GB2564078A

GB2564078A - A System for opening and closing a window

Info

Publication number: GB2564078A
Application number: GB1706000.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Paul Rice Jonathan
Original assignee: Sonrex Group Ltd
Current assignee: Sonrex Group Ltd
Priority date: 2017-04-13
Filing date: 2017-04-13
Publication date: 2019-01-09
Also published as: GB201706000D0

Abstract

The system for opening and closing a window aperture comprises: a first movable window panel 20 and a second movable window panel 30. The first window is coupled to a powered pulley actuation mechanism 28 via a first pulley assembly 22, 23. The second window panel is coupled to a second powered pulley actuation mechanism 38 via a second pulley assembly 32, 33. The first pulley actuation mechanism is switchable between a retracted state to apply a closing force to the first panel and an extended state in which an opening force is imparted. The second powered pulley actuation mechasim is switchable between a retracted state where the second pulley mechanism retracts part of the second pulley assembly to apply an opening force and an extended state3 in which a closing force is imparted to the second panel. The first and second powered pulley mechanisms are independently actuable and each mechanism is independently switchable between retracted and extended states.

Description

A System for Opening and Closing a Window

The present invention relates to a system for opening and closing a window, particularly, but not exclusively, windows such as reciprocating windows.

Reciprocating windows are installed within some domestic or commercial premises for aesthetic reasons or due to planning or building regulations. There is often a need to open or close windows in response to internal and external stimuli such as temperature, air quality, noise and pollution. It is an object of the present invention to enhance user operation of reciprocating windows.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a system for opening and closing a window aperture, the system comprising:

a first movable window panel, coupled to a first powered pulley actuation mechanism via a first pulley assembly;

a second movable window panel coupled to a second powered pulley actuation mechanism via a second pulley assembly;

wherein the first powered pulley actuation mechanism is switchable between a retracted state, in which the first pulley actuation mechanism retracts a part of the first pulley assembly to apply a closing force to the first movable window panel, and an extended state, in which an opening force is imparted to the first movable panel;

wherein the second powered pulley actuation mechanism is switchable between a retracted state, in which the second pulley actuation mechanism retracts part of the second pulley assembly to apply an opening force to the second window panel, and an extended state, in which a closing force is imparted to the second moveable panel, wherein the first and second powered pulley actuation mechanisms are independently actuable such that each powered actuation mechanism is independently switchable between extended and retracted states to independently move the first and second window panels.

The window system of the present invention is advantageous since it has independently movable window panels operable via separate powered actuation mechanisms and thus improved functionality.

Optionally, the first and second window panels may be mounted in parallel to one another and independently movable in parallel planes.

Optionally, the first and second powered pulley actuation mechanisms and pulley assemblies may be mounted in the same plane as the first and second window panels respectively.

Optionally, the first window panel may be coupled to a first counterweight. Optionally, the second window panel may be coupled to a second counterweight.

Optionally, each of the first and second window panels are heavier than the respective first and second coupled counterweights. Thus, when the first pulley actuation mechanism is in the extended state, a passive opening force is exerted on the first window panel by virtue of its own weight. When the second pulley actuation mechanism is in the extended state, a passive closing force is exerted on the second window panel by virtue of its own weight.

Alternatively, the first and second counterweights may weigh approximately the same as or less than the respective coupled window panel.

Optionally, the first counterweight and first powered pulley actuation mechanism may be located on opposing lateral sides of the first window panel. Optionally, the second counterweight and second powered pulley actuation mechanism may be located on opposing lateral sides of the second window panel.

Optionally, the first and second counterweights may be suitably spaced and located on the same lateral side of the first and second window panels.

Optionally, the first and second powered actuation mechanisms may be suitably spaced and located on the same lateral side of the first and second window panels (and on the opposing lateral side to the first and second counterweights).

