AU2015201588C1

AU2015201588C1 - Window stays

Info

Publication number: AU2015201588C1
Application number: AU2015201588A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Robert Efstratiou; Trudi Anne Hamilton; Duncan Duff Mcgregor
Original assignee: Assa Abloy New Zealand Ltd
Current assignee: Assa Abloy New Zealand Ltd
Priority date: 2014-03-28
Filing date: 2015-03-27
Publication date: 2021-11-11
Anticipated expiration: 2035-03-27
Also published as: AU2019226229B2; AU2019226229A1; JP6713725B2; BR102015007161B1; JP2015190310A; BR102015007161A2; AU2015201588B2; AU2015201588A1

Abstract

A window stay including: a frame plate configured to attach to a window frame; a sash plate configured to attach to a window sash; a carriage configured to slide 5 on the frame plate; and a connecting element connecting the carriage to the sash plate, the carriage including: a carriage body; a latching mechanism configured to, in a latched position, engage with the frame plate to prevent the carriage from sliding on the frame plate, and, in an unlatched position, allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate; and one or more biasing elements configured to bias the 10 latching mechanism into the latched position. 32 2/30 cm' co' co'

Description

2/30

cm' co'

co'

WINDOW STAYS FIELD

The invention relates to window stays, in particular the invention relates to sliding window stays.

BACKGROUND

Window stays (also known as window stay hinges or friction stays) are well known in the window industry. Typically, a window stay connects the window sash to the window frame, and acts as a hinge so that the window may be opened and closed. Often a window stay will include a frame plate configured to attach to the window frame, a sash plate configured to attach to the window sash, and a number of arms pivotally connected between the frame plate and the sash plate. Window stays are available in many different configurations depending on the type of window and type of opening mechanism required.

In some window stays, there may be a carriage that is able to slide on the frame plate. One or more of the arms may be connected to the carriage as opposed to connected to the frame plate directly. The carriage may then slide as part of the opening mechanism of the window.

For example, GB2311324B, the contents of which are incorporated by reference, discloses a so-called 'four-bar' window stay. The window stay includes a short arm and a long arm pivotally connected between the frame plate and the sash plate. The short arm is connected to the frame plate by a sliding carriage. Under normal operation, the carriage is restricted from sliding by a locking means, and the arrangement of the arms is such that the sash plate can be moved relative to the frame plate (corresponding to the window being opened from a closed position to a first opened position). Under a further operation, the locking means may be released allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate so that the window may be further opened from the first opened position into a second opened position. The locking means taught by GB2311324B includes a button formed integrally with a projection. The projection engages with the frame plate to restrict the carriage from sliding. The projection is biased into a locked position by a spring part, also formed integrally with the button.

A problem associated with the window stay disclosed by GB2311324B is that since the spring part is made of plastic, the button and projection (being formed integrally with the spring part) are also made of plastic. The projection subsequently experiences wear, affecting the performance of the locking means over the lifetime of the window stay.

A further problem associated with window stays including a sliding carriage is that the frame plate must be configured to retain the carriage. One approach is to form the frame plate using an extrusion process so that the frame plate has a profile suitable for use as a track. For example, the frame plate of the window stay disclosed by GB2311324B is an extruded length having a generally 'U' shaped profile into which the carriage nests in a sliding arrangement.

Reference to any prior art in this specification does not constitute an admission that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

The present invention may provide an improved window stay, or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

SUMMARY

In one aspect the invention relates to a window stay including: a frame plate configured for attachment to a window frame; a sash plate configured for attachment to a window sash; a carriage configured to slide on the frame plate; and a connecting element connecting the carriage to the sash plate, the carriage including: a carriage body; a latching mechanism that in a latched position is engaged with the frame plate to restrict the carriage from sliding on the frame plate, and in an unlatched position is disengaged from the frame plate to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate; and one or more biasing elements formed integrally with the carriage body and configured to bias the latching mechanism into the latched position; wherein the latched position and the unlatched position lie on a sideways transverse axis with respect to the sliding axis of the carriage; wherein the latching mechanism comprises a selection switch mounted in a carriage body, the selection switch is configured to slide in a transverse axis with respect to the movement of carriage body, between the latched position and the unlatched position; and wherein the latching mechanism further comprises a latching element mounted in the selection switch and a stepped recess in the frame plate, the latching element is configured to slide in an axis normal to the frame plate between the latched position and the unlatched position.

It is acknowledged that the terms "comprise", "comprises" and "comprising" may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, these terms are intended to have an inclusive meaning - i.e. they will be taken to mean an inclusion of the listed components which the use directly references, and possibly also of other non-specified components or elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a window stay in a partially opened position according to one embodiment;

Figure 2 shows an isometric view of the window stay of Figure 1 in a closed position;

Figure 3 shows an isometric view of the window stay of Figure 1 in a fully opened position;

Figure 4a shows an isometric view of part of the window stay of Figure 1;

Figure 4b shows an isometric view of part of the window stay of Figure 1;

Figure 5 shows a sectional view of part of the window stay of Figure 1 with a latching mechanism in the latched position;

Figure 6 shows a sectional view of part of the window stay of Figure 1 with the latching mechanism in the unlatched position;

Figure 7 shows a sectional view of the window stay of Figure 3;

Figure 8 shows an isometric view of a frame plate according to one embodiment;

Figure 9 shows an orthographic bottom view of the window stay of Figure 3;

Figure 10a shows an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a closed position;

Figure 10b shows an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a partially opened position;

