The cats are still (after 2 years) a bit upset about the fact that they can't use the window to go to the balcony and back. I haven't figured out how to adjust this type of window nor how to make it safe. So, they will have to settle with the door.
I agree with your cats. I hate such overdesigned mechanisms. If it is your own house, I can't see why you couldn't loosen the locks that keep the panes together and have the panes open separately. You could just have a simple bolt in both. -- Try it, even if isn't your own house! The locks can always be put back, if needed, :-)
@octogenarian I see your point. I'm just worried that it's not safe solution. There's a radiator beneath which means the panes would lie on it instead of hanging down. However maybe there's a way to go around it. I have to think more :). And maybe go shopping in a hardware store.
If it was my house I would have it totally replaced with a different design, but can't do that.
If it was my house I would have it totally replaced with a different design, but can't do that.