Optionally, the first powered pulley actuation mechanism may be located adjacent the first window panel. Optionally, the second powered pulley actuation mechanism may be located adjacent the second window panel.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second pulley assemblies comprise a pair of pulley wheels and a continuous loop of pulley cord extending therearound. Optionally, each of the first and second pulley assemblies comprise a pair of vertically spaced pulley wheels with the continuous loop of pulley cord extending therearound.

Optionally, the distance spacing the pulley wheels within each pair defines a maximum range of movement of the associated window panel. The maximum distance through which each window panel can travel can therefore be dictated by the vertical spacing of the pulley wheels associated with each panel.

Optionally, the range of movement of the first and second window panels may be predetermined according to the application and the specific window system. Optionally, the pairs of pulley wheels within the pulley assembly may be spaced accordingly.

Optionally, the vertical separation between at least one fixing point on the continuous loop of pulley cord and at least one pulley wheel dictates the range of movement of the associated window panel.

Optionally, the vertical separation between two fixing points on the continuous loop of pulley cord dictates the range of movement of the associated window panel.

Optionally, the window panel may be fixed directly to the continuous loop of pulley cord at a fixing point.

Optionally, a window panel fixing cord may be fixed at one end to the window panel and at an opposing end to the continuous loop of pulley cord.

Optionally, an actuating mechanism link may be fixed at one end to the actuation mechanism and at an opposing end to the continuous loop of pulley cord.

Optionally the actuating mechanism link may comprise a rod.

Alternatively, the actuating mechanism link may comprise a cord.

Optionally, the continuous loop of pulley cord is fixed to the window panel at a window panel fixing point; and is fixed to the actuation mechanism at an actuation mechanism fixing point, wherein the two fixing points are substantially equi-spaced around the continuous pulley loop.

Optionally, the distance between the fixing points on the continuous loop, defines the range of movement of the associated window panel.

Optionally, the first and second powered actuation mechanisms may be arranged to retract and release the actuating mechanism link of the respective pulley assemblies.

Optionally, the first and second powered actuation mechanisms may have a locking configuration, in which no actuation mechanism link is retracted or released such that the window panel remains in place in the locking configuration. Optionally, the locking configuration can be activated when the first or second window panel is in any position, such as closed and covering the window aperture, or in any partially or fully open position.

Optionally, the continuous loop of pulley cord of the first pulley assembly may be fixed to one side of the first window panel proximate its uppermost edge. Optionally, the continuous loop of pulley cord from the second pulley assembly may be fixed to one side of the second window panel proximate its uppermost edge. Thus, the pulley assemblies may be fixed directly to the respective window panels at window panel fixing points.

Optionally, the first and second counterweights may be coupled to the first and second window panels respectively via a cord and pulley mechanism. Optionally, the pulley mechanism connecting the first and second counterweights to the respective window panels may be fixed proximate an uppermost edge of the first and second window panels respectively.

The first and second counterweights may impart a continuous force acting in opposition to the weight of each coupled window panel. Optionally, the weight of each counterweight may be determined and calculated according to the specific window system, taking into account the weight of the coupled window panels. The first and second counterweights may balance opening and closing of the window panels and resist jamming.

Although the window system of the present invention has a greater number of mechanical parts when compared with conventional systems, the relative arrangement and spacing of these mechanical parts on lateral sides and within the respective planes of movement of the window panels mean that the mechanism is protected from accidental interference or tangling during use.

At least one of the pulley assemblies and/or the pulley actuation mechanisms may be retro-fittable into a pre-existing window system. The pulley actuation mechanisms may be adapted to cooperate with pre-existing pulley cords and wheels.

Optionally, the first and second powered pulley actuation mechanisms may comprise a linear actuator.

Optionally, the linear actuator is arranged to retract and extend the actuation mechanism link and thereby move the first and second pulley assemblies.

Optionally, the first powered pulley actuation mechanism may comprise a bi-directional screw thread mechanism for actively retracting and passively releasing lengths of pulley cord from the pulley assembly to raise (close) and lower (open) the first movable window panel.

