OPERATING HANDLE

Abstract

 The invention relates to an operating handle (10, 210), primarily to actuate an espagnolette mechanism for securing or locking a hinged window panel. The operating handle has a mounting part (12; 112; 212) and a handle part (14; 114; 214), the mounting part being adapted for surface mounting to the panel. The handle part is movable relative to the mounting part between a storage position and an operating position, and in the operating position is rotatable relative to the mounting part. The invention also provides a modified drive element and an adjustable handing element to convert the operating handle from clockwise to anticlockwise movement.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to an operating handle. The operating handle has been designed primarily to actuate an espagnolette mechanism for securing or locking a hinged window panel.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0002] The following description is for convenience directed to hinged window panels having an espagnolette mechanism. It will be understood, however, that the invention is equally applicable to other hinged panels such as doors, and to sliding panels such as patio windows or doors. The invention may also be used to actuate other securing and locking mechanisms.

[0003] A hinged window has a closed condition within its surrounding frame, with only a small air gap between the window panel and frame. A securing mechanism is provided to secure the window panel in the closed condition. In practice, the air gap between the window panel and frame is sealed by resilient seals fitted to the window panel and/or frame and the securing mechanism acts to compress the seal(s) to minimise the likelihood of draughts when the window panel is closed.

[0004] The window panel can be secured in its closed condition at one position (single point) or at more than one position (multi-point).

[0005] The securing mechanism typically actuates or drives a bolt which in its securing position projects across the air gap to engage within or behind a keeper which is rigidly mounted to the frame.

[0006] An espagnolette mechanism is a particular type of securing mechanism having one or more elongate bars which can move along the locking edge of the panel. The bars carry one or more bolts which can be moved into engagement with keepers mounted to the frame. An example of an espagnolette mechanism having a bar carrying a plurality of bolts is disclosed in GB 2 072 740. The bolts can be made more secure by having an enlarged head locatable into an undercut-keeper, such as those disclosed in GB 2 161 208.

[0007] Some espagnolette mechanisms have two bars which move in opposing directions.

[0008] The bars of the espagnolette mechanism move in a linear direction along the locking edge. The operating handle, however, undergoes rotary movement, typically through 90° or so. The known espagnolette mechanisms include a gearbox to covert the rotary movement of the operating handle into linear movement of the bar(s).

[0009] In a typical installation, the gearbox and bars of the espagnolette mechanism are located in the hollow profile of the window panel. The operating handle is mounted to the window panel and is usually the only visible component when the window is closed. The operating handle has a drive shaft which projects into the window panel to engage the gearbox. The drive shaft is typically square in cross-section.

[0010] The security of the window panel can be increased by making the operating handle lockable. Typically, the operating handle includes a key-operated lock which can prevent unauthorised rotation of the operating handle and thereby prevent unauthorised movement of the bars and bolts.

[0011] There are many different designs of operating handle available (both lockable and non-lockable), from many different manufacturers. Many features of the operating handles are standardised, including for example the dimensions of the drive shaft and the locations of the fixing holes, so that an installer can choose which of the many available operating handles to use in a particular installation. The drawings of GB 2 072 740 and GB 2 161 208 both show basic designs of conventional operating handles.

[0012] Significant force can be required to actuate the gearbox of an espagnolette mechanism. As above indicated, when the window panel is being closed, the mechanism typically acts to compress a seal between the window panel and frame; the force to compress the seal around the full periphery of the window panel is ultimately provided by rotation of the operating handle. To permit the user to apply the force which is typically required the known operating handles have a pillar and a handle part, the pillar spacing the handle part sufficiently far from the surface of the window panel to enable the user to pass all of his or her fingers around the handle part and obtain a good grip upon the handle part. Also, the handle part is typically long enough to span the user's hand. Accordingly, the user is able to grasp the handle part with the whole of his or her hand so as to maximise the grip which can be obtained and thereby maximise the force which can be imparted to rotate the operating handle.

[0013] Installers of window panels and the like often wish to undertake the minimum amount of on-site work and therefore generally prefer window panels and the like to arrive on site fully assembled and ready for installation. A fully assembled window panel includes the operating handle. Avoiding the requirement for on-site assembly of an operating handle to every window panel of a new building is a significant benefit to the installer, and can avoid the requirement for specialised knowledge and tools on site, and can also avoid the possibility of incorrect fitment of the operating handle(s). However, the pillar necessarily projects away from the window panel so as to provide the required space between the handle part and the window panel for the user to insert his or her fingers. The projecting pillar and handle part are a significant concern during transportation of a fully assembled window panel from a site of manufacture or assembly to a site of installation.

[0014] On the other hand, the manufacturers or assemblers of window panels typically wish to maximise the transportation efficiency and to minimise the likelihood of damage during transportation. Fitting a projecting operating handle to an otherwise generally flat window panel is a significant encumbrance which reduces the transportation efficiency (i.e. it reduces the number of window panels which can be fitted into a given transportation volume). It also requires additional and dedicated packaging to minimise the likelihood that an operating handle will damage an adjacent window panel (or vice versa) during transportation.

[0015] In addition, once the window panel is installed the operating handle necessarily projects from the window panel when the window panel is both open and closed. The projecting operating handle can in particular obstruct or foul the curtains or blinds which are hanging adjacent to the (closed) window panel, often requiring the user to manipulate the curtains or blinds past the operating handle as the curtains or blinds are closed and opened. The projecting operating handle can also reduce the space through which a person can escape from a building if the window is used as an emergency exit in the event of a fire.

[0016] Furthermore, the location of the bars along the locking edge of the window panel typically requires the operating handle to be fitted very close to the edge of the window panel. In practice the pillar of the operating handle often lies immediately adjacent to the surrounding frame and the operating handle must be shaped to ensure that the pillar and handle part do not foul the frame as the window is being opened or closed.

[0017] Operating handles are known which can project by a much smaller distance from the panel to which they are mounted than the conventional handles described above. For example, European patent applications 2 213 816 and 2 617 919 disclose operating handles which are movable between a storage position and an operating position. The distance by which these operating handles project from the panel to which they are mounted is significantly reduced in their storage position, which is a significant benefit in the folding/sliding doors for which they are designed. However, the reduced projecting distance is at least partly achieved because these operating handles are not surface mounted, i.e. a significant proportion of these operating handles is rebated or recessed into the profile of the panel to which they are mounted.

