System facilitating the opening of a partitioning door between two environments having different pressures

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system (1) facilitating the opening of a partitioning door (D) between two environments (E1, E2) having different pressures, intended to be installed on the side of the door (D) facing the environment (E2) at higher pressure. The system (1) comprises: - an anchoring base (10) which is intended to be fixed to the leaf (L) of said door (D); - a support structure (20) hinged to said anchoring base (10) to rotate around a system rotation axis (Y2) parallel to the leaf rotation axis (Y1) by means of at least one hinge (11); - a locking device (30) which is electro-actuated and is adapted to rotationally constrain said support structure (20) to said anchoring base (10) when electrically powered; - an electro-actuated linear actuator (40) which is anchored to said support structure (20) and is operatively associated with an elongated stem (50) which is movable by said linear actuator (40) along a longitudinal drive axis (X) to vary the distance between said support structure (20) and a first end (51) of said elongated stem (50) between a first stroke end, wherein said elongated stem extends with said first end (51) beyond the support structure towards the frame (F) of said door (D), so that in use with an active locking device, said elongated stem is arranged between the leaf (L) and the frame (F) of said door (D), and a second stroke end, wherein said elongated stem does not extend with said first end (51) beyond the leaf (L), so that in use with an active locking device, said elongated stem does not interfere with the closing of the leaf (L) on the frame (F) of said door (D); - a drive control (60) for driving the linear actuator (40) so as to increase the distance between the support structure (20) and the first end (51) of said elongated stem (50) and, in the case of a closed leaf, to carry the first end (51) of said elongated stem (50) from said second stroke end to said first stroke end by progressively pushing the leaf (D) from a closed position to a semi-open position. [Fig. 5]

Description

Field of application

[0001] The subject matter of the present invention is a system that facilitates the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures.Prior art

[0002] Typically, in datacenters and tunnels, but also in some industrial environments, there are environments subjected to forced ventilation for the cooling of machinery or for air ducting requirements.

[0003] The partitions between the pressurized environment and the atmospheric pressure environment are provided by technical doors, which often also have the function of an escape route and fire protection (panic exits and fire doors) .

[0004] In such situations, however, as required by the EN1125 standard, it is necessary to ensure that the opening of the door is effectively allowed with a thrust of 80 N.

[0005] By way of example, a door with dimensions of 1.2x2.5 m has an area of 3 sqm. If subjected even to an overpressure of only 100 Pa, the door must withstand a thrust of 30 kg.

[0006] It should be noted that 100 Pa corresponds to 0.001 Bar, i.e. one millibar. On average, for technical reasons, there are overpressures in the range of around 500 Pa. Therefore, to open these doors it is necessary to overcome a thrust of 150 kg.

[0007] Operatively, the pressure difference, and thus the thrust, reduces to zero after rotating the leaf of the door by at least 10 degrees.

[0008] Doors are known for partitioning rooms at different pressures that are provided with a system facilitating the opening of said door, for facilitating the opening thereof.

[0009] More specifically, such a system facilitating the opening involves generating an impulsive force between the door frame and said door leaf in order to open the leaf by an angle of at least 10°. Such a system is driven either by a presence sensor or by a sensor connected to the opening handle of the door. The system comprises a pusher that, in the opening phase of the leaf, is instantly pushed out of a housing so that it extends in length between the leaf and the frame. When the leaf is open, the pusher automatically returns to the housing. Thus, in the event that the door is not completely opened by the user, it is free to close due to the intervention of a traditional door closing mechanism.

[0010] This system is described, for example, in patent application DE102007041618A1.

[0011] Such a system facilitating the opening has a first limitation linked to the fact that the sudden opening of the leaf, although only by a few degrees, may startle the user and risk striking them.

[0012] A second limitation is linked to the fact that the closing of the leaf is not controlled, as it is subject to the action of the pressure difference between the two environments. The closing of the leaf may be violent. There is therefore a risk that a user may be struck by said leaf.

[0013] In the relevant field there is therefore the need for a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door between environments at different pressures, so as to allow the aforesaid limits to be overcome at least in part.Disclosure of the invention

[0014] Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to eliminate in whole or in part the drawbacks of the aforementioned prior art by providing a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door between environments at different pressures that allows for the controlled and progressive opening of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0015] A further object of the present invention is to provide a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures, which allows the leaf to be closed in a controlled and progressive manner without sudden movements.