Optionally, the second powered pulley actuation mechanism may comprise a bidirectional screw thread mechanism for passively releasing and actively retracting lengths of pulley cord from the pulley assembly to lower (close) and raise (open) the second movable window panel.

Optionally, each of the first and second powered actuation mechanisms may comprise an electrically powered bi-directional screw thread mechanism that is rotatable in one direction e.g. clockwise, to retract a pulley cord away from the pulley wheels. The pulley cord may be coupled to the screw mechanism by means of an anti-rotation bearing to prevent twisting of the cord during rotation of the screw mechanism.

Optionally, at least one of the first and second powered actuation mechanisms are independently controllable via an electronic system.

Optionally, the electronic system may comprise at least one of the following electronic components selected from the group consisting of: a temperature sensor; a particulate detector; an air quality sensor; a sound level detector; other sensors; a timer; a clock; a wireless communication means; a transceiver; a processor; and a data storage device.

Optionally, the powered actuation mechanisms may be independently actuable by at least one of the following means: a remote control; a timer; a programmable response to received data, for example, data received from the at least one sensor and/or the internet; and, a user command.

Optionally, the first and second powered actuation mechanisms are controllable via an 'Internet of Things’, for example, as part of a home actuation system.

Optionally, the window system can comprise at least one electronics module for logging data based on window states and use. Optionally, the electronics module can be electronically coupled to the powered actuation mechanism(s).

The electronics module can comprise at least one of the following electronic components selected from the group consisting of: a temperature sensor; a particulate detector; an air quality sensor; a sound level detector; other sensors; a timer; a clock; a wireless communication means; a transceiver; a processor; and a data storage device.

Optionally, the electronics module may transmit logged data to a remote computer. For example, the electronics module can send information on window events (opening and closing of window panels with time stamps) to a user account or to a 'cloud’ or to a remote host server of an insurance company, where the logged data may be used to determine or alter home insurance premiums.

Thus, the attached electronics module enables the recording, storage and transmission of historical records of opening and closing events, for example, times, opening distances, frequency of use etc. This data can be recorded and/or analysed for audit trail purposes to be used by home insurance companies in the determination of premiums.

Data from the electronics module may be transmitted periodically (for example, at predetermined time intervals), on demand (for example, in response to a received request for information) or continuously (for example, details of window events are logged and transmitted in real time).

Optionally, the electronics system and the electronics module may be integrated. Thus, the electronics module and the electronic system may be a single device adapted to independently control as well as log data about the state and use of each window panel.

The first and second powered pulley actuation mechanisms may be switchable between retracted and extended states by one or more trigger events. The first powered pulley actuation mechanism may be switchable between the retracted and extended states by one or more trigger events. The second powered pulley actuation mechanism may be switchable between the retracted and extended states by one or more different trigger events compared with the first pulley actuation mechanism.

The system may comprise a timer mechanism wherein said one or more trigger events are based on predetermined time(s) as calculated by the timer mechanism. The timer mechanism may be adapted to retain a schedule of predetermined user-inputted timings based on a day, week, month and/or year schedule.

The system may comprise at least one sensor wherein one or more trigger events are based on a variable detected by the sensor(s). The sensors may be remotely located and data from the sensors may be communicated to the window system via a cloud or the internet using an appropriate application program interface (API) and used to trigger the opening and closing protocols.

Optionally, the sensor(s) and the timer mechanism may either be coupled to, or form part of the electronics system and/or electronics module.

Optionally the at least one sensor comprises a sound meter and the variable is a detected noise level above or below predetermined threshold levels. A sound meter may be provided locally, or an external noise level may be directly or indirectly deduced or predicted by, for example, local traffic congestion or train scheduling information obtained from third party sources accessed via the cloud/internet.

Optionally the at least one sensor comprises a thermometer and a variable is a detected internal or external air temperature above or below threshold levels.

