Fenestration hardware system for casement windows

Operating hardware for a window complete comprising an upper platform unit attached to a window frame; a lower platform unit attached to the window frame; a sliding drive mechanism comprising a sliding housing base, a sliding housing top piece, a planetary gear set, and a worm and wheel gear set; and a handle drive mechanism comprising an input bevel gear, a handle drive cap including a first hole for receiving the input bevel gear and a first half hole, an output drive gear, a handle drive base including a second hole for receiving the input bevel gear and a second half hole, and a handle drive shaft.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to windows and more particularly, to a window operator or hardware system for use in casement windows.

BACKGROUND

Casement window operators are well known in the art and typically utilize a hand crank to perform a single operation, for example, the opening and closing of a casement window. Another type of casement window operator uses a hand crank to lock and unlock a window sash within a window frame of a casement window. While attempts have been made to create an integrated window hardware system that combines the operation of a single hand crank to control a window's swing for opening and closing, linked to the operation of locking and unlocking the window, significant mechanical issues have resulted.

An exemplary mechanical issue resulting from integrated systems stems from an uneven or unsure back pressure created at the window's sash seal. That is, during the mechanical transitions between the operational mode and the locking mode, a resulting back pressure causes a misalignment of the window. Such a misalignment event, is otherwise mechanically defined as the release point between the sash's hook and the window's latch, wherein any back pressure from the sash seal pushes the sash away from the window frame, creating the misalignment event.

Recent U.S. Pat. No. 8,141,295 B2 (2012) is a representation of an attempt to use a single hand crank to control both the locking and unlocking operation, linked directly to the operation of the opening and closing of the sash. However, this and other known recent disclosures fail to address or take into consideration the misalignment problem described above.

Additional casement window operators or hardware in an integrated system may further include use of the hand crank to cause a window to enter a wash mode. Currently known window hardware for providing a transition of a window into a wash mode requires a window operator to have extra knowledge about the window hardware as a complete system, and extra knowledge is considered a highly undesirable condition as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,707,621 B2 (2014) and U.S. Pat. No. 8,141,295 B2 (2012), which teach a wash mode for their windows which still requires particular hand manipulation to place the window sash in the position for cleaning.

Accordingly, there exists a need to provide an integrated casement window operator or hardware system that allows use of a single hand crank to control both an operational mode and a locking mode that overcomes the identified misalignment problem. There further exists a need to provide a window casement hardware system having an operational mode, a locking mode, and a wash mode, all connected to a single hand crank.

SUMMARY

An embodiment of this disclosure provides an Operating hardware for a window complete comprising an upper platform unit attached to a window frame, the upper platform unit comprising an upper platform base, an upper guide track, and an upper link arm mechanism configured to attach the upper link arm mechanism to a window sash; a lower platform unit attached to the window frame, the lower platform unit comprising a lower platform base, a first lower guide track, a second lower guide track wider than the first lower guide track, and a lower link arm mechanism, wherein the lower link arm mechanism is attached to the window sash; a sliding drive mechanism comprising a sliding housing base, a sliding housing top piece, a planetary gear set, and a worm and wheel gear set, wherein the planetary gear set is positioned between the sliding housing top piece and the sliding housing base, wherein the worm and wheel gear set comprises a wheel gear mounted to the planetary gear set, and a worm gear positioned between the sliding housing top piece and the sliding housing base and coupled to the wheel gear, and wherein the sliding housing top piece is secured to the sliding housing base; and a handle drive mechanism comprising an input bevel gear, a handle drive cap including a first hole for receiving the input bevel gear and a first half hole, an output drive gear, a handle drive base including a second hole for receiving the input bevel gear and a second half hole, and a handle drive shaft, wherein the output drive gear is mounted to the handle drive shaft and disposed within the first half hole and the second half hole; wherein the handle drive mechanism is mounted to the second lower guide track of the lower platform unit; and wherein the sliding drive mechanism is configured to freely slide within the second lower guide track of the lower platform unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of the disclosed embodiments of this disclosure is intended to enable someone skilled in the prior art to make and use that which is disclosed, but is not intended to limit the claims to these particular exemplary embodiments.

Referring to the drawings in greater detail and by reference characters depicted therein, embodiments of this disclosure directed to operating hardware for a window complete are herein detailed. This operating hardware is configured and constructed to operate a window complete in three (3) modes of operations—an operational mode2, a locking mode3, and a wash mode4. Each of these modes will be discussed further in relation toFIG. 20A,FIG. 20B,FIG. 20C, andFIG. 20D. In various embodiments, a window complete may be left hand (LH) window complete or a right hand (RH) window complete.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, a double window complete15is made by attaching a LH window complete5to a RH window complete6. In various embodiments, the LH window complete may be a LH wash-mode window complete and/or the RH window complete may be a RH wash-mode window complete. In other embodiments of the disclosure, double window complete15may be a double wash-mode window complete.

Each of LH window complete5and RH window complete6includes a window frame9and a window sash10. As shown, LH window complete5is configured with mounting hardware allowing its window sash to make a LH swing11; and similarly, RH window complete6is configured with mounting hardware allowing its window sash to make a RH swing12. Double window complete15is further configured with a double window trim set17and a double window center cap18.

Referring now toFIG. 2, a window complete such as LH window complete5may have a window frame9that attaches to window sash10via mounting hardware including upper platform unit13and lower platform unit14. Upper platform unit13attaches to window sash10using fasteners21; and the upper platform unit additionally attaches and secures to window frame9using fasteners22. Similarly, lower platform unit14attaches to window sash10using fasteners22. Lower platform unit14further attaches and secures to window frame9using fasteners27.

As shown inFIG. 2, LH window complete5may further include an upper frame cover44and a lower frame cover46. In various embodiments of the disclosure, the upper frame cover44may be attached to an upper frame section which may include a platform groove detail (not shown) for aligning and mounting an upper platform base of the upper platform unit. In yet other embodiments of the disclosure, the lower frame cover46may be attached to a lower frame section which may include a platform groove detail (not shown) for aligning and mounting a lower platform base of the lower platform unit.

