Automatic closing mechanism of folding door and folding door

Abstract

This invention discloses an automatic closing mechanism for a folding door and a folding door itself, applicable to a folding door with a first door leaf and a second door leaf connected by hinges. The mechanism includes a housing fixed to the first door leaf, with a slide rail inside the housing; a sliding member placed within the slide rail; an elastic member located within the housing to provide a restoring force for the sliding member; a guide member fixed to the top of the first door leaf, the guide member having a first guide wheel; and a pull rope, one end connected to the sliding member and the other end wound around the first guide wheel and fixed to the second door leaf. Through careful configuration of the pull rope's fixing point, the hinge axis, and the sliding path of the sliding member, when the folding door is opened, the pull rope tension pulls the sliding member to overcome the elastic force and move, while the elastic member stores energy, converting the opening energy into elastic potential energy; when closing, the elastic member releases energy to drive the sliding member to move in the opposite direction, and the pull rope assists in closing the door leaf. This method provides smooth assistance, overcomes various resistances, reduces the difficulty of closing operations, provides convenience for users, and improves the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of folding door technology, and in particular to an automatic closing mechanism for a folding door and a folding door. Background Technology

[0002] Folding doors, with their significant advantages such as saving opening space and aesthetically pleasing appearance, are widely used for partitioning in homes, offices, and various commercial spaces. Common folding doors generally consist of multiple door panels connected sequentially by hinges, suspended from the top by a pulley system on a track, thus achieving flexible opening and closing. However, existing folding doors have several obvious shortcomings in actual use, especially in the closing process. When a user pushes the door panel to close it, particularly in the final stage of the movement near complete closure, various resistances must be overcome. These resistances include the inertia generated by the door panel's own movement, the friction at the hinge connection points, and the resistance generated during the track's sliding process. The superposition of these resistances often requires users to apply considerable pushing force when closing the folding door, a process that is both time-consuming and laborious, significantly impacting the user experience.

[0003] Furthermore, to ensure effective cushioning and precise positioning when fully closed, existing technologies typically require the addition of a damper to the folding door system. However, the addition of the damper further increases the force required for the closing action, making the closing process even more difficult. For the elderly, children, or people with mobility impairments, closing such folding doors becomes an extremely challenging task, severely impacting their convenience and comfort in using folding doors.

[0004] In the existing technology field, although there has been research on automatic door closers designed for hinged or sliding doors, the structure of these automatic door closers is usually quite complex, and because their design is based on the unique motion trajectory and force distribution of hinged or sliding doors, it is difficult to directly adapt them to folding doors. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to disclose an automatic closing mechanism for folding doors that can effectively store energy during the opening process of the folding door and provide smooth assistance when closing.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention discloses an automatic closing mechanism for a folding door, applicable to a folding door having a first door leaf and a second door leaf connected by a hinge, comprising: a housing fixed to the first door leaf, the housing having a slide rail; a sliding member sliding within the slide rail; an elastic member disposed within the housing for providing a restoring elastic force to the sliding member; a first guide member fixed to the top of the first door leaf, the first guide member having a first guide wheel; and a pull rope, one end of the pull rope connected to the sliding member, the other end passing around the first guide wheel and fixed to the second door leaf. The fixing point of the pull rope, the axis of the hinge, and the sliding path of the sliding member are configured such that: when the folding door rotates from a closed state to an open state, the pull rope is tensioned and pulls the sliding member to move against the elastic force of the elastic member to store energy; when the folding door rotates from an open state to a closed state, the elastic member releases energy to drive the sliding member to move in the opposite direction, thereby assisting the door leaf in closing via the pull rope.

[0007] By employing the above scheme and carefully configuring the fixing points of the pull rope, the axis of the hinge, and the sliding path of the sliding component, the pull rope is tensioned when the folding door rotates from the closed to the open state. The tensioned pull rope pulls the sliding component to overcome the elastic force of the elastic component and move within the track. During this process, the elastic component deforms, converting the energy of the folding door opening into elastic potential energy for storage, thus achieving effective utilization of the energy during the opening process. The first guide wheel greatly reduces the frictional resistance of the pull rope during movement, making the pull rope movement smoother and more flexible, reducing energy loss, and ensuring that the automatic closing mechanism can more efficiently convert the energy stored during opening into closing assistance. At the same time, the guide wheel plays a good guiding and constraining role for the pull rope, effectively preventing the pull rope from deviating or tangling, ensuring the stability of the pull rope operation, and extending the service life of the pull rope and the entire automatic closing mechanism. When the folding door rotates from the open to the closed state, the elastic component begins to release the previously stored elastic potential energy. The released energy drives the sliding component to move in the opposite direction, and the sliding component pulls the second door leaf through the pull rope, providing assistance for the closing of the door leaf. This assistive method can smoothly help the door close, effectively overcoming various resistances such as door inertia, hinge friction, and track sliding resistance. This allows users to close the folding door without applying a large pushing force, greatly reducing the difficulty of closing the operation. It provides great convenience, especially for the elderly, children, or people with mobility impairments, and significantly improves the user experience.