A thermometer may be provided locally, or the temperature level (and indeed general weather conditions) may be indirectly deduced or predicted by, for example, local weather information obtained from a third party source accessed via the cloud/internet.

Optionally the sensor comprises a particulate detector, such as a smoke detector and a variable is a detected smoke level above or below predetermined threshold levels.

Pollen levels may be measured locally or may be indirectly deduced or predicted by, for example, information obtained from a third party source accessed via the cloud/internet.

Optionally, the sensor comprises an air quality detector and a variable is a detected level of C02 and/or CO and/or NOx and/or particulate matter and/or hydrocarbon levels above or below predetermined threshold levels.

Optionally, the system comprises an air pollution and/or pollen detection module linked to a source of air pollution and/or pollen level information provided through the cloud/internet, wherein a trigger event is based on information thereby obtained.

Optionally, the sensor comprises an aircraft detection means and a variable is a geographical location of an aircraft above or below predetermined threshold distances. Optionally, the aircraft detection means employs an automatic dependent surveillance broadcast (ADS-B) receiver. Optionally, the aircraft detection means comprises an audio sensor adapted to detect noise level increases indicative of an approaching aircraft.

Optionally, the system is controllable via a mobile computer device running a suitable application software (App.”).

Optionally, the system further comprises a wireless remote control transmitting and receiving module for overriding the current mode of the first and second pulley actuation mechanisms and/or for reconfiguring trigger events.

Optionally, the system further comprises a manual operating switch which allows predetermined timings and/or sensed variables to be overridden.

Optionally the window system is a sash window system and the upper and lower window panels can be sashes.

Further features and advantages of the aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams, in which:Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a window system with two independently movable window panels according to the invention;

Fig. 2 is a plan view of a lower window panel shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a plan view of an upper window panel shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 4 is a side schematic view of part of a pulley assembly of the window;

Fig. 5 is an end view of the upper window panel of Fig 1 within a frame;

Fig. 6A is a schematic view of the upper window panel in a closed position;

Fig. 6B is a schematic view of the upper window panel in an open position;

Fig. 7 is an end view of the lower window panel of Fig. 1 within the frame;

Fig. 8A is a schematic view of the lower window panel in a closed position;

Fig. 8B is a schematic view of the lower window panel in an open position; and

Fig. 9 is a schematic illustration exemplifying a master-slave architecture for the system of the present invention.

A window system according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a reciprocating window shown generally at 10 in Fig. 1. The reciprocating window 10 has a frame 11 that defines a window aperture 14. The frame 11 is rectilinear and has two vertical supports 12 and two horizontal supports 13, arranged to retain two window panels 20, 30, or sashes, mounted in sliding relationship with one another.

An upper window panel 20, or top sash, (shown in Fig. 3) is received in a pair of opposing parallel tracks 21 (shown in Fig. 5). The tracks 21 are attached to an inner surface of the vertical supports 12 of the window frame 11 proximate the external facing portion of the window 10. The tracks 21 constrain movement of the upper window panel 20 within a vertical plane.

In a closed position (shown in Fig. 6A), the upper window panel 20 is arranged to abut the upper horizontal support 13 to cover the aperture 14. The upper window panel 20 is slidable downwardly within the tracks 21 to 'open the window’ by creating an upper aperture 15 (shown in Fig. 6B).

A lower window panel 30, or bottom sash (shown in Fig. 2) is received in a pair of opposing parallel tracks 31 (shown in Fig. 7). The tracks 31 are attached to an inner surface of the vertical supports 12 of the window frame 11, adjacent and spaced from the tracks 21. The tracks 31 are located proximate the internal facing portion of the window

10. The tracks 31 constrain movement of the lower window panel 30 within a vertical plane parallel to the vertical plane of movement of the upper window panel 20.

In a closed position (shown in Fig. 8A), the lower window panel 30 is arranged to abut the lower horizontal support 13 of the window frame 11 to cover the aperture 14. The lower window panel 30 is slidable upwardly within the tracks 31 to 'open the window’ by creating a lower aperture 16 (shown in Fig. 8B).