FIG. 2further illustrates a folding hand crank130and latch hook127attached to the LH window complete. Various embodiments of the folding hand crank130will be detailed further in reference toFIG. 15, and latch hook127will be further described in reference toFIG. 13which illustrates a multiple latching system.

In some embodiments, the upper platform unit13ofFIG. 2is comprised of an upper platform base19, illustrated inFIG. 3A. As depicted, upper platform base19is constructed with a shoe guide track detail19a, and configured to mount and attach an upper link arm mechanism20with fasteners21to the window sash10. Additionally, the upper platform base19is attached and secured to the window frame9with fasteners22.

As shown inFIG. 3B, the lower platform unit14is comprised of a lower link arm mechanism23and a lower platform base24. As further detailed in regards toFIG. 9A, lower platform base may24be constructed with a shoe guide track detail24a, a wider guide track24bdetail, a partially constructed guide rail24cdetail, a partial opening in guide rail24ddetail, a mounting guide track24edetail, a stop pin hole24fdetail, and a gear aperture24gdetail (all of which are not shown inFIG. 3B).

FIG. 3Bfurther shows a stop pin25which is attached to a stop pin hole (not shown) and mounting fasteners26configured to attach the lower link arm mechanism23to the window sash10. Additionally, lower platform unit14is configured to attach and secure to the window frame9with fastener27.FIG. 3Bfurther illustrates push link40which is be discussed in detail regardingFIG. 5.

Referring now toFIG. 4, various embodiments of this disclosure include a window complete such as LH window complete5having an upper frame cover44, attached to an upper frame section45of window frame9; and upper frame section45may include a platform groove detail (not shown) for aligning and mounting the upper platform base.FIG. 4further illustrates a lower frame cover46, attached to a lower frame section47of the frame, which is so constructed in some embodiments, with a platform groove detail (not shown) for aligning and mounting the lower platform base. Additionally, a latch side frame cover48, attached to a latch side frame section49so constructed with a latch mounting slot detail49a(shown inFIG. 12Bregarding a multiple latching system); and a hinge side frame cover50, attached to hinge side frame section51. As shown, the LH window complete is further configured with a window sash seal set52, a window trim set53, and a window exterior cap set54.

As illustrated inFIG. 4, the window sash10further comprises a sash exterior cap set55, a sash glass56(which may be constructed as single, double, or triple panes of glass), a sash hinge side piece57, a sash latch side piece58, so constructed with a latch hook slot detail (not shown), a sash upper top piece59, so constructed with a mounting slot detail59a(shown inFIG. 12Aregarding a multiple latching system), for mounting the upper link arm mechanism, a sash lower bottom piece60so constructed with a mounting slot60adetail, for mounting the lower link arm mechanism.

FIG. 5illustrates an exploded view of a lower link arm mechanism23as shown inFIG. 3B. Various embodiments of the disclosure teach that the upper link arm mechanism20(shown inFIG. 3B) and lower link arm mechanism23each include a 4-bar scissor linkage28with four (4) named links. The 4-bar scissor linkage28includes: a hinge link29which is constructed with two (2) holes29aand29b; a cross link30, constructed with three (3) holes30a,30b, and30c; an outboard link31, constructed with three (3) holes31a,31b, and31c; and a sash link32, constructed with two (2) holes32aand32band attachment holes32cfor mounting to the window sash and mounting to hole29aof said hinge link with rivet33.8As further shown, a fixed-slider shoe35attaches to hinge link29via hole29busing long rivet36and the fixed-slider shoe35further attaches to cross link30via hole30b. Additionally, a slider shoe37attaches to hole31aof the outboard link31using a medium rivet38. A rivet39is used to attach cross link29to outboard link31via holes29aand31c. Rivet34connects link32to link31.

Further illustrated inFIG. 5, on the lower link arm mechanism23only, the addition of a push link40, constructed with two holes, hole40aand hole40b, is attached to cross link30via hole30cusing rivet41.

Referring toFIG. 6, a wash mode sliding drive mechanism which is generally denoted as reference number164includes sliding drive mechanism61which attaches to the wider guide track24bof the lower platform base24, in addition to a trigger block170. Sliding drive mechanism61may be a L.H. sliding drive mechanism or as a R.H. sliding drive mechanism, and the sliding drive mechanism61includes a sliding housing base62, constructed with rotational beginning stop block62aand rotational end stop block62b, a threaded c'bore62c, a half circle62d, a threaded aperture62e, an end stop62fdetail, and sliding block62g. As shown, the sliding drive mechanism61further includes a sliding housing top piece63, constructed with a half circle63adetail; and a planetary gear set64which is further detailed in reference toFIG. 7AandFIG. 7B, and which is captured between the sliding housing top piece63and the sliding housing base62using fasteners71.

Further,FIG. 6illustrates a worm and wheel gear set72includes a wheel gear73, so constructed with a double key73adetail, mounted to and secured to the planetary gear set64with fastener74and washer75. The worm and wheel gear set72additionally includes worm gear76, constructed with a hex aperture76adetail. As shown, worm gear76is captured within the half circle of both the sliding housing top piece63aand sliding housing base62d, and is coupled to the wheel gear73, when the sliding housing top piece63is secure to the sliding housing base62, with fasteners77.

Furthermore, according to various embodiments of the disclosure with a wash mode sliding drive mechanism164and as illustrated byFIG. 6, the sliding drive mechanism61is mounted such that it can freely slide within the wider guide track24bwithin the lower platform base24. Moreover, hole40bof the push link40of lower link arm mechanism23is attached to the threaded c'bore hole62cdetail of the sliding housing base62using a shoulder bolt fastener (not shown).