[0008] Furthermore, the top of the first door leaf is provided with a first profile, and the top of the second door leaf is provided with a second profile; the housing is assembled in the first outer groove of the first profile; the other end of the pull rope is fixed in the second outer groove of the second profile, and when the folding door rotates from the closed state to the open state, the length of the pull rope exposed between the first outer groove and the second outer groove increases.

[0009] By adopting the above solution, the connection between the automatic closing mechanism and the door leaf is made more stable, and the overall stability is enhanced by the structural characteristics of the profile. At the same time, the outer groove provides a dedicated installation space for the housing and the end of the pull rope, eliminating the need for additional complex structures. Installation is convenient and does not affect the appearance of the door leaf. It can also effectively protect the housing and pull rope, reduce interference and damage from external factors, and extend the service life of the mechanism. Furthermore, when the folding door is opened, the distance between the two outer grooves increases, thereby tightening the pull rope to store energy, resulting in better energy storage effect.

[0010] Furthermore, the slide is a groove extending along the length of the first profile; the elastic element is a spring, which is disposed in the groove, with one end connected to the sliding element and the other end connected to the end of the groove away from the hinge.

[0011] By adopting the above scheme, the slide is set as a groove extending along the length of the first profile, making full use of the existing structure of the first profile. There is no need to build a complex track, saving materials and space. It also makes the movement path of the sliding component more compatible with the door structure, and the operation is more stable and smooth. The elastic component is a spring placed in the groove, with one end connected to the sliding component and the other end connected to the far hinge end of the groove. This layout is compact and reasonable, which can efficiently realize the energy storage and release of the spring, provide a stable reset elastic force for the sliding component, ensure the reliable realization of the automatic closing mechanism's assist function, and improve the overall performance and durability.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the initial preload of the elastic member, the adjustment mechanism being fixed in the first outer groove; the first guide member being fixed in the first outer groove.

[0013] By adopting the above scheme, both the first guide member and the housing are located in the first outer groove, providing a good guiding effect for the pull rope.

[0014] Furthermore, the adjustment mechanism includes an adjustment housing and an adjustment rod; the first guide member is integrally fixed to the adjustment housing; one end of the adjustment rod is rotatably connected to the housing, and the other end is threadedly connected to the adjustment housing; rotating the adjustment rod can adjust the gap between the housing and the adjustment housing.

[0015] By adopting the above solution, rotating the adjusting rod, which is rotatably connected to the housing and threadedly connected to the adjusting housing, drives the housing to move along the length of the first outer groove. This adjusts the distance between the housing and the adjusting housing, thereby changing the tension of the pull rope on the elastic element and precisely and flexibly adjusting the initial preload of the elastic element. This not only meets the needs of different usage scenarios and users for the amount of closing assistance of folding doors, improving the user experience, but also allows for convenient readjustment of the preload when the elastic element experiences elasticity decay after long-term use, restoring the performance of the automatic closing mechanism, extending its service life, and enhancing the practicality and adaptability of the product.

[0016] Furthermore, the two ends of the housing are respectively provided with a first end cap and a second end cap; the other end of the elastic element is connected to the first end cap; the second end cap is provided with a clearance hole for the pull rope to pass through, and a second slot for rotating and engaging with the end of the adjusting rod.

[0017] By adopting the above scheme, the other end of the elastic element is connected to the first end cap, providing a stable connection point for the elastic element and ensuring its stable energy storage and release function. The second end cap is provided with a clearance hole for the pull rope to pass through, ensuring that the pull rope can move smoothly without affecting the normal operation of the automatic closing mechanism. At the same time, the second slot is rotatably engaged with the end of the adjusting rod, allowing the adjusting rod to rotate flexibly to drive the adjusting mechanism and achieve precise adjustment of the initial preload of the elastic element. The overall design improves the integrity of the structure and the reliability of the function, and facilitates installation, maintenance and adjustment.

[0018] Furthermore, the adjusting rod passes through the second end cover, with a limiting flange at one end near the second end cover that rotates and engages with the second slot, and an operating part at the other end away from the second end cover. The rod body has an external thread that engages with the threaded part of the adjusting housing.

[0019] By adopting the above scheme, the adjustment rod passing through the second end cover ensures stable installation and smooth rotation. A limiting flange is set at the end near the second end cover, which rotates and engages with the second slot, effectively preventing axial movement of the adjustment rod and ensuring a stable connection during rotation, avoiding loosening or falling off and affecting the adjustment function. An operating part is set at the end away from the second end cover, allowing users to directly operate the adjustment rod by hand. The rod body is provided with an external thread that mates with the thread of the adjustment housing. By rotating the operating part, the adjustment rod and the adjustment housing can be displaced relative to each other, thereby precisely driving the adjustment housing and the first guide member to move, realizing flexible adjustment of the initial preload of the elastic element, and improving the convenience and reliability of the automatic closing mechanism adjustment.

[0020] Furthermore, the adjusting housing has an extension guide rod protruding from one end facing the housing, and the corresponding position of the housing has a slot that slides with the extension guide rod.

[0021] By adopting the above scheme, when the adjusting housing moves along the length of the first outer groove, it can obtain a good guiding effect through the precise sliding cooperation between the extended guide rod and the slot, effectively avoiding the adjustment housing from deviating, shaking or getting stuck during the movement, ensuring the stability and smoothness of the adjustment process, and thus ensuring that the adjustment of the initial preload of the elastic element is more accurate and reliable, thereby improving the working stability and performance of the entire folding door automatic closing mechanism.

