GB2547285A - Egress expansion hinge - Google Patents

Abstract

A hinge assembly allowing a window to be fully hinged open, pivoting 180 degrees. The hinge assembly has a first channel sections CS(A), holding a shuttle carriage SCa pivotally connected to a short lever SLa and long lever LLa. A second channel section CS(B) is slidably attached to the long lever, and attached to a bridge plate BP. The short lever holds a third channel section CS(C) with an extension lever EL. To open, a window first pivots then slides out upon the levers, and pivots again on a second hinge on the long lever. The second hinge can only move once it is exposed after the sliding movement. This allows a window to hinge open 180 degrees. In a second embodiment, once the window is partly opened, it can be moved sideways by sliding the shuttle carriage along channel section A before hinging further to the full 180 degree pivot. This brings the reversed window to a position in front of the window frame.

Description

TITLE - Egress Expansion Hinge 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to hinge assemblies for windows in general and for double and triple glazed windows in particular especially where full and unrestricted egress is paramount and where enhanced load bearing capacity is an important issue. The bonus attribute is twofold. One is the clearance provided at times of emergency evacuation and Two is the simplicity, ease and safety of full reversal for cleaning and maintenance. 2. Background Art.

Modem windows rely heavily upon weather proofing seals which are fitted in frame edge protuberances referred to as flanges. While essential to providing good weather protection they also contribute considerably towards noise reduction and act as buffers between frame surfaces. However, despite its’ advantages the seal bearing flange has proved a very considerable obstacle to overcome before achieving full and complete reversibility. The means to accomplish this task is herein documented.

More recent hinge systems have begun to offer better egress facilities and some, with varying degrees of success, provide limited access to a proportion of the outside glass area for cleaning; albeit with considerable difficulty and safety concerns. Often the area thus made available is dependent largely upon the operators skills and ability, plus long reach and extension tools.

Past specialist window construction companies, like Crittle-Hope for example, were early producers of metal frame units capable of vertical and horizontal movement which could be described as reversible. The oversized examples of these windows were later withdrawn due to health and safety concerns but they were never the less the forerunners and innovators of their time.

Another example would be an early version of removing the protruding seal-bearing flange completely. The windows were produced in soft wood frames and the hinges mounted in full view on the frame exterior with paint their only means of camouflage or concealment. Although unsightly they had the advantage of reversibility and the replacement method of sealing the units also functioned well.

More modem versions which have grown out of the elderly, but efficient, hinge ideas of the past are available in todays market places. However, hinges built to this specification are somewhat isolated in their scope and cannot adapt to the refurbishment needs of mass markets, where the stack type friction hinge created over fifty years ago by Interlock and patented worldwide, has and still does dominate the window markets.

The Tilt & Turn hinge arrangement grew rapidly because of the facilities it provided and is still widely in use today. Due in part to the oversize window units the hinge attempted to support, many problems arose and still exist. With the recent trend towards treble glazed windows growing ever more quickly, the further weight increase will be an additional burden for such hinges as these.

The large majority of modem windows are constructed from extruded materials such as various metals and plastics. The shapes are readily adapted to suit any requirement and any profile changes needed to accommodate the new reversible hinge system may result in a correspondingly advantageous combination with a unique marketing opportunity. Profile changes are equally simple to alter and adapt in timber windows as well as glass fibre and other more recent material changes being investigated and trialled.

Egress Expansion Hinge A brief description of the advantages include:- • maximum egress • overall strength and weight carrying capacity • advanced capabilities and evacuation mode • will support heavier frames and treble glazing • achieves full reverse for cleaning in comfort and safety • no tools or expertise required

The inclusion of the entirely new channel section (B) is a key factor in the hinge construction, adding strength, rigidity and load bearing facilities throughout the system.

Except that the proposed new hinge system also provides ail the usual functions found in modem windows, including maximum egress, there is no background or history upon which this reversible hinge system relies nor is there any precedent for it within the stack type hinge industry.

The convenience provided by this entirely new hinge concept extends into the immediate future of treble glazed windows but also reaches back to the beginning of the double glazed sealed unit window. Many of these older units can benefit from the new reversible hinge because the refurbishment may be a simple hinge exchange and update, thus providing both a means of escape in an emergency situation, (the new hinge opens the window to it’s fullest possible extent) as well as complete reversibility for all round cleaning with ease and safety.

DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to hinge assemblies for windows of modem construction and design that retain the extended frame edge lip which hold the seals usually called flanges. The new hinge offers a means of full reversal while still retaining the advantages provided by the seals. Since the vast majority of windows previously installed, plus those presently being manufactured, are built to this specification, the need of a hinge to meet these requirements is evident.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PARTS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

Channel Section (A)

Fixes directly to the outer frame at top and bottom, above and below the opening sash houses the sliding shuttle carriage upon which are attached two unequal-length levers.

Channel Section (B)

Slidably attached to the longest of the two levers mounted on the shuttle carriage, it provides the engineering technique for the ‘Gateway’ method of separation; effectively a hinge within a hinge. Also housed within this section is the spring retaining unit, the ‘Compact’ and the bridging lever, The Spur, which connects with Channel Section (C)

Channel Section (C)

Pivotally secured to the shortest lever attached to the shuttle carriage, via a flat bar sited within it’s channel void and slidably mobile, thus providing essential separation and distancing of the sash window. This unit is connected to Channel Section (B) by The Spur.

The initial opening of the sash engages the two levers mounted on the shuttle carnage and controlled by the unit designed to create equal and opposite movement at the junction of the levers end, called reciprocators. This new attachment ensure perfect synchronized opening and closing motion without the standard bracing leverage usually employed for the task. This same initial opening movement motivates the short bridging lever, the spur, to unfurl and provide the solid bridge between channel sections (B) and (C). Then, as the hinge continues to expand towards full egress, the spur slides towards a preset marker and stops. From here, as well as providing a permanent bridging member, the spur is in position to begin another task. With continuing manual pressure maintained upon the sash it begins entry into a new dimension. The long extension bar/lever contained within the slotted chamber area of channel section (C) is gradually revealed as the moving sash with channel section (C) in support begin distancing themselves from the outer frame to which channel section (A) secures the hinge and sash together at top and bottom positions.

The outward and angular sliding movement of sash and hinge is momentarily halted when the spur meets the stop block at the termination of it’s sliding motion within channel section (8). Continued manual pressure causes both channel sections (B) and (C) to unite in further outward sliding travel. At this juncture, when the two channel sections (B) and (C) are fully committed to each other and begin to work as one unit, the sprung pressure is initiated via the stopped and secure spur which now effectively pulls channel section (B) along beside the neighbouring channel section (C). This duality of movement stretches the opposing sprung force which impacts directly upon the spring retaining compact unit, resulting in the partial withdrawal of the long lever attached to the shuttle carriage from it’s connection to channel section (B). Upon completion of this sprung pressure and sliding movement combination, the engineering mechanics have created the means by which sideways pivotal rotation transforms channel section (B) from the rock solid support member into the crucial sideways moving hinge providing the final arc and essential step towards complete reversibility without the loss of the many advantages provided by the seal-bearing flange.

This engineered exit from within the channel of channel section (B) is called the Gateway because that is exactly what it provides - a hidden hinge within a hinge - which supplementation allows the creation of a further 90 degree arc to complete the 180 degree journey of full reversal.

Since the geometry of the new hinge system excludes the use of the sliding and stretching lever almost invariably used throughout today and in much of previous art, now introduced is a new means and method of assisted and controlled movement providing equal force at the junction of the two lever ends attached to the shuttle carriage. There are several means of achieving the rotation required so I have chosen to include three options: The crossed hockey sticks, the butterfly and the interlocking connectors. Lever control at this important intersection of lever ends ensures precise movement in synchronized accord during the opening and closing window movements Effectively this new union replaces the brace lever used in virtually every hinge of this type and typically fitted with a means of slideability at it’s base in later versions.

This hinge and the way in which it is assembled and operates is unlike any other hinge in the comprehensive range of hinges used in the window industry. It has overcome the very considerable obstacle of the seal-bearing frame edge extension usually referred to as the flange, in a unique and considerate way that preserves its integrity, acknowledges its contribution to sound and wind penetration and its security aspect. The flange remains intact (others have removed it entirely to achieve their aims) and is simply moved, temporarily, to a non-obstructive position during the reversal procedures.

Channel Section (A).