As shown inFIG. 6, trigger block170is further constructed with a trigger post170adetail, a trigger paw170bdetail, and a threaded end170cdetail. Additionally, trigger block170attaches to a threaded trigger rod171via a nut fastener172a. Nut fastener172bfurther attaches the threaded trigger rod171to the sliding housing base62, such that the wash mode sliding drive mechanism164is mounted and captured within the wider guide track24bof the lower platform base24.

Referring toFIG. 7A, a planetary gear set64is illustrated in assembled form, showing the planetary base68and the interlock key68aand base output gear68bdisposed on a bottom side of the planetary base.

FIG. 7Bfurther illustrates the parts of the disclosed planetary gear set in an exploded view. As shown, planetary gear set64includes a sun gear65, so constructed with an input drive key65aand an input gear65bdetail. The planetary gear set further includes three (3) planet gear66and a ring gear67, the ring gear having an inner ring gear teeth67adetail, an outer ring gear teeth67bdetail, and further defined as outer ring output gear67c, in addition to the planetary base68. Further, the planetary gear set includes a planetary cap69, so constructed with rotational beginning stop69adetail and rotational end stop69bdetail. As illustrated, the planetary gear set64is secured between the planetary cap69and the planetary base68together with fasteners70.

FIG. 8Aillustrates a LH handle drive mechanism79ain exploded view and as mounted on a lower platform base24, andFIG. 8Billustrates a RH handle drive mechanism79bin a semi-assembled state. A handle drive mechanism according to the disclosure may be configured as a LH handle drive mechanism79aor a RH handle drive mechanism79b. As shown, each of LH handle drive mechanism79aand RH handle drive mechanism79bincludes a respective input bevel gear80having an input shaft80aand a handle keyway80b, although for purposes of clarity and distinction, only these two latter features are shown in an exploded view inFIG. 8Ain relation to LH handle drive mechanism79aand not in the semi-assembled state of RH handle drive mechanism79binFIG. 8B.

Additionally, each handle drive mechanism has a respective handle drive base81, an output drive gear82, a handle drive cap83, and a handle drive shaft84. As shown, the handle drive cap83of each of the LH handle drive mechanism79aand the RH handle drive mechanism79bincludes a hole83bfor receiving the respective input bevel gear80and a half hole83a.FIG. 8Billustrates the handle drive base81and output drive gear82of RH handle drive mechanism79bas already mounted to and secured onto the respective handle drive shaft84. In contrast, the handle drive base81of the LH handle drive mechanism79ais illustrated in an exploded view inFIG. 8Ain order to show the additional features, for example, the handle drive base81including a bearing hole81afor receiving the input bevel gear81, and a half hole81bfor mounting an output drive gear82with a aperture82a. The output drive gear82mounts or secures onto the handle drive shaft84using clip fasteners85aand85b, and the output drive gear is captured within the half hole81bof the handle drive base81and the half hole83aof the handle drive cap83with fasteners86. In some embodiments, the handle drive shaft84has retainer grooves on it to help secure the output drive gear82thereto.

In some embodiments, the output drive gear is an output hex drive gear, and the handle drive shaft is a handle hex drive shaft. However, the handle drive shaft can have a square or a “D” shape, or any shape that has at least one flat side to transmit torque from the crank handle to the drive system. The output drive gear can have whatever shape as that of the corresponding handle drive shaft.

Further, the handle drive mechanism, is mounted and secured to the wider guide track24bof the lower platform unit24via fastener87.

Referring now toFIG. 9AandFIG. 9B, operating hardware of the disclosure may further include a lockout mechanism88.FIG. 9Ais an exploded view of a lockout mechanism88with an indicator block95and indicator output rod98. As shown, lockout mechanism88includes a lockout base89, constructed with a two (2) threaded block89afeature in which one of the two threaded block89ais assigned for a LH lockout base89b, and another of the two threaded block89ais assigned for a RH lockout base89c. Lockout base89further includes a hole89d, a locking bar slot89e, and a rack guide feature89fand89g, wherein rack guide89gis assigned for the LH lockout base89band the other rack guide89fis assigned for a RH lockout base. Lockout mechanism88further includes a slotted pinion gear90having a key slot90a, a locking bar91having a spring tab91a, a compression spring92, a short drive rack93with a threaded end (not shown) that couples to the slotted pinion gear90, and attaches and mounts to a rack rod94with threaded ends94aand94b.

FIG. 9Afurther depicts lockout mechanism88as including an indicator block95having a threaded in-port95a, a threaded out-port95b, and a two (2) pin hole95c. The lockout mechanism further includes a pair of roll pin fasteners96attached to the indicator block95. As shown inFIG. 9A, the lockout mechanism88is subsequently mounted and secured to the lower platform base24with fasteners97.

Further,FIG. 9Aprovides a detailed illustration of lower platform base24, with references to the various parts thereof. As shown, lower platform base24may be constructed with a shoe guide track24a, a wider guide track24b, a partially constructed guide rail24c, a partial opening in guide rail24d, a mounting guide track24e, a stop pin hole24f, and a gear aperture24g.

FIG. 9Billustrates the lockout mechanism ofFIG. 9Ain an assembled state prior to mounting to the lower platform base.

Referring now toFIG. 10AandFIG. 10B, embodiments of the disclosure include an operating hardware having a lock trigger mechanism which may be a LH trigger mechanism100aor a RH trigger mechanism100b.FIG. 10illustrates a LH trigger mechanism100aincluding a lock trigger base101having clip notch101a, a lock trigger cap102having a clip notch102a, a lock trigger lever103having a fork103aon one end, and a finger103bfeature on the other end. As shown, lock trigger lever103is mounted to lock trigger base101with a shoulder bolt fastener104. Additionally, the LH trigger mechanism includes a LH lock trigger emblem105which includes a fork post105afeature, a “Red” color105b, and letters “LOCK”105cprinted over the “Red” color and placed on the left side of the LH lock trigger emblem, and a “Green” color105dplaced on the right side of the LH lock trigger emblem.