[0022] Furthermore, one end of the pull rope is provided with a first anti-detachment component, and the other end is provided with a second anti-detachment component. The sliding component is provided with a first anti-detachment groove corresponding to the first anti-detachment component, and the second outer groove of the second profile is provided with a second anti-detachment groove corresponding to the second anti-detachment component at the end near the hinge.

[0023] By adopting the above solution, it is possible to effectively prevent the pull rope from detaching from the sliding component and the second profile during the operation of the automatic closing mechanism. When the pull rope is subjected to tension, the anti-detachment component will be locked in the anti-detachment groove, ensuring a stable connection between the pull rope and the sliding component and the second profile. This prevents the automatic closing mechanism from failing due to the pull rope detaching, ensuring the stable and reliable operation of the automatic closing function of the folding door during opening and closing, and extending the service life of the mechanism.

[0024] A folding door includes a door frame, at least two door panels slidably disposed within a top rail of the door frame, and an automatic closing mechanism. Two adjacent door panels serve as the first and second door panels. The top of the first door panel has a first profile, and the top of the second door panel has a second profile. The first profile, along its width, sequentially includes a first hinge groove for mounting one end of a hinge, a first intermediate groove, and a first outer groove for mounting a housing. The second profile, along its width, sequentially includes a second hinge groove for mounting the other end of the hinge, a second intermediate groove, and a second outer groove for fixing a pull cord. The housing of the automatic closing mechanism is installed in the first outer groove. One end of the pull cord is connected to a sliding member, and the other end is fixed in the second outer groove. When the folding door is opened, the first and second door panels fold relative to each other, causing the first and second outer grooves to move away from each other, thereby tensioning the pull cord and pulling the sliding member to compress or stretch the elastic member to store energy. When the folding door is closed, the elastic member drives the sliding member to reset, and the pull cord provides a closing assistance to the second door panel.

[0025] By adopting the above scheme, dedicated slots for installing hinges, automatic closing mechanism housings, and fixing pull ropes are rationally divided, ensuring precise installation and positioning of each component and a compact and reasonable layout. This not only guarantees the stability of the structure but also makes full use of space. During the opening and closing of the folding door, the first outer slot and the second outer slot move away from or closer to each other, allowing the pull rope to be precisely tensioned or relaxed. This efficiently realizes the energy storage and release of the elastic element, providing stable assistance for closing the door and effectively improving the reliability and ease of use of the automatic closing function of the folding door.

[0026] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: 1. No need to manually and laboriously close the folding door completely. When the door is opened, the automatic closing mechanism can rely on its own design, such as the elastic force of the elastic element, to make the door leaf automatically and slowly return to the closed state, which greatly facilitates daily use. It is especially suitable for places where doors are frequently opened and closed, such as shopping malls, restaurants, and warehouses. It reduces the time and effort of manual operation. Just push the door leaf open gently, and then the door leaf will close automatically. There is no need to free your hands to close the door again, which improves the convenience and flexibility of use. 2. The automatic closing mechanism ensures that the folding door remains closed when unattended, preventing accidental opening due to negligence or external force. This prevents unauthorized personnel from entering specific areas, ensuring the safety of the premises. It is suitable for locations with high security requirements, such as computer rooms, finance offices, and laboratories. During the door closing process, the automatic closing mechanism typically acts as a buffer, preventing the door from closing rapidly and violently, reducing noise caused by door collisions, and also lowering the risk of damage to the door and frame due to impacts, thus extending the service life of the folding door. Furthermore, this buffered closing can prevent accidents such as pinched fingers, which is especially important for families or places with children or the elderly. 3. The components of the automatic closing mechanism, such as the housing, elastic elements, and pull rope, are usually designed to be compact and can be cleverly integrated into the interior or surrounding space of the folding door profile. This does not occupy additional indoor space, allowing the folding door to maintain a relatively neat shape when opening and closing, without obstructing indoor passage and activities. It is suitable for places with limited space, does not affect the overall aesthetics of the folding door, and can be integrated with various decoration styles to enhance the overall visual effect of the space. 4. The modular structure of the present invention facilitates adjustment of the installation position and the preload of the elastic element according to the door size, resulting in good adaptability. Attached Figure Description

[0027] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the automatic closing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a partial exploded view of the automatic closing device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the back-side connection structure of the adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the front connection structure of the adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the dynamic closing device structure of the folding door in the open state according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the folding door in the open state according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 Figure 6 Enlarged view of area A in the middle.