[0018] In addition, most of the embodiments of European patent applications 2 213 816 and 2 617 919 are not key-lockable. The requirement for a key-operated lock for the operating handle will usually increase the distance by which the operating handle projects from the panel to which it is mounted, or will increase the degree to which the operating handle must be rebated into the panel, or both.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0019] It is an object of the present invention to provide an operating handle in which the distance by which the operating handle can project from the panel to which it is mounted is minimised.

[0020] It is another object of the present invention to avoid or at least minimise the rebating of the panel to which the operating handle is mounted. In this respect, a significant benefit of the conventional operating handles comprising a pillar and a handle part is that they can be surface mounted (i.e. with little or no rebating of the panel). There is therefore no likelihood of the operating handle fouling the gearbox of the espagnolette mechanism, even if the gearbox is mounted very close to the surface of the panel as is often the case with a hinged window panel.

[0021] There is also a general desire to minimise the size of certain components of the operating handle as that can assist in reducing the projection of the operating handle (and/or reducing the rebating of the panel). However, it will be appreciated that the force required to compress the seals around in a large panel can be significant and the components must be able to accommodate the forces required. It is another object of the invention to increase the strength of certain of the components of the operating handle so that the size of the components can be minimised without undermining the utility of the operating handle.

[0022] As above stated, it is typically necessary for the operating handle to be rotated through an angle of approximately 90° in use. Depending upon the window panel to which the operating handle is mounted the rotation could be in the clockwise or anticlockwise directions. It is another object of the invention to permit the operating handle to be configured for either clockwise or anticlockwise rotation with common componentry, i.e. the same componentry is used whichever direction of rotation is required.

[0023] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provide an operating handle having a mounting part and a handle part mounted upon the mounting part, the mounting part being adapted for surface fitment to a panel, the handle part being movable relative to the mounting part between a storage position and an operating position, the handle part being adapted to rotate a drive shaft which in the fitted condition extends into the panel, the handle part in its operating position being rotatable relative to the mounting part.

[0024] The present invention therefore provides a surface mounted operating handle which is suitable for use in a large number of applications, and in particular is suitable for use with a large number of hinged window panels which are fitted with espagnolette mechanisms.

[0025] The present invention also provides an operating handle with a storage position in which the handle part projects by a smaller distance than in the operating position. The ability of the user to fully grasp the operating handle and to apply the required force to compress the seals in use is therefore not compromised, but the fitted operating handle is less likely to obstruct or foul adjacent curtains or blinds and is less likely to reduce the space through which a person could escape through the window if required. The operating handle also reduces the adverse effect upon transportation efficiency of an assembled panel and reduces the requirement for additional packaging during transportation of an assembled panel.

[0026] Preferably the operating handle has a key-operated lock to lock the handle part against rotation relative to the mounting part.

[0027] The present invention therefore optionally provides a key-lockable operating handle as is often required for a hinged window panel. As explained below, this additional functionality is provided without adversely affecting the surface mounting and the operational and transportation benefits.

[0028] The mounting part is adapted for surface fitment by having a substantially planar mounting face (which in the fitted condition engages the planar surface of the panel). The mounting face can be entirely planar across its full area, but the presence of small local recesses and/or projections does not avoid the surface mounting. In particular, if desired the mounting face can have a small projection surrounding one or more of the fixing holes, it being known for a window manufacturer to provide small recesses adjacent to the fixing holes to ensure the correct location during fitting. Alternatively stated, the mounting part is designed for fitment to a panel with no (or at least insignificant) rebating of the panel.

[0029] Preferably, the handle part in its storage position is not rotatable relative to the mounting part. For example, the mounting part and/or handle part can have a formation which acts to prevent the rotation of the handle part in the storage position. The handle part must therefore be moved to (or at least towards) the operating position before it can be rotated. Preferably the key-operated lock can lock the handle part in its storage position whereby to indirectly lock the handle part against rotation.

[0030] Desirably, the handle part is rotatable relative to the mounting part through approximately 90°. Such a range of movement matches the range of movement required to fully actuate most of the known espagnolette mechanisms. In such embodiments the rotation of the operating handle in use is limited by the components of the operating handle itself and not by any part of the espagnolette mechanism. It is generally preferred that the range of movement of the espagnolette mechanism is limited by the operating handle rather than the other way around.

[0031] Preferably, the handle part is resiliently biased to its operating position. It is therefore necessary for the user to press the handle part into its storage position. Desirably, the handle part is automatically retained in the storage position, preferably by a latching mechanism. In such embodiments which also have a key-operated lock it is therefore not necessary to use the key to retain the handle part in the storage position. Such embodiments can have the additional benefit that the user is made immediately aware that the operating handle is locked; i.e. if the handle part is in the storage position and the key is absent the operating handle is locked.

[0032] The key-operated lock can be positioned adjacent to the drive shaft, or adjacent to the free end of the handle part, or at some other location, as desired. The key-operated lock can be mounted on the handle part and be configured to engage the mounting part, or it can be mounted on the mounting part and be configured to engage the handle part.

[0033] In one embodiment the key-operated lock is mounted to the handle part. Preferably the key-operated lock includes a retaining plate which is engageable with a retaining plate opening in the mounting part. Ideally the retaining plate has a generally circular periphery with an extending tab; ideally also the retaining plate opening is generally circular with a cut-out for the extending tab. The retaining plate opening is preferably only slightly larger than the retaining plate and the cut-out is preferably only slightly larger than the tab. The retaining plate is preferably rotatably mounted to the handle part - rotation of the retaining plate desirably moves the extending tab into and out of alignment with the cut-out. Accordingly, when the extending tab is rotated into alignment with the cut-out the retaining plate can pass through the retaining plate opening (and the handle part can move between its storage and operating positions). However, when the extending tab is rotated out of alignment with the cut-out the retaining plate cannot pass through the retaining plate opening (and the handle part is held or secured in its storage position).

[0034] Desirably the retaining plate is carried by a key-operated lock body and can rotate therewith. Accordingly, rotation of the lock body (by way of the key) can cause rotation of the retaining plate and consequently bring the extending tab into alignment with the cut-out to release the retaining plate and permit the handle part to move to its operating position.

