CN110023579B

CN110023579B - Window support

Info

Publication number: CN110023579B
Application number: CN201780074721.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 邓肯·达夫·麦格雷戈; 苏珊·默特尔·布朗利
Original assignee: Assa Abloy New Zealand Ltd
Current assignee: Assa Abloy New Zealand Ltd
Priority date: 2016-12-02
Filing date: 2017-11-30
Publication date: 2021-07-27
Anticipated expiration: 2037-11-30
Also published as: AU2017367686A1; JP7279239B2; NZ753508A; JP7089338B2; CN110023579A; JP2022120082A; JP2019536927A; AU2017367686B2; WO2018101845A1

Abstract

A window brace, comprising: a frame plate configured to be attached to a window frame; a sash plate configured to be attached to a sash; a carriage configured to slide on the frame plate; and a connecting member connecting the carriage to the window panel, the carriage including: a carriage body; a latch element configured to engage with the frame plate in a latched position to lock the carriage on the frame plate, and to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate in an unlatched position; and the frame plate includes one or more reset elements configured to return the latch elements to the latched position after the carriage movement.

Description

Window support

Technical Field

The present invention relates to window braces, and in particular, the present invention relates to sliding window braces.

Background

Window braces (also known as window brace hinges or slip braces) are well known in the window industry. Generally, a window stay connects a window sash to a window frame and serves as a hinge so that the window can be opened and closed. The window brace generally includes a frame panel configured to be attached to the window frame, a sash panel configured to be attached to the sash, and a plurality of arms pivotally connected between the frame panel and the sash panel. There are many different configurations of window stays depending on the type of window and the type of opening mechanism required.

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

For example, GB2311324B (the content of which is incorporated by reference) discloses a so-called "four-bar" window brace. The window stay comprises a long arm and a short 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 sliding of the carriage is limited by the locking means, and the arrangement of the arms is such that the sash plate is movable relative to the frame plate (corresponding to a window opening from the closed position to the first open position). Upon further operation, the locking device may be released, allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate, so that the window may be opened further from the first open position to the second open position. GB2311324B teaches a locking device comprising a button integrally formed with a projection. The projection engages with the frame plate to restrict the carriage sliding. The projection is biased to the locked position by a spring member, which is also integrally formed with the button.

A problem associated with the window stay disclosed in GB2311324B is that since the spring member is made of plastic, the button and the protrusion (which are integrally formed with the spring member) are also made of plastic. The protrusion then experiences wear, affecting the performance of the locking device over the life of the window stay.

Another problem associated with window braces comprising a sliding carriage is that the frame plate must be configured to hold the carriage. One solution is to form the frame plate using an extrusion process so that the frame plate has a profile suitable for use as a rail. For example, GB2311324B discloses that the frame plate of the window stay is an extruded length having a generally "U" shaped profile, into which the carriages are embedded in a sliding arrangement.

The 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 brace, or at least provide the public with a useful choice.

Disclosure of Invention

In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a window brace comprising: a frame plate configured to be attached to a window frame; a sash plate configured to be attached to a sash; a carriage configured to slide on the frame plate; and a connecting member connecting the carriage to the window sash panel, the carriage including: a carriage body; a latch element configured to engage with the frame plate in a latched position to lock the carriage on the frame plate, and to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate in an unlatched position; and the frame plate includes one or more reset elements configured to return the latch elements to the latched position after the carriage movement.

Optionally, the latch element is configured to slide on an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame plate and engage with the reset element to move between the unlocked position and the latched position.

Optionally, the one or more reset elements comprise a stepped recess comprising an angled surface.

Optionally, the angled surface pushes the latch element to the latched position as the carriage moves.

Optionally, the stepped recess further comprises at least one inclined surface and a locking surface, and wherein the latch element is locked behind the locking surface in the latched position and released from the locking surface to slide over the inclined surface in the unlatched position.

Optionally, the latch element is supported by a spring that is movable in and out from the frame plate when the latch element is moved over the reset element.

Optionally, the spring compresses when the latch element slides on the inclined surface.

Optionally, one or more reset elements are integrally formed with the frame plate.

Optionally, in the first configuration of the window stay, the latch element is in the latched position and the carriage is located in a first carriage position on the frame panel, and wherein in the second configuration of the window stay, the latch element is in the unlatched position and the carriage is slidable on the frame panel.

Optionally, the sash panel is movable between a closed position and a partially open position relative to the frame panel when in the first configuration, and between a partially open position and a fully open position relative to the frame panel when the window stay is in the second configuration.

Optionally, the latching position and the unlatching position of the latching element are on a transverse axis with respect to the sliding axis of the carriage.

Optionally, the latch element is mounted in the carriage body and the latch element is configured to slide on the transverse axis between the unlatched position and the latched position.

Optionally, the sash plate is configured to move between a closed position and a partially open position relative to the frame plate when the carriage is in a first carriage position on the frame plate, and the sash plate is configured to move to a fully open position relative to the frame plate when the carriage is in a second carriage position on the frame plate.

Optionally, the closed position corresponds to the plane of the sash being parallel to the plane of the window frame, the partially open position corresponds to the plane of the sash being at an angle of between 5 and 50 degrees relative to the plane of the window frame, and the fully open position corresponds to the plane of the sash being at an angle of between 50 and 110 degrees relative to the plane of the window frame.

Optionally, the closed position corresponds to the plane of the sash being parallel to the plane of the window frame, the partially open position corresponds to the plane of the sash being at an angle of between 10 and 60 degrees to the plane of the window frame, and the fully open position corresponds to the plane of the sash being at an angle of between 60 and 110 degrees to the plane of the window frame.

Optionally, the window stay comprises two opposing stepped recesses, each corresponding to a first and second carriage position, respectively.

In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a window brace comprising: a frame plate configured to be attached to a window frame; a sash plate configured to be attached to a sash; a carriage configured to slide on the frame plate; and a connecting member connecting the carriage to the window sash panel, the carriage including: a carriage body; a latch mechanism configured to engage with the frame plate in a latched position to lock the carriage on the frame plate, and to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate in an unlatched position; and one or more return elements on the sash panel are configured to return the latch mechanism to the latched position when the sash panel is closed over the carriage.

Optionally, the sash plate is closed over the carriage when the window is closed.

Optionally, the latching mechanism comprises a latching element and a stepped recess in the frame plate, and the latching element is configured to slide along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame plate between a latched position and an unlatched position.

Optionally, the carriage comprises a button movably connected with the latch element.

Optionally, the reset element is configured to push the button into the latched position when the sash plate is closed over the carriage.

Optionally, the reset element is a convex portion that protrudes towards the carriage.

Optionally, the button slides within the recess of the carriage transverse to the direction of movement of the carriage between the latched position and the unlatched position.

Optionally, the carriage recess is shaped to interact with a feature of the button to bias the button toward the latched position.

Optionally, the latching element is resiliently connected to the button such that the latching element is axially moveable away from and towards the carriage.

Optionally, the button comprises a deformable portion configured to interact with the reduction element.

It will be recognized that the terms "comprises," "comprising," and "including," in various jurisdictions, may be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purposes of this specification, unless otherwise indicated, these terms are intended to have an inclusive meaning that they will be taken to include the listed components of the direct use, and may also include other non-specified components or elements.