Figure 10c an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a fully opened position;

Figure 11 shows an isometric view of a window stay in a partially opened position according to a second embodiment;

Figure 12 shows an isometric view of the window stay of Figure 11 in a closed position;

Figure 13 shows an isometric view of the window stay of Figure 11 in a fully opened position;

Figure 14a shows an isometric view of part of the window stay of Figure 11;

Figure 14b shows an isometric view of part of the window stay of Figure 11;

Figure 15 shows a sectional view of part of the window stay of Figure 11 with a latching mechanism in the latched position;

Figure 16 shows a sectional view of part of the window stay of Figure 11 with the latching mechanism in the unlatched position;

Figure 17 shows a sectional view of the window stay of Figure 13;

Figure 18 shows an isometric view of a frame plate according to the second embodiment;

Figure 19 shows an orthographic bottom view of the window stay of Figure 13;

Figure 20a shows an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a closed position according to the second embodiment;

Figure 20b shows an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a partially opened position according to the second embodiment;

Figure 20c an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a fully opened position according to the second embodiment;

Figure 21 shows an isometric view of a window stay in a partially opened position according to a third embodiment;

Figure 22 shows an isometric view of the window stay of Figure 21 in a closed position;

Figure 23 shows an isometric view of the window stay of Figure 21 in a fully opened position;

Figure 24a shows an isometric view of part of the window stay of Figure 21;

Figure 24b shows an isometric view of part of the window stay of Figure 21;

Figure 25 shows a sectional view of part of the window stay of Figure 21 with a latching mechanism in the latched position;

Figure 26 shows a sectional view of part of the window stay of Figure 21 with the latching mechanism in the unlatched position;

Figure 27 shows a sectional view of the window stay of Figure 23;

Figure 28 shows an isometric view of a frame plate according to the third embodiment;

Figure 29 shows an orthographic bottom view of the window stay of Figure 23;

Figure 30a shows an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a closed position according to the third embodiment;

Figure 30b shows an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a partially opened position according to the third embodiment; and

Figure 30c an isometric view of part of a window including a window stay in a fully opened position according to the third embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure 1 shows a window stay 1 according to one embodiment. The window stay 1 includes a frame plate 2 for mounting on a window frame and a sash plate 3 for mounting on a window sash. Though neither the window frame nor window sash are shown in Figure 1, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art how a window stay of the present invention may be installed with any suitable types of window frame and window sash resulting in either an awning-type or a casement type window.

A carriage 4 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. A connecting element, in the form of a short arm 5 and joints 6, 7, connects the carriage to the sash plate. An additional connecting element, in the form of a long arm 8 and joints 9, 10, connects the frame plate to the sash plate. The joints 6, 7, 9, 10 may be any suitable type of pivotal joint such as friction rivet joints, which are well known for this application. The arrangement of the connecting elements 5, 6 and joints 6, 7, 9, 10 allows relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. As will be discussed in more detail below, this relative movement allows an installed window sash to be changed from a closed position to an opened position. One or more holes 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are provided in the frame plate and sash plate to receive suitable fasteners for attachment of the frame plate to the window frame and sash plate to the window sash.

Figure 1 shows the window stay 1 in a partially opened position. In the partially opened position, the plane of the window sash (not shown) is at an angle between 10 to 60 degrees to the plane of the window frame (not shown). In the embodiment of Figure 1, this angle is indicated generally by a dashed arc 16 and is about 32 degrees.

Figure 2 shows the window stay 1 of Figure 1 in a closed position. In the closed position the plane of the window sash (not shown) is parallel with the plane of the window frame (not shown).

It will be appreciated from a comparison of Figure 1 and Figure 2 how the arrangement of the connecting elements 5, 6 and joints 6, 7, 9, 10 allows relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. It will further be appreciated that this therefore allows the window sash to be changed from the partially opened position of Figure 1 to the closed position of Figure 2 (and back again). It will be further be appreciated that for both the partially opened position of Figure 1 and the closed position of Figure 2, the carriage 4 remains in the same first carriage position relative to the frame plate. As will be discussed in more detail below, the carriage may be restricted from sliding on the frame plate by a latching mechanism 17.

Figure 3 shows the window stay 1 of Figure 1 in a fully opened position. In the fully opened position the plane of the window sash (not shown) is at an angle between 60 to 110 degrees to the plane of the window frame (not shown). In the embodiment of Figure 3, this angle is indicated generally by a dashed arc 18 and is about 71 degrees.

It will be appreciated from a comparison of Figure 1 and Figure 3 how the arrangement of the connecting elements 5, 6, joints 6, 7, 9, 10 and the carriage 4 allows relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. It will further be appreciated that this therefore allows the window sash to be changed from the partially opened position of Figure 1 to the fully opened position of Figure 3 (and back again). To allow the window sash to be changed from the partially opened position of Figure 1 to the fully opened position, the carriage 4 is allowed to slide along the frame plate 2 from the first carriage position to the second carriage position.

Figure 4a shows a partial view of the window stay of Figure 1 to show the carriage 4 in more detail. The carriage includes a carriage body 19 and a latching mechanism 17. The carriage body is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. The carriage 4 further includes flanges 20, as shown in the underside view of Figure 4b, extending along the sides of the carriage 4. The flanges 20 effectively wrap around onto the underside of the frame plate 2, thus keeping the carriage in a fixed relationship with the frame plate 2 while still allowing the carriage to slide along the length of the frame plate (as shown by arrows A). The carriage body may be made of any suitable material. Preferably the carriage body is made from plastic. This is easily moulded and results in less friction as the carriage body slides on the frame plate.

