replacements.
2Reliability
If force measurement and deviation monitoring are implemented, then pinch protection safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors motor current draw and compares it against expected values stored in a force map. When deviation exceeds a threshold, the system automatically stops the motor to prevent pinching, providing real-time feedback-based safety without complex additional sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor assembly itself provides force measurement functionality by monitoring its own current draw, eliminating the need for separate force sensors. The system uses its inherent electrical characteristics to detect abnormal resistance that indicates pinching conditions.
3Reliability
If the motor operates in safe state near end points, then pinch protection is enhanced, but window operation speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor operates at full speed during normal window traversal but dynamically reduces to a safe state near the endpoints. This dynamic speed adjustment provides enhanced pinch protection in critical zones while maintaining efficient operation during the majority of the window's travel distance.
Solution Approach 2:
Different operational characteristics are applied to different portions of the window's path: full-speed operation in the central zone and reduced-speed safe-state operation near the endpoints. This localized quality enhancement provides safety where needed without compromising overall operation efficiency.
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 efficient and safe automation of sliding windows by measuring force deviations and controlling motor operations, reducing the need for costly replacements and complex installations.
Implementation Method 1
a force measurement component operably coupled to the motor and configured to measure a force exerted by the motor as defined by one or more of current, voltage, or velocity of the motor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is systems and methods of operating a window with an automated window mechanism. The systems and methods include moving with the automated window mechanism a sliding panel of a window relative to a window frame to open or close the window. The sliding panel moves through a proximate closing zone. The method also includes in the proximate closing zone, operating the automated window mechanism in a limited state comprising at least one of reduced velocity, reduced current to the automated window mechanism, or reduced voltage to the automated window mechanism.