[0035] Preferably, the retaining plate is resiliently biased to a secured position in which the extending tab is out of alignment with the cut-out. In such embodiments the key is therefore not required to move the extending tab out of alignment with the cut-out to secure the handle part in its storage position. The key is, however, required to release the handle part and it is necessary to overcome the resilient bias when rotating the lock body and extending tab by way of the key.

[0036] Preferably, the retaining plate can rotate independently of the lock body, through a limited range. Such an arrangement allows the retaining plate to be rotated to align the extending tab with the cut-out without rotation of the lock body. The retaining plate opening and/or the retaining plate (and in particular the cut-out and/or the extending tab) can be chamfered so that the extending tab is forced to rotate into alignment with the cut-out (and to overcome the resilient bias) as the handle part is pressed into its storage position.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment the key-operated lock can be replaced by a turn-button or thumb-turn mounted to the handle part, in which the user rotates the thumb-turn to rotate (and release) the retaining plate.

[0038] In another alternative embodiment the key-operated lock is replaced by a press-button mounted to the handle part, the press-button having a structure which converts translational movement of a part of the button into rotation of the retaining plate. Accordingly, the user can push the press-button towards the mounting part to cause rotation (and release) of the retaining plate. The push-button can if desired be key-lockable.

[0039] In the alternative embodiments in which the key-operated lock is mounted to the mounting part, the lock is preferably mounted adjacent to the free end of the handle part. Preferably a lock element is mounted to the mounting part, the lock element desirably being mounted for sliding movement relative to the mounting part between a secured position and a released position. The lock element preferably has a projection which can overlie a region of the handle part in the secured position to retain the handle part in its storage position. The lock element can be resiliently biased to the secured position. The lock element and handle part can have cooperating chamfered surfaces to enable the handle part automatically to latch in the secured position. The key-operated lock can be used to lock the lock element in its secured position.

[0040] According to the second aspect of the invention there is provide an operating handle having a mounting part and a handle part, the handle part being movable relative to the mounting part between a storage position and an operating position, the handle part in its operating position being rotatable relative to the mounting part, the operating handle having a drive shaft which projects from the mounting part and which is configured to engage locking componentry and to rotate relative to the mounting part in use, the drive shaft being a part of a drive element, the handle part being pivotably mounted to the drive element by way of a pivot shaft, the handle part being further connected to the drive element by way of an assembly element, the drive element having a first opening for the pivot shaft and a second opening for the assembly element.

[0041] Movement of the handle part between its storage and operating positions is therefore provided by the pivoting movement of the handle part relative to the drive element. Rotation of the handle part (and drive shaft) relative to the mounting part is provided by rotation of the drive element relative to the mounting part.

[0042] In a conventional operating handle the drive shaft is a linear component with a square cross-section configured to cooperate with the square cross-section hole in an espagnolette gearbox for example. In an operating handle with a handle part which is movable relative to the mounting part the connection between the handle part and the drive shaft must also accommodate the relative (pivoting) movement. It is typically not sufficient to connect a pivoting handle part on its own to the drive shaft because the handle part is usually not strong enough to withstand the forces involved. An intermediate component such as a support plate is therefore typically located at the pivot between the handle part and the drive shaft, the support (pivot) plate providing additional strength at the pivot joint. The rotational force exerted by the user on the handle part is communicated to the drive shaft by way of the support plate. The connections between the handle part, the support plate and the drive shaft must all be sufficiently strong to transmit that rotational force. Making the support plate and all of the connections sufficiently strong often requires the components to be large and robust and this will often limit the reductions in size which are possible. Reducing the size of the componentry of an operating handle is a general desire for most manufacturers as it reduces the projecting volume of the operating handle or the amount of rebating required in the panel. This is, however, a particular concern in an operating handle which is designed to be surface mounted, and also in an operating handle for which the projection from the panel is sought to be minimised.

[0043] Providing a drive element which includes the drive shaft and to which the handle part is connected by way of a pivot shaft and a separate assembly element can avoid the requirement for a support plate and reduce the maximum force which is applied to any individual part of the operating handle.

[0044] It will be recognised that the drive element according to this aspect of the invention is necessarily more structurally complex than a conventional linear drive shaft. The more complex structure is expected to require a modified method of assembling the operating handle. In a conventional operating handle the mounting part typically has a drive shaft hole through which the drive shaft projects in the assembled operating handle. During assembly the drive shaft is typically passed through the drive shaft hole from below (in the orientation of Fig.5) to be secured to the handle part. It is not expected that the drive element according to the second aspect of the invention will be able to be passed through the drive shaft hole in the same way and instead it is expected that the drive element will be mounted to the mounting plate from the handle part side (i.e. from above as viewed in Fig.5).

[0045] Desirably the drive element is a multi-part structure comprising a plurality of drive element plates. Preferably each drive element plate has a similar (and perhaps identical) shape with each providing a portion of the drive shaft, a portion of the first opening for the pivot shaft and a portion of the second opening for the assembly element. Notwithstanding that the drive element according to these embodiments is not a unitary structure, the drive element plates function together as a single drive element and do not add any intermediate components between the handle part and the drive shaft. A multi-part drive element is beneficial during assembly as the drive element plates can be passed through the drive shaft hole separately and sequentially. The drive element plates can be secured together by the pivot shaft (to one side of the drive shaft hole) and by a connector (to the other side of the drive shaft hole).

[0046] Preferably the drive element comprises three drive element plates. Preferably also two of the drive element plates are 2mm thick and the third drive element plate is 3mm thick. Together the drive element plates are therefore 7mm thick, which matches the cross-sectional dimension of a standard drive shaft and allows the drive element to cooperate with an espagnolette gearbox (for example) having a standard drive shaft opening.

[0047] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provide an operating handle having a mounting part and a handle part, the handle part being rotatable through a predetermined angle relative to the mounting part and being configured to rotate a drive shaft in use, the operating handle having a handing element which can be mounted in a first position or in a second position, the handing element in the first position permitting relative rotation of the handle part in a first direction and the handing element in the second position permitting relative rotation of the handle part in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0048] The operating handle according to the third aspect can therefore be configured for clockwise or anticlockwise rotation by adjusting the position of the handing element, the same componentry being used for both directions of rotation. Only one set of components is required for the operating handle and the direction of relative rotation can be determined during assembly. Preferably, the direction of relative rotation can subsequently be changed by partial disassembly of the operating handle and adjustment of the handing element if required.