[0016] A further object of the present invention is to provide a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures and which is simple and economical to manufacture.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to provide a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures and which is simple and easy to operate.Brief description of the drawings

[0018] The technical features of the invention, according to the aforementioned objectives, may be clearly seen in the content of the claims below, and the advantages thereof will become more readily apparent in the detailed description that follows, made with reference to the accompanying drawings, which represent one or more purely exemplifying and non-limiting embodiments thereof, wherein: Fig. 1 is a top orthogonal schematic view of a system facilitating the opening according to a preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a partitioning door with hinged leaf between two environments at different pressures, illustrated in the open leaf condition; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a system facilitating the opening according to a preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a partitioning door between two environments at different pressures, illustrated in a closed leaf condition; Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 2; Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 2 with some parts removed to better illustrate others; Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 4 in the open condition of the leaf; Fig. 6 and 7 show, in sequence, a controlled closing phase of a leaf by means of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 4; Fig. 8 and 9 show, in sequence, an emergency closing phase of the leaf alone in the event of an absence of electrical power to the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 4; Fig. 10 and 11 show, in sequence, a step of restoring the functionality of the system facilitating the opening of Fig. 9 after the restoration of the electrical power supply; and Fig. 12 is a side orthogonal view of a support structure of the system facilitating the opening according to the invention. Detailed description

[0019] The system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with a hinged leaf between environments at different pressures according to the invention has been indicated as a whole with reference numeral 1 in the accompanying figures.

[0020] Herein and in the following description and the claims, reference will be made to the system facilitating the opening 1 installed in usage conditions. Therefore, any references to a lower or upper position or to a horizontal or vertical orientation should be interpreted in this sense.

[0021] As illustrated in Fig. 1, the system 1 is intended to be installed on a partitioning door D with hinged leaf between two environments E1, E2 having different pressures.

[0022] Typically, the door D is a fire door or a panic door and comprises a fixed support frame F and a leaf L hinged to said frame F (hinged leaf) to rotate about a leaf rotation axis Y1 in the environment E2 at higher pressure.

[0023] The system 1 is intended to be installed on the side of the door D facing the environment E2 at higher pressure.

[0024] According to the invention, the system 1 comprises an anchoring base 10 which is intended to be fixed to the leaf L of the door D.

[0025] In particular, said anchoring base 10 may consist of a metal plate.

[0026] The system 1 further comprises a support structure 20 hinged to said anchoring base 10 to rotate around a system rotation axis Y2 parallel to the leaf rotation axis Y1 by means of at least one hinge 11.

[0027] As will be clarified below, the support structure 20 is intended to support the operating components of the system 1.

[0028] In particular, the support structure 20 may consist of a box-like body divided into: a main portion 22, which is hinged to the anchoring base 10 and to which the operating components of the system are fixed; and a removable cover portion 23.

[0029] The system 1 further comprises a locking device 30 which is electro-actuated and is adapted to rotationally constrain said support structure 20 to said anchoring base 10 when electrically powered.

[0030] Preferably, said locking device 30 consists of an electromagnet which is associated with said support structure 20 and is adapted to hold the anchoring base 10 magnetically constrained to said support structure 10 only when electrically powered.

[0031] Operatively, as will be clarified below, in the event of an absence of electrical power to the system 1 (for example in the event of an electrical blackout), the locking device 30 deactivates and leaves the rotation around the system axis Y2 free between the anchoring base 10 (associated with the leaf L of the door) and the support structure 20 (with the associated operating components of the system 1).

[0032] Advantageously, the system 1 may comprise a return spring 21 that interconnects the anchoring base 10 to the support structure 20. Operatively, this spring 21, upon restoration of the electrical power supply, allows the electromagnet (now powered) to be brought into contact with the anchoring base 10, which is made of a ferromagnetic material or is provided with a plate of ferromagnetic material.

[0033] According to the invention, the system 1 further comprises: an electro-actuated linear actuator 40 anchored to said support structure 20, and an elongated stem 50 operatively associated with said linear actuator 40.