Drawings

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

FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a window brace in a partially open position according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows an isometric view of the window brace of FIG. 1 in a closed position;

FIG. 3 shows an isometric view of the window stay of FIG. 1 in a fully open position;

FIG. 4a shows an isometric view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4b shows an isometric view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 1 with the latch mechanism in a latched position;

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 1 with the latch mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the window stay of FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 shows an isometric view of a frame plate according to an embodiment;

FIG. 9 illustrates an elevational bottom view of the window brace of FIG. 3;

figure 10a shows an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a closed position;

figure 10b shows an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a partially open position;

FIG. 10c is an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a fully open position;

FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric view of a window brace in a partially open position according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of the window brace of FIG. 11 in a closed position;

FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of the window stay of FIG. 11 in a fully open position;

FIG. 14a shows an isometric view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14b shows an isometric view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 11;

FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 11 with the latch mechanism in a latched position;

FIG. 16 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 11 with the latch mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the window brace of FIG. 13;

fig. 18 shows an isometric view of a frame plate according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 19 illustrates an elevational bottom view of the window brace of FIG. 13;

figure 20a shows an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a closed position according to a second embodiment;

figure 20b shows an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a partially open position according to the second embodiment;

figure 20c is an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a fully open position according to the second embodiment;

FIG. 21 illustrates an isometric view of a window brace in a partially open position according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 22 illustrates an isometric view of the window brace of FIG. 21 in a closed position;

FIG. 23 illustrates an isometric view of the window brace of FIG. 21 in a fully open position;

FIG. 24a shows an isometric view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 21;

FIG. 24b shows an isometric view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 21 with the latch mechanism in the latched position;

FIG. 26 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the window stay of FIG. 21 with the latch mechanism in an unlocked position;

FIG. 27 shows a cross-sectional view of the window brace of FIG. 23;

fig. 28 shows an isometric view of a frame plate according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 29 illustrates an elevational bottom view of the window brace of FIG. 23;

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

figure 30b shows an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a partially open position according to the third embodiment;

figure 30c is an isometric view of a portion of a window including a window stay in a fully open position according to the third embodiment;

fig. 31 shows a front view of a portion of a window stay according to a fourth embodiment.

Fig. 32a shows a perspective view of a frame plate according to a fourth embodiment;

fig. 32b shows a front view of the frame plate of fig. 32 a;

fig. 32c shows a side view of the frame plate of fig. 32 a.

Figures 33a-h show a series of carriage movements according to a fourth embodiment;

fig. 34a shows a front view of the frame plate with the latch elements in various positions;

FIG. 34b shows a cross-section taken through A-A of FIG. 34A;

fig. 35a shows a front view of the frame plate with the latch elements in various positions;

FIG. 35B shows a cross-section taken through B-B of FIG. 35A;

fig. 36a shows a front view of the frame plate with the latch elements in various positions;

FIG. 36b shows a cross-section taken through C-C of FIG. 36A;

fig. 37a shows a front view of the frame plate with the latch elements in various positions;

FIG. 37b shows a cross-section taken through D-D of FIG. 37A;

fig. 38a shows a front view of the frame plate with the latch elements in various positions;

FIG. 38b shows a cross-section taken through E-E of FIG. 38A;

fig. 39a shows a front view of a frame plate with latch elements in various positions;

FIG. 39b shows a cross-section taken through F-F of FIG. 39A;

FIG. 40a shows a perspective view of a sash plate; and

fig. 40b shows a perspective underside view of the sash plate of fig. 50 a.

FIG. 41a shows a perspective view of the button;

FIG. 41b shows a lower perspective view of the button;

FIG. 41c shows a right side view of the button;

FIG. 41d shows a top view of the button with a deformable portion;

FIG. 42a shows a perspective view of a button with a deformable portion;

FIG. 42b shows a lower perspective view of the button with a deformable portion;

FIG. 42c shows a right side view of the button with a deformable portion;

FIG. 42d shows a top view of the button;

figure 43a shows a top view of the carriage;

figure 43b shows a top view of the carriage with the button in the latched position;

figure 43c shows a top view of the carriage with the button in the unlocked position;

figure 43d shows an exploded view of the carriage and button assembly;

FIG. 43e shows a detail view of the ramp;

FIG. 44a shows a side view of a half-open window stay;

FIG. 44b shows a cross-section taken through A-A of FIG. 43 a;

FIG. 45a shows a side view of the window brace;

FIG. 45B shows a cross-section taken through B-B of FIG. 44 a;

FIG. 46a shows a side view of a window brace;

FIG. 46b shows a cross-section taken through C-C of FIG. 45 a;

FIG. 47a shows a side view of a window brace;

FIG. 47b shows a cross-section taken through D-D of FIG. 46 a;

FIG. 48a shows a side view of the window brace;

FIG. 48b shows a cross-section taken through E-E of FIG. 47 a;

FIG. 49a shows a side view of a window brace;

FIG. 49b shows a cross-section taken through F-F of FIG. 48 a.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a window brace 1 according to an embodiment. The window support 1 comprises a frame plate 2 for mounting on a window frame and a sash plate 3 for mounting on a sash. Although a window frame and sash are not shown in fig. 1, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the window brace of the present invention may be mounted by any suitable type of window frame and sash to form a canopy or door type window.

The carriage 4 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. Connecting elements in the form of short arms 5 and joints 6, 7 connect the carriage to the sash plate. Additional connecting elements in the form of long arms 8 and joints 9, 10 connect the frame plate to the sash plate. The

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 may be any suitable type of pivot joint, such as friction rivet joints, as is well known for this application. The arrangement of the connecting

elements

5, 6 and the

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 allows a relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. This relative movement allows the installed sash to change from a closed position to an open position, as will be discussed in more detail below. One or

more holes

11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are provided in the frame and sash plates to receive suitable fasteners for attaching the frame plate to the window frame and the sash plate to the sash.

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

Fig. 2 shows the window stay 1 of fig. 1 in a closed position. In the closed position, the plane of the sash (not shown) is parallel to the plane of the window frame (not shown).

As will be understood from a comparison of fig. 1 and 2, the arrangement of the connecting

elements

5, 6 and the

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 allows for a way of relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. It will also be appreciated that this therefore allows the sash to be changed from the partially open position of fig. 1 to the closed position of fig. 2 (and back again). It will also be appreciated that the carriage 4 remains in the same first carriage position relative to the frame plate for the partially open position of fig. 1 and the closed position of fig. 2. As will be discussed in more detail below, the carriage may be restricted from sliding on the frame plate by a latch mechanism 17.

Fig. 3 shows the window brace 1 of fig. 1 in a fully open position. In the fully open position, the plane of the sash (not shown) is at an angle of 60 to 110 degrees to the plane of the window frame (not shown). In the embodiment of fig. 3, this angle is generally indicated by dashed arc 18 and is approximately 71 degrees.

As will be understood from a comparison of fig. 1 and 3, the arrangement of the connecting

elements

5, 6 and the

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 and the carriage 4 allows for a way of relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. It will also be appreciated that this therefore allows the sash to be changed from the partially open position of fig. 1 to the fully open position of fig. 3 (and back again). In order to allow the sash to change from the partly open position of fig. 1 to the fully open position, the carriage 4 is allowed to slide along the frame plate 2 from a first carriage position to a second carriage position.

Fig. 4a shows a partial view of the window stay of fig. 1 to show the carriage 4 in more detail. The carriage includes a carriage main body 19 and a latch mechanism 17. The carriage main body is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. The carriage 4 further comprises a flange 20, which extends along a side of the carriage 4, as shown in the lower side view of fig. 4 b. The flange 20 effectively surrounds the underside of the frame plate 2 so that the carriage is maintained in a fixed relationship with the frame plate 2 whilst still allowing the carriage to slide along the length of the frame plate (as indicated by arrow a). The carriage body may be made of any suitable material. Preferably, the carriage body is made of plastic. This is easy to mold and generates less friction when the carriage body slides on the frame plate.

The latching mechanism 17 of the carriage 4 comprises a push button 21 and a latching element 22. The latching elements engage with notches 23 provided in the frame plate 2. This restricts the carriage 4 from sliding on the frame plate. When the button 21 is pressed, the latching element 22 disengages from the notch 23, allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate. In use, a user may want to open the sash from partially open to fully open so they can press the button 21 to unlock the latch mechanism and release the carriage.

Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the carriage 4 of fig. 1 to better illustrate the structure of the carriage. Figure 1 shows a short arm 5 connected to the carriage by means of a rivet joint 7. The carriage body 19 surrounds the frame plate 2, on the underside of which frame plate 2a flange 20 is shown. The carriage 4 may further comprise an insert 24. The short arm 5 is connected to the carriage body 19 and the insert 24. Such an insert may be made of metal, making the carriage more rigid. The insert may also serve as a structural failure protection in the event of a failure of the carriage body (e.g., if the carriage body melts in a fire). The metal insert will hold the short arm and remain attached to the frame plate 2. The metal insert extends into the flange 20. In one embodiment, the flange 20 may be integrally formed with the insert.

Fig. 5 shows the latch mechanism 17 in more detail. The latching mechanism comprises a button 21 and a latching element 22. The carriage main body 19 is configured to accommodate a latch mechanism. The button and the latch element may be formed together such that when the button is depressed, the latch element is moved. In fig. 5, the latch mechanism 17 is shown in the latched position. In the latched position, the latching mechanism is engaged with the frame plate 2. In particular, the latching element 22 engages in a recess 23 in the frame plate. With the latch elements engaged in the notches, the carriage is latched and constrained to slide 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 latch mechanism to the latched position. The biasing element 25 is formed integrally with the carriage body 19. In a preferred embodiment, the carriage body and the biasing element are both formed of plastic. Such plastic may be selected to provide a desired restoring force to the biasing element 25 (i.e., to provide sufficient force to bias the latch mechanism 17 to the latched position). By forming the biasing element with the carriage body, the manufacturing and assembly of the carriage is simplified. As will be discussed in more detail below, by not forming the biasing element with the latch mechanism, the latch mechanism may be formed of a wear resistant material such as metal.

Fig. 6 shows the same carriage view as fig. 5 with the latch mechanism 17 in the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the latch mechanism is disengaged from the frame plate 2. In particular, the latching element is disengaged from the notch 23 in the frame plate. In case the latching element is disengaged from the notch, the carriage is allowed to slide on the frame plate 2. In the unlocked position, the button 21 has been pressed. In one embodiment, the carriage body 19 may include a hook 26 configured to interact with an edge 27 of the latch mechanism to temporarily hold the latch mechanism in the unlocked position. Such a hook can be used to prevent the user from having to manually hold the push button 21 down while also trying to slide the carriage 4 from its first carriage position.

In the unlocked position, the biasing element 25 is compressed such that the biasing element tends to bias the latch mechanism 17 to the latched position. It will be appreciated that the hook 26 should be configured such that the biasing element 25 itself does not overcome the hook. The latch mechanism includes a projection 28 extending away from the button 21. The frame plate 2 may comprise a recess 29 to accommodate the protrusion when the button is pressed.

When the carriage 4 starts to slide along the frame plate 2, the protrusion 28 hits the edge 30 of the recess. The edge is suitably curved (cambered) so that it pushes the protrusion upwards, which together with the biasing element 25 is sufficient to overcome the hook 26. Therefore, once the carriage 4 slides on the frame plate, the latch mechanism 17 is no longer held by the hook. Then, if the latch member 22 encounters a notch, the latch mechanism will return to the latched position.

In a preferred embodiment, the latch mechanism 17 is made of a wear resistant material such as metal. It should be appreciated that the latching mechanism may be used multiple times during the life of a particular window stay. This can impose insignificant wear and stress on components, particularly those that engage other portions of the window brace 1, such as,

a latching element 22, which engages with a notch 23 of the frame plate 2, itself preferably made of metal;

the edge 27 of the latch mechanism 17, which engages with the hook 26; and

a protrusion 28 which engages with an edge 30 of the recess.

The latch element is subject to further wear and stress as it carries a significant portion of the sash weight via the short arm (particularly in awning windows). By making the latch mechanism of a wear resistant material, these components will wear out without wear and quickly deteriorate. This will improve the ability of the window stay to operate as intended during the life of the window stay.

Returning to fig. 1, a further recess 31 and a further recess 32 in the frame plate 2 are also shown. It will be appreciated that when the carriage 4 is slid into the second carriage position in the fully open configuration (as shown in figure 3), the latch element will engage the further notch 31, thereby latching the carriage in the second carriage position. Fig. 7 shows a cross-section of the window stay of fig. 3. Fig. 7 shows the latching element 22 engaged in a further recess 31.

As will be appreciated from the above description, the frame plate 2 should be configured to work with the carriage 4 such that the carriage is fixed to 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 to have a profile suitable for a particular carriage geometry. However, in a preferred embodiment, the frame plate is formed of stainless steel by stamping, pressing or similar processes.

Fig. 8 shows the frame plate 2 of the window stay discussed above in relation to fig. 1 to 7. The frame plate is formed of a substantially flat elongated member. The frame plates include

apertures

11, 13 to receive suitable fasteners for attaching the frame plates to a window frame (not shown). The frame plate comprises a further aperture 33 for connection to a long arm (not shown) by means of a suitable joint. The frame plate further comprises the above discussed notch 23, recess 29, further notch 31 and further recess 32. It will be appreciated that the holes, recesses and recesses may be formed in the frame plate by any suitable process, such as for example stamping, drilling or embossing.

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

The frame plate 2 further comprises a rail section 36 extending between the first attachment section 34 and the second attachment section 35. The rail section is connected to the first attachment section by a first raised section 37 and to the second attachment section by a second raised section 38. The

elevation sections

37, 38 are substantially angled or perpendicular to the plane of the frame plate and serve to elevate the rail section 36 relative to the first and

second attachment sections

34, 35. The rail section is raised so that when the frame panel is installed, the rail section is spaced from the window frame (not shown) by a gap as indicated by arrow B in fig. 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 an area over which the carriage can slide (as discussed with respect to fig. 1-7). In particular, the gap is sufficient to accommodate the flange of the carriage so that the carriage remains on the track section while being able to slide along the track section. The rail section may include an indentation 41. The indent may include additional holes 12 for receiving suitable fasteners for attaching the indent to the window frame. The indentations may increase the rigidity of the rail section. It will be appreciated that the indentation is located towards the middle of the lateral width of the track section so that a sufficient amount of the track section remains to retain the carriage on the track section (as indicated by arrow C). The indentation may be positioned such that it does not interrupt the flange when the carriage slides over the indentation.

The first raised section 37 and the second raised section 38 may be formed by an embossing process. "embossing" is to be understood as including any pressing type forming process. The person skilled in the art will understand the way in which embossing works in general and does not need to be explained in detail.

In short, stamping involves placing a generally flat elongate member into a stamping press having a suitable mold or die. The stamping press then subjects the generally flat elongate member to sufficient pressure to deform it into the shape of the mould or die. In this case, the embossing process forms the first raised section 37 and the second raised section 38, thus also causing the rail section 36 to be raised relative to the first attachment section 34 and the second attachment section 35. The same stamping process may be used simultaneously to form some or all of the indentations 41, holes 11, 12, 13, 33,

notches

23, 31 and recesses 29, 32.

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

Fig. 9 shows a view of the underside of the window stay 1 of fig. 3 (i.e. in a fully open position). The carriage 4 is latched in the second carriage position. The figure shows how the flange 20 encircles the outer edge of the rail section in order to hold the carriage on the rail section 36 of the frame plate 2.

The carriage 4 can be prevented by the second elevation section 38 from sliding off the rail section 36 in one direction. In particular, the flange 20 of the carriage cannot slide past the second raised section. However, the first raised section may comprise a cut-out 43 defining a shoulder 44, such that the first raised section does not prevent the carriage 4 from sliding off the track section. In particular, the flange of the carriage can slide over the cross-sectional elevation section. That is, at least a portion of the first raised section has a width transverse to the length of the frame plate that is narrower than the width of the rail section transverse to the length of the frame plate. In the embodiment of the frame plate 2 shown in fig. 9, the cut-out 43 extends partly into the rail section 236 and completely into the first section 34. The cut-outs 43 allow the carriage to slide onto and off the rail section during assembly and disassembly of the window support 1. In one embodiment, the first section 34 of the frame plate 2 may be suitably cut or riveted (staked) to form a stop after the carriage 4 has been slid onto the rail section (e.g. during manufacture of the window stay). Thus, when mounting the window stay 1, the stop may permanently prevent the carriage 4 from sliding through the cut-out 43 and being removed from the rail section 36.