As shown inFIG. 10B, a RH trigger mechanism100bincludes all the individual features101thru104referenced in regards to LH trigger mechanism100ashown inFIG. 10Aand these are illustrated in assembled form inFIG. 10B.FIG. 10Balso shows RH trigger mechanism100bhaving a RH lock trigger emblem106. As shown, RH lock trigger emblem106includes a fork post106afeature, a “Red” color106b, and with letters “LOCK”106cprinted over the “Red” color and placed on the right side of the RH lock trigger emblem, and a “Green” color106dplaced on the left side of the RH lock trigger emblem.

Further, the LH lock trigger emblem ofFIG. 10Aand the RH lock trigger emblem ofFIG. 10Beach are captured and secured between the respective lock trigger cap102and lock trigger base101with fasteners107. Moreover, as shown onFIG. 10Arelating to LH trigger mechanism100a, the lock trigger mechanism, is mounted and secured to lower platform base24with fasteners108.

Referring now toFIG. 11AandFIG. 11B, embodiments of the disclosure include a window complete operating hardware having a corner strap mechanism113. As shown inFIG. 11Aillustrating a corner strap mechanism113in an exploded view, corner strap mechanism113includes a flexible metal strap114having a horizontal input hole114aand a vertical output hole114b, a corner base piece115, and a corner cap piece116with a mounting tab (not shown). The corner cap piece116is mounted and secured to both, the lower frame section47, and the latch side frame section49, with fasteners117. The flexible metal strap114is secured between the corner base piece115and the corner cap pc116.FIG. 11Afurther illustrates an indicator output rod98attached to the horizontal input hole114a; and on the opposite end, indicator output rod98is attached to a threaded out-port of an indicator block (not shown). Indicator output rod98includes threaded end98a, a hook end98b, and is so configured with different lengths98c, such that the lengths are determined by different window width sizes99.

Further, the corner strap mechanism113ofFIG. 11Aincludes a corner output rod118having two hook ends118aand118battached to the vertical output hole of the flexible metal strap prior to final assembly of the corner cap piece to the corner base piece. The corner output rod is configured with different lengths118awhich are determined by different window height sizes119.

Referring now toFIG. 12A,FIG. 12B, andFIG. 12Caccording to various embodiments of the disclosure, an operating hardware for a window complete further includes a multiple latching system. The multiple latching system, generally denoted as reference number120, includes several sliding latch mechanism121depending on the window height size119, as shown inFIG. 12C.

FIG. 12Aillustrates an exploded side view of a single sliding latch mechanism along with a sash upper top piece59to which the sliding latch mechanism is mounted.FIG. 12Billustrates a semi-assembled side view of a sliding latch mechanism inFIG. 12Aalong with a latch side frame section49upon which the sliding latch mechanism is mounted. As shown, each sliding latch mechanism121includes a latch plate122having input and output rod holes122aand122b, a latch mount base123, and a roller fastener set124which includes a latch roller124a, and a nut and bolt fastener124b,124c.

When more than one sliding latch mechanism is required, to complete the multiple latching system, a latch to latch rod125is made at rod hook ends125aand125band has a latch rod length125cthat is determined by the different window height sizes119. Additionally, a latch to corner output rod118is made at rod hook end118awhich has opposite rod end118battached to the corner strap mechanism113. Corner output rod118has a latch rod length118cthat is determined by the different window height sizes119.

Further illustrated inFIG. 12A, as a match set126to each of the sliding latch mechanism, is a latch hook127mounted to the mounting slot59aof the window sash using fasteners128via a tapper lead-in127aon the latch hook. The sliding match mechanism121is further mounted with fasteners117to latch side frame section49at a latch mounting slot49aas illustrated inFIG. 12B.

FIG. 12C, illustrating the semi-assembled side view of the multiple latching system, depicts several sliding latch mechanism as they attach to latch side frame section49and also how the sliding latch mechanism are positioned in regards to lower frame section47. In particular, the corner strap mechanism113is shown positioned as it will mount to lower frame section47and latch side frame section49. Corner output rod118is positioned between the portion of the corner strap mechanism attached to the latch side frame section and a first of several sliding latch mechanism.

Operating hardware for a window complete according to various embodiments of the disclosure include a hand crank129mounted to a lower frame section, as will be detailed further in relation toFIG. 21. Referring toFIGS. 13A and 13B, a hand crank of this disclosure may be a folding hand crank130.FIG. 13A, illustrating an exploded view of a folding hand crank according to an embodiment of the disclosure, shows that folding hand crank130includes a hub131constructed with a handle mount bore131aand a pin aperture131b, which mounts to the input shaft of a handle drive mechanism (not shown) with a fastener132. The folding hand crank further includes a handle133which mounts to the hub with a handle pin134; a nob135; nob hub136which mounts to the handle with a nob pin137; and a clip fastener138.FIG. 13Bshows an assembled view of the folding hand crank ofFIG. 13A.

Referring now toFIG. 14, in an embodiment of the disclosure, the window complete1includes a handle crank bezel139, a lock trigger bezel143, and a wash mode bezel147. As shown, handle crank bezel139mounts and secures to lower frame cover46with fasteners141through an aperture140in the lower frame cover. Similarly, the lock trigger bezel143mounts and secures to the lower frame cover through an aperture145in the lower frame cover; and wash mode bezel147mounts and secures to the lower frame cover through an aperture149in the lower frame cover. While not shown inFIG. 14, the lock trigger bezel143is part of a lock trigger bezel mechanism (shown inFIG. 15A,FIG. 15B, and FIG.15C as reference number144) along with a pair of mounting clips (not shown); and the wash mode bezel147is part of a wash mode bezel mechanism (shown inFIG. 15A,FIG. 15B, andFIG. 15Cas reference number146) along with a pair of mounting clips (not shown).