The base unit secured to the outer support frame at top and bottom positions and carrying the mobile shuttle carriage upon which two unequal length levers are pivotally mounted. This full window width channel section (A) supports the shuttle carriage during it’s lateral to and fro travels forward and backwards across the open expanse of the area to accomplish the reversal and return maneuvers. The longest of the two levers individually connected to the shuttle carriage is joined directly to channel section (B) via a pivoting slotted and sliding union which transforms the combined lever and channels’ parts into a fusion of blended activity ready to respond to the sprung tension initiated by the dislocation and expanding separation of the system.

The second and shortest lever extends from the shuttle carriage and is pivotally attached to the lever end housed and slidably attached within channel section (C).

Channel Section (B)

An entirely new product created to house the engineering concept of separation and reversibility. Connected directly to the longest of the two levers based on the shuttle carriage and via a slotted sliding and pivoting union, channel section (B) performs a unique set of functions. Acting first as a solid lever it assists the transportation of the sash window to its maximum open position. With outward pressure applied at the sash edge everything changes as sprung resistant pressure is engaged. Channel section (B) transforms. Under stiff but yielding sprung opposing force the channel section (B) begins to slide and separate from the lever using the slotted connection to slide away while still maintaining a firm union. Now too the Spur begins to operate by engaging with both channel sections (B) & (C) across the narrow divide and causing them to act in concert with each other. Upon reaching the end of the slotted connection between channel section (B) and the lever which joins it to the shuttle carriage, a means of pivotal movement is revealed. A section of the channel’s side-wall has been removed to allow one-way sideways movement of the levers’ end which is now free to perform a pivotal change of direction. With the full 90 degree turn completed the lever end is stopped and held in the new position of full 180 degree reversed completion. Here it remains under sprung tension which is suspended until released from this position; whereupon the prung pressure motivates the secret hinge contained within the engineering concept, the gateway, to enter a reverse mode and return the hinge and sash to the fully open maximum egress position. A demonstration of option one is also * now concluded.

The link between the gateway engineering (which has produced the hinge-within-a-hinge) and the spring housing unit, the compact, is the thin tensile cover plate which spans the area between the pivotal point of the revealed new hinge and the sprung power source of the compact. The tensile plate spans both these positions and via a slotted groove which interconnects with both, spans the gap between these two special units and acts as a balance and tensioner. Performed in synchronized responsive movements governing the separation and re-instatement of the system - the essence of the union is encapsulated here: The simple act of applied pressure against the sash at this final stage will initiate the above built-in actions which terminate in complete window sash reversal A further light touch of the sash edge and the reverse movement which reinstates the sash is performed.

Channel Section (C)

Another new concept created to support the second and shorter lever attached to the shuttle carriage via another additional lever of considerably longer length housed and slidably attached within the channel void and pivotally joined to the shorter lever end. Towards the channel sections other end a spur connection is fitted which couples the two channel sections (B) & (C) together creating a permanent unity. This channel section (C) fits directly to and supports the opening sash at top and bottom and secondary support is supplied by the enjoined channel section (B) which operates in synchronized harmony.

The three channel sections are sited one above the other in layer formation when the unit is in the fully closed and confined position providing the same hinge invisibility as with a standard-type friction stay or stack-type hinge arrangement. Whereas the new reversible hinge construction may produce a somewhat more robust profile it will nevertheless fit comfortably in most of the recesses provided by todays modern windows. However, a new and purpose built window construction is a likely further option, especially where treble glazing upgrades are a consideration.

Described and illustrated in the drawings of this hinge specification are a pair of reciprocal options designed to create equal and opposite movement at the junction of the lever ends attached to the shuttle carriage without the need of additional support and leverage from elsewhere is the purpose of this union.

Without exception, hinges built to support windows using the traditional seal-bearing method of a flange outcrop into which seals are fitted, all rely upon a strut or lever attached, slidably or permanently, to the basic channel section. The loss of such a potent structural member would effectively disable any hinge in this category, except the new hinge concept described here, because an effective alternative has been inserted to compensate for the assemble.

The ‘Gateway’ engineering technique provides a method of cooperative and synchronized movements which culminate in the provision of a sliding union and pivotal hinge combination which are acting under controlled sprung supervision and guidance; thus creating the gateway opening to the second 90 degree arc that completes the 180 degree journey of full reversal.

The ‘Compact’ spring housing provides the necessary sprung resistant energy that opposes outward force against the window sash and instills balance and control, especially noticeable during the automatic return positioning.