The latching mechanism 17 of the carriage 4 includes a button 21 and a latching element 22. The latching element engages with a notch 23 provided in the frame plate 2. This restricts the carriage 4 from sliding on the frame plate. When the button 21 is depressed, the latching element 22 is disengaged from the notch 23, thus allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate. In use, a user may want to open the window sash from partially opened to fully opened, and so they may depress the button 21 to unlatch the latching mechanism and free the carriage.

Figure 5 shows a sectional view of the carriage 4 of Figure 1 to better demonstrate the structure of the carriage. Figure 1 shows the short arm 5 connected to the carriage by a rivet joint 7. The carriage body 19 wraps around the frame plate 2, with a flange 20 shown on the underside of the frame plate 2. The carriage 4 may further include an insert 24. The short arm 5 is connected to both the carriage body 19 and the insert 24. Such an insert may be made of metal, giving the carriage more rigidity. The insert may also act as a structural failsafe in the event of the carriage body failing (for example, if the carriage body melted in fire). The metal insert would retain the short arm and remain attached to the frame plate 2. The metal insert extends into flanges 20. In one embodiment, the flanges 20 may be integrally formed with the insert.

Figure 5 shows the latching mechanism 17 in further detail. The latching mechanism includes a button 21 and a latching element 22. The carriage body 19 is configured so as to accommodate the latching mechanism. The button and latching element may be formed together such that when the button is depressed, the latching element is moved. In Figure 5 the latching mechanism 17 is shown in a latched position. In the latched position, the latching mechanism is engaged with the frame plate 2. In particular, the latching element 22 is engaged in a notch 23 located in the frame plate. With the latching element engaged in the notch, the carriage is latched and restricted from sliding on the frame plate 2. In the latched position, the button 21 is not depressed. The latching mechanism includes a biasing element 25. The biasing element biases the latching mechanism into the latched position. The biasing element 25 is formed integrally with the carriage body 19. In a preferred embodiment, both the carriage body and biasing element are formed of plastic. Such plastic may be chosen so as to give the biasing element 25 the required restorative force (i.e. to provide sufficient force to bias the latching mechanism 17 into the latched position). By having the biasing element formed with the carriage body, the manufacture and assembly of the carriage is simplified. As will be discussed in more detail below, by having the biasing element not formed with the latching mechanism, the latching mechanism may then be formed from a hard-wearing material such as a metal.

Figure 6 shows the same view of the carriage as Figure 5 with the latching mechanism 17 in the unlatched position. In the unlatched position, the latching mechanism is disengaged from the frame plate 2. In particular, the latching element is disengaged from the notch 23 in the frame plate. With the latching element disengaged from the notch, the carriage is allowed to slide on the frame plate 2. In the unlatched position, the button 21 has been depressed. In one embodiment, the carriage body 19 may include a catch 26 that is configured to interact with an edge 27 of the latching mechanism so as to retain the latching mechanism in the unlatched position temporarily. Such a catch may be utilised so as to prevent a user from having manually to keep the button 21 depressed while also trying to slide the carriage 4 from its first carriage position.

In the unlatched position, the biasing element 25 is compressed so that the biasing element tends to bias the latching mechanism 17 into the latched position. It will be appreciated that the catch 26 should be configured such that on its own, the biasing element 25 does not overcome the catch. The latching mechanism includes a protrusion 28 that extends away from the button 21. The frame plate 2 may include a recess 29 to accommodate that protrusion when the button is depressed. When the carriage 4 begins to slide along the frame plate 2, the protrusion 28 strikes an edge 30 of the recess. The edge is suitably cambered such that it forces the protrusion upwards, which together with the biasing element 25, is sufficient to overcome the catch 26. Therefore, once the carriage 4 slides on the frame plate, the latching mechanism 17 is not longer retained by the catch. Then if the latching element 22 encounters a notch, the latching mechanism will return to the latched position.

In a preferred embodiment the latching mechanism 17 is made from a hard wearing material such as metal. It will be appreciated that over the lifetime of a particular window stay, the latching mechanism may be used many times. This can place not insignificant wear and stress on the components, particularly those that interface with other parts of the window stay 1 such as: * the latching element 22 which interfaces with the notch 23 of the frame plate 2 which is itself preferably made of metal; * the edge 27 of the latching mechanism 17 which interfaces with the catch 26; and * the protrusion 28 which interfaces with the edge 30 of the recess.

Further wear and stress is sustained by the latching element as it bears a significant portion of the weight of the window sash via the short arm (particular in awning-type windows). By having the latching mechanism made from a hard wearing material, these components will wear not wear down and deteriorate as quickly. This will improve the ability of the window stay to perform as intended over the window stay's lifetime.

Returning to Figure 1, there is also shown a further notch 31 and a further recess 32 in the frame plate 2. It will be appreciated that as the carriage 4 slides into the second carriage position of the fully opened configuration (as shown in Figure 3), the latching element will engage with the further notch 31, thus latching the carriage into the second carriage position. Figure 7 shows a cross section of the window stay of Figure 3. Figure 7 shows the latching element 22 engaged in the further notch 31.

It will be appreciated from the above description that the frame plate 2 should be configured so as to work with the carriage 4, such that the carriage is fixed on the frame plate, while still being able to slide along the length of the frame plate. In one embodiment, the frame plate may be extruded with a profile that is suited to the particular geometry of carriage. However, in a preferred embodiment, the frame plate is formed by stamping, pressing or a similar process from stainless steel.