[0029] Explanation of key figure labels: 1. First door leaf; 2. Second door leaf; 3. Hinge; 4. First profile; 41. First hinge groove; 42. First intermediate groove; 43. First outer groove; 5. Second profile; 51. Second hinge groove; 52. Second intermediate groove; 53. Second outer groove; 54. Second anti-detachment groove; 6. Housing; 61. Slide groove; 62. First end cap; 63. Second end cap; 631. Clearance hole; 632. Second slot; 633. Abutment block; 64. Slot; 7. Sliding component; 71. First anti-detachment groove; 8. Elastic component; 9. First guide component; 91. First guide wheel; 10. Pull rope; 101. First anti-detachment component; 102. Second anti-detachment component; 11. Adjustment mechanism; 111. Adjustment housing; 112. Adjustment rod; 1121. Operating part; 1122. Limiting flange; 113. Extension guide rod; 1131. Locking platform. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0031] In this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "middle," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing the invention and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0032] Furthermore, in addition to indicating direction or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in certain situations to indicate a dependency or connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0033] Furthermore, the terms "installation," "setup," "equipped with," "connection," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0034] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are primarily used to distinguish different devices, components, or parts (which may be the same or different in specific type and construction), and are not intended to indicate or imply the relative importance or quantity of the indicated devices, components, or parts. Unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0035] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0036] Please refer to the embodiments of the present invention. Figures 1 to 7 This invention provides an automatic closing mechanism for folding doors, aiming to solve the fundamental problem of the effort required to close folding doors. Existing folding doors require overcoming door leaf inertia, hinge friction, and track resistance at the final stage of closing, resulting in high user pushing force and a poor user experience. This application eliminates the need for a complex external door closer; instead, it integrates an energy storage and release mechanism inside the door leaf to store the work done by the user during opening and release it to provide assistance during closing.

[0037] Specifically, an automatic closing mechanism for a folding door is applied to a first door leaf 1 and a second door leaf 2 connected by a hinge 3. It includes a housing 6, a sliding member 7, an elastic member 8, and a pull cord 10. The housing 6 is fixedly installed on the top edge or a pre-set mounting position inside the first door leaf 1 by means of screws, clips, or adhesive. Inside the housing 6, a track extending along its length is machined or formed. The sliding member 7, such as a slider, is placed in the track of the housing, allowing it to slide freely along the track. Then, the elastic member 8, such as a compression spring, tension spring, or spring sheet, is disposed inside the housing 6. One end of the elastic member 8 acts on the sliding member 7, while the other end abuts against a fixed point on the inner wall of the housing 6, such as the end wall of the track or a fixed stop, thereby providing the sliding member 7 with a restoring force that always tends towards a certain initial position.

[0038] The pull rope 10 can be a steel wire rope, nylon rope, or other high-strength flexible cable. One end of the pull rope 10 is securely connected to the sliding member 7, for example, by knotting, using a crimp connector, or a connecting ring. The other end of the pull rope 10 is fixed to the second door leaf 2. The fixing point can be selected at the top edge, side, or inside of the second door leaf 2, and a reliable connection is achieved using screw fasteners, slots, or other methods.

[0039] During installation, the spatial relationship between the fixing point of the pull rope 10 on the second door leaf 2, the rotation axis of the hinge 3, and the sliding path of the slider 7 within the housing 6 needs to be carefully configured. The configuration principle is as follows: when the folding door begins to open from the closed state, i.e., when the two door leaves fold relative to each other around the hinge 3, the fixing point will be displaced relative to the starting point of the sliding path, i.e., the initial position of the slider 7. The component of this displacement will be along or projected onto the sliding direction of the slider 7, thereby tensioning the pull rope 10. The tension of the pull rope 10 overcomes the elastic force of the elastic element 8, pulling the slider 7 to move within the track, causing the elastic element 8, such as a spring, to be compressed or stretched and deformed, converting the kinetic energy of the door opening into elastic potential energy for storage. Conversely, when the door leaves rotate from the open state to the closed state, the elastic element 8 recovers its deformation, releasing the stored potential energy, driving the slider 7 to move in the opposite direction, pulling the second door leaf 2 through the pull rope 10, thereby assisting the entire door assembly in closing smoothly. The mechanical linkage between the pull rope, the slider, and the spring directly links the door opening action with energy storage. Part of the force exerted by the user when opening the door is absorbed and stored by the mechanism, and then returned as assistance when closing. Therefore, the user only needs to apply an initial starting force to open the door; the subsequent closing process can be automatically assisted by the mechanism, significantly reducing the thrust required for closing and solving the core problem of time-consuming and labor-intensive processes in the prior art. This mechanism has a simple structure and is easy to integrate into existing folding door products.

[0040] Because the fixing methods for the housing 6 and the ends of the pull rope 10 are quite diverse, the installation stability, accuracy, and aesthetics may be insufficient. This embodiment proposes a specific solution for achieving a stable, neat, and efficient installation on the common aluminum profile structure of folding doors. Specifically, a first profile 4 and a second profile 5 are respectively installed on the top of the first door leaf 1 and the second door leaf 2 of the folding door. These profiles are typically profiles, serving as both the structural skeleton of the door leaf and providing space for installing various accessories through their internal cavities. The cross-sections of the first profile 4 and the second profile 5 typically have multiple functional slots. In this embodiment, the first profile 4 has a first outer slot 43, and the second profile 5 has a second outer slot 53. These two outer slots refer to the two slots located on the outermost side of the overall door leaf when the two door leaves are closed; they move away from each other when the door leaves are folded open. Figure 5 As shown, when the folding door is open, there are at least two other channels between the first outer channel 43 and the second outer channel 53. When the folding door is closed, the first outer channel 43 and the second outer channel 53 form the same channel.