The upper and lower window panels 20, 30 are independently slidable within their respective tracks 21, 31.

The upper window panel 20 has a counterweight 52 attached at a fixing point 53 on one lateral side of the window panel 20 towards its upper edge (Fig. 6A). The counterweight 52 is attached via a cord 50 extending around a pulley 51. Similarly, the lower window panel 30 has a counterweight 62 attached at a fixing point 63 on the same lateral side of the window panel 30 towards its upper edge (Fig. 8A). The counterweight 62 is attached via a cord 60 extending around a pulley 61. The pulleys 51, 61, cords, 50, 60, and counterweights 52, 62, are housed within a cavity in the lateral support 12 on one side of the window frame 11.

The counterweights 52, 62 are used to partially balance the weight of each window panel 20, 30. According to the present embodiment, each panel 20, 30 is heavier than the attached counterweight 52, 62, such that the panels 20, 30 exert a net downward force by virtue of their greater weight.

Each window panel 20, 30 has an associated independently actuable powered actuation mechanism. Each of the powered actuation mechanisms are attached to the respective window panels 20, 30, via pulley assemblies.

As shown in Fig. 6A, the upper window panel 20 has an associated pulley assembly comprising two vertically spaced pulley wheels 22, 23. The pulley wheels 22, 23 and the pulley actuation mechanism are located in a cavity in the vertical support 12 within the frame 11 on the opposing lateral side of the window 10 from the counterweight 52. The upper pulley wheel 22 is located in an upper portion of the window frame 11 and the lower pulley wheel 23 is centrally located and vertically aligned with the upper pulley wheel 22. The pulley wheels 22, 23 have a continuous loop of cord 24 extending therearound. The cord loop 24 has a panel fixing point 25, at which location the cord loop 24 is fixed to one side of the upper window panel 20 towards its upper edge and on the opposite side from the counterweight 52 fixing point 53.

Approximately half way around the pulley loop 24 from the panel fixing point 25, there is an actuator fixing point 26, at which location the cord loop 24 is fixed to the pulley actuation mechanism. The pulley actuation mechanism includes an actuation mechanism link in the form of a connector rod 27, having one end fixed to the pulley loop 24 at the actuator fixing point 26, and its other end attached to an actuator member 29. The actuator member 29 is linearly movable within an electrically powered linear actuator mechanism 28.

As shown in Fig. 8A, the lower window panel 30 has an associated pulley assembly comprising two vertically spaced pulley wheels 32, 33. The pulley wheels 32, 33 and the pulley actuation mechanism are located in the cavity in the vertical support 12 within the frame 11 next to the first pulley assembly and the first actuation mechanism, and on the opposing lateral side of the window 10 from the counterweight 62. The upper pulley wheel 32 is located in an upper portion of the window frame 11. The lower pulley wheel 33 is vertically aligned with the upper pulley wheel 32 and located in a lower vertical position than the lower pulley wheel 23 of the first pulley assembly. The pulley wheels 32, 33 have a continuous loop of cord 34 extending therearound. The cord loop 34 has a panel fixing point 35, at which location the cord loop 34 is fixed to one side of the lower window panel 30 towards its upper edge and on the opposite side from the counterweight 62 fixing point 63.

The increased spacing between the pulley wheels 32, 33 of the lower window panel 30 compared with the pulley wheels 22, 23 of the upper window panel 20, result in a longer cord loop 34 and therefore a greater potential distance of travel of the lower window panel 30 compared with the upper window panel 20.

Approximately half way around the pulley loop 34 from the panel fixing point 35, there is an actuator fixing point 36, at which location the cord loop 34 is fixed to the pulley actuation mechanism. The pulley actuation mechanism includes an actuation mechanism link in the form of a connector rod 37, having one end fixed to the pulley loop 34 at the actuator fixing point 36, and its other end attached to an actuator member 39. The actuator member 39 is linearly movable within an electrically powered linear actuation mechanism 38.