Figure 8 shows the frame plate 2 of the window stay discussed above in relation to Figures 1 to 7. The frame plate is formed from a generally flat elongate member. The frame plate includes holes 11, 13 to receive suitable fasteners for attachment of the frame plate to the window frame (not shown). The frame plate includes a further hole 33 for connecting to the long arm (not shown) by a suitable joint. The frame plate also includes the notch 23, recess 29, further notch 31 and further recess 32 discussed above. It will be understood that the holes, notches and recesses may formed in the frame plate by any suitable process, such as, for example, punching, drilling or stamping.

The frame plate 2 includes a first attachment section 34 and a second attachment section 35. The first attachment section and second attachment section are configured for attachment of the frame plate 2 to the window frame (not shown). For this purpose, the first attachment section 34 is provided with hole 11 and the second attachment section is provided with hole 13.

The frame plate 2 also includes a track section 36, extending between the first attachment section 34 and the second attachment section 35. The track section is connected to the first attachment section by a first rising section 37 and to the second attachment section by a second rising section 38. The rising sections 37, 38 are generally angled or perpendicular to the plane of the frame plate and serve to raise the track section 36 with respect to the first attachment section 34 and second attachment section 35. The track section is raised such that, when the frame plate is installed, the track section is separated from the window frame (not shown) by a gap as indicated by arrows B in Figure 8. For at least a portion of the length of the track section 36, the gap extends from one edge of the track section 39 to the other edge of the track section (i.e. it extends across the transverse width of the track section).

The track section 36 provides a region on which a carriage may slide (as discussed in relation to Figures 1 to 7). In particular, the gap is sufficient to accommodate the flanges of the carriage so that the carriage is retained on the track section while being able to slide along the track section. The track section may include an indent 41. The indent may include a further hole 12 to receive suitable fasteners for attachment of the indent to the window frame. The indent may increase the rigidity of the track section. It will be appreciated that the indent is positioned towards the middle of the transverse width of the track section so that there remains a sufficient amount of the track section to retain the carriage on the track section (as indicated by arrows C). The indent may be positioned so that it does not interrupt the flanges as the carriage slides over the indent.

The first rising section 37 and second rising section 38 may be formed by a stamping process. 'Stamping' will be understood to include any pressing type of forming process. Those skilled in the art will appreciate how stamping generally works and it does not need to be explained in detail. Briefly, stamping includes placing the generally flat elongate member into a stamping press having a suitable mould or die. The stamping press then subjects the generally flat elongate member to sufficient pressure so that it deforms to the shape of the mould or die. In this instance, the stamping process forms the first rising section 37 and second rising section 38, thus also resulting in the track section 36 being raised with respect to the first attachment section 34 and second attachment section 35. The same stamping process may be used simultaneously to form some or all of the indent 41, holes 11, 12, 13, 33, notches 23, 31 and recesses 29,32.

Preferably the frame plate is made from a metal. In a particular embodiment the frame plate is made from stainless steel.

Figure 9 shows a view of the underside of the window stay 1 of Figure 3 (i.e. in the fully opened position). The carriage 4 is latched into the second carriage position. The figure demonstrates how the flanges 20 wrap around the outside edges of the track section so as to retain the carriage on the track section 36 of the frame plate 2.

The carriage 4 may be prevented from sliding off the track section 36 in one direction by the second rising section 38. In particular the flanges 20 of the carriage are unable to slide past the second rising section. However, the first rising section may include cut outs 43 defining shoulders 44, such that the first rising section does not prevent the carriage 4 from sliding off the track section. In particular the flanges of the carriage are able slide past the section rising section. That is to say, at least a part of the first rising section has a width transverse to the length of the frame plate that is narrower than a width of the track section transverse to the length of the frame plate. In the embodiment of the frame plate 2 shown in Figure 9, the cut outs 43 extend partially into the track section 43 and fully into the first section 34. The cut outs 43 allow the carriage to slide onto and off the track section during assembly and disassembly of the window stay 1. In one embodiment, after the carriage 4 has been slid onto the track section (for example, during manufacture of the window stay) the first section 34 of the frame plate 2 may be suitably lanced or staked to create a stop. Thus, when the window stay 1 is installed, the stop may permanently prevent the carriage 4 from sliding back past the cut outs 43 and being removed from the track section 43.

Figures 1Oa to 1Oc show the window stay 1 installed in a window 45, showing a section of both the window frame 46 and window sash 47. It will be appreciated that the window stay may be installed with any suitable type of window frame and window sash resulting in either an awning-type or a casement-type window. Further there may be one or more (usually two or more) window stays installed per particular window sash.

In Figure 10a the window 45 and window stay is in the closed position. The window stay is not visible as it is obscured by the window sash 47. In Figure 1Ob the window 45 and window stay 1 is in the partially opened position. The carriage 4 is in the first carriage position relative to the frame plate 2. In Figure 10c the window 45 and window stay 1 in the fully opened position. The carriage 4 is in the second carriage position relative to the frame plate 2.

Figures 11 to 20c illustrate a second embodiment of window stay 1. This arrangement is shown in relation to a smaller window stay than that of Figures 1 to 10c. However, each embodiment may be extended to a window stay of any desired size. This second embodiment is generally similar to the first embodiment described above.