The ‘Spur1 bridging lever permanently joins together the two channel sections (B) and (C) ensuring they act in unison throughout so that between them they provide everything that creates dislocation, expansion, separation and relocation.

The (new) shuttle carnage is created to accommodate heavier and larger frame sizes anticipated for use in the treble glazed window units, otherwise the standard type is expected to suffice.

The Reversal Options

The sequence of reversal procedure is as follows. From the fully open and maximum egress position the sash, supported by channel section (C) and (B) is in readiness.

With firm pressure applied at the sash’s upright edge the sash moves obliquely away from the outer frame to which it is attached. The order of connected mechanical and sprung responses to the initial impetus by the operator is mobilized.

Attached to the sash at top and bottom channel section (C) moves with and supports the sash, channel section (C) is itself receiving secondary support from channel section (B) to which it is connected throughout. The gradual sliding and separating movement releases a proportion of the flat-bar housed within channel section (C) with more of the flat-bar becoming exposed as the sash continues to separate and extend the divide. Simultaneously the short bridging spur connecting channel section (C) with channel section (B) is activated and responds by engaging with the sprung resistant force acting against it. Under continued manual pressure the sprung resisting force yields as the mechanical movement now initiated begins to operate the hinge reversal procedure.

The flat-bar housed within channel section (C) reaches an extended position enabling it to move,carrying the sash with it, to a point beyond any interference with the guarded and protected flange of the sash frame, which now occupies an entirely new space provided by the sliding outward movement and significant separation.

The rock solid channel section (B) has now transformed into a hinged mechanism allowing a further 90 degree arc to form and carry the hinge and attached sash to the fully reversed 180 degree position. The robustly supported sash has now extended beyond the usual confines and restrictions imposed and has expanded to a point of reveal clearance from where it can ‘fold back’ to a position of total clearance, thus leaving the entire window area clear and unobstructed and providing the best possible means of emergency evacuation.

Option One is comprehensively described above and movements are outlined in Profile 1 drawings.

Option Two requires that the fully open sash, under steady and even pressure from the operator be moved sideways across the window space to the opposite side, From this position the reversal instructions are identical to those already provided in Option One. The illustration of this cross frame manoeuvre is described in Profile 2 drawings..

In the final production of this hinge design and construction there are likely to be many variations to accommodate the multitude of window profiles in existence and pending. The expansion in weight carrying capabilities required to house the treble glazing markets needs alone will demand considerable changes in capacity and weight carrying abilities. Increased strength to accommodate the additional load of treble glazed units plus the expansion of profiles to house them will inevitably impact on all aspects of the hinges provided to support them.

The first premise of this new and fully reversible hinge is to provide a replacement for the many millions of windows fitted with ‘restrictor’ stays or hinges i.e. hinges that restrict the opening movement to little more than a fraction of the potential space available. Emergency evacuation from such windows is unlikely or may even be impossible and cleaning them with ease, safety and comfort, only a dream.

Although the invention of this reversible hinge assembly has only been described in conjunction with a specific embodiment thereof, it is evident that many modifications, variations and alternatives will become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the detailed forgoing disclosure revealed throughout. Accordingly the present invention is intended to include all such alternatives modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broadest scope of the appended claims.

Egress Expansion Hinge

Identification of Drawings 1. Profile 1. Reverse to Evacuate. 2. Profile 2. Reverse to Clean. 3. Network of Mechanics. 4. Example of a Complete Hinge. (features special ‘constant force’ spring) 5. Fully reversed hinge assembly (with heavy-duty spring compact) 6. Compact. Enclosed version. 7. Shuttle carriage. New G & T version.

Egress Expansion Hinge

Key to Drawings

Words are abbreviated to their initials to identify major parts in the drawings. CS(A) - Channel section (A)a - parts connected to (A) SCa - Shuttle Carriage SLa - Short Lever LLa - Long Lever CS(B) - Channel Section (B) CS(B) + BP - Channel Section (B) + Bridge Plate CS(B) + CB - Channel Section (B) + Compact Base THE SPUR - Part One (Entered in Description)

The spur is a short bridging lever pivotally secured upon slidably mobile mounts located within both channel sections (B) & (C) with the purpose of spanning the narrow gap between them, to provide synchronized unity and parallel positioning at completion of the initial opening. From this first fully open position Option One becomes accessible in the event of an emergency situation. ✓