The electrically powered linear actuation mechanisms 28, 38, of the first and second powered pulley actuation mechanisms function in a substantially similar manner. The linear actuation mechanisms 28, 38 are actuable to extend or retract the respective actuator member 29, 39, in order to raise or lower theactuator member 29, 39

An electronics module 40 is electrically connected to the first powered actuation mechanism and a second electronics module 140 is electrically connected to the second powered actuation mechanism. Each of the electronics modules 40, 140 are linked to a respective power supply 46,146 and manual override switch 44,144.

According to an alternative embodiment, the first and second powered actuation mechanisms are electrically connected to the same electronics module 40 and switch 44 that are each capable of independently controlling each window panel 20, 30. The first and second powered actuation mechanisms may both be linked to the same power supply 46.

The electronics modules 40, 140 include electrically connected sensors, a timer, a processor, storage media and wireless communication means (receiver/transmitter). The receiver of the electronics modules 40, 140 can receive wireless commands, either from a remote control 48, 148 or via the internet as part of a home automation system. Thus, an operator using the window 10 system has several methods by which the window panels 20, 30 can be controlled and moved into the desired positions. The operator can control window opening, closing and locking passively, using standard programs (for example, time based, and/or sensor based and/or information enabled window 10 opening/closing and/or locking). Alternatively, the operator can directly adjust window settings. The operator can achieve this in person by physical manipulation of the window panels 20, 30 or through use of the switch 44 or the remote control 48, 148 (described below). The operator can also remotely intervene to change the state of the window panels 20, 30 by accessing the home automation system to send and/or change instructions to the electronics modules 40,140 via the internet.

In addition, the electronics modules 40, 140 record event history. Event history of the window 10 can include, for example, open and close events with time stamps. This data can be registered via the sensors, timer and processor. The processor sends an output signal to the storage media (for example, a hard drive), which acts as a data logger. The storage media is electronically linked to a transmitter so that at predetermined intervals or continuously, the logged data can be transferred via the internet to a remote computer, a cloud or a host server. According to the present embodiment, the logged data on window events (for example, opening extents, current state, time and duration) is transmitted via the internet to the server of an insurance company providing insurance for domestic and/or commercial customers. The insurance company use the assimilated data to determine insurance premiums and reduce insurance premiums for those users whose data falls within predetermined acceptable use patterns.

According to one embodiment, the wireless remote control device 48, 148 is capable of sending input and/or override control signals by means of a wireless link. An infra-red wireless link may also be provided. Additionally, or alternatively, other wireless links could be utilised such as a mobile computer e.g. a smartphone or tablet, connected to the system via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth®. It is envisaged that a single remote control device 48 may be capable of directly controlling the opening and closing motion of the window panels 20, 30 on an individual and/or group basis. For example, in its most basic sense the remote control device 48 could provide up”, down”, open”, close”, open all” and close all” functionality. More advanced functionality may include the ability to reconfigure any pre-programmed opening and closing protocols stored in the electronics modules 40,140.

According to one embodiment, the disclosed system is retrofitted to an existing reciprocating window arrangement. In this case, the actuation mechanisms can be installed within an existing or specially created cavity of the window frame 11. During installation, a connecting wire is run between each actuating mechanism and the electronics module 40 which is itself installed at an appropriate location nearby the window frame 11. Alternatively, the disclosed system may be integrated into a bespoke prefabricated window frame 11 unit.

In use, a user programs the electronics modules 40,140 to open and/or close the window panels 20, 30 at predetermined times of day. The user may select these times by way of manual input based on particular noise pollution and/or other events or may select a schedule from a number of pre-programmed routines. Alternatively, the electronics modules 40,140 are internet enabled to allow control of opening or closing of the window panels 20, 30, based on sensor data, events logged or predicted by online databases, predetermined timings, and/or active user or service provider management or via a home automation system.