Figure 11 shows a window stay 1 including a frame plate 2 and a sash plate 3. A carriage 4 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. A connecting element, in the form of a short arm 5 and joints 6, 7, connects the carriage to the sash plate. An additional connecting element, in the form of a long arm 8 and joints 9, 10, connects the frame plate to the sash plate. One or more holes 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are provided in the frame plate and sash plate to receive suitable fasteners for attachment of the frame plate to the window frame and sash plate to the window sash.

Figure 11 shows the window stay 1 in a partially opened position. Figure 12 shows the window stay 1 of Figure 11 in a closed position. In both the partially opened position of Figure 11 and the closed position of Figure 12, the carriage 4 remains in the same first carriage position relative to the frame plate.

Figure 13 shows the window stay 1 of Figure 11 in a fully opened position. To allow the window sash to be moved from the partially opened position of Figure 11 to the fully opened position of Figure 13, the carriage 4 is allowed to slide along the frame plate 2 from the first carriage position to the second carriage position.

Figure 14a shows a partial view of the window stay of Figure 1 to show the carriage 4 in more detail. The carriage is generally similarly constructed to that of Figures 1 to 10c. However, the orientation of the latching element 17 has been reversed, as can be seen by comparison of Figures 4a and 14a.

The carriage includes a carriage body 19 and a latching mechanism 17. The carriage body is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. The carriage 4 further includes flanges 20, as shown in the underside view of Figure 14b, extending along the sides of the carriage 4. The flanges 20 effectively wrap around onto the underside of the frame plate 2, thus keeping the carriage in a fixed relationship with the frame plate 2 while still allowing the carriage to slide along the length of the frame plate. In this embodiment the flanges may be provided by the insert 24 and returns 20a formed in the material of the carriage body 19.

The latching mechanism 17 of the carriage 4 includes a button 21 and a latching element 22. The latching element engages with a notch 23 provided in the frame plate 2. This restricts the carriage 4 from sliding on the frame plate. When the button 21 is depressed, the latching element 22 is disengaged from the notch 23, thus allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate.

Figures 15 and 16 are sectional views of the carriage 4. As shown, the protrusion 28 of the latch mechanism 17 is formed with a step 28' to engage with the catch 26 in the position of Figure 16. Further, in this embodiment the recess 29 in the frame plate 2 is formed by a stamping or punching operation that leaves the frame plate material in place, but deforms it to provide a recess 29 with a ramp structure, providing less resistance to movement of the protrusion 28 out of the recess 29. In other words, in this embodiment the recess 29 does not consist of an aperture through the frame plate. This construction can also be seen in Figure 18 for example.

The carriage 4 may further include an insert 24 similar to that of Figures 1 to 1Oc. The latching mechanism includes a biasing element 25 similar to that of Figures 1 to 10c. However, in addition a further spring 49 may be provided, acting against an end surface of the latching element 17. This spring 49 also tends to force the latching element 17 to the disengaged position shown in Figure 15, by acting downwards (as shown) against the end of the latching element 17.

Figure 11 also shows a further notch 31 and a further recess 32 in the frame plate 2, which operate similarly to those of Figures 1 to 10c.

In this embodiment one or more friction elements 50 may be provided on the frame plate 2. These friction elements act to stop the carriage 4 moving quickly upwards when the stay and window are in the fully opened position and the latching element 17 is released. In the fully open position, when the latching element is released the friction elements 50 prevent or slow motion of the window sash. The sash can however be moved in a controlled manner by the user after unlatching the latching mechanism. The user simply applies a force to the window sash to overcome the friction force created by the friction elements.

The friction elements 50 also slow the motion of the carriage 4 as it approaches the fully opened position. This helps to limit damage to the mechanism that may be caused by a sudden engagement with the further notch 31 and further recess 32 while moving at too high a speed.

In the embodiment shown the friction elements 50 simply consist of raised ridges stamped or pressed into the frame plate 2, which engage with channels 51 formed in the carriage. However, in other embodiments inserts or additional elements of a high friction material (e.g. rubber or a suitable polymer) could be used.

Figure 18 shows the frame plate 2 of the window stay of Figure 11. Figure 19 shows a view of the underside of the window stay 1 in the fully opened position.

Figures 20a to 20c show the window stay 1 installed in a window, showing a section of both the window frame 46 and window sash 47.

The embodiment of Figures 11 to 20c is similar to that of Figures 1 to 1Oc, other than the differences noted above. This embodiment may be made and used in a similar manner to that described above with reference to Figures 1 to 10c.

Figures 21 to 30c illustrate a third embodiment of window stay 1. Similar components to those in Figure 1 are designated with the same reference numerals. The window stay 1 includes a frame plate 2 for mounting on a window frame and a sash plate 3 for mounting on a window sash. The window stay 1 may be installed with any suitable types of window frame and window sash resulting in either an awning-type or a casement-type window.

A carriage 4 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. A connecting element, in the form of a short arm 5 and joints 6, 7, connects the carriage 4 to the sash plate 3. An additional connecting element, in the form of a long arm 8 and joints 9, 10, connects the frame plate 2 to the sash plate 3. The joints 6, 7, 9, 10 may be any suitable type of pivotal joint such as friction rivet joints, depending on the application. The arrangement of the connecting elements 5, 6 and joints 6, 7, 9, 10 allows relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. This relative movement allows an installed window sash to be changed from a closed position to an opened position. One or more holes 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are provided in the frame plate 2 and sash plate 3 to receive suitable fasteners for attachment of the frame plate 2 to the window frame and sash plate 3 to the window sash.