To operate, manual pressure applied at the sash edge creates dislocation, expansion and separation; all of which movement is achieved against stiff but yielding sprung pressure supplied from the adjacent compact unit. The hinge is extended to full operational capacity where it engages with the mechanical means of backward pivotal movement and is enabled to complete a full reversal arc. From the moment of manual force being applied, the sprung opposing pressure is asserted and continues throughout the journey of reversal. The spurs influence has been consistent in monitoring all this activity and ensuring both channel sections (B) & (C)respond identically to the pressures brought to bear. THE SPUR - Part Two

The spur bridging the narrow gap between the two channel sections (B) & (C) is positionally controlled by stops positioned within both channel sections (B) & (C). The spur responds to movement generated by the initial impetus of opening the sash to the full ventilation position but has the more important task of ensuring synchronised union between channel sections (B) & (C) as they both slide away from their anchorage points on the shuttle carriage and carry the sash window with them to a new dimension beyond the usual confines and restriction hitherto imposed. This stretching operation is performed against strong but yielding force imposed by spring tension against the movement. At the required point further expansion and separation is halted and the rod like solidarity of channel section (B) exposes previously obscured joinery providing one-way-only pivotal movement. Beside and in alignment with channel section (B). Channel section (C) has also reached maximum expansion and separation and crucially re-aligned the supported sash so that the obstructive seal-carrying flange is clear and free from interference. In unison both channel sections (B) & (C) and the sash window all enter the final 90 degree arc of full reversal. THE SPUR - Part Three-

From ensuring the initial opening movements conspire to maintain a unified unfolding of the separate moving parts the spur linkage ensures symmetry and coordination. By sliding and pivotally connecting two of the three channel sections (B) & (C) together and creating a tandem operation between them as they move and support the opening window sash, the spur lever stabilizes the unit operation. Once the sash completes the move of separation it becomes possible to engage the full reversal procedure.

However, the advice of best practice would suggest following the simple instruction in the operating manner provided. This guidance is given elsewhere.

In the final production of this hinge design and construction there are likely to be many variations to accommodate the multitude of window profiles in existence and pending. The expansion in weight carrying capabilities required to house the treble glazing markets needs alone will demand considerable changes in capacity and weight carrying abilities. Increased strength to accommodate the additional load of treble glazed units plus the expansion of profiles to house these units will inevitable impact on all aspects of the hinges provided to support them.

The first premise of this new and fully reversible hinge is to provide a replacement for all the many windows fitted with ‘restrictors’ i.e. window hinges which restrict the opening movement to little more than a fraction of the whole area. THE COMPACT (Entered under Description)

The compact is the housing providing anchorage for the spring or springs used in the hinge system. It consists of a separate self contained unit in which the sprung force of the arrangement is kept clean and dry and lubricated. It may be located at any convenient position within the hollow of the channel section (B) and secured at any given point. The sprung tension from the compact is indirectly connected to the long lever attached to the shuttle carriage and engages with it to provide resisting tension as the lever slides away from the retracting channel section (B) into a position from which it is able to perform a full (and reverse) 90 degree turn. These movements coincide exactly with the sliding separation occurring between channel section (C) and the long flat bar attached to the short lever mounted on the shuttle carriage. When the required separation distance has been achieved both channel sections (B) and (C) along with the sash window attached and secured between them are ready for reversal. The fully reversed sash is now suspended in a position a short distance separate from the outer frame and securely held at top and bottom by the four levers.

The reversal sequences are identical in both operations where the hinge and the attached sash move first to achieve full reverse opening in evacuation mode and secondly when providing full reverse position for total access for cleaning. (Refer to profile drawings 1 and 2).

Any means of creating the resistant pressure required for the task may be applied although only metal springs have been identified and described in this application.

Such a wide and diverse array of options exists, it would be impractical to describe them all in this application.

The power output of the Compact Unit is likely to vary considerably due to window sizes and weight considerations. Therefore the size and shape of the Compact as well as the amount of pressure it produces will depend on the individual specification.

' SHUTTLE VEHICLE

Shuttle vehicle with geared cog-wheels and spaced apart racking.

