Window Sash Spacer Assemblies Preventing Cocking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In single-hung and double-hung windows, variations in manufacturing tolerances can result in excessive play between the window sash and the frame, leading to sash cocking and reduced insulation due to gaps between the sash and the sill, which existing counterbalance systems fail to prevent effectively.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of spacer assemblies with adjustable slides that attach to the window sash and extend to contact the side jambs, preventing the sash from cocking by filling the gap space and maintaining the sash's operational orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a counterbalance system is used to hold the window sash open, then the sash can be held in position, but the gap space required for the counterbalance system allows the sash to cock or wobble
Solution Approach 1:
A spacer assembly is introduced as an intermediary component between the sash and the frame. The spacer assembly includes a base that attaches to the sash and a slide that extends to contact the frame jambs, preventing the sash from cocking or wobbling while maintaining the operational position required for the counterbalance system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer assembly is divided into separate functional components: a base portion that attaches to the sash and a slide portion that contacts the frame. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to prevent sash cocking.
2Ease of manufacture
If manufacturing tolerances vary by up to 1/8th of an inch, then production flexibility is maintained, but excessive play of over 1/4 inch occurs between the sash and frame
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer assembly changes the effective dimensional parameters of the window assembly. By adding the spacer assembly with adjustable slide length, the system compensates for manufacturing tolerances and ensures proper fit between the sash and frame despite variations in individual component dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The slide portion of the spacer assembly is designed to be adjustable in length, allowing it to adapt dynamically to different frame sizes and tolerances. This adjustability enables the same spacer assembly design to accommodate manufacturing variations without requiring precise control of individual component dimensions.
3Productivity
If the sash is made separately from the frame, then manufacturing efficiency is improved, but variations in tolerances create play between the sash and frame
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer assembly serves as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between the separately manufactured sash and frame. It compensates for tolerance variations and ensures precise alignment without requiring the sash and frame to be manufactured as a single integrated assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer assembly is installed during the assembly process to pre-establish the correct spacing and alignment between the sash and frame. This preliminary action ensures that the sash is properly positioned before final operation, preventing cocking and maintaining insulation integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A window sash installed into a window frame, wherein the window sash assumes an operable position where the vertical sides of the window sash are aligned with the side jambs of the window frame. A gap space exists between each of the vertical sides of the window sash and the side jambs of the window frame. This gap space is utilized by a counterbalance system. Spacer assemblies are attached to the window sash. Each spacer assembly has a base that mounts to the window sash and a slide that selectively extends from the base. The slides are extended across the gap spaces between the sash and the side jambs. The slides are brought into close proximity with the side jambs. The presence of the slides prevents the window sash from being able to cock out of the intended operational orientation of the window sash.