Figure 21 shows the window stay 1 in a partially opened position. In the partially opened position, the plane of the window sash (not shown) is at an angle between 5 to 50 degrees to the plane of the window frame (not shown). In the embodiment of Figure 21, this angle is indicated generally by a dashed arc 16 and is about 30 degrees.

Figure 22 shows the window stay 1 of Figure 21 in a closed position. In the closed position the plane of the window sash (not shown) is parallel with the plane of the window frame (not shown).

A comparison of Figure 21 and Figure 22 shows how the arrangement of the connecting elements 5, 6 and joints 6, 7, 9, 10 allows relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. This therefore allows the window sash to be changed from the partially opened position of Figure 21 to the closed position of Figure 22 (and back again). In both the partially opened position of Figure 21 and the closed position of Figure 22, the carriage 4 remains in the same first carriage position relative to the frame plate. The carriage may be restricted from sliding on the frame plate by a latching mechanism 217.

Figure 23 shows the window stay 1 of Figure 21 in a fully opened position. In the fully opened position the plane of the window sash (not shown) is at an angle between 50 to 100 degrees to the plane of the window frame (not shown). In the embodiment of Figure 23, this angle is indicated generally by a dashed arc 18 and is about 73 degrees.

A comparison of Figure 21 and Figure 23 shows how the arrangement of the connecting elements 5, 6, joints 6, 7, 9, 10 and the carriage 4 allows relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. This therefore allows the window sash to be changed from the partially opened position of Figure 21 to the fully opened position of Figure 23 (and back again). To move the window sash from the partially opened position of Figure 21 to the fully opened position, the carriage 4 has been moved along the frame plate 2 from a first carriage position to a second carriage position.

Figure 24a shows the carriage 4 in more detail. The carriage 4 includes a carriage body 219 and a latching mechanism 217. The carriage body 219 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. The carriage 4 further includes flanges 220, as shown in the underside view of Figure 4b, extending along the sides of the carriage 4. The flanges 220 effectively wrap around onto the underside of the frame plate 2, thus securing the carriage 4 to the frame plate 2 while still allowing the carriage to slide along the length of the frame plate (as shown by arrows A). The carriage body may be made of any suitable material. Preferably the carriage body is made from plastic. This is easily moulded and results in less friction as the carriage body slides on the frame plate.

The latching mechanism 217 of the carriage 4 includes a selection switch 226 and a latching element 222. The latching element 222 engages with a stepped recess 223 provided in the frame plate 2. This restricts the carriage 4 from sliding on the frame plate. When the selection switch 226 is moved sideways, the latching element 222 is free to slide up ramp 221 in the recess 223, thus allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate. In use, a user may want to open the window sash from partially opened to fully opened, and so they may slide the selection switch 226 sideways to unlatch the latching mechanism 217 and free the carriage 4.

Figure 25 shows a sectional view of the carriage 4 to better demonstrate the structure of the carriage. The carriage 4 may further include a structural insert 224. The short arm 5 is connected to both the carriage body 219 and the insert 224. Such an insert may be made of metal, giving the carriage more rigidity. The insert 224 may also act as a structural failsafe in the event of the carriage body failing (for example, if the carriage body melted in fire). The insert 224 would retain the short arm and remain attached to the frame plate 2. The insert 224 extends into flanges 220. In one embodiment, the flanges 220 may be integrally formed with the insert.

In Figure 25 the latching mechanism 217 is shown in a latched position. In the latched position, the latching element 222 is engaged in the recess 223 located in the frame plate 2. With the latching element 222 engaged in the recess 223, the carriage 4 is latched and restricted from sliding on the frame plate 2. The latching mechanism 217 includes a biasing element 225. The biasing element biases or forces the latching element 222 into the recess 223. The biasing element 225 may be a spring or similar so as to give the biasing element 225 the required restorative force (i.e. to provide sufficient force to bias the latching element 222 into the latched position). The spring may be housed in a cylindrical recess within the latching element 222, which is seated against a retainer 227 on the underside of selection switch 226. The latching element 222 is restricted to a single axis of travel normal to the frame plate 2.

Figure 26 shows the same view of the carriage as Figure 25 with the latching mechanism 217 in the unlatched position. In the unlatched position, the latching mechanism is disengaged from the frame plate 2. In particular, the latching element 222 is disengaged from the recess 223 in the frame plate 2. With the latching element disengaged from the recess 223, the carriage is allowed to slide on the frame plate 2. In the unlatched position, the selection switch 226 has been moved sideways. In this position when the user pushes the window further open, the latching element 222 is free to slide up the ramp 221 and onto the frame plate 2.

The selection switch 226 is mounted between the carriage body 219 and the insert 224. This provides a channel which is transverse to the sliding axis of the carriage 4. The selection switch 226 can therefore be moved by the user within the channel from the latched and unlatched position. A detent between the selection switch 226 and carriage body 219 provides a predetermined resistance to hold it in place in the desired latching position. The detent is designed to be easily overcome by the user moving between the latching positions. This detent also provides some audible feedback to the user when the new latching position has been reached.

In this manner the user may not need to keep hold the selection switch 26 in position while opening the window to its fully open position. The operation may be done one handed, first switching the selection switch 226 position, and secondly opening the window to its fully open position.

In a preferred embodiment the latching mechanism 217 is made from a hard wearing material such as plastic. Plastic is relatively inexpensive which easily allows a spring to be incorporated into it.