[0041] During installation, the housing 6 of the automatic closing mechanism is directly fixed into the first outer groove 43 of the first profile 4. The housing 6 can be designed to match the cross-sectional shape of the first outer groove 43, and secured from the side of the profile with screws, or inserted into the groove using elastic clips. The distal end of the pull rope 10, i.e., the end fixed to the second door leaf 2, is fixed into the second outer groove 53 of the second profile 5. For example, a rope buckle or fixing groove can be provided in the second outer groove 53 to fix the end of the pull rope thereon.

[0042] The core components of the mechanism are installed within the outer groove of the profile, ensuring a stable installation. The profile groove provides a standard and robust mounting base, preventing the mechanism from wobbling. Utilizing the profile's own cavity, it does not occupy additional external space of the door leaf, maintaining the door's aesthetic appeal and neatness. Because the distance between the first outer grooves 43 and 53 changes most significantly when the door leaf folds, this installation method maximizes the extension and retraction stroke of the pull rope 10, thereby storing and releasing more energy for a more significant assist effect. The groove structure also provides physical protection for the internal shell and pull rope, preventing dust and impacts.

[0043] To further clarify the internal structure of the mechanism and make it easier to manufacture and assemble, in some embodiments, the slide rail within the housing 6 is specifically a groove 61 extending straight along the first profile 4, i.e., the length direction of the housing 6. This groove 61 can be a through hole or recess directly machined within the housing 6. The elastic element 8 is preferably a cylindrical helical tension spring or a spring. It is placed inside the groove 61, i.e., one end of the tension spring or spring is connected to or abuts against the sliding element 7. The other end of the spring is connected to or abuts against the end of the groove 61 furthest from the hinge 3. This end can be the end wall of the housing 6 or a specially installed end cap. Specifying the slide rail as the groove 61 provides precise linear guidance for the sliding element 7, ensuring smooth and unhindered movement. This embodiment uses a tension spring, with one end connected to the sliding element 7 and the other end connected to the far end of the groove. This layout is the most direct and efficient pull-and-release energy storage method, with a clear force transmission path, high energy conversion efficiency, and ensures the reliability and consistency of the assist effect.

[0044] To avoid excessive friction when the pull rope changes direction directly, which could lead to energy loss, increased wear, and even noise, in some embodiments, a first guide member 9 is added within the first outer groove 43 of the first profile 4, between the housing 6 and the hinge 3. This first guide member 9 can be fixed in the first outer groove 43 by screws or snap-fit. A freely rotatable first guide wheel 91, specifically a fixed pulley, is mounted on the first guide member 9.

[0045] During installation, after the pull rope 10 is led out from the sliding member 7, it first passes around the first guide wheel 91 on the first guide member 9 to change its direction, and then extends to the second outer groove 53 of the second profile 5 and is fixed. The introduction of the first guide wheel 91 transforms the sliding friction between the pull rope 10 and the guide member into rolling friction, significantly reducing friction. This makes it easier for users to open the door, reduces energy loss during storage and release, and provides more noticeable assistance. Reduced wear extends the lifespan of the pull rope and guide wheel. Noise generated by the friction between the rope and the hard groove is eliminated. The guide wheel also guides and limits the pull rope, preventing it from deviating, falling out of the groove, or becoming entangled with surrounding components.

[0046] Because different users have different preferences for closing speed and force; the spring's elasticity may decrease after long-term use; and different door weights require different amounts of assistance, the first guide member 9 is integrated with an adjustment mechanism 11. For details, please refer to... Figure 2-4As shown, the adjustment mechanism 11 includes an adjustment housing 111 and an adjustment rod 112. A first guide member 9 can be fixed to the end of the adjustment housing 111 or integrally formed therewith. The adjustment housing 111 is placed within the first outer groove 43 of the first profile 4, located between the housing 6 and the hinge 3, specifically fixed within the first outer groove 43 at one end near the hinge 3. The fixing method includes, but is not limited to, bolts or screws. The end of the adjustment rod 112 near the housing 6 forms a rotatable connection with the housing 6, such as through a bearing or slot, but it cannot move axially. The other end of the adjustment rod 112 is threadedly connected to the adjustment housing 111; for example, the adjustment rod 112 has external threads and is screwed into the threaded hole of the adjustment housing 111.

[0047] When the adjusting rod 112 is rotated manually or using a tool, the threaded joint drives the housing 6 to move back and forth along the length of the first outer groove 43 because one end of the adjusting rod 112 is axially limited by the housing 6. This adjusts the distance between the housing 6 and the adjusting housing 111. Moving the housing 6 away from the hinge 3 tightens the initial tension of the pull rope 10, increasing the pre-tension of the tension spring and thus increasing the closing assistance. Moving the housing 6 closer to the hinge 3 loosens the pull rope, reducing the pre-tension of the tension spring and thus decreasing the closing assistance. In other embodiments, the principle is reversed when the tension spring is a spring.

[0048] With a simple rotation operation, the output force of the automatic closing mechanism can be adjusted steplessly and linearly, enabling personalized customization and long-term performance maintenance. Users can adjust the closing force and speed according to actual needs; installers can perform initial calibration based on door weight; and after spring fatigue, the original performance can be restored through adjustment and compensation, extending the service life of the entire mechanism.