[0049] The handle part is ideally limited to around 90° of rotation relative to the mounting part. Desirably the handing element cooperates with a fixed guide element. The handing element may be carried by the handle part to rotate with the handle part and engage a guide of the mounting part, or the handing element may be carried by the mounting part and engage a guide of the handle part.

[0050] The guide element may have a first guide channel for a part of the handing element when configured for clockwise rotation, and a second guide channel for the part of the handing element when configured for anticlockwise rotation.

[0051] The handing element may be mounted to the drive shaft to rotate with the drive shaft. The handing element is preferably non-circular and is desirably located in a non-circular opening of the mounting part. The non-circular handing element cooperates with the non-circular opening of the mounting part to limit the rotation of the drive shaft (and consequently the handle part).

[0052] To avoid unnecessary repetition, all components and features of the operating handle which are described in relation to one of the aspects of the invention can be used with the other aspects with which they are compatible and are thereby incorporated into those other aspects of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0053] The invention will now be described in more detail, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig.1

shows a perspective view of a key-lockable embodiment of operating handle according to the first and third aspects of present invention, with the handle part in the storage position;

Fig.2

shows a side view of the operating handle of Fig.1;

Fig.3

shows a view similar to that of Fig.1 but with the handle part in the operating position;

Fig.4

shows a view similar to that of Fig.3 but with the handle part rotated through approximately 90°;

Fig.5

shows an exploded view of the operating handle of Figs. 1-4;

Fig.6

shows a sectional view of part of the operating handle of Figs. 1-5 with the handle part locked in the storage position;

Fig.7

shows a view similar to Fig.6 but with the retaining plate rotated by way of the key to release the handle part;

Fig.8

shows a view similar to that of Fig.6 but with the retaining plate rotated by way of the engagement between the extending tab of the retaining plate and the cut-out of the retaining plate opening;

Fig.9

shows an underside view of the support plate and guide element of the operating handle of Figs. 1-5;

Fig.10

shows a sectional view of the operating handle of Figs. 1-5 in the storage position, configured for clockwise rotation;

Fig.11

shows another sectional view of the operating handle of Fig.10, in the operating position;

Fig.12

shows a sectional view of the operating handle of Figs. 1-9 in the storage position, configured for anticlockwise rotation;

Fig.13

shows another sectional view of the operating handle of Fig.12, in the operating position;

Fig.14

shows an exploded view of a thumb-turn embodiment of operating handle according to the first and third aspects of the present invention;

Fig.15

shows a perspective view of the operating handle of Fig.14, with the handle part in the storage position;

Fig.16

shows a perspective view of the operating handle of Fig.14, with the handle part in the operating position;

Fig.17

shows a perspective view of a press-button embodiment of operating handle according to the first and third aspects of the present invention, with the handle part in the operating position;

Fig.18

is a view as Fig.17 but partly in section;

Figs.

19-21 show more detailed views of the press-button of the embodiment of Figs. 17 and 18;

Fig.22

shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of operating handle according to the first and third aspects of the invention, in the storage position;

Fig.23

shows a side view of the operating handle of Fig.22;

Fig.24

shows a perspective view of the operating handle of Fig.22 and 23, with the handle part moved to its operating position and rotated through approximately 90°;

Fig.25

shows an exploded view of an operating handle according to the second and third aspects of the invention;

Fig.26

shows a side view of the operating handle of Fig.25 in the operating position;

Fig.27

shows an underside view of the operating handle of Fig.25 with the handle part aligned with the mounting part; and

Fig.28

shows a view as Fig.27 with the handle part rotated through approximately 90°.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Figs. 1-5 show an operating handle 10 having a mounting part 12 and a handle part 14. The mounting part 12 is designed for fitting to a window panel (for example) adjacent to an espagnolette gearbox (for example) in known fashion. The handle part 14 is movable relative to the mounting part 12 between a storage position shown in Figs. 1 and 2 and an operating position shown in Fig. 3. The handle part is further movable relative to the mounting part 12 by rotation to the position of Fig.4.

[0055] As best understood in relation to the exploded view of Fig.5, the handle part 14 is mounted by way of a pivot shaft 16 which passes through aligned holes 18 in the handle part 14 and hole 20 in the drive shaft 22.

[0056] In known fashion, the drive shaft 22 is generally of square cross-section and is adapted to cooperate with a square opening in (for example) an espagnolette gearbox (not shown). The drive shaft has a shoulder 24 which abuts a washer 28. The washer 28 sits in a recess (not seen) in the bottom surface of the mounting part 12, the mounting part 12 being sandwiched between the shoulder 24 and the handle part 14 in the assembled operating handle 10.

[0057] The mounting part 12 is adapted for surface fitment to a panel (not shown). In particular, as best seen in Fig.2, the mounting part 12 has a substantially flat mounting surface 26. In fact, in this embodiment the only projections from the otherwise totally flat mounting surface 26 are the bosses 30 which surround the fixing holes. The surface of the panel will typically also be generally flat with holes formed therethrough for the fixings (not shown - but which in many cases permit the operating handle to be secured directly to the espagnolette gearbox for example). Small recesses are typically formed in the surface of the panel around the fixing holes so as to enable the assembler to properly align the operating handle 10 during fitting, and the bosses 30 fit into those recesses.

[0058] The upper surface of the mounting part 12 is concave and the bottom surface of the handle part 14 is correspondingly convex. In the storage position shown in Figs. 1 and 2 therefore, the handle part cannot be rotated relative to the mounting part. Following movement to the operating position of Fig.3, however, the handle part 14 can be rotated through approximately 90° relative to the mounting part to the position of Fig.4.

[0059] The upper surface of the handle part 14 is also convex, which increases its aesthetic appeal and can also increase the comfort of the user during manipulation of the handle part.

[0060] As the handle part 14 is rotated from the position of Fig. 3 to the position of Fig.4, the drive shaft 22 is similarly rotated, which in the installed condition actuates the espagnolette mechanism (for example) to which the operating handle 10 is connected.