Returning to Figure 21, there is also a second recess 231 and second ramp 232 in frame plate 2. As the carriage 4 slides into the second carriage position of the fully opened configuration (as shown in Figure 3), the latching element 222 will engage with the further recess 231, thus latching the carriage into the second carriage position. Figure 27 shows a cross section of the window stay of Figure 23. Figure 7 shows the latching element 222 engaged in the further recess 231.

As can be seen the first recess 223 and the second recess 231 are generally opposed so that the locking position for the latching element 222 is to one side in the partially opened position and to the other side in the fully opened position. The carriage 4 may include markings 233 (seen in Figure 24a) to designate the locking position for the latching element 222, relative to the partially opened or fully opened state.

The frame plate 2 may be configured so as to work with the carriage 4, such that the carriage is fixed on the frame plate, while still being able to slide along the length of the frame plate. In one embodiment, the frame plate may be extruded with a profile that is suited to the particular geometry of carriage. However, in a preferred embodiment, the frame plate is formed by stamping, pressing or a similar process from stainless steel.

Figure 28 shows the frame plate 2 of the window stay discussed above in relation to Figures 21 to 27. The frame plate 2 is formed from a generally flat elongate member. The frame plate includes holes 11, 13 to receive suitable fasteners for attachment of the frame plate to the window frame (not shown). The frame plate 2 includes a further hole for connecting to the long arm (not shown) by joint 10 (not shown). The frame plate 2 also includes the first ramp 221, first recess 223, second ramp 232 and second recess 231 discussed above. It will be understood that the holes, notches and recesses may formed in the frame plate by any suitable process, such as, for example, punching, drilling or stamping.

The frame plate 2 includes a first attachment section 234 and a second attachment section 235. The first attachment section and second attachment section are configured for attachment of the frame plate 2 to the window frame (not shown). For this purpose, the first attachment section 234 is provided with hole 11 and the second attachment section 235 is provided with hole 13.

The frame plate 2 also includes a track section 236, extending between the first attachment section 234 and the second attachment section 235. The track section 236 is connected to the first attachment section 234 by a first rising section 237 and to the second attachment section 235 by a second rising section 238. The rising sections 237, 238 are generally angled or perpendicular to the plane of the frame plate and serve to raise the track section 236 with respect to the first attachment section 234 and second attachment section 235. The track section is raised such that, when the frame plate is installed, the track section is separated from the window frame (not shown) by a gap as indicated by arrows B in Figure 28. For at least a portion of the length of the track section 236, the gap extends from one edge of the track section 239 to the other edge of the track section (i.e. it extends across the transverse width of the track section).

The track section 236 provides a region on which a carriage 4 may slide. In particular, the gap is sufficient to accommodate the flanges 220 of the carriage so that the carriage 4 is retained on the track section 236 while being able to slide along the track section 236.

The first rising section 237 and second rising section 238 may be formed by a stamping process. 'Stamping' may include any pressing type of forming process. Those skilled in the art will appreciate how stamping generally works and it does not need to be explained in detail. Briefly, stamping includes placing the generally flat elongate member into a stamping press having a suitable mould or die. The stamping press then subjects the generally flat elongate member to sufficient pressure so that it deforms to the shape of the mould or die. In this instance, the stamping process forms the first rising section 237 and second rising section 238, thus also resulting in the track section 236 being raised with respect to the first attachment section 234 and second attachment section 235. The same stamping process may be used simultaneously to form some or all of the holes 11, 12, 13, recesses 223, 231 and ramps 221, 232. For example the recesses 223, 231 and ramps 221, 232 may be formed by the ramp section being attached a one end to the frame plate 2, and being angled away therefrom. The other end of the ramp is attached to the rectangular section which has been punched from the frame plate, but is spaced therefrom. The rectangular section forms the base of the recess and the sides are open. The edge of the punched aperture formed in the frame plate 2 becomes a strike plate for the latching element 222 in the latched position.

Preferably the frame plate 2 is made from a metal. In a particular embodiment the frame plate 2 is made from stainless steel. By providing the carriage 4 with flanges 220 that wrap around the frame plate 2, this may allow for a significantly simpler and/or cheaper frame plate extrusion. For example the frame plate 2 may be substantially flat in lateral cross section, as opposed to a U shaped cross section used to restrain the carriage in prior art designs. Elasticity in the flanges

20 may also allow for less resistance for the user moving between partially opened and fully opened and/or longer life / greater reliability.

Figure 29 shows a view of the underside of the window stay 1 of Figure 23 (i.e. in the fully opened position). The carriage 4 is latched into the second carriage position. The figure demonstrates how the flanges 220 wrap around the outside edges of the track section 236 so as to retain the carriage on the track section 236 of the frame plate 2.

The first rising section 237 may include cut outs 243 defining shoulders 244, such that the flanges of the carriage are able slide past the section rising section. That is to say, at least a part of the first rising section has a width transverse to the length of the frame plate that is narrower than a width of the track section transverse to the length of the frame plate. In the embodiment of the frame plate 2 shown in Figure 29, the cut outs 243 extend partially into the track section 243 and fully into the first section 234. The cut outs 243 allow the carriage to slide onto and off the track section during assembly and disassembly of the window stay 1. In one embodiment, after the carriage 4 has been slid onto the track section (for example, during manufacture of the window stay) the first section 234 of the frame plate 2 may be suitably lanced or staked 240,241 (Figure 28) to create a stop. Thus, when the window stay 1 is installed, the stop may permanently prevent the carriage 4 from sliding back past the cut outs 243 and being removed from the track section 243.