[0049] In some embodiments, the ends of the housing 6 are designed. Specifically, a first end cap 62 and a second end cap 63 are respectively installed at both ends of the housing 6 along its length. These two end caps close both ends of the slide groove 61. The end of the elastic member 8 away from the sliding member 7 is specifically connected to the inside of the first end cap 62. The first end cap 62 thus becomes a fixed support for the tension spring. In this embodiment, a clearance hole 631 is provided on the second end cap 63 for the pull rope 10 to pass through this hole and lead to the first guide member 9. The clearance hole 631 can be designed as a smooth round hole or with a rubber sleeve to reduce wear on the pull rope. At the same time, a second slot 632 is provided on the second end cap 63 for engaging with the end of the elastic member 8 away from the sliding member 7.

[0050] In some embodiments, a limiting flange 1122 is provided at one end of the adjusting rod 112 near the housing 6. The limiting flange 1122 can be annular or spaced-around protrusions. During installation, the adjusting rod 112 is extended outward from the inside of the housing 6, so that its limiting flange 1122 is engaged in the second slot 632 of the second end cover 63. This connection method allows the adjusting rod 112 to rotate freely, but it is axially limited by the second slot 632 to prevent it from coming out inward. In this embodiment, the end of the housing 6 corresponding to the first end cover 62 is open. Two screw through holes are pre-drilled on the first end cover 62. During installation, the elastic element 8 and the sliding element 7 are first placed into the housing slide groove 61, and then the first end cover 62 is aligned with the end of the housing. A tool is inserted from the open side of the housing 6, and two locking screws are passed through the through holes of the first end cover 62 and screwed into the threaded holes on the inner wall of the end of the housing 6, thereby firmly fixing the first end cover 62. This method of lateral screw installation is particularly convenient when the space at the end of the housing is narrow. The second end cap 63 and the housing 6 are manufactured as a single piece, or they can be permanently fixed by welding, high-strength adhesive, or other methods to ensure its stability as the fulcrum for the rotation of the adjusting rod 112. In other embodiments, the second end cap 63 and the housing 6 can be connected by other structural methods, which are not specifically limited here. The first end cap 62 provides a fixing reference for the spring, and its stability directly affects the energy storage stability. The second end cap 63 integrates the pull rope outlet and the adjusting rod rotation support, resulting in a compact structure. This allows the assembly of the first end cap to be completed conveniently and reliably even in confined spaces; while the integration of the second end cap 63 with the housing ensures the absolute stability of the adjusting fulcrum, making the adjustment action precise and accurate. The overall design balances assembly convenience with structural reliability.

[0051] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the adjusting rod 112 passes through the second end cover 63, with its two ends located inside and outside the housing, respectively. An operating part 1121 is provided at the end of the adjusting rod 112 furthest from the second end cover 63, i.e., on the outside of the housing. The operating part 1121 can be a hexagonal head, a flathead / cross groove, a knurled knob, or an external polygonal shape that facilitates operation with a wrench. The adjusting rod 112 is rotatably engaged with the second retaining groove 632 near the limiting flange 1122 of the second end cover 63. A complete external thread is machined on the rod body between the limiting flange 1122 and the operating part 1121, and this external thread forms a threaded pair with the internal threaded hole on the adjusting housing 111.

[0052] The operating part 1121 is exposed, allowing users or installers to make adjustments using common tools without disassembling any parts, making operation extremely convenient. The through-type design, combined with the rotatable connection between the limiting flange 1122 and the slot, ensures that the axial position of the adjusting rod 112 is strictly limited when rotated under force, preventing any movement or disengagement from the adjusting housing 111, resulting in a stable and precise adjustment process. This design makes the adjustment function a reliable and easy-to-use standard module.

[0053] In some embodiments, to improve the stability of the adjustment of the gap between the adjusting housing 111 and the housing 6, an auxiliary guide structure is added. Specifically, at least one extension guide rod 113, which can be a cylindrical rod or a square rod, is protruding from the end of the adjusting housing 111 facing the housing 6. At the corresponding end of the housing 6, typically in the housing wall or a sliding member, a slot 64 matching the shape of the extension guide rod 113 is formed.

[0054] During installation, the extension guide rod 113 of the adjusting housing 111 is inserted into the slot 64 of the housing 6. The two form a precision sliding pair. The extension guide rod 113 and the slot 64 constitute an auxiliary linear guide. When the adjusting rod 112 drives the adjusting housing 111 to move, this guiding structure effectively prevents the adjusting housing 111 from rotating around the axis of the adjusting rod 112 or from radially swaying, ensuring its smooth and precise linear movement. The adjustment is smooth and without any jamming. Adjustment accuracy is higher, and preload control is more precise. It protects the threaded pair, preventing uneven thread wear caused by lateral forces and extending the life of the adjusting mechanism. It enhances the structural rigidity and stability of the entire adjusting module.

[0055] To prevent the sliding pair from slipping, in some embodiments, a laterally extending locking plate 1131 is provided at the end of the extension guide rod 113, see reference. Figure 3-4 As shown, the slot 64 is located below the second end cover 63, and the card platform is an extension guide rod 113 facing the side of the second end cover 63. Similarly, the second end cover 63 is provided with an abutment block 633 corresponding to the card platform to restrict the card platform from disengaging from the slot 64.