[0061] It will be seen from Fig.2 in particular that in the storage position the operating handle has a height h which in use corresponds to the distance by which the operating handle (without the key) projects from the panel to which it is fitted. In the embodiment shown the height h is 13 mm, which is a significantly smaller projection than a conventional operating handle. Other designs of operating handle according to the invention could have a height less than 13 mm (or more than 13 mm if desired) depending upon the styling of the handle. A window panel fitted with the operating handle 10 can therefore be transported with a much more efficient utilisation of space than with a conventional operating handle. Furthermore, less packaging is required to cover and protect the operating handle 10 during transportation than with a conventional operating handle.

[0062] Also, without the key the operating handle in its storage position presents a relatively smooth outer surface which is less likely to be damaging to an adjacent window panel in the event that the packaging is not properly affixed or is not sufficient.

[0063] The length L of the handle part 14 is 115 mm, which is expected to be long enough to span the hand of most users. Also, as is seen in Fig.3 in its operating position the handle part 14 is spaced sufficiently far from the mounting part 12 for a user typically to be able to pass all of his or her fingers around the handle part 14 and to fully grasp the handle part 14.

[0064] The handle part 14 is biased to its operating position by a spring 36 (Fig.5). Accordingly, after the handle part 14 has been rotated back to the position of Fig.3 (and the window has been closed in use), it is necessary for the user to press the handle part 14 to the storage position of Fig.1, overcoming the bias of the spring 36.

[0065] The embodiment of Figs.1-5 has a key-operated lock to lock the handle part in its storage position. The key-operated lock includes a lock body 34 which (upon insertion of the correct key 40, can be rotated in the lock boss 42 of the handle part 14. In this embodiment the lock body 34 has only a single lock plate 44 and therefore offers a level of security matching many of the known key-lockable operating handles. Greater security can be provided by increasing the number of lock plates, but at the expense of increasing the length of the lock body and the height h of the operating handle.

[0066] The lock body 34 is connected to a retaining plate 46 and both are mounted to the handle part 14. The retaining plate 46 is sized and positioned to cooperate with a retaining plate opening 48 in the mounting part 12. As better seen in the sectional views of Figs.6-8, the retaining plate 46 has a generally circular periphery with an extending tab 50. The retaining plate opening 48 is also generally circular with a cut-out 52 for the extending tab 50. The retaining plate opening 48 is only slightly larger than the retaining plate 46 and the cut-out 52 is only slightly larger than the tab 50.

[0067] In order for the handle part 14 to move into and out of its storage position it is necessary for the retaining plate 46 and tab 50 to pass through the retaining plate opening 48 and cut-out 52. This can only happen when the tab 50 is aligned with the cut-out 52 as is shown in Figs. 7 and 8.

[0068] The sectional views of Figs. 6, 7 and 8 show the relationship between the retaining plate 46 and retaining plate opening 48 in different situations as explained below.

[0069] Fig.6 shows the situation in which the handle part 14 is secured (locked) in its storage position. In this situation the tab 50 is out of full alignment with the cut-out 52. Accordingly, only part of the tab 50 is visible through the cut-out in Fig.6, the remainder of the tab 50 is located underneath the wall 54 adjacent to the retaining plate opening 48. The key 40 may or may not be located in the lock body 34 in the condition of Fig.6, but in any event the lock body 34 is in the locked position corresponding to that of Fig.1.

[0070] To release the handle part 14 the key 40 and the lock body 34 are rotated anticlockwise as drawn. The lock body 34 has a lock projection 56 which engages the retaining plate 46 and the lock projection 56 and retaining plate 46 are rotated together from the position of Fig.6 to the position of Fig.7 (i.e. anticlockwise as viewed). In this position the extending tab 50 is aligned with the cut-out 52 and the spring 36 drives the handle part 14 to its operating position.

[0071] From its operating position of Fig.3 the handle part 14 may be rotated to and from the position of Fig.4, as above. From the position of Fig.3 it would be possible to press the handle part 14 back to its storage position and then rotate the key 40 to secure the handle part 14. However, that is not preferred, and the present embodiment has a latching facility which avoids the requirement for the key 40 to be used to secure the handle part in its storage position. Accordingly, and as shown in Fig.4, after the handle part has been moved to its operating position the key 40 can be removed from the lock body 34.

[0072] The features which permit the handle part 14 to be subsequently secured in its storage position without use of the key 40 are described below.

[0073] Firstly, the retaining plate 46 is biased to the secured position shown in Fig.6 by a torsion spring 60. Accordingly, it is necessary to overcome the bias of the torsion spring 60 to rotate the retaining plate 46 from the secured position of Fig.6 to the released position of Fig.7.

[0074] Secondly, provision is made for some lost (rotary) motion between the lock body 34 and the retaining plate 46, and in particular between the lock projection 56 of the lock body 34 and the retaining plate 46. It will be seen from Fig.6 that the angular extent of the lock projection 56 is smaller than the angular extent of the region of the retaining plate in which the lock projection sits and there is a void 62 permitting some rotation (anticlockwise as viewed) of the retaining plate 46 from the position shown, without corresponding movement of the lock projection 56 or lock body 34.

[0075] Thirdly, cooperating tapered or chamfered surfaces are provided on the extending tab 50 and the cut-out 52. One of the chamfered surfaces is identified by the numeral 64 in Fig.8 and it will be understood that the opposing edge of the cut-out 52 is also chamfered, and so is the underside of the extending tab 50 (one of the chamfered edges of the extending tab is visible in Fig.5).

[0076] Following on from the situation of Fig.7, when the handle part 14 has been released from its storage position and moved towards its operating position, the user can release the key 40 (and/or can remove the key from the lock body 34 if desired). When the key has been released or removed the spring 60 rotates the retaining plate 46 back to the orientation of Fig.6. That rotation causes corresponding (clockwise) rotation of the lock projection 56 and lock body 34 so that they too are moved to the orientation of Fig.6. When the handle part 14 is subsequently pressed back to its storage position the extending tab 50 of the retaining plate 46 engages the wall 54 of the lock plate opening 48; the cooperating chamfers cause the retaining plate 46 to rotate anticlockwise as drawn, against the bias of the spring 60. There is no corresponding rotation of the lock body 34 because the lock projection 56 moves into the void 62 as shown in Fig.8.

[0077] When the retaining plate 46 has been rotated to the position represented in Fig.8 the retaining plate 46 can pass through retaining plate opening 48. As soon as the extending tab 50 has passed fully through the cut-out 52 the spring 60 drives the retaining plate to rotate (clockwise as viewed) back to the secured position of Fig.6.