Referring now toFIG. 15A,FIG. 15B, andFIG. 15C, embodiments of the disclosure are directed to operating hardware for a window complete which include several possible locations for the hand crank within the lower frame cover of the window frame. For ease of reference, each ofFIG. 15A,FIG. 15B, andFIG. 15Cillustrate a LH window complete5, but it should be understood that the same hand crank locations are possible for RH window complete embodiments as well.FIG. 15Aillustrates a LH window complete with a handle drive mechanism mounted and secured at LH location152, wherein the handle drive mechanism is mounted to the lower platform unit for the hand crank to be located near the hinge side frame section.FIG. 15Billustrates a LH window complete with a center hand crank location154, wherein a handle drive mechanism is mounted to the lower platform unit for the hand crank to be located near the center of the window frame.FIG. 15Cillustrates a LH window complete with a handle drive mechanism mounted and secured at RH location158, wherein the handle drive mechanism is mounted to the lower platform unit for the hand crank to be located near the latch side frame section.

Further, if the window complete is a LH wash-mode window complete or a RH wash-mode window complete, the embodiment shown inFIG. 15Awould also include a lower frame wash mode cover-LH handle167. Similarly, if the LH window complete shown inFIG. 15Bis a LH wash-mode window complete, the embodiment would further include a lower frame wash mode cover-center handle168. Accordingly, if the LH window complete shown inFIG. 15Cis a LH wash-mode window complete, the embodiment would further include a lower frame wash mode cover-right handle169.

Referring toFIG. 16A,FIG. 16BandFIG. 16C, in embodiments of the window complete where the window complete is either a LH wash-mode window complete or a RH wash-mode window complete, the window complete further includes additional features. For example,FIG. 16Aillustrates a LH wash-mode window complete with a wash mode lever mechanism160, a wash mode lockout mechanism161, a lower cable block mechanism163, a wash mode sliding drive mechanism164, and various fasteners. Wash mode lever mechanism160is mounted to the lower platform base24using fasteners199; and wash mode lockout mechanism161is mounted to lower platform base24using fasteners200. Additional features ofFIG. 16Ainclude a rack and pinion gear set109which includes a pinion gear110that is mounted within the sliding housing base, and a rack111which is mounted and secured to the lower platform base with fasteners112. In this embodiment, the outer ring gear teeth67bof ring gear67of the planetary gear set64(all of which are not shown inFIG. 16A) is coupled to the rack and pinion gear set109. Further shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 16Aare sliding drive mechanism61, handle drive mechanism79which is mounted to the wider guide track of the lower platform unit via fastener87, lockout mechanism88, slotted pinion gear90, and lock trigger mechanism100and various fasteners87,97, and108.

FIG. 16Billustrates a LH wash-mode window complete further including a cable & sprocket drive mechanism162and an upper cable block165shown inFIG. 16C. As shown, the cable & sprocket drive mechanism includes a cable retainer165a, a threaded hole165b, and a locating pin165cdetail; and the upper cable block is mounted and secured to the fixed-slider shoe35of the upper link arm mechanism with fastener166. When the upper cable block is so mounted, the fixed-slider shoe floats freely in the shoe guide track of the upper link arm mechanism. Referring now toFIG. 17AandFIG. 17B, embodiments of the disclosure are directed to an operating hardware for a wash-mode system added to a window complete as described above, further having multiple 4-sproket mechanism174. As illustrated in exploded viewFIG. 17A, each of a 4-sprocket mechanism includes a sprocket175with a hex aperture175a, a sprocket base176, a sprocket top177, and fasteners178which secures the sprocket top cap and the sprocket to the sprocket base. In addition to the 4-sprocket mechanism, shown inFIG. 17Bthere are two (2) cable complete179each having a cable end connector (not shown), such that one pair of the sprocket mechanism places in tension the cable complete, mounted and secured to the upper frame section, and mounted and secured to the lower frame section with fasteners180and184, respectively. Further, the hex shaft is placed in the hex aperture of the sprocket mechanism, when the sprocket mechanism is mounted and secured to the upper frame section and the lower frame section.

Also shown inFIG. 17Bis lower cable block mechanism163, including lower cable block181, ball plunger fastener182, and lock plate183which are discussed further in regards toFIG. 18B.

Referring now toFIG. 18AandFIG. 18B, an embodiment of the disclosure as detailed byFIG. 17Bincludes a lower cable block mechanism163as shown in assembled form inFIG. 18A.FIG. 18Bshows an exploded view of cable block mechanism163, including a lower cable block181having a cable retainer181a, a sliding groove181b, a threaded port181c, a hook stop181d, a mounting post181e, and a hook post181f. Further, the lower cable block mechanism includes a th ball plunger fastener182which is adjustable within the threaded port of the lower cable block, and a lock plate183which has a trigger post hook183a, a latch bar hook183b, an index engage notch183c, and an index dis-engage notch183d.

Referring now toFIG. 19AandFIG. 19B, embodiments of the disclosure are directed to an operating hardware for a wash-mode system added to a window complete as described above, further having a wash mode lockout mechanism as shown here.FIG. 19Ashows an exploded view of wash mode lockout mechanism161according to an embodiment. As shown, wash mode lockout mechanism161includes a rod spring192, a ball plunger fastener193, and a lock bar194having a pair of index engage slot194aand index dis-engage slot194b, a pair of lever hook engage slot194c, a lever hook dis-engage slot194d, a cable block hook194e, a lever rod hole194f, a lock bar stop194g, and a lock plate slot194h. The wash mode lockout mechanism further includes a bar cap pc195with an upper slot195afor the latch bar, a bar base piece196with a lower slot196afor the latch bar, a hole and groove196bfor the rod spring, a threaded aperture196cfor the ball plunger fastener, and a threaded aperture196dfor a shoulder bolt fastener197, and a bar hook198. Further, bar hook198includes a hook end198a, a trigger tab198b, a spring aperture198cfor the rod spring, and a bolt aperture198dfor the shoulder bolt fastener, such that the bar cap piece is mounted to capture to the bar base piece with fastener199, and the lever rod of the wash mode lever mechanism is mounted and secured to the lock bar hole of the wash mode lockout mechanism.

