Side-load hung window sash guide with detachable receiver
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Side-load hung window assemblies with curl spring-type window balance assemblies face challenges in aesthetics and functionality, particularly in allowing easy removal of the window sash for cleaning due to interference with the uncurled end portion of the curl spring and mounting devices.
Innovation Solution
A sash guide assembly is introduced, comprising a spacer and receiver with ramped surfaces that allow the sash guide to pass over the uncurled end portion of the curl spring, and an aesthetic cover to enhance the appearance, enabling the window sash to be removed by disassembling the sash guide from the horizontal gap between the window sash and the jamb channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a sash guide is installed to improve aesthetics and guide the sash, then the appearance and operation are improved, but the sash guide interferes with the uncurled end portion of the curl spring and mounting device, preventing easy removal of the window sash
Solution Approach 1:
The sash guide assembly is divided into multiple components: a sash guide body attached to the sash, and a separate receiver mounted on the jamb channel. This segmentation allows the sash guide to be detached from the receiver to enable sash removal, resolving the conflict between maintaining aesthetic appearance and enabling easy operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sash guide assembly transitions from a fixed state during normal operation to a detachable state during maintenance. The dynamic capability of detaching the sash guide body from the receiver allows the system to adapt between aesthetic guidance function and ease of sash removal.
2Ease of operation
If the sash guide extends into the space between the window sash and jamb channel to provide guidance, then the guiding function is improved, but it creates interference with the curl spring and mounting device
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver acts as an intermediary component mounted on the jamb channel that provides the guiding function without requiring the sash guide to permanently occupy the space near the curl spring. During maintenance, the sash guide can be detached from the receiver, eliminating interference with the curl spring while maintaining the guiding function during normal operation.
3Shape
If the sash guide is permanently installed to maintain aesthetic appearance, then the visual appearance is improved, but the window sash cannot be easily removed for cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The sash guide assembly is segmented into detachable components (sash guide body and receiver), allowing the aesthetic sash guide to be removed during maintenance periods. This enables the window sash to be easily accessed for cleaning while maintaining aesthetic appearance during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sash guide assembly provides dynamic adaptability between aesthetic mode (attached state) and maintenance mode (detached state). This dynamic capability allows the system to switch between prioritizing appearance and prioritizing ease of maintenance based on operational needs.
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
The sash guide assembly improves the aesthetic and functional aspects by allowing the window sash to be removed for maintenance while maintaining the counterbalance force, ensuring smooth operation and easy installation/removal, thus addressing the interference issues with the curl spring and mounting devices.
Implementation Method 1
A window balance assembly is installed in the jamb channel and engages the window sash to support the window sash with a counterbalance force
Data Source
AI summary
A side-load, hung window assembly can include a sash guide attached to the window sash and extending into a space between the window sash and the jamb channel. The sash guide can include a recess at an outer end to provide clearance for the sash guide to pass over the uncurled end portion of the curl spring and the mounting device. In addition, an aesthetic cover can be disposed over the mounting device. Alternatively or in addition, a spring cover can be disposed over the uncurled end portion of the curl spring and the mounting device.