Fig. 10a to 10c show the window stay 1 mounted in a window 45, showing a window frame 46 and a part of a sash 47. It will be appreciated that the window stay may be fitted with any suitable type of window frame and sash to form a canopy or door type window. In addition, one or more (typically two or more) window braces may be mounted to each particular sash.

In fig. 10a, the window 45 and the window stay are in the closed position. The window stay is not visible because it is obscured by the sash 47. In fig. 10b, the window 45 and the window stay 1 are in a partially open position. The carriage 4 is in a first carriage position with respect to the frame plate 2. In fig. 10c, the window 45 and the window stay 1 are in the fully open position. The carriage 4 is in a second carriage position with respect to the frame plate 2.

Fig. 11 to 20c show a second embodiment of the window stay 1. This arrangement is shown with respect to a smaller window brace than that of fig. 1-10 c. However, each embodiment can be extended to any desired size of window brace. This second embodiment is substantially similar to the first embodiment described above.

Fig. 11 shows a window stay 1 comprising a frame plate 2 and a sash plate 3. The carriage 4 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. Connecting elements in the form of short arms 5 and joints 6, 7 connect the carriage to the sash plate. Additional connecting elements in the form of long arms 8 and joints 9, 10 connect the frame plate to the sash plate. One or

more holes

Fig. 11 shows the window stay 1 in a partially open position. Fig. 12 shows the window brace 1 of fig. 11 in a closed position. In the partly open position of fig. 11 and the closed position of fig. 12, the carriage 4 remains in the same first carriage position relative to the frame plate.

Fig. 13 shows the window brace 1 of fig. 11 in a fully open position. To allow the sash to move from the partly open position of fig. 11 to the fully open position of fig. 13, the carriage 4 is allowed to slide along the frame plate 2 from a first carriage position to a second carriage position.

Fig. 14a shows a partial view of the window stay of fig. 1 to show the carriage 4 in more detail. The carriage is constructed substantially similarly to the carriage of fig. 1 to 10 c. However, as can be seen by comparing fig. 4a and 14a, the orientation of the latch mechanism 17 has been reversed.

The carriage includes a carriage main body 19 and a latch mechanism 17. The carriage main body is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. The carriage 4 further comprises a flange 20, which extends along a side of the carriage 4, as shown in the lower side view of fig. 14 b. The flange 20 effectively surrounds the underside of the frame plate 2 so that the carriage is held in fixed relation to the frame plate 2 whilst still allowing the carriage to slide along the length of the frame plate. In this embodiment, the flange may be provided by the insert 24 and the return piece 20a formed in the material of the carriage body 19.

The latching mechanism 17 of the carriage 4 comprises a push button 21 and a latching element 22. The latching elements engage with notches 23 provided in the frame plate 2. This restricts the carriage 4 from sliding on the frame plate. When the button 21 is pressed, the latching element 22 disengages from the notch 23, allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate.

Fig. 15 and 16 are sectional views of the carriage 4. As shown, the projection 28 of the latch mechanism 17 is formed with a stepped portion 28' to engage with the hook 26 in the position of fig. 16. Furthermore, in this embodiment the recesses 29 in the frame plate 2 are formed by a stamping or punching operation which leaves the frame plate material in place but deforms it to provide the recesses 29 with a ramp structure, thereby providing less resistance to removal of the protrusions 28 from the recesses 29. In other words, in this embodiment, the recess 29 does not include an aperture that passes through the frame plate. This structure can also be seen in fig. 18, for example.

The carriage 4 may further comprise an insert 24 similar to fig. 1 to 10 c. The latching mechanism includes a biasing element 25 similar to that of figures 1 to 10 c. In addition, however, a further spring 49 can be provided, which acts on the end face of the latching element 22. This spring 49 also tends to urge the latch element 22 to the disengaged position shown in fig. 15 by acting downwardly (as shown) toward the end of the latch element 22.

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

In this embodiment, one or more friction elements 50 may be provided on the frame plate 2. These friction elements serve to prevent the carriage 4 from moving quickly upwards when the window stay and window are in the fully open position and the latch element 22 is released. In the fully open position, the friction element 50 prevents or slows the motion of the sash when the latch element is released. However, after unlocking the latch mechanism, the sash may be moved in a controlled manner by the user. The user need only apply a force to the sash to overcome the friction force generated by the friction element.

The friction element 50 also slows the movement of the carriage 4 as it approaches the fully open position. This helps to limit damage to the mechanism which may be caused by sudden engagement with the further recess 31 and the further recess 32 when moving at too high a speed.

In the embodiment shown, the friction element 50 simply consists of a ridge embossed or pressed into the frame plate 2, which engages with a channel 51 formed in the carriage. However, in other embodiments, inserts or additional elements of high friction material (e.g., rubber or a suitable polymer) may be used.

Fig. 18 shows the frame plate 2 of the window stay of fig. 11. Fig. 19 shows an underside view of the window stay 1 in the fully open position.

Fig. 20a to 20c show the window stay 1 mounted in a window, showing a part of the window frame 46 and the sash 47.

The embodiment of fig. 11 to 20c is similar to the embodiment of fig. 1 to 10c, except for the differences mentioned above. This embodiment may be manufactured and used in a similar manner to that described above with reference to fig. 1 to 10 c.

Fig. 21 to 30c show a third embodiment of the window stay 1. Similar parts to those in fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The window support 1 comprises a frame plate 2 for mounting on a window frame and a sash plate 3 for mounting on a sash. The window stay 1 may be mounted with any suitable type of window frame and sash to form a window of the awning or door type.

The carriage 4 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. Connecting elements in the form of short arms 5 and joints 6, 7 connect the carriage 4 to the sash plate 3. Additional connecting elements in the form of long arms 8 and joints 9, 10 connect the frame plate 2 to the sash plate 3. The

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 may be any suitable type of pivot joint, such as friction rivet joints, depending on the application. The arrangement of the connecting

elements

5, 6 and the

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 allows a relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. This relative movement allows the installed sash to change from a closed position to an open position. One or

more holes

11, 12, 13, 14, 15 are provided in the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3 to receive suitable fasteners for attaching the frame plate 2 to the window frame and the sash plate 3 to the sash.

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

Fig. 22 shows the window brace 1 of fig. 21 in a closed position. In the closed position, the plane of the sash (not shown) is parallel to the plane of the window frame (not shown).

A comparison of fig. 21 and 22 shows how the arrangement of the connecting

elements

5, 6 and

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 allows relative movement between the frame panel 2 and the sash panel 3. This therefore allows the sash to be changed from the partially open position of fig. 21 to the closed position of fig. 22 (and back again). In the partly open position of fig. 21 and the closed position of fig. 22, the carriage 4 remains in the same first carriage position relative to the frame plate. The carriage may be constrained from sliding on the frame plate by a latch mechanism 217.

Fig. 23 shows the window brace 1 of fig. 21 in a fully open position. In the fully open position, the plane of the sash (not shown) is at an angle of 50 to 100 degrees to the plane of the window frame (not shown). In the embodiment of fig. 23, this angle is generally indicated by dashed arc 18 and is approximately 73 degrees.

A comparison of fig. 21 and 23 shows how the arrangement of the connecting

elements

5, 6 and the

joints

6, 7, 9, 10 and the carriage 4 allows a relative movement between the frame plate 2 and the sash plate 3. This therefore allows the sash to be changed from the partially open position of fig. 21 to the fully open position of fig. 23 (and back again). To move the sash from the partly open position of fig. 21 to the fully open position, the carriage 4 has been moved along the frame plate 2 from the first carriage position to the second carriage position.