[0078] It will be seen from Fig.4 in particular that the mounting part 12 has a formation 66 which is engaged by the handle part 14. The formation 66 and handle part 14 cooperate to define the operating position of the handle part 14 It will be seen from Figs. 11 and 13 that the handle part 14 pivots through an angle of approximately 25° between its storage and operating positions. The invention is not limited to a particular angular movement but approx. 25° is expected to allow most users to insert their fingers fully around the handle part 14 and to apply the force to rotate the handle part.

[0079] In this embodiment the formation 66 and the handle part 14 further cooperate to limit the rotational movement of the handle part 14 (further anticlockwise rotation of the handle part 14 beyond that shown in Fig.4 is prevented by its engagement with the formation 66). As above stated, the range of movement between the positions of Figs.3 and 4 is approximately 90° so as to match the required rotation of the drive shaft 22 to actuate the majority of securing (espagnolette) mechanisms.

[0080] The operating handle 10 is configured for anticlockwise movement between the positions of Figs.3 and 4. The operating handle 10 is therefore handed and must be reconfigured if clockwise movement is required. In this embodiment, and in accordance with the third aspect of the invention, the same componentry is used for clockwise and anticlockwise movement, with just the position of the handing element 68 being adjusted, as explained below.

[0081] As seen in Fig.5, the mounting part 12 has a drive shaft hole 70 and it will be understood that the centre of the drive shaft hole is the axis of rotation of the handle part 14 when it moves between the positions of Fig.3 and Fig.4. The mounting part has two handing element holes 72a and 72b adjacent to the drive shaft hole 70. The handing element 68 has two posts upstanding from its base, a long post 74 and a short post 76.

[0082] The handing element holes 72a,b have the same diameter and the posts 74, 76 have the same diameter; in the assembled operating handle 10 each of the posts 74, 76 can fit into each of the handing element holes 72a,72b. The long post 74 projects through the respective handing element hole; the short post 76 locates in but does not extend beyond the respective handing element hole.

[0083] A support plate and guide element 78 is located above the handing element holes 72a,b. The support plate and guide element 78 is an intermediate component connected to the handle part 14 and to the drive shaft 22; all three of these components rotate together. The support plate and guide element 78 firstly provides additional support for the handle part 14 and acts to spread the applied forces across a larger area of the handle part.

[0084] Secondly, and as seen in Fig.9 the underside of the support plate and guide element 78 has a first guide channel 80a and a second guide channel 80b. The first guide channel 80a overlies the handing element hole 72a and the second guide channel 80b overlies the handing element hole 72b.

[0085] It will be understood that the handing element 68 can be fitted to the mounting part 12 in two possible orientations. The chosen orientation will determine whether the handle part 14 can rotate clockwise or anticlockwise from the position of Fig.3. Specifically, if the handing element is fitted in the orientation shown in Fig.5 the long post 74 will project through the handing element hole 72a and into the guide channel 80a. It will be understood from Fig.9 that in this configuration the support plate and guide element 78 (and consequently the handle part 14) can only be rotated clockwise from the position shown (when viewed from the underside as in Fig.9; anti-clockwise when viewed from above as in Fig.1). The operating handle 10 in this configuration is also shown in Figs. 10 and 11.

[0086] If, however, the orientation of the handing element 68 is reversed from that of Fig.5, the long post 74 will project through the handing element hole 72b and into the guide channel 80b. It will be understood from Fig.9 that in this configuration the support plate and guide element 78 (and consequently the handle part 14) can only be rotated anticlockwise from the position shown (when viewed from the underside as in Fig.9; clockwise when viewed from above as in Fig.1). The operating handle 10 in this configuration is also shown in Figs. 12 and 13.

[0087] It will be understood that the orientation of the handing element 68 can be determined by the operating handle assembler, or by the window panel assembler, to suit the orientation and desired direction of movement of the handle part 14. The handing element 68 can be accessed and its position adjusted by removing the operating handle 10 from the panel, if that is required.

[0088] The benefits of the invention can be practiced on other embodiments, including embodiments which are not key-lockable. One alternative embodiment is shown in Figs. 14-16. Only the relevant components are discussed in relation Figs.14-16 to demonstrate the differences over the first embodiment, and it will be seen from Fig.14 in particular that much of the componentry is identical to the earlier embodiment.

[0089] In the embodiment of Figs.14-16 the lock body 34 has been replaced by a thumb-turn 82. The thumb-turn 82 is connected to the retaining plate 46, and the retaining plate 46 cooperates with the retaining plate opening 48 as described above. Accordingly, in this embodiment the rotation of the retaining plate 46 (to move the handle part from the secured position corresponding to Fig.6 to the released position corresponding to Fig.7) requires rotation of the thumb-turn 82 instead of rotation of the lock body 34.

[0090] In this embodiment it is not necessary to provide any lost (rotary) motion between the thumb-turn 82 and the retaining plate 46 since the thumb-turn 82 can be rotated with the retaining plate during movement of the retaining plate 46 through the retaining plate opening 48. If, however, it is preferred for the thumb-turn not to rotate as the handle part 14 is re-latched into its storage position, a similar lost motion arrangement can be provided to that of the first embodiment.

[0091] In the further alternative embodiment of Figs. 17-21, the lock body 34 is replaced by a press-button 84. The press-button 84 has a structure which converts translational movement of the press-button into rotation of the retaining plate 46.

[0092] The press-button 84 has an upper part 86 and a lower part 88; the upper and lower parts are connected together and mounted to the handle part 14, but are able to rotate relative to one another to a small degree as described below. The press-button 84 has a spring 90 which biases the upper part 86 upwardly (as drawn in Figs.19-21) relative to the lower part 88, to the rest position as shown in Fig.19.

[0093] The upper part 88 has two wings 92 (only one of which can be seen) which locate into respective notches (not seen) inside the lock boss of the handle part 14 (which is somewhat similar to the lock boss 42 shown in Fig.5). The wings 92 cooperate with the lock boss to prevent relative rotation of the upper part 88 so that the upper part is limited to translational movement (up and down in the orientation of Figs.19-21). The spring 90 also acts torsionally to bias the lower part 88 to the rotational position of Fig.19 in which it abuts the wing 92.