When a user needs to directly open the window, for example, the upper window panel 20, they may pull down the upper panel 20 manually to open a window aperture 15. Alternatively, the user can operate the remote control 48 or manual override switch 44. Use of the remote control 48 or manual override switch 44 may be preferable to physical manipulation of the window 10, where the window panels 20, 30, are particularly heavy (for example, where the window panels 20, 30, are double or triple glazed or where the panels 20, 30 are relatively large).

The transition of the upper window panel 20 from the closed position to the open position is shown in Figures 6A and 6B. Actuation of the first powered actuation mechanism allows the actuator member 29 to extend from the linear actuator mechanism 28, to thereby move the connector rod 27. As the rod 27 moves, the upper window panel 20 is lowered to open the window aperture 15.

When a user wishes to close the window, this can be achieved by manual handling of the window panel 20. Alternatively the user may operate the manual override switch 44 or the wireless remote control device 48 until the upper window panel is in the desired closed position. Once the 'close’ actuation command is received by the electronics module 40, the first powered actuation mechanism causes the actuator member 29 to retract within the linear actuator mechanism 28. Retraction of the actuator member 29 moves the connector rod 27 downwardly to move the continuous loop 24 via the actuator fixing point 26. Thereby, the connected window panel 20 is raised into the closed position.

As described above with reference to the upper window panel 20, there are several ways in which a user can control movement of the window panel 30. Actuation commands for the lower window panel 30 are received by the electronics module 140. The transition of the lower window panel 30 from the closed to the open position is shown in Figures 8A and 8B. Actuation of the second powered actuation mechanism causes the actuator member 39 to retract within the linear actuator mechanism 38, to thereby pull the rod 37 downwardly. This movement is transferred to the window panel 30 via the pulley assembly to raise the lower panel 30 and open the window aperture 16.

The user can close the aperture 16 and move the lower window panel 30 into the closed position either directly or indirectly by any of the means described above. Once the 'close’ actuation command is received by the electronics module 140, the second powered actuation mechanism causes the actuator member 39 to extend from the linear actuator mechanism 38, which allows movement of the pulley loop 34 via the attached rod 37. The weight of the window panel 30 causes it to move downwardly and this movement is transferred by the attached pulley assembly. Therefore, the connected window panel 30 is lowered into the closed position.

In use, a user can employ pre-programmed routines which cause the timer mechanism(s) and/or sensors to open/close the window panels on the basis of predetermined trigger events. The user may override or reconfigure the pre-programmed routines as described above.

The system may also include a sash window controller unit which will open or close the window panels 20, 30 at a pre-set time or with commands from a custom remote or smart phone application or a central server. According to another embodiment, the window controller operates on a master and slave basis as illustrated schematically in Fig. 9, where five window controller 'slaves’ and a remote controller are each paired with a 'master’ window controller which controls an entire group of individual windows based on commands received from a remote server and smart phone.

According to an alternative embodiment, the linear actuator mechanism can be substituted for a bidirectional screw mechanism. The bidirectional screw mechanism is actuable to cause rotation of a screw member (that replaces the actuator member). The screw member is coupled to a pulley link in the form of a cord and anti-rotation bearing. According to this embodiment, the screw mechanisms are actuable to rotate the respective screw member clockwise and anti-clockwise in order to raise or lower the screw member depending on the direction of the screw thread provided therebetween. The top of each screw member has an anti-rotation means to avoid twisting of the respective attached pulley cord connectors during use.

According to alternative embodiments, the counterweights 52, 62 are the same weight as, or, weigh less than, the respective coupled window panel 20, 30.

Although particular embodiments of the invention have been disclosed herein in detail, this is by way of example and for the purposes of illustration only. The aforementioned embodiments are not intended to be limiting with respect to the scope of the statements of invention and appended claims.