Fig. 24a shows the carriage 4 in more detail. The carriage 4 includes a carriage main body 219 and a latch mechanism 217. The carriage main body 219 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. The carriage 4 further comprises a flange 220, which extends along a side of the carriage 4, as shown in the lower side view of fig. 4 b. The flange 220 effectively surrounds the underside of the frame plate 2 thereby securing the carriage 4 to the frame plate 2 while still allowing the carriage to slide along the length of the frame plate (as indicated by arrow a). The carriage body may be made of any suitable material. Preferably, the carriage body is made of plastic. This is easy to mold and generates less friction when the carriage body slides on the frame plate.

The latch mechanism 217 of the carriage 4 includes a selection switch 226 and a latch 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 latch element 222 is free to slide in the recess 223 on the ramp 221, allowing the carriage to slide on the frame plate. In use, the user may want to open the sash from partially open to fully open so they can slide the selection switch 226 sideways to unlock the latch mechanism 217 and release the carriage 4.

Fig. 25 shows a cross-sectional view of the carriage 4 to better illustrate the structure of the carriage. The carriage 4 may further comprise a structural insert 224. The short arm 5 is connected to the carriage body 219 and the insert 224. Such an insert may be made of metal, making the carriage more rigid. The insert 224 may also serve as a structural failsafe in the event of a carriage body failure (e.g., if the carriage body melts in a fire). The insert 224 will hold the short arm and remain attached to the frame plate 2. The insert 224 extends into the flange 220. In one embodiment, the flange 220 may be integrally formed with the insert.

In fig. 25, the latch mechanism 217 is shown in the latched position. In the latched position, the latching element 222 engages in a recess 223 in the frame plate 2. With the latch element 222 engaged in the recess 223, the carriage 4 is latched and restricted from sliding on the frame plate 2. The latch mechanism 217 includes a biasing element 225. The biasing element biases or urges the latch element 222 into the recess 223. The biasing element 225 may be a spring or the like to provide a desired restoring force to the biasing element 225 (i.e., to provide sufficient force to bias the latch element 222 to the latched position). A spring may be accommodated in a cylindrical recess in the latch element 222, which spring rests against a retainer 227 on the underside of the selection switch 226. The latching elements 222 are limited to a single axis of travel perpendicular to the frame plate 2.

Fig. 26 shows the same carriage view as fig. 25 with the latch mechanism 217 in the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the latch 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. In case the latch element is disengaged from the recess 223, the carriage is allowed to slide on the frame plate 2. In the unlocked position, the selection switch 226 has moved sideways. In this position, when the user pushes the window further open, the latch element 222 is free to slide on the ramp 221 and onto the frame plate 2.

The selection switch 226 is installed between the carriage main body 219 and the insert 224. This provides a passage transverse to the sliding axis of the carriage 4. Thus, the selection switch 226 may be moved by the user within the channel from the locked and unlocked positions. The stop between the selector switch 226 and the 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 a user to move between the latched positions. The detent also provides some audible feedback to the user when the new latched position is reached.

In this manner, the user may not need to hold the selection switch 226 in place while opening the window to its fully open position. The operation may be done with one hand, first toggling the position of the selection switch 226 and then opening the window to its fully open position.

In a preferred embodiment, the latch mechanism 217 is made of a wear resistant material such as plastic. Plastic is relatively inexpensive, which makes it easy to add springs to it.

Returning to fig. 21, there are also a second recess 231 and a second slope 232 in the frame plate 2. When the carriage 4 is slid into the second carriage position in the fully open configuration (as shown in fig. 3), the latch element 222 will engage with the further recess 231, thereby latching the carriage in the second carriage position. Fig. 27 shows a cross-section of the window stay of fig. 23. Fig. 7 shows the latching element 222 engaged in a further recess 231.

It can be seen that the first and

second recesses

223, 231 are generally opposed such that the latching position of the latching element 222 is in a partially open position on one side and a fully open position on the other side. The carriage 4 may comprise indicia 233 (see fig. 24a) to indicate the locked position of the latch elements 222 relative to the partially open state or the fully open state.

The frame plate 2 may be configured to work with the carriage 4 such that the carriage is fixed to 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 to have a profile suitable for a particular carriage geometry. However, in a preferred embodiment, the frame plate is formed of stainless steel by stamping, pressing or similar processes.

Fig. 28 shows the frame plate 2 of the window stay discussed above in relation to fig. 21 to 27. The frame plate 2 is formed of a substantially flat elongated member. The frame plates include

apertures

11, 13 to receive suitable fasteners for attaching the frame plates to a window frame (not shown). The frame plate 2 comprises a further hole for connection to a long arm (not shown) by means of a joint 10 (not shown). The frame plate 2 further comprises the first bevel 221, the first recess 223, the second bevel 232 and the second recess 231 discussed above. It will be appreciated that the holes, recesses and recesses may be formed in the frame plate by any suitable process, such as for example stamping, drilling or embossing.

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

The frame plate 2 further comprises a rail section 236 extending between the first attachment section 234 and the second attachment section 235. The rail section 236 is connected to the first attachment section 234 by a first raised section 237 and to the second attachment section 235 by a second raised section 238. The raised

portions

237, 238 are generally angled or perpendicular to the plane of the frame plate and serve to raise the rail section 236 relative to the first and

second attachment sections

234, 235. The rail section is raised so that when the frame panel is installed, the rail section is spaced from the window frame (not shown) by a gap as indicated by arrow B in fig. 28. For at least a portion of the length of the rail segment 236, the gap extends from one edge of the rail segment 239 to the other edge of the rail segment (i.e., it extends across the lateral width of the rail segment).

The track section 236 provides an area on which the carriage 4 can slide. In particular, the gap is sufficient to accommodate the carriage flange 220 so that the carriage 4 remains on the track section 236 while being able to slide along the track section 236.

The first raised section 237 and the second raised section 238 may be formed by an embossing process. "embossing" may include any pressing type of forming process. Those skilled in the art will understand how embossing works in general and need not be explained in detail. In short, stamping involves placing a generally flat elongate member into a stamping press having a suitable mold or die. The stamping press then subjects the generally flat elongate member to sufficient pressure to deform it into the shape of the mould or die. In this case, the embossing process forms the first and second raised

sections

237, 238, thus also causing the rail section 236 to be raised relative to the first and

second attachment sections

234, 235. The same stamping process may be used simultaneously to form some or all of the

holes

11, 12, 13, the

recesses

223, 231 and the

slopes

221, 232. For example, the

recesses

223, 231 and the

slopes

221, 232 may be formed by slope portions having one end attached to the frame plate 2 and making an angle with the frame plate. The other end of the ramp is attached to a rectangular portion that has been punched out of, but spaced from, the frame plate. The rectangular portion forms the base of the recess and is open on the side. The edge of the punched hole formed in the frame plate 2 becomes the striker plate of the latching element 222 in the latching position.

Preferably, the frame plate 2 is made of metal. In a particular embodiment, the frame plate 2 is made of stainless steel. By providing the carriage 4 with a flange 220 surrounding the frame plate 2, this may allow for a significantly simpler and/or cheaper extrusion of the frame plate. For example, the transverse cross-section of the frame plate 2 may be substantially flat, unlike the U-shaped cross-section used to constrain the carriage in prior art designs. The resilience in the flange 20 may also allow the user to move with less resistance between partial opening and full opening and/or allow longer life/greater reliability.

Fig. 29 shows a view of the underside of the window stay 1 of fig. 23 (i.e., in a fully open position). The carriage 4 is latched in the second carriage position. The figure shows how the flange 220 encircles the outer edge of the rail section 236 in order to hold the carriage on the rail section 236 of the frame plate 2.