Figures 30a to 30c show the window stay 1 installed in a window 45, showing a section of both the window frame 46 and window sash 47. The window stay may be installed with any suitable type of window frame and window sash resulting in either an awning-type or a casement-type window. There may be one or more (usually two or more) window stays installed per particular window sash.

In Figure 30a the window 45 and window stay 1 are in the closed position. The window stay 1 is not visible as it is obscured by the window sash 47. In Figure 30b the window 45 and window stay 1 are in the partially opened position. The carriage 4 is in the first carriage position relative to the frame plate 2. In Figure

30c the window 45 and window stay 1 are in the fully opened position. The carriage 4 is in the second carriage position relative to the frame plate 2.

Though the window stays described above are four-bar type window stays, those skilled in the art will appreciate how the carriage with latching mechanism and frame plate may be used in other configurations of window stay having a sliding carriage.

While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of the embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in detail, it is not the intention of the Applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Further, the above embodiments may be implemented individually, or may be combined where compatible. Additional advantages and modifications, including combinations of the above embodiments, will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departure from the spirit or scope of the Applicant's general inventive concept.

Claims

1. A window stay including: a frame plate configured to attach to a window frame; a sash plate configured to attach to a window sash; a carriage configured to slide on the frame plate; and a connecting element connecting the carriage to the sash plate, the carriage including: a carriage body; a latching mechanism configured to, in a latched position, engage with the frame plate to prevent the carriage from sliding on the frame plate, and, in an unlatched position, allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate; and one or more biasing elements configured to bias the latching mechanism into the latched position; wherein the latched position and the unlatched position lie on a sideways transverse axis with respect to the sliding axis of the carriage; wherein the latching mechanism comprises a selection switch mounted in a carriage body, the selection switch is configured to slide in a transverse axis with respect to the movement of carriage body, between the latched position and the unlatched position; and wherein the latching mechanism further comprises a latching element mounted in the selection switch and a stepped recess in the frame plate, the latching element is configured to slide in an axis normal to the frame plate between the latched position and the unlatched position.

2. The window stay as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more biasing elements are formed integrally with the carriage body.

3. The window stay as claimed in claim 1, wherein the carriage body is formed from plastic.

4. The window stay as claimed in claim 2, wherein the latching mechanism is formed from metal.

5. The window stay as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein in a first configuration of the window stay the latched mechanism is in the latched position and the carriage is at a first carriage position on the frame plate, and wherein in a second configuration of the window stay the latching mechanism is in the unlatched position and the carriage is allowed to slide on the frame plate.

6. The window stay as claimed in claim 5, wherein when in the first configuration the sash plate is able to be moved relative to the frame plate between a closed position and a partially opened position, and when the window stay is in the second configuration the sash plate is able to be moved relative to the frame plate between the partially opened position to a fully opened position.

7. The window stay as claimed in claim 6, wherein the closed position corresponds to the plane of the window sash being parallel with the plane of the window frame, the partially opened position corresponds to the plane of the window sash being at an angle between 10 to 60 degrees with the plane of the window frame and the fully opened position corresponds to the plane of the window sash being at an angle between 60 to 110 degrees with the plane of the window frame.

8. The window stay as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the carriage includes at least one flange configured to wrap around a longitudinal edge of the frame plate.

9. The window stay as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the carriage includes a metal insert.

10. The window stay as claimed in claim 8, wherein the carriage includes a metal insert and the metal insert extends into the at least one flange.

11. The window stay as claimed in any preceding claim, further including an additional connecting element connecting the frame plate to the sash plate.

12. The window stay as claimed in claim 1, wherein the stepped recess comprises a at least one recess and a ramp, and the latching element is locked within the recess in the latched position and free to slide on the ramp in the unlatched position.

13. The window stay as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein when the carriage is at a first carriage position on the frame plate the sash plate is configured to move relative to the frame plate between a closed position and a partially opened position, and when the carriage is at a second carriage position on the frame plate the sash plate is configured to move relative to the frame plate to a fully opened position.

14. The window stay as claimed in claim 13, wherein the closed position corresponds to the plane of the window sash being parallel with the plane of the window frame, the partially opened position corresponds to the plane of the window sash being at an angle between 5 to 50 degrees with respect to the plane of the window frame and the fully opened position corresponds to the plane of the window sash being at an angle between 50 to 100 degrees with respect to the plane of the window frame.

15. The window stay as claimed in claim 13 or 14 when dependant on claim 12, comprising two opposed stepped recesses, each stepped recess corresponding to the first carriage position and the second carriage position respectively.

16. The window stay as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the carriage includes at least one flange configured to wrap around a longitudinal edge of the frame plate.

17. The window stay as claimed in claim 16, wherein the frame plate is substantially flat in lateral cross section.

18. The window stay of any of claims 1 to 17, further including: one or more friction elements arranged to prevent or slow sliding of the carriage along the frame plate when the latching mechanism is in the unlatched position.

19. The window stay as claimed in claim 18, wherein in a fully open position the latching mechanism is engaged and wherein, in use, the one or more friction elements are arranged to prevent or slow motion of the carriage from the fully open position when the latching mechanism is unlatched by a user.

20. The window stay as claimed in claim 19, wherein, in use, in the fully open position a user may unlatch the latching mechanism and apply a force to slide the carriage along the frame plate overcoming the friction force created by the friction elements.