FIG. 19Billustrates an assembled view of the wash mode lockout mechanism ofFIG. 19Aand that the wash mode lockout mechanism is mounted to the lower platform base with fastener200.FIG. 19Bfurther illustrates wash mode lever185, lever base186, lever187, lever rod188, in addition to fastener189.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the handle drive mechanism and the sliding drive mechanism is further re-configured with different gearing ratio set; first, to maximize the number of turns in exchanged for ease of rotation of the hand crank; and second, to set counterclockwise or clockwise rotation of the hand crank, with the direction of swing of the window sash.

Referring now toFIG. 20A,FIG. 20B,FIG. 20C, andFIG. 20D, transition between the operational mode to the locking mode, and back to the operational mode, is summarized into four (4) mechanical stages.

As shown inFIG. 20A, stage one205is when the window complete is in the operational mode. In order to move the window complete from stage one205into stage two210illustrated inFIG. 20B, first, the sliding latch mechanism is restricted and held in the full unlock status206; second, the interlock key of the planetary gear set is fully restrained by the partially constructed guide rail of the lower platform base; and third, the rotational beginning stop of the planetary cap is held against the rotational beginning stop block of the slider housing base. Thus, all the hand crank rotational motion translated to the planetary gear set will direct motion to the ring gear, and the hand crank controls the window sash mechanically to swing from fully window open position208, to nearly close position209, wherein the nearly close position209is the location of the window sash having contact without compression of the window sash seal set, and the interlock key is NOT fully engaged with the slotted pinion gear.

Further, at stage two210, for transition and to allow transfer from the operational mode to the locking mode, additional closing rotation of the hand crank causes the window sash to swing from the nearly closed position, to reach a full window closed position211(shown inFIG. 20B). At full window closed position211, several mechanical conditions result: first, the window sash compresses the window seal set; second, the tapper lead-in of the latch hook, aligns but does not engage with the roller fastener set of the slider latch mechanism; third, the interlock key is now fully engaged and aligned at position212within the slotted pinion gear, thereby removing the locking bar out of the slotted pinion gear, and with the slotted pinon gear now directly linked to the interlock key and consequently, any rotation of the interlock key results in direct rotation of the slotted pinion gear; and fourth, the interlock key is positioned into the partial gap in the guide rail, where, based on the mechanical concept of a planetary gear set, the input gear now directs rotational motion to either the base output gear or the “outer ring” output gear, depending on which direction the hand crank is rotated from this point on.

Further, end stop213of fastener set of the lockout mechanism is set to adjust and contact the sliding drive mechanism to set the final ending position215and to set the fully engaged and aligned interlock key for allowing back-pressure compression of the window sash seal set, and removing all internal tolerances of the window complete hardware.

Further, at stage three216(inFIG. 20D), with all the mechanical settings of the stage two, and with additional closing rotation of the hand crank, the input gear now directs rotational motion from the “outer ring” output gear to the base output gear, wherein the planetary cap rotates until the rotational beginning stop of the planetary cap reaches the rotational end stop of the planetary cap. At this point, with the short drive rack coupled to the slotted pinion gear, any rotation of the slotted pinion gear the short drive rack travels linearly until the rotational end stop of the planetary cap contacts the rotational end stop block of the sliding housing base. This results in the sliding latch mechanism engaging into the latch hook, pulling and compressing the window sash into the window sash seal set, thus, setting the window sash to a full lock status217and securely attaching the window frame to the window sash.

Furthermore, with the short drive rack, advancing linearly, and with the rack rod connecting the short drive rack to the threaded in-put end of the indicator block, and with the indicator output rod connected to the threaded out-put end of the indicator block and the hook end of the indicator output rod connecting to the horizontal input hole of the flexible metal strap within the corner strap mechanism, and the vertical output hole of the flexible metal strap connecting the corner output rod to first of several the latch plate of the sliding latch mechanism, any linear translation of the short drive rack, the roll pin fasteners of the indicator block, linked to the lock trigger lever, activates the LH lock trigger emblem or RH lock trigger emblem. This activation moves the respective emblem from displaying the “Green” color, to displaying the letters “LOCK” in the “Red” color.

Further, as shown inFIG. 20C, at stage four218, at the full lock status, transitioning from the locking mode to the operational mode is available by reverse opening rotation of the hand crank, causing the slotted pinion gear to rotate until rotational beginning stop of the planetary cap reaches and contacts the rotational beginning stop block of the slider housing base. At this point, the latch roller of the sliding latch mechanism retracts and completely dis-engages from the latch hook, wherein until the output#1to transferred to output#2the window sash remains in the full window closed position, negating any effects of the window sash seal set pressure. Any further reverse opening rotation of the hand crank transitions the output#1to the output#2when the rotational beginning stop of the planetary cap remains in contacts the rotational beginning stop block of the slider housing base, and thus the window sash swings to the nearly close position, completing transfer of the locking mode to the operational mode.

Further, as shown inFIG. 20Cat stage five219, in the operational mode, the wash mode lever of the wash mode lever mechanism is restricted from motion, until the window sash is positioned in the fully window open position; wherein the lever rod, connecting the wash mode lever to the latch bar, wherein the latch bar, is restricted from motion, until the bar hook dis-engages from the index lockout slot of the latch bar.

Further, at stage six220, when at the fully window open position, the trigger block of the sliding drive mechanism mechanically dis-engages the bar hook when the trigger paw of the trigger block contacts and releases the restriction of the lock bar. This permits the wash mode lever of the wash mode lever mechanism to be manually pulled to engage the wash mode lockout mechanism. Accordingly, if at this position the wash mode level is not manually pulled, the window sash remains in the operational mode.