The first raised section 237 may include a cutout 243 defining a shoulder 244 so that the flange of the carriage can slide over the cross-sectional raised portion. That is, at least a portion of the first raised section has a width transverse to the length of the frame plate that is narrower than the width of the rail section transverse to the length of the frame plate. In the embodiment of the frame plate 2 shown in fig. 29, the cut-out 243 extends partly into the rail section 246 and completely into the first section 234. The cut-outs 243 allow the carriage to slide onto and off the rail section during assembly and disassembly of the window support 1. In one embodiment, the first section 234 of the frame panel 2 may be suitably cut or riveted 240, 241 (fig. 28) to form a stop after the carriage 4 has been slid onto the rail section (e.g. during manufacture of the window stay). Thus, when the window stay 1 is installed, the stop may permanently prevent the carriage 4 from sliding through the cut-out 243 and being removed from the rail section 236.

Fig. 30a to 30c show the window stay 1 mounted in a window 45, showing a window frame 46 and a part of a sash 47. The window stay may be mounted with any suitable type of window frame and sash to form a canopy or door type window. One or more (typically two or more) window braces may be mounted to each particular sash.

In fig. 30a, the window 45 and the window stay 1 are in the closed position. The window stay 1 is not visible because it is hidden by the sash 47. In fig. 30b, the window 45 and the window stay 1 are in a partially open position. The carriage 4 is in a first carriage position with respect to the frame plate 2. In fig. 30c, the window 45 and the window stay 1 are in the fully open position. The carriage 4 is in a second carriage position with respect to the frame plate 2.

Although the window brace described above is a four bar window brace, those skilled in the art will understand how the carriage and frame plate with latch mechanism may be used in other configurations of a window brace with a sliding carriage.

Fig. 31 to 33i show a window stay according to a fourth embodiment. The window stay includes a latch mechanism configured to engage with the frame plate in a latched position to lock the carriage on the frame plate, and to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate in an unlatched position. The latching mechanism is configured to automatically re-latch when the carriage moves up or down. Due to the shape formed in the frame plate, the latching element automatically moves back into its latching position.

Fig. 31 shows a window stay according to this fourth embodiment. Similar parts to those in fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The window stay comprises a frame plate 2 for mounting on the window frame and a sash plate 3 for mounting on the sash. One or

more holes

11, 12 are provided in the frame plate to receive suitable fasteners for attaching the frame plate to the window frame. The window support 1 may be fitted with any suitable type of window frame and sash to form a canopy or door type window.

The carriage 4 is configured to slide on the frame plate 2. A connecting element in the form of a short arm 5 connects the carriage 4 to the sash plate 3. As in the previous embodiments, this arrangement allows relative movement between the frame panel 2 and the sash panel 3. This relative movement allows the installed sash to change from a closed position to an open position. The carriage comprises a latch mechanism 400 comprising a latch element 401. The latch element 401 is configured to slide along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame plate when it moves with the carriage between the latched position and the unlatched position. The latch element 401 is also configured to slide on a transverse axis between a latched position and an unlatched position relative to the movement of the carriage body. The user may manually slide the latch element 401 and the reset mechanism may also automatically slide the latch element 401 laterally to re-latch as the carriage 4 moves. A first resetting member 406 and a second resetting member 408 are provided on the frame plate 2. The

reset elements

406 and 408 are configured to automatically slide and re-latch the latch mechanism 401 when the carriage is moved up or down.

Springs (not shown) are provided behind the latching elements allowing the latching elements to move in and out of the frame plate along the contour of the frame plate. The spring may be any suitable type of spring and may be made of plastic, metal, or any other suitable material. The spring may fit inside the latch element or may be located behind the latch element. The spring may be located between the latch element and the carriage body. In one embodiment, the spring is a plastic spring that is press fit into the latch element. In other embodiments, the spring may be a coil spring located behind the latch element, or insert molded such that the spring and latch mechanism may be one part but two materials, or the spring and latch mechanism may be one part made of plastic.

Fig. 32a shows a perspective view of the frame plate 2 according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 32b shows a front view of the frame plate of fig. 32a, and fig. 32c shows a side view of the sash plate 32 a. The frame plate includes a first carriage stop 402 and a second carriage stop 404 near the top of the frame plate. When the window stay is in the normal open mode, the carriage abuts the first carriage stop 402. When the window stay is in the cleaning mode, the carriage abuts the second carriage stop 404.

To achieve the above-described automatic latching, the frame plate 2 includes a first reset element 406 and a second reset element 408. The reset element is configured to return the latch mechanism to the latched position after any movement of the carriage.

Reset elements

406 and 408 include stepped

recesses

405 and 407. The stepped recess is defined by angled

rear surfaces

410 and 412,

angled surfaces

414, 415, 416 and 417, and locking

surfaces

422 and 424. The arrangement shown is merely exemplary and other shapes and configurations of the reset element may be used to reset the latch as the latch element moves past the reset element. In the embodiment shown, the resetting elements are formed integrally with the frame plate 2, however in other embodiments they can be formed separately and fixed to the frame plate 2 in a suitable manner.

The screw hole 12 is small enough so that it does not catch the latch element. The spring behind the latch may compress and relax a bit as the latch moves over it.

In the normal open mode, the latch element is located on the right side in the latched position. The locking surface 422 retains the latch mechanism in the latched position. To move the carriage, the user may push the latch element to the left so that it disengages the locking surface 422 when the carriage moves downward.

When the carriage moves downward, the first reset element 406 pushes the latch element back to the latched position. The angled surface 410 of the first reset element 406 guides or urges the latched position to the right toward the latched position. From this position, the carriage can move down, moving on ramp 415, then down ramp 416 and over ramp 417 to lock in the bottom cleaning mode. Alternatively, if the user changes mind halfway, the carriage will still lock if moved back to the open mode.

Similarly, in the cleaning mode, in the latched position, the latch element is located on the right side. The locking surface 424 retains the latch mechanism in the latched position. To move the carriage, the user may push the latch element to the left, disengaging the locking surface 424, and move it upward. As the carriage moves upward, the second reset element 408 pushes the latch element back to the latched position. The angled surface 412 (mirrored angled surface 410) of the second reset element 408 pushes the latch element to the right toward the latched position. From this position, the carriage can move up ramp 416 and then over ramp 415 and over ramp 414 to lock in the top open mode. Alternatively, if the user changes mind halfway, the carriage will still lock if moved back to the cleaning mode.

The lower surface of the latch mechanism is a flat surface that mates with a flat surface on the frame plate recess.

Fig. 33a to 33e show a series of movements of the carriage 4 moving down from the open latch position at the top of the frame plate to the clean latch position at the bottom of the frame plate and then back to the automatic latch position.

Fig. 33a shows a front view of a portion of a window stay according to a fourth embodiment. The window stay with the latch mechanism 400 is in the latched position and the window is open. The carriage 4 is near the top of the frame plate 2. The latch element 401 is directed towards the right side of the carriage 4. The carriage 4 and the latch element 401 may (but need not) include indicia 233. In fig. 33a, the marks are misaligned, indicating that the latching mechanism is in the latched position.

Fig. 33b shows the window stay with the latch element 401 moved to the left to unlatch. In this position, the markers 233 are aligned. When the latch element 401 is in this unlocked position, the carriage 4 can move freely up and down.

Fig. 33c shows the window stay when the carriage 4 is moved downwards. As will be explained in further detail below, when the carriage 4 moves downward, the latch member 401 automatically moves rightward due to the shape (i.e., the return member) formed in the frame plate, thereby returning to the latch position.

Figure 33d shows the carriage in the auto-latching position. When the latch element 401 is positioned as shown, the carriage will be locked in either the top or bottom position (depending on whether it is moved up or down).

Fig. 33e shows the window stay moved downward to latch in the bottom position.

Fig. 33f shows the window stay in the latched position. The window stay is locked in the bottom position, which may be suitable for window cleaning.

Fig. 33g shows the window stay in the bottom position with the latch element 401 moved to the left and the markings aligned. The marking may or may not be on the component. When the latch element is in this position, the latch mechanism is unlocked and the carriage is free to move upwardly.