[0056] In some embodiments, the reliability of the connection between the two ends of the pull rope and the sliding member and the second door leaf is crucial. Under long-term reciprocating pulling, simple knots or screw crimps may loosen, leading to mechanism failure. Therefore, the connection method at both ends of the pull rope 10 is reinforced. A first anti-detachment member 101 and a second anti-detachment member 102 are respectively installed at both ends of the pull rope 10. These anti-detachment members can be metal ball joints, cylindrical pins, cotter pins, or blocks larger than the rope diameter. A first anti-detachment groove 71, such as a T-slot or a notch slightly larger than the first anti-detachment member 101, is machined on the sliding member 7. The end of the pull rope with the first anti-detachment member 101 is inserted into the first anti-detachment groove 71, and the anti-detachment connection is achieved because the size of the anti-detachment member is larger than the neck of the groove. A second anti-detachment groove 54 is also provided in the second outer groove 53 of the second profile 5, preferably near the end of the hinge 3, where the force is directly applied. The second anti-detachment member 102 at the distal end of the pull rope 10 is inserted into this second anti-detachment groove 54 to achieve fixation.

[0057] The anti-detachment component and the anti-detachment groove work together to form a mechanically interlocked connection. No matter how much tension the pull rope bears, as long as the anti-detachment component does not come out of the groove, the connection is absolutely reliable. This connection method is more resistant to fatigue and vibration than simply relying on friction, such as screw tightening, significantly improving the reliability and safety of the automatic closing mechanism under long-term, high-frequency use, and fundamentally avoiding the loss of the door closing assist function due to connection point failure.

[0058] The present invention also relates to a folding door, including a door frame, a slide rail disposed at the top of the door frame, and at least two door panels suspended in the slide rail by a top pulley assembly. Two adjacent door panels are designated as the first door panel 1 and the second door panel 2, connected by a hinge 3. A first profile 4 is mounted on the top of the first door panel 1. Along its cross-sectional width direction, i.e., perpendicular to the door panel plane, it sequentially includes three main slots: a first hinge slot 41 (the innermost slot, used to install one end of the hinge 3), a first intermediate slot 42 (the middle position, used to install other accessories such as a top pulley bracket or decorative cover), and a first outer slot 43 (the outermost slot, used to install the housing 6 of the automatic closing mechanism). A second profile 5 is mounted on the top of the second door panel 2. Similarly, it includes: a second hinge slot 51 (the innermost slot, used to install the other end of the hinge 3), a second intermediate slot 52 (the middle position), and a second outer slot 53 (the outermost slot, used to fix the end of the pull rope 10).

[0059] Integrated installation of automatic closing mechanism: The housing 6 is fixed in the first outer groove 43 of the first profile 4; one end of the pull rope 10 is connected to the slider 7, and the other end is passed through a possible guide and finally fixed in the second outer groove 53 of the second profile 5.

[0060] When the user pulls the door handle outward, the folding door begins to slide along the track and fold open around the hinge 3. At this time, the first door leaf 1 and the second door leaf 2 rotate and fold relative to each other, causing the first outer groove 43 of the mounting housing 6 and the second outer groove 53 of the fixed pull rope end to move away from each other spatially. This increase in distance immediately tightens the pull rope 10 connecting the two. The tension of the pull rope 10 pulls the sliding member 7 to move within the housing 6, stretching the elastic member 8, converting the work done by the user in opening the door into elastic potential energy for storage. At the same time, the hinge 3 itself has a temporary locking effect, allowing the first door leaf 1, the second door leaf 2, and other door leaves to maintain a relatively stable state, such as the open state where they are folded parallel to each other.

[0061] Door closing assistance: When the user closes the door, applying the initial closing force releases the locking state of hinge 3, for example, when the angle between the first door leaf 1 and the second door leaf 2 reaches 10° or more. The stretched or compressed elastic element 8 then releases energy, pulling back or pushing the sliding element 7 to its initial position. The sliding element 7 applies a pulling force to the fixed point of the second door leaf 2 via the pull cord 10. This pulling force causes the second door leaf 2 to tend to unfold around the hinge 3, thus providing a closing assistance. This assistance helps overcome resistance such as door leaf inertia and track friction, allowing the door to close smoothly and automatically to a fully closed state.

[0062] The folding door product provided in this embodiment achieves intelligent functions such as energy storage upon opening and assisted closing by seamlessly integrating an automatic closing mechanism into a standard folding door profile system. It completely solves the pain point of traditional folding doors requiring effort to close at the product level, resulting in a significant improvement in user experience. The entire solution is compact, concealed, and does not affect the original appearance or structural strength of the door. It is easy to modify and upgrade based on existing folding door production lines, possessing high practical value and market potential.