Further, once the wash mode level is manually pulled; first, the lock bar translates linearly from the index engage slot to the index dis-engage slot; second, the lock bar pulls the lock plate linked to the cable block hook of the lower cable block, locking the trigger post hook, of the lock plate, of the lower cable block mechanism to the trigger post of the trigger block; and third, the lock bar translates linearly until the cable block hook of the lock bar releases from the lower lock bar post of the lower cable block. Accordingly, the lower cable block mechanism is now coupled to the trigger block of the sliding drive mechanism.

Further, at stage seven221, with the lower cable block mechanism firmly locked and coupled to the sliding drive mechanism, any rotation of the hand crank to close the window sash causes the sliding drive mechanism to travel linearly towards the end stop of the lockout mechanism. The window sash is now coupled securely at the fully open window position and traverses linearly, whereby each turn of the crank handle creates further separation between the window sash and the window frame edge. For window wash mode to occur a number of mechanical connections and disconnections occur. First, the bar hook is released to re-engage into the index engage slot of the lock bar whenever the window sash is removed from the hinge side frame section. At this point, the wash mode lever cannot be depressed until the window sash returns to the starting point of the wash mode, back to the hinge side frame position. Second, with the linear travel of the lower cable block mechanism, the cable completely traverses linearly and lower the sprocket rotates, thereby the vertical hex shaft rotates equally, wherein the upper the sprocket rotates equally, thereby the upper the cable complete traverses linearly, driving the upper cable block, couple to the fixed-slider shoe, equal to the same linear distance of lower the cable complete.

Further, when the sliding drive mechanism reaches the end stop of the lockout mechanism; the window sash is set at the full access222position, to reach the exterior glass side223for cleaning.

Further, at stage eight224, to transition from the wash mode to the operational mode, the window sash needs to be positioned in the fully window open position such that the trigger block of the sliding drive mechanism mechanically engages into the wash mode lockout mechanism, and the lower cable block mechanism is aligned and position to permit the lock bar to engage when the wash mode lever is depressed.

Further, when the wash mode lever is depressed, the trigger bar of the trigger block, contacts and releases the hook of the bar hook, removing the restriction of the lock bar. First, the wash mode lever will be permitted to be depressed; and second, the fixed-slider shoe is now secured at the end of the platform base, thus translating the wash mode to be placed into the operational mode.

Referring toFIG. 21, an operating hardware of the instant disclosure is illustrated including mounting of a hand crank129having a handle mount bore129for attachment to the input shaft of the handle drive mechanism.

The claims represented in the present disclosure are based on integrating, replacing, and upgrading current window hardware as a system.

The present disclosure incorporates a single operating hand crank to control the operation mode, a locking mode, and a wash mode, thereby providing architects and home builders the option to place the hand crank in several locations onto the window lower frame section. This option provides a saving in both labor and inventory for both the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) hardware manufacturers and OEM window builders.

Additionally, the instant disclosure provides many benefits, such as having a single hand crank to control seamless transition between the operational mode to the locking mode without an issue of uneven or unsure rubberized seal pressure force. Another benefit presented herein is the innovative concept of a linear to rotational motion mechanism, as well as providing a planetary gear mechanism built into a complete hardware system. The integrated hardware system detailed herein provides a solution to use the same hand crank for the operational mode and the wash mode. Additionally, embodiments of the disclosure presents a solution for the issue seen in current hardware, namely that of having to hand control the window sash to clean both sides of a window's glass.

Additional benefits of the disclosed embodiments pertain to having a 4-bar scissor linkage, with the addition of a fifth link. Firstly, the instant disclosure provides an improvement in the way the window sash approaches the window frame for a softer or straighter approach to the sash sealing. This results in a longer sash seal life. Secondly, the disclosed embodiments provide removal of the larger slots within a typical window sash frame, resulting from moving the sliding guide track from the window sash frame to a platform base concept, the platform base mounted to the window frame.

An additional benefit of the disclosed embodiments includes an “eccentric cam” feature of the fifth linkage. The “eccentric cam” of the connection between the 4-bar linkage and the drive system allows a manual final adjustment when aligning the window's latch to the sash's hook. More specifically, the term “eccentric cam” refers to a cylinder style component where the outside diameter is not on the same axis as the inside diameter. When the cylinder style component is rotated, any components connected to the inside diameter, or the push link, will be shifted or moved in an amount of the differences in the two axes. Further, the term “eccentric” refers to the difference in the axes and “cam” refers to a lope or movement effect that happens upon rotation of the component.

This “eccentric cam” feature is innovative, as the industry needs something that provides a final adjustment that is not overly complicated and costly. The disclosed “eccentric cam” feature is simple and cost effective for a standard or factory-provided final adjustment and, if needed, allows for a subsequent simple method for an in-the-field readjustment.

Further benefits of the instant disclosure resulting from the innovative configuration of the hardware system being built on a platform base concept whereby several mechanisms are placed therein including a handle drive mechanism, are outline herein. Benefits of the handle drive mechanism include at least: (a) providing an option to relocate the handle drive mechanism to the left side, center, or right side on the window's lower frame; and (b) having the ability to change the bevel gear ratio set to accommodate ADA requirements.

Benefits of the disclosed sliding drive mechanism, so incorporated with a worm and wheel gear set include at least: (a) controlling all feedback forces coming from the window sash; and (b) creating the mechanical advantage of a linear to rotational motion for swinging open the window sash.

Benefits derived from the mechanical creation of having linear motion within the hardware system include at least: (a) a lockout mechanism that provides the mechanical connection of the planetary gear set to the operation of the locking/unlocking of the window sash; and (b) a visual indicator as to whether the window is locked or unlocked, thus alerting a window operator as to the actual locking status.

Benefits of adding a wash mode mechanism to the innovative platform base is found in the ability to use a same hand crank for operational mode and wash mode, and when the window is placed in the wash mode, the operator still maintains control of the window sash.