Fig. 33h shows the window stay in the unlocked position, moved upward. When the carriage is moved upwards, the latching element 401 automatically moves back to its latching position due to the shape formed in the frame plate.

Fig. 33i shows the window stay returning to the auto-latching position. When the latch element 401 is in this auto-latching position, the carriage will latch in the top or bottom position.

Fig. 34 to 39 show various positions of the latch mechanism. Each figure shows the latch element in a plurality of positions.

Fig. 34A and 34B illustrate unlocking the window stay from the normal operating mode. 501A shows the latch in the latched position. The spring behind the latch is relaxed. The user slides the button (and containing the spring and latch) past position 501B to release the carriage. The latch is moved away from the locking surface and the carriage is now free to move downwards. The spring is still very relaxed. 503 shows the position when the carriage is moved downwards and the latch is in contact with an angled surface on the frame plate which starts to slide the latch (and button) back to the locking side. 534 shows that the latch continues to move as the carriage moves downward. 505 shows the latch now returning to the locking side and riding on the inclined surface, compressing the spring. From this position, the user can close the window or continue to open the window, causing it to enter a cleaning mode.

Fig. 35A and 35B illustrate returning the window stay to the normal operating position. At 505, the latch returns to the locking side and rides on the sloped surface, compressing the spring. At 506, as the carriage moves upward, the latch moves back up to the locking side. The spring relaxes in this position. At 507, the latch rides on the sloped surface, compressing the spring. At 608, as the carriage moves further upward, the latch is urged toward the locking surface by the spring. The carriage/button/latch is now in the same position as 501 in fig. 34A and 34B.

Fig. 36A and 36B illustrate moving the window stay to the cleaning mode. At 505, the latch returns to the locking side and rides on the sloped surface, compressing the spring. At 509, the latch elements ride on the frame plate surface (including the screw holes) as the carriage moves downward.

The spring is compressed. At 510, the latch travels along the ramped surface and the spring relaxes. At 511, the latch rides on the next inclined surface and the spring compresses. At 512, as the carriage moves further downward, the latch is urged toward the locking surface by the spring. The window stay is now locked in the cleaning mode. The spring relaxes.

Fig. 37A and 37B illustrate unlocking the window stay from the cleaning mode. The latch is shown in the locked position 512. The spring behind the latch relaxes at 513. The user slides the button (and including the spring and latch) through this position to release the carriage. The latch is moved away from the locking surface and the carriage is now free to move upwards. The spring is still relaxed. At 514, as the carriage moves upward, the latch comes into contact with an angled surface on the frame plate that begins to slide the latch (and button) back to the locking side. At 515, the latch continues to move as the carriage moves upward. At 516, the latch now returns to the locked side and rides on the sloped surface, compressing the spring. From this position the user can continue to close the window or put it back in the cleaning mode.

Fig. 38A and 38B illustrate returning the window stay to the cleaning mode. At 516, the latch now returns to the locking side and rides on the sloped surface, compressing the plastic spring. At 517, as the carriage moves downward, the latch moves back down to the locking side. The spring relaxes in this position. At 518, the latch rides on the ramped surface, compressing the spring. At 519, as the carriage moves further downward, the latch is urged by the spring toward the locking surface. The carriage/button/latch is now in the same position as 512.

Fig. 39A and 39B illustrate moving the window stay to the normal operating mode. At 516, the latch now returns to the locked side and rides on the sloped surface, compressing the spring. At 520, the latch elements ride on the frame plate surface (including the screw holes) as the carriage moves upward. The spring is compressed. At 521, the latch travels along the sloped surface and the spring relaxes. At 522, the latch rides on the next inclined surface and the spring compresses. At 523, as the carriage moves further upward, the latch is urged by the spring toward the locking surface. The window stay is now locked in the normal operating mode. The spring relaxes. This is the same position as 501.

Fig. 40a to 49b show various components of a window stay according to the fifth embodiment. Like the window stay shown in the fourth embodiment, the window stay in the fifth embodiment includes a latch mechanism configured to engage with the frame plate in a latched position to lock the carriage on the frame plate, and to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate in an unlatched position. In addition to the re-latching mechanism described in relation to the fourth embodiment, the fifth embodiment has a further re-latching mechanism configured to re-latch the latch when the sash panel is closed on the carriage. In the drawings shown with respect to the fifth embodiment, the button is moved rightward to unlock (while the drawings depicting the fourth embodiment show leftward unlocking).

The latch mechanism of the fifth embodiment includes a button 502 configured to engage the sash plate for re-latching as the sash plate moves on or around the latch mechanism. Thus, in addition to automatic latching by carriage movement, the window stay latches automatically when closed. This is accomplished by a feature of the sash plate that biases the button 502 on the carriage to the latched position when the sash is closed. This automatic latching feature functions when the user moves the button from the canopy position to unlock, but does not move the window to the cleaning position (to place it in the canopy position). When the window is closed again, the window stay will lock back into the canopy position. The automatic latching feature may eliminate potential risk to the user and damage to the sash, frame and window stay from accidental movement of the window without latching.

Fig. 40a to 49b show various components of the window stay according to the fifth embodiment, in which components similar to those in fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The window support 1 may be fitted with any suitable type of window frame and sash to form a canopy or door type window.

Fig. 40a shows a perspective view of the sash plate 3. Fig. 40b is a lower perspective view of the sash plate of fig. 40 a. The sash plate 3 includes a convex portion 500. Raised portions 500 on the sash plate 3 interact with buttons 502 to automatically latch the window stay.

The desired height range of the raised portion 500 will vary depending on the thickness of the frame and sash plates, the height of the cavity and the offset in the arms. When the mounting cavity height (the distance between the rear portion of the frame plate 2 and the rear portion of the sash plate 3) is at its maximum tolerance but does not interfere with the window stay function, the height of the raised portion 500 is high enough to engage the latch mechanism within the shortest tolerance. Typically, the cavity tolerance is ± 1.0mm, but this may vary depending on the window brace type and geometry. In the embodiment shown, a height of the raised portion 500 of 1.25mm above the top of the sash plate 2 is sufficient to engage this tolerance range.

The width of the raised portion 500 is based on its position and the angle at which the sash plate 3 approaches the latch mechanism when the window is closed. Depending on the features on the sash plate 3 and the frame plate 2, the width of the raised portion 500 may be wider or smaller than the area of engagement with the button 502.

In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding portion 500 is formed integrally with the sash plate. In other embodiments, the raised portion 500 may be an additional component that is clipped onto the sash plate 2 or otherwise adhered to the sash plate 2. In this second variation, the raised portion 500 may be made of other materials (e.g., plastic).

In the embodiment shown in fig. 40a and 40b, fastener head cavity 524 is included in raised portion 500. This can be imprinted simultaneously during manufacturing. This is possible because the fastener head cavity is near where it is desired to locate the boss 500.

Fig. 41a shows a perspective view of an automatic latch button 502 according to a fifth embodiment. The button 502 includes an upright portion 512 and a base portion 514. The upright portion 512 is pushed by the reset element (convex portion 500) to re-latch. The base 514 of the button 502 includes a deformable arm 534 configured to interact with a biasing ramp of the carriage (described in further detail below) to bias the latch into the latched position. Fig. 41b shows a lower perspective view of the button 502, fig. 41c shows a right side view of the button 502, and fig. 40d shows a top view of the button 502.

Fig. 42a shows a perspective view of the button 502 with the deformable portion 608, fig. 42b shows a lower perspective view of the button 502 of fig. 42a, fig. 42c shows a right side view of the button 502, and fig. 42d shows a top view of the button 502. Typically, the mounting window brace cavity width has a tolerance of ± 1.0mm, but may vary depending on the type and geometry of the support window brace. To address errors in installation, the deformable portion 608 is configured to interact with the raised portion 500 of the sash plate earlier than the button 502 shown in the embodiment shown in fig. 40a to 40d thereof and to ensure that installation errors do not affect the automatic latching function. The deformable portion 608 will engage the raised portion 500 at a point where the window opening angle is greater than the angle required to engage the upstand 512 in fig. 41a-41 d. The amount of deformation required is determined by the total movement of the button 502 from the unlocked position to the latched position and the amount of compression required on the deformable portion 608 in the closed position. When the window is in the closed position, the deformable portion 608 is partially or fully compressed by the raised portion 500, depending on the installation cavity width. The maximum compression will be at the minimum cavity width and the minimum compression at the maximum cavity width. The amount of compression of the raised portion 500 against the upright 512 ensures that the button 502 remains biased toward the latched position and holds it there until the window opens to a greater opening angle.