[0094] At the top of the wings 92 are ramps (or cam surfaces) 94, again only one of which can be seen. When the upper part 86 is pressed towards the lower part (downwards in Fig. 19) the ramps 94 engage the upper edge of the lower part 88 and cause it to rotate relative to the upper part, to the position shown in Fig.20, against the torsional bias of the spring 90.

[0095] The lower part 88 is connected directly to the retaining plate 46 so that rotation of the lower part causes corresponding rotation of the retaining plate and permits the release of the handle part 14 as is described above.

[0096] There is a degree of lost rotary motion between the upper part 86 and the lower part 88, which allows the retaining plate 46 and lower part 88 to rotate independently of the upper part 86 to re-latch or re-secure the handle part when the retaining plate 46 is subsequently pressed into engagement with the retaining plate opening 48 (as is seen in Fig.21). As described in relation to the first embodiment, as the extending tab 50 of the retaining plate 46 is pressed into engagement with the retaining plate opening 48, cooperating chamfered edges cause the retaining plate 46 to rotate to align the extending tab 50 with the cut-out 52. When the retaining plate has passed through the retaining plate opening the torsional bias of the spring 90 rotates the retaining plate to the secured position.

[0097] It will be understood that a key-lockable version of the press-button embodiment could be provided if desired, the key-operated lock acting to prevent the upper part 86 being moved towards the lower part 88 (similarly to the way in which the press-button of a conventional operating handle can be locked to provide additional security).

[0098] A fourth embodiment of operating handle is shown in Figs.22, 23 and 24. This variant differs from the earlier variants in mounting the lock body 134 on the mounting part 112, and further differs in mounting the lock body 134 adjacent to the free end of the handle part 114. Specifically, the lock body 134 is mounted to a lock element 96, the lock element being mounted for sliding movement relative to the mounting part 112 (towards and away from the handle part 114) between a secured position as seen in Figs.22 and 23) and a released position (not shown).

[0099] In the secured position a projection of the lock element 96 overlies a region of the free end of the handle part 114 and thereby secures the handle part 114 in the storage position shown in Figs.22 and 23. The lock element 96 can be moved downwardly as drawn to release the handle part 114. A spring (similar to the spring 36) drives the released handle part 114 to the operating position whereupon it can be rotated to the position of Fig.24 to open the panel to which it is mounted.

[0100] The lock element 96 is biased to its secured position (see the spring 298 in the embodiment of Figs.25-28 which has a similar lock element 296). The lock element 96 and handle part 114 have suitable cooperating chamfered surfaces to permit the handle part to latch automatically in its storage position.

[0101] The lock element 96 can also automatically be locked in its secured position, whereupon it is necessary to insert the key 40 (and perhaps also to rotate the key depending upon the structure of the lock body 134) in order to release the lock element to move to the released position. Alternatively, it can be necessary to insert and rotate the key 40 to lock the lock element 96 in its secured position.

[0102] An alternative embodiment of operating handle 210 is shown in Figs.25-28. This embodiment is according to the second aspect of the invention but has many components and features in common with the earlier embodiments. Accordingly, to avoid unnecessary repetition only the components and features which distinguish this embodiment are described in detail below.

[0103] As stated above, in an operating handle such as that of Figs. 1-5, the material from which the handle part 14 is made will typically not be sufficiently strong on its own to withstand the rotational forces applied, particularly around the pivot shaft holes 18. The pivot shaft 16 might also not be strong enough to withstand those forces when concentrated at the regions of contact with the pivot shaft holes 18. To spread the forces over a greater area of the handle part 14 and the pivot shaft 16, the handle part 14 can carry a support plate which is securely fixed to the handle part and which also has a hole or holes for the pivot shaft 16. The embodiment of Figs.25-28 has been designed to avoid the requirement for a support plate or any other intermediate component between the drive shaft and the handle part.

[0104] As seen in Fig.25, the operating handle 210 has a drive element 222 comprising three separate plates 222a, 222b and 222c. The drive element plates 222a and 222c are 2mm thick and the drive element plate 222b is 3mm thick. The drive element plates 222a-c are preferably made of steel. When the plates 222a-c are placed together the drive element 222 is 7mm thick; the drive element 222 has a drive shaft part 224 (Fig.26) which is of 7mm x 7mm square section to match the standard dimensions of an espagnolette gearbox.

[0105] The drive element plates 222a-c are all of the same shape and all have a hole 228 for the pivot shaft 216. In the assembled operating handle the pivot shaft 216 therefore passes through the aligned pivot shaft holes 218 and the pivot shaft holes 228.

[0106] The drive element plates 222a-c also have aligned slots 230 which receive an assembly element or pin 232. In the assembled operating handle the assembly pin 232 passes through the aligned holes 234 in the handle part 214 and the slots 230 in the drive element 222.

[0107] As seen in Fig.26, in the assembled operating handle 210 the drive shaft part 224 of the drive element 222 projects from one side of the mounting part 212. The drive shaft element 222 is connected to the handle part 214 at the other side of the mounting part 212. In common with a conventional operating handle, the drive shaft part 224 passes through a drive shaft opening 270 in the mounting part 212.

[0108] It will be understood that in the first embodiment the drive shaft 22 can be passed upwardly (as drawn in Fig.5) through the drive shaft opening 70, but that is not possible with the drive element 222. In particular the drive element 222 is too large to pass upwardly through the drive shaft opening 270. To overcome that difficulty, in the present invention the drive element 222 is passed downwardly (as drawn in Fig.25) through the drive shaft opening 270.

[0109] In addition, during assembly the drive element plates 222a-c are passed separately and sequentially through the drive shaft opening 270, as explained below.

[0110] The first drive element plate 222a is passed first through a pivot washer 240, through the drive shaft opening 270 and then through a connector 242. The connector 242 has a hole 244 in the form of a cross. The dimensions of the central portion of the cross are 7mm x 3mm and the dimensions of the side parts of the cross are 3mm x 2mm. Accordingly, the drive shaft portion of the first drive element part 222a (having a cross-sectional dimension of 7mm x 2mm) can enter the central portion of the hole 244.

[0111] The drive shaft portions of the drive element plates 222a,b,c each have a groove 246 at each side. The grooves 246 are 2mm deep and have a width slightly greater than the thickness of the connector 242 (in this embodiment 1mm). Accordingly, when the first drive element plate 222a has been moved through the connector 242 until the grooves 246 are aligned with the connector, the first drive element plate 222a may be moved sideways relative to the connector 242 so that the first drive element plate enters a side part of the cross-shaped hole 244.

