AUTOMATED WINDOW MECHANISM WITH RELEASABLE CLUTCH

An automated window mechanism is described that includes a motor attached to a sliding window and a rack on a window frame. The window frame supports the sliding window and provides a path for sliding movement of the sliding window relative to the window frame. A transmission couples the motor to the rack such that rotation of the motor causes the transmission to move the sliding window relative to the rack. The mechanism also includes a clutch switch assembly, that includes a switch and a clutch actuator responsive to the switch and being configured to engage and disengage the transmission. When the transmission is disengaged, the motor cannot move the window. The mechanism also includes a position sensor, such as an encoder, coupled to the transmission and configured to monitor a position of the window relative to the frame using the transmission. Engagement or disengagement of the transmission allows the window to be moved manually within the frame. The position sensor continues to monitor the rotational position of the transmission when the transmission is engaged and when the transmission is disengaged.