Fig. 43a shows a bottom view of the carriage 4 without the mounting button 502. The carriage 4 comprises a recess 530, the button being located in the recess 530. The recess 530 includes a biasing ramp 506, the biasing ramp 506 biasing the button towards the latched position of the button in the carriage 4 when the button 502 is in any position other than the latched position. Fig. 43b shows a bottom view of the carriage with the button 502 in the latched position.

Fig. 43E is a detailed view of the offset ramp 506. Ramp 506 includes a flat portion 548 for the unlocked position, a small raised area for the detent stop 550 and an angled surface 552 that begins at the detent stop and angles toward the latched position. The angled surface 552 complements the shape of the deformable arm 534 of the button 502.

The deformable arm 534 is located in the inclined surface 506 of the carriage 4. Fig. 43c shows a bottom view of the carriage 4 with the button 502 in the unlocked position. The deformable arm 534 acts as a detent spring for the unlocked position of the push button in the carriage 4.

Fig. 43D shows an exploded view of the carriage 4 and button 502 assembly. The button 502 is located in a recess 530 of the carriage. The aperture 532 allows an upstanding portion of the button 502 to protrude through the recess 530.

When the sash plate moves the button when the window is closed (when against a flat surface of the button or a deformable feature of the button), the deformable arm on the button moves away from the unlocked position. The spring and ramp design in the deformable arm biases the button movement toward the latched position, which causes the latch to move fully to the latched position.

Fig. 44a to 46b show progressive side views of a closed window stay with buttons in an embodiment with uprights 512.

Fig. 44a shows a side view of a half-open window stay, and fig. 44b shows a cross-section taken through a-a of fig. 44 a. This shows the button 502 in the unlocked position, in which the window pane 3 is close to the carriage 4. The raised portion 500 of the sash plate 3 is proximate the upright portion 512 of the button 502. The button 502 is located at the right side within the recess 523 of the carriage 4.

Fig. 45a shows a side view of the window stay with the window closed enough that the raised portion 500 on the sash plate 2 contacts the upright 512 on the button 502. FIG. 45B shows a cross-section taken through B-B of FIG. 45 a. The button 502 is still in the unlocked position.

FIG. 46a shows a side view of the closed window stay, and FIG. 46b shows a cross-section taken through C-C of FIG. 45 a. The latch mechanism has been pushed to the left within the recess 523 of the carriage 4 and into the latched position.

Fig. 47a to 49b show progressive side views of a closed window stay with a button embodiment of deformable arms.

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

Claims

1. A window brace, comprising:

a frame plate configured to be attached to a window frame;

a sash plate configured to be attached to a sash;

a carriage configured to slide on the frame plate; and

a connecting member connecting the carriage and the sash plate,

the carriage includes:

a carriage body;

a latch element configured to engage with the frame plate in a latched position to lock the carriage on the frame plate, and to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate in an unlatched position; and is

The frame plate includes one or more reset elements configured to return the latch elements to the latched position after any sliding of the carriage.

2. The window brace of claim 1, wherein the latch element is configured to slide on an axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the frame plate and engage the reset element to move between the unlocked position and the latched position.

3. The window brace of claim 2, wherein the one or more return elements comprise a stepped recess comprising an angled surface.

4. The window stay of claim 3, wherein the angled surface urges the latch element to the latched position as the carriage moves.

5. The window stay of claim 3 or 4, wherein the stepped recess further comprises at least one inclined surface and a locking surface, and wherein the latch element is locked behind the locking surface in the latched position and released from the locking surface to slide on the inclined surface in the unlatched position.

6. The window stay of claim 5, wherein the latch element is supported by a spring.

7. The window stay of claim 6, wherein the spring compresses when the latch element slides on an inclined surface.

8. The window brace of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more reset elements are integrally formed with the frame plate.

9. The window brace of claim 1 or 2, wherein in a first configuration of the window brace the latch element is in the latched position and the carriage is located in a first carriage position on the frame plate, and wherein in a second configuration of the window brace the latch element is in the unlatched position and the carriage is slidable on the frame plate.

10. The window brace of claim 9, wherein the sash panel is movable between a closed position and a partially open position relative to the framed panel when in the first configuration, and the sash panel is movable between the partially open position and a fully open position relative to the framed panel when the window brace is in the second configuration.

11. The window brace of claim 10, wherein the closed position corresponds to a plane of the sash being parallel to a plane of the window frame, the partially open position corresponds to a plane of the sash being at an angle of between 5 and 50 degrees relative to a plane of the window frame, and the fully open position corresponds to a plane of the sash being at an angle of between 50 and 110 degrees relative to a plane of the window frame.

12. The window brace of claim 1 or 2, further comprising an additional connecting element connecting the frame panel to the sash panel.

13. The window stay according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the latched and unlatched positions of the latch element are on a transverse axis relative to a sliding axis of the carriage.

14. The window brace of claim 13, wherein the latch element is mounted in the carriage body and the latch element is configured to slide along the transverse axis between the unlatched position and the latched position.

15. The window brace of claim 1, wherein the window sash panel is configured to move between a closed position and a partially open position relative to the frame panel when the carriage is in a first carriage position on the frame panel, and the window sash panel is configured to move to a fully open position relative to the frame panel when the carriage is in a second carriage position on the frame panel.

16. The window brace of claim 15, wherein the closed position corresponds to a plane of the sash being parallel to a plane of the window frame, the partially open position corresponds to a plane of the sash being at an angle of between 10 and 60 degrees to a plane of the window frame, and the fully open position corresponds to a plane of the sash being at an angle of between 60 and 110 degrees to a plane of the window frame.

17. The window brace of claim 15 or 16, comprising two opposing stepped recesses, each stepped recess corresponding to the first and second carriage positions, respectively.

18. A window brace, comprising:

a frame plate configured to be attached to a window frame;

a sash plate configured to be attached to a sash;

a carriage configured to slide on the frame plate; and

a connecting member connecting the carriage and the sash plate,

the carriage includes:

a carriage body;

a latch mechanism configured to engage with the frame plate in a latched position to lock the carriage on the frame plate, and to allow the carriage to slide on the frame plate in an unlatched position; and is

One or more reset elements on the sash plate are configured to return the latch mechanism to the latched position when the sash plate is closed on the carriage.

19. The window brace of claim 18, wherein the sash plate closes on the carriage when the window is closed.

20. The window brace of claim 18 or 19, wherein the latch mechanism comprises a latching element and a stepped recess in the frame plate, and the latching element is configured to slide along an axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the frame plate between the latched and unlatched positions.

21. The window stay of claim 20, wherein the carriage includes a button movably connected with the latch element.

22. The window brace of claim 21, wherein the reset element is configured to push the button into the latched position when the sash panel is closed on the carriage.

23. The window brace of claim 21 or 22, wherein the return element is a raised portion that is raised toward the carriage.

24. The window brace of claim 21 or 22, wherein the button slides transverse to a direction in which the carriage slides between the latched position and the unlatched position.

25. The window stay of claim 24, wherein the recess of the carriage is shaped to interact with a feature of the button to bias the button toward the latched position.

26. The window brace of claim 21 or 22, wherein the latch element is resiliently connected to the button such that the latch element is movable axially away from and toward the carriage.

27. The window brace of claim 21 or 22, wherein the button includes a deformable portion configured to interact with the reduction element.