It is contemplated by the inventors that various substitutions, alterations, and modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the statements of invention and/or the claims. For example, the pulley mechanisms (and also counterweights 52, 62) can be located on either side of the window 10 (as shown in Fig. 4). Relative terms such as 'upper’, 'lower’, 'downwardly’ are used for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. The window system of the present invention may be used in conjunction with and complementary to the window system described in published patent application W02015/177547, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A system for opening and closing a window aperture, the system comprising:

wherein the second powered pulley actuation mechanism is switchable between a retracted state, in which the second pulley actuation mechanism retracts part of the second pulley assembly to apply an opening force to the second window panel, and an extended state, in which a closing force is imparted to the second moveable panel, wherein the first and second powered pulley actuation mechanisms are independently actuable such that each powered actuation mechanism is independently switchable between retracted and extended states to independently move the first and second window panels.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the first and second powered actuation mechanisms are spaced relative to one another and located on the same lateral side of the window system, and wherein each of the first and second window panels are respectively coupled to first and second counterweights that are spaced relative to one another and located on the opposing lateral side of the window system.

3. A system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the first and second pulley assemblies comprise a pair of pulley wheels and a continuous loop of pulley cord extending therearound.

4. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the first and second pulley assemblies comprise a pair of vertically spaced pulley wheels, and wherein each pair has a continuous loop of pulley cord extending therearound.

5. A system according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the distance spacing the pulley wheels within each pair defines a maximum range of movement of the associated window panel.

6. A system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the continuous loop of pulley cord is fixed to the respective window panel at a window panel fixing point, and the respective powered actuation mechanism at an actuation mechanism fixing point, and wherein the fixing points are substantially equispaced around the continuous loop.

7. A system according to claim 6, wherein the distance between the fixing points on the continuous loop defines the range of movement of the associated window panel.

8. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the first and second powered actuation mechanisms are arranged to retract and release pulley cord from the respective pulley assemblies.

9. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the first and second powered actuation mechanisms have a locking configuration, in which no pulley cord is retracted or released such that each window panel remains in place once the locking configuration is activated.

10. A window system according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the first and second pulley assemblies and the first and second pulley actuation mechanisms are retro-fittable into a pre-existing window system.

11. A window system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first powered pulley actuation mechanism comprises a bi-directional screw thread mechanism for actively retracting and passively releasing lengths of pulley cord from the pulley assembly to close and open the first movable window panel.

12. A window system according to any preceding claim, wherein the second powered pulley actuation mechanism comprises a bi-directional screw thread mechanism for passively releasing and actively retracting lengths of pulley cord from the pulley assembly to close and open the second movable window panel.

13. A window system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first and second powered pulley actuation mechanisms comprise a linear actuator.

14. A window system according to any preceding claim, wherein the powered actuation mechanisms are controllable via an electronic system comprising at least one of the following electronic components: a temperature sensor; a particulate detector; an air quality sensor; a sound level detector; other sensors; a timer; a clock; a wireless communication means; a transceiver; a processor; and a data storage device.

15. A window system according to any preceding claim, wherein the powered actuation mechanisms are actuable by at least one of the following means: a remote control; a timer; a programmable response to received data, such as, data received from at least one sensor and/or the internet; and a user command.

16. A window system according to any preceding claim, wherein the powered actuation mechanisms are controllable as part of a home actuation system.

17. A window system according to any preceding claim, comprising at least one electronics module electronically coupled to the powered actuation mechanisms for logging data based on window states and use.

18. A window system according to claim 17, wherein the electronics module comprises at least one of the following electronic components: a temperature sensor; a particulate detector; an air quality sensor; a sound level detector; other sensors; a timer; a clock; a wireless communication means; a transceiver; a processor; and a data storage device.

19. A window system according to claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the electronics 5 module is arranged to transmit logged data to a remote source.

20. A window system according to claim 19, wherein the electronics module transmits data relating to window events including opening and closing of window panels with time stamps to an insurance company, and wherein the logged data is used in the

10 determination of home insurance premiums.