[0112] The third drive element plate 222c is similarly fitted and moved sideways into the opposing side part of the cross-shaped hole 244.

[0113] The second drive plate element 222b is then fitted into the 3mm gap between the first and third drive element plates. It will be seen that the second drive element plate 222b also has grooves 246; these grooves are not required as the second drive element plate has cross-sectional dimensions of 7mm x 3mm and therefore lies within the central portion of the cross-shaped hole 244. The grooves are nevertheless provided so that all of the drive element plates 222a-c can be made with the same press tooling.

[0114] The connector 242 thereby secures all of the drive element plates 222a-c together to one side of the mounting part 212. When secured together the pivot shaft holes 228 are aligned and the handle part 214 can be initially secured to the drive element 222 by way of the pivot shaft 216. The spring 236 is subsequently fitted between the mounting plate 212 and the handle part 214. The handle part 214 is finally secured by the assembly pin 232 passing through the holes 234 in the handle part 214 and the slots 230 in the drive element 222.

[0115] It will therefore be understood that the rotational forces imparted to the handle part 214 are communicated to the drive element 222 by both of the pivot shaft 216 and the assembly pin 232. The assembly pin 232 therefore provides a first reduction in the maximum force upon the components by sharing the force which would otherwise be applied only to the pivot shaft 216. The maximum force upon the components is further reduced by spreading the force along the pivot pin 216 by virtue of the aligned pivot shaft holes 228 and along the assembly pin 232 by virtue of the aligned slots 230.

[0116] In this embodiment the assembly pin 232 and slots 230 provide the additional function of defining the operating position of the handle part 214, or alternatively stated of limiting the pivoting movement of the handle part 214 between its storage and operating positions. Thus, it will be understood that as the handle part 214 pivots relative to the mounting part 212 (and also relative to the drive element 222) the assembly pin 232 moves along the slots 230. In the operating position of Fig.26 the assembly pin 232 engages the top end (as viewed in Fig.25) of the slots 230.

[0117] The embodiment of Figs.25-28 also differs from the earlier embodiments in utilising a different handing element 268. The handing element 268 fits to the drive shaft part 224 of the drive element 222, next to the connector 242. The handing element 268 has a square hole to accommodate the drive shaft part 224 and rotates with the drive shaft part and drive element 222.

[0118] As better seen in Figs. 27 and 28, the handing element 268 has a part-circular outer periphery with two diametrically opposed projections 274. In the assembled operating handle 210 the handing element lies within a recess 272 in the underside of the mounting part 214. The recess 272 has flat sides and part-circular ends. The handing element 268 can rotate through approximately 90° within the recess 272, with the projections 274 moving inside the part-circular ends of the recess. The limits of movement are determined by engagement of the projections 274 with the flat sides of the recess 272.

[0119] Figs.27 and 28 show the extreme positions for the (approximately 90°) range of movement of the handle part 214 and the corresponding rotation of the handing element 268 within the recess 272. In this configuration the handle part 214 rotates clockwise as viewed from underneath the mounting part 212 (anticlockwise from above).

[0120] It will be understood that the orientation of the handing element 268 can be adjusted to change the relative direction of rotation of the handle part 214. Specifically, if the handing element 268 was to be fitted to the drive element 222 in an orientation which is 90° clockwise from the position shown in Fig.27, the handle part 214 would be rotatable in the anticlockwise direction as viewed from underneath the mounting part 212 (clockwise from above).

Claims

1. An operating handle (10; 210) having a mounting part (12; 112; 212) and a handle part (14; 114; 214) mounted upon the mounting part, the mounting part being adapted for surface mounting to a panel, the handle part being movable relative to the mounting part between a storage position and an operating position, the handle part being adapted to rotate a drive shaft (22; 222, 224) which in the fitted condition extends into the panel, the handle part in its operating position being rotatable relative to the mounting part.

2. The operating handle according to claim 1 in which the handle part in its storage position is not rotatable relative to the mounting part.

3. The operating handle according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the handle part is resiliently biased to its operating position.

4. The operating handle according to any one of claims 1-3 in which the handle part is automatically retained in the storage position.

5. The operating handle according to any one of claims 1-4 having a key-operated lock (34, 44; 134, 234) to secure the handle part against rotation relative to the mounting part.

6. The operating handle according to claim 5 in which the key-operated lock secures the handle part in its storage position.

7. The operating handle according to claim 5 or claim 6 in which the key-operated lock (234) is mounted to the mounting part (212).

8. The operating handle according to any one of claims 5-7 in which the key-operated lock (234) is mounted adjacent to the free end of the handle part (214).

9. The operating handle according to any one of claims 5-8 in which the key-operated lock (234) includes a lock element (96; 296) mounted to the mounting part (112; 212), the lock element being mounted for sliding movement relative to the mounting part between a secured position and a released position.

10. The operating handle according to any one of claims 1-9 in which the drive shaft (224) is a part of a drive element (222), the handle part (214) being pivotably mounted to the drive element by way of a pivot shaft (216), the handle part being further connected to the drive element by way of an assembly element (232), the drive element having a first opening (228) for the pivot shaft and a second opening (230) for the assembly element.

11. The operating handle according to claim 10 in which the second opening is a slot (230), the assembly element (232) moving along the slot as the handle part (214) moves between its storage and operating positions.

12. The operating handle according to claim 10 or claim 11 in which the drive element (222) is a multi-part structure comprising a plurality of drive element plates (222a, 222b, 222c).

13. The operating handle according to claim 12 in which the drive element plates (222a, 222b, 222c) all provide a portion of the drive shaft (224), a portion of the first opening (228) and a portion of the second opening (230).

14. The operating handle according to claim 13 having a connector (242) for the drive shaft plates (222a-c), the connector having an opening (244) for the drive shaft plates, the opening being in the form of a cross, the drive shaft plates having grooves (246) to cooperate with the opening.

15. The operating handle according to any of claims 1-14 having a handing element (68; 268) with a first position and a second position, the first position permitting rotation of the handle part (14; 114; 214) relative to the mounting part (12; 112; 212) in a first direction and the second position permitting rotation of the handle part relative to the mounting part in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

Drawing