[0063] The technical means disclosed in this invention are not limited to those disclosed in the above embodiments, but also include technical solutions composed of any combination of the above technical features. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of this invention, and these improvements and modifications are also considered within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A folding door automatic closing mechanism, characterized by, The application relates to a folding door with a first door leaf (1) and a second door leaf (2) connected through a hinge (3), which comprises the following components: a shell (6) fixed on the first door leaf (1), wherein a sliding channel is arranged in the shell (6); a sliding piece (7) arranged in the sliding channel; a resilient piece (8) arranged in the shell (6) and used for providing a reset elastic force to the sliding piece (7); a first guide piece (9) fixed on the top of the first door leaf (1), wherein a first guide wheel (91) is arranged on the first guide piece (9); a pull rope (10) with one end connected to the sliding piece (7) and the other end fixed on the second door leaf (2) after passing through the first guide wheel (91); wherein the fixed point of the pull rope (10), the axis of the hinge (3) and the sliding path of the sliding piece (7) are configured as follows: when the folding door rotates from a closed state to an open state, the pull rope (10) is tensioned and drags the sliding piece (7) to move against the elastic force of the resilient piece (8) to store energy; when the folding door rotates from the open state to the closed state, the resilient piece (8) releases energy to drive the sliding piece (7) to move reversely, and the pull rope (10) assists the door leaf to close.

2. A folding door automatic closure mechanism according to claim 1, wherein The top of the first door leaf (1) is provided with a first profile (4), and the top of the second door leaf (2) is provided with a second profile (5); the shell (6) is assembled in a first outer side groove (43) of the first profile (4); the other end of the pull rope (10) is fixed in a second outer side groove (53) of the second profile (5), and the exposed length of the pull rope (10) between the first outer side groove (43) and the second outer side groove (53) increases when the folding door rotates from the closed state to the open state.

3. A folding door automatic closure mechanism according to claim 2, wherein The sliding channel is a sliding groove (61) extending along the length direction of the first profile (4); the resilient piece (8) is a spring arranged in the sliding groove (61), one end of the spring is connected to the sliding piece (7), and the other end of the spring is connected to the end of the sliding groove (61) away from the hinge (3).

4. A folding door automatic closure mechanism according to claim 2, wherein The adjusting mechanism (11) for adjusting the initial pre-tightening force of the resilient piece (8) is further arranged in the first outer side groove (43), and the first guide piece (9) is fixed in the first outer side groove (43).

5. The automatic closing mechanism of the folding door according to claim 4, wherein the adjusting mechanism (11) comprises an adjusting shell (111) and an adjusting rod (112); the first guide piece (9) is integrally fixed with the adjusting shell (111); one end of the adjusting rod (112) is rotationally connected to the shell (6), and the other end of the adjusting rod (112) is threadedly connected to the adjusting shell (111), and rotating the adjusting rod (112) can adjust the interval distance between the shell (6) and the adjusting shell (111).

6. A folding door automatic closure mechanism according to claim 5, wherein both ends of the shell (6) are respectively provided with a first end cover (62) and a second end cover (63); the other end of the resilient piece (8) is connected to the first end cover (62). The second end cover (63) is provided with an avoiding hole (631) for the pull rope (10) to pass through, and a second clamping groove (632) for rotating clamping with the end of the adjusting rod (112).

7. A folding door automatic closure mechanism according to claim 6, wherein The adjusting rod (112) penetrates the second end cover (63), one end of which close to the second end cover (63) is provided with a limiting flange (1122) and the second clamping groove (632) is rotatingly clamped, and the other end away from the second end cover (63) is provided with an operating part (1121), and the rod body is provided with external threads for screwing with the adjusting shell (111).

8. A folding door automatic closure mechanism according to claim 5, wherein The adjusting shell (111) is provided with an extending guide rod (113) at one end close to the shell (6), and the corresponding position of the shell (6) is provided with an insertion slot (64) for slidingly cooperating with the extending guide rod (113).

9. The automatic closing mechanism for a folding door according to claim 2, wherein One end of the pull rope (10) is provided with a first anti-off piece (101), and the other end is provided with a second anti-off piece (102), and the sliding piece (7) is provided with a first anti-off slot (71) corresponding to the first anti-off piece (101), and the second outer side slot (53) of the second profile (5) is provided with a second anti-off slot (54) corresponding to the second anti-off piece (102) at one end close to the hinge (3).

10. A folding door, characterized in that The door frame, at least two door leaves slidingly arranged in the top sliding rail of the door frame, and the automatic closing mechanism according to any one of claims 1-9 are included; wherein two adjacent door leaves are the first door leaf (1) and the second door leaf (2), The top of the first door leaf (1) is provided with a first profile (4), and the top of the second door leaf (2) is provided with a second profile (5). The first profile (4) sequentially includes a first hinge slot (41) for mounting one end of the hinge (3), a first intermediate slot (42), and a first outer side slot (43) for mounting the shell (6) along the width direction thereof. The second profile (5) sequentially includes a second hinge slot (51) for mounting the other end of the hinge (3), a second intermediate slot (52), and a second outer side slot (53) for fixing the pull rope (10) along the width direction thereof. The shell (6) of the automatic closing mechanism is mounted in the first outer side slot (43), one end of the pull rope (10) is connected to the sliding piece (7), and the other end is fixed in the second outer side slot (53). When the folding door is opened, the first door leaf (1) and the second door leaf (2) are folded relative to each other, driving the first outer side slot (43) and the second outer side slot (53) to move away from each other, so that the pull rope (10) is tensioned and pulls the sliding piece (7) to compress or stretch the elastic piece (8) to store energy. When the folding door is closed, the elastic piece (8) drives the sliding piece (7) to reset, and the pull rope (10) applies closing-assisting force to the second door leaf (2).

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