Further, benefits of the disclosure include providing a window hardware system that requires only three (3) different rod lengths to meet all the different window heights and one (1) different rod length to meet all the different window width sizes. Moreover, a majority of all components will be non-handed, non-upper or lower based, and as such the swing of the window sash (LH or RH) is determined at the point of sub-assembly built, where non-handed and non-upper components are rearranged to meet the swing of the window sash required.

The current disclosure provides hardware for a window complete with the advantage of having an operational mode, an unlocking mode, and a wash mode that are all controlled by the same hand crank.

The instant disclosure provides many advantages to architects and home builders compared to case windows in the present market. First, the advantage of providing three location options for the placement of the hand crank. That is, the hand crank can be placed near to the hinge edge, at the center, or near the latch edge of any width window. Second, the instant disclosure provides a hand crank transfer that is seamless from operational mode to locking mode. Third, French Window designs (double windows with no center structure) are able to have a single hand crank that can be used to open both window sashes at the same time. Fourth, embodiments of the disclosure have no exterior sash lock lever or lever bezel. The lock lever and lock bezel are removed from the window frame and replaced by a visible “LOCK” indicator in red color, or a solid green color indicator. This indicator location is on the horizontal, or optionally, on the vertical window frame, depending on preference or if hiding is required by window curtains. Double windows can have a lock indicator bezel on the center mullion vertical edge. Fifth, a hand crank controlling wash mode allows control over how far over the window sash (at maximum open) is pulled from the hinge edge (up to approx. 9″), thus providing access to reach the exterior of the sash glass for cleaning; Once the wash mode lever is pulled, the 4-bar linkage is locked solid and the window sash cannot scissor or swing between an open or closed position. Thus, the window sash can only transfer linearly and under the control of the hand crank. The window sash is highly resistant against normal weather conditions placed on the sash during the wash mode. The window sash, because of the hardware of this disclosure, is thus, never touched. This allows the operator full control. Additionally, it takes zero specialized knowledge to very little, general knowledge to enact the wash mode feature.

Another big benefit to architects and home builder is that the clockwise rotation and/or counterclockwise rotation can be geared into the hardware. That is, the window sash's swing can be set in the direction of the hand crank rotation; i.e. clockwise hand crank rotation for LH swing windows, and counterclockwise hand crank rotation for RH swing windows. Moreover, the total number of hand crank rotations, to open and closed, to lock and unlock the window, etc. can be altered, or the gearing ratios can be changed. That is, adding more number of hand crank rotations lowers the torque force to rotate the hand crank; i.e. for ADA requirement.

Further, window widths and heights of the disclosed embodiments are the same as current windows in the market today. The instant disclosure meets the same code conditions as current hardware. Also, window appearance and performance is improved; for example, having an optional folding hand crank.

Benefits of the disclosed improvements over presently used casement windows and their hardware as pertain to OEM window builders further include that the disclosed hardware does not require a change in current fabrication of the window frame and window sashes. Additionally, disclosed hardware requires merely simple inventory stocking, for the full range of window sizes. Also a completed LH window sash and a completed RH window sash are identical because a RH sash is essentially a LH sash just flipped 180 degrees. Further, a single mounting complete hardware system, includes one lower platform assembly, and one upper platform assemble, with only eight (8) fastening screws to secure the window sash to the window frame—regardless of window sizes.

Further, having a single hand crank for window swing and locking/unlocking provides an innovative, improved failsafe operating method by eliminating all mis-timing issues seen in other known attempts that try to integrate these operations. In particular, the concept of planetary gearing as disclosed herein, results in a seamless transition between unlock-to window opening-to window closing to locking. Moreover, no extra knowledge is necessary for a person operating a window with the newly invented wash mode. At a minimum, there is a fast learning curve that doesn't require expert or specialized knowledge.

Additionally, the new 5-bar linkage system, that is the 4-bar scissor linkage plus the fifth link, the push link, platform build results in a straighter approach during final closure of the window sash resulting in a straight squeezing force of the window seal. This translates to a longer seal life. Also, the addition of the fifth link provides a winder hinge support stance resulting in an increase in structural integrity against wind on the window sash. Further, the disclosed system switches the required sliding shoe from being in the window sash to the window frame; resulting in reduced cutout requirement in the window sash. In particular, a very short supporting “hinge” link increases bending loads (window weight) by 35%. All hardware necessary for the presently disclosed embodiments is configured to fit underneath and/or placed inside the window frame covers. Finally, only three (3) different rod length components are required to be in inventory in order to accommodate the full range of the window's width and height sizes.

Additional benefits of the disclosed embodiments provide particular benefits for OEM window hardware manufacturers as well. Firstly, a majority of all components are non-handed, non-upper/lower components for lowest possible cost; for molds, stamping dies, and machined parts and inventory (minimal SKU #). Secondly, once handed (LH or RH) at assembly, and once selection as Upper or Lower components, all sub-assemblies builds are the same regardless of the window's final width, and/or final height; and regardless of the type of window's sash or frame material construction. Thirdly, only three (3) different rod lengths and a different vertical hex shaft length are required to meet all the different height sizes, and one (1) different rod length is required to meet all different width sizes, thus requiring the same fabricated tooling and manufacturing labor and processes. Fourthly, all adjustments that's may be required, can be completed prior to shipping the present hardware, by the OEM Window Hardware Manufactures, i.e. prior to any installation onto the window's frame and/or sash at the OEM Window Manufacturers factory. Fifthly, components construction (mold, stamping, and machining) tolerances, by design, are such that manufacturing tolerances can be held for the lowest possible cost for the majority of components.

Further, regarding the disclosed platform build concept, a platform build for all window sizes, allows for one set of final testing equipment and fixtures. The platform is made as an extruded aluminum, hard anodized, providing smooth movement under max loading for all slider shoes and blocks. To build a wash mode configuration, ONLY requires adding components to the instant build to complete final platform assembly. All final adjusted can be tested prior to, and again after mounting to the window frame and sash. Also, the availability of different gearing ratio for number of hand crank rotation to open/close a window sash.