Special tool for opening tilted doors and windows

Grandfather’s patent

With the German patent DE4001873A1 for a “device for opening tilt-and-turn windows, doors, or the like in a tilted position“, Johann Pichelmaier, grandfather of Mario Pichelmaier, laid the foundation in the early 1990s for a tool that is now indispensable in the repertoire of many locksmiths. The idea was as simple as it was ingenious: Instead of breaking a window pane or laboriously destroying the lock in an emergency, a technician should be able to open a tilted window or patio door quickly and without damage from the outside.

The tool quickly spread throughout Germany and beyond. Besides locksmiths, fire departments also use it – for example, to gain access in case of fires, medical emergencies, or when people are trapped inside and the main entrance door is blocked or locked. The method saves time, avoids noise, and prevents costly repairs. The patent was sold to the tool manufacturer Wendt, who further developed the tool over the decades, making it easier to use. This makes attaching the square spindle to the window handle, as described below, particularly easier when working from tall ladders.

Here’s how to open it:

• Attach the suction cups.
• Insert the square sleeve with the hook through the window opening and place it on the handle.
• Pull the window towards you.
• Turn the handle to the “open” position using the rope.
• Push the window open. Done!

Advantages of the device

• Damage-free opening – No glass breakage, no damage to the frame.
• Speed – In experienced hands, it’s often done in under a minute.
• Safety for the user – Today’s version allows for safe work on ladders.
• versatility – Works with windows, patio doors and many other tilt-and-turn constructions.
• Cost saving – No expensive repairs or replacement of window panes are necessary.
• Discretion – Quiet opening without attracting attention (useful for police or fire brigades during sensitive operations).

Typical situations in which the device is used

• Apartment door closed, The key is inside, but a window is tilted open.
• Medical emergency, Person has fallen or is unconscious, door locked, window tilted.
• Fire or smoke development, Entrance blocked, alternative access required
• Child or pet included, Window tilted open, but otherwise no access possible..
• Care facilities (Nursing homes, hospitals) use this method to quickly gain access to locked rooms.

In short: This patent has triggered a small revolution in emergency access – and drastically reduced the number of unnecessarily destroyed window panes.

Sie finden Mario Pichelmaier vom Amper Aufsperrdienst auch auf Facebook oder Google+.