To and fro movement of the shuttle vehicle is assisted and advanced by continuous spaced-apart track fitted to the channel section and mating with cogged gear wheels fitted to the shuttle carriage. This spur and rack union provides rigidity and constant synchronized movement at top and bottom of the sash window during transportation. The central space between the track rails is designed to allow for fixing of both the track support platform and the channel section to the outer sash support window frame. The spaced apart cog wheels are fitted in pairs at both ends of the shuttle vehicle and leave ample space for the long and short lever ends fitted to the shuttle vehicle.

The modified shuttle vehicle carriage transforms into a stabilized platform providing controlled synchronized movement of awkward and perhaps heavy loads preventing torque and misalignment.

Claims (22)

CS(B) + BS - Channel Section (B) + Bridging Spur CS(C) - Channel section © CS(C) + EL - Channel Section (C) + Extension Lever CLAIMS Egress Expansion Hinge

1. Key elements identified throughout the creation of the hinge are:-Dislocation; Expansion; Separation; Relocation; all interact with, compliment and assist each other in the performance of their various tasks to produce this reversible hinge system

2. A window hinge which expands to an extended position beyond the normal confines and restrictions and moves the window sash past the window’s usual extremities to a position which isolates the seal-carrying flange and by creating unaccustomed and unrestricted new space into which the sash now enters, room is provided to complete the full 180 degree reversal movement without damage to or hindrance from the flange overhang section.

3. A window hinge system employing firm but yielding sprung-resistant pressure which cooperates with designed engineering techniques to produce a fully reversible window arrangement.

4. A window hinge which is mobilised to perform two 90 degree arcs that together form the 180 degree half-circle requirement for reversibility.

5. A window hinge which, from its extended and separated position, can turn backwards upon itself to achieve full reversal.

6. A window hinge which carries separate sliding methods which unite in synchronised and sprung movement to provide controlled separation that prepares the system for reverse mode entry.

7. A window hinge with sprung-responsive movement the dislocation and relocation of which become elemental aspects. Dislocation creates the opportunity for new movement and new space in which to operate that movement. Relocation restores the system automatically to the original location using the same sprung pressure that first monitored the outward journey.

8. A window hinge providing essential additional space in which to operate through dislocation of the system coincides with the expanded separation creating the opportunity for the new and different movements here included.

9. A window hinge fitted with alternative means of synchronized movement at the lever ends fitted to the shuttle carriage and identified: (a) Crossed Hockey Sticks (b) Interlocking Connectors

10. A hinge assembly offering two distinct and advantageous examples of full reversal dexterity

11. Option One provides full window space clearance from site giving the optimum unrestricted space in which to evacuate the building in an emergency situation.

12. Option Two allows the window to fully reverse and become suspended in a parallel position for total access to all outside area for cleaning and maintenance purposes

13. Channel Section (A) when fitted with the newly designed geared and tracked shuttle carriage will provide upgraded, transformed and improved capabilities.

14. Channel Section (B) is totally and entirely new and houses the gateway engineering - (a hinge within a hinge) - plus the compact housing in which the sprung resistant force is retained and also the spur bridging lever, all providing their own unique contribution to the power-pack section.

15. Channel Section (C) a further new addition to this hinge concept providing pivoting and sliding union and support during sash separation and expansion as well as stability throughout.

16. Illustrated in the drawings of his hinge specification/description are a pair of reciprocator options designed to create equal and opposite movement at the junction of the lever ends attached to the shuttle carriage and thus negating the otherwise essential requirement of additional leverage and support; they are:- (a) The Crossed Hockey Sticks System (b) The Interlocking System

17. The Gateway describes the engineering technique which transforms Channel Section (B) from a rock-solid support vehicle into the housing providing a hinge-within-a-hinge and thus creating the 90 degree arc which completes the full 180 degree half circle requirement of reversibility.

18. The Compact is a separate unit which houses the spring or springs, depending on the tension required in the specification and normally sited within the void area of Channel Section (B) from where it is ideally placed for it’s purpose. I

19. The Spur is a multi-functional lever which spans the short divided between Channel Section (B) and Channel Section (C) and provides unity and synchronization between them as well as being the spur that starts the gateway engineering manoeuvre and other minor parts also.

20. Although anticipated for use with window units of maximum size and weight the upgraded and transformed shuttle carriage may be adapted to suit other sliding units such as doors or panels for instance.

21 .A window hinge with unique engineering technology enabling the creation of a hinge-within-a-hinge which provides a second 90 degree arc which, in turn, completes the full 180 degree half circle and reversal.

22.A window hinge substantially as herein described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.