[0034] The linear actuator 40 is operatively drivable for moving said elongated stem 50 along a longitudinal drive axis X so as to vary the distance between the support structure 20 and a first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 between: a first stroke end, wherein said elongated stem extends with said first end 51 beyond the support structure toward the frame F of said door D so that in use with the active locking device said elongated stem is arranged between the leaf L and the frame F of said door D (see Fig. 5), and a second stroke end, wherein said elongated stem does not extend with said first end 51 beyond the leaf L so that, in use with the active locking device, said elongated stem does not interfere with the closing of the leaf L on the frame F of said door D (see Fig. 4)

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated in the accompanying figures, said linear actuator 40 consists of a mechanical jack operatively associated with an electric drive motor 41 (which ensures electro-actuation). The elongated stem 50, on the other hand, consists of a helical screw 50 which is operatively rotatable by said mechanical jack 40 about said longitudinal drive axis X to move the related first end 51 between said first stroke end and said second stroke end.

[0036] In particular, the term "mechanical jack" (or screw jack) is understood to mean a linear actuator which transforms the rotary motion of a shaft into a translational motion of a stem by means of a helical torque.

[0037] Alternatively, the linear actuator may consist of an electric cylinder, although the solution with a mechanical jack is wholly preferred.

[0038] Also according to the invention, the system 1 comprises a drive control 60 for driving the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) so as to increase the distance between the support structure 20 and the first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 (helical screw).

[0039] Operatively, this drive control 60 may be activated by a user who intends to open the door D. Therefore, in the case of a closed leaf, the activation of the drive control 60 drives the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) which in turn sets the elongated stem in motion (rotating the helical screw) by progressively bringing the first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 (helical screw) from said second stroke end to said first stroke end and thus progressively pushing the leaf D from a closed position to a semi-open position.

[0040] Operatively, this is possible because, since the locking device 30 is electrically powered in the same way as the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack), it constrains the anchoring base 10, and thus also the leaf L of the door D, to the support structure 20, to which the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) is in turn constrained.

[0041] Preferably, said drive control 60 is intended to be operatively associated with an opening handle H of said door D.

[0042] By virtue of the invention, the system 1 facilitates the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures, allowing for a controlled and progressive opening of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0043] The linear actuator 40 (in particular if consisting of a mechanical jack) is able to provide the force necessary to overcome the thrust exerted against the leaf L due to the pressure difference between the two environments E1 and E2. The movement generated by the linear actuator on the elongated stem (action of the mechanical jack on the helical screw) results in a progressive thrust on the leaf, generating a controlled and not abrupt motion of the leaf until the leaf is brought to a semi-open position (at least 10°).

[0044] The system 1 according to the invention does not cause the leaf to suddenly open; therefore, opening the leaf will not startle the user. In any case, since the opening is progressive, any impact with the user would be minor.

[0045] Preferably, the system 1 comprises a management and control unit 70, programmed to drive the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) according to predefined automatic operating modes.

[0046] Preferably, the system 1 comprises at least a first position sensor 61 that is intended to be installed on said door D to detect the position of the leaf L with respect to the frame F and thus the open or closed state of the door D.

[0047] Preferably, the system 1 comprises an abutment body 52 (e.g., consisting of a rigid Teflon pad) which is associated with the first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 (helical screw) and is provided with at least one second position sensor 62, which in use is adapted to detect the contact between the abutment body 52 and the frame F of the door D.

[0048] Advantageously, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, the system 1 may comprise a pair of guide rods 53 parallel to said elongated stem 50 (helical screw) and adapted to keep said abutment body 52 stable.

[0049] Advantageously, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, the system 1 may comprise a profile 54 intended to be associated with the frame F of said door D at the section in which said abutment body 52 is intended to come into contact.

[0050] Advantageously, in the event that the first sensor 61 detects a closed door state, after an activation of the linear actuator 40 (jack) by means of the drive control 60 which has subsequently brought the leaf L into the semi-open position (with the elongated stem / helical screw at the second stroke end), said management and control unit 70 is programmed to: a) deactivate the linear actuator 40 (jack) for a predefined waiting time; b) activate the linear actuator 40 (jack) to return the elongated stem (helical screw) to the second stroke end and allow the leaf L to close, if the first position sensor 61 does not detect any movement on the leaf L after the waiting time; or c) keeping the linear actuator 40 (jack) and the elongated stem (helical screw) deactivated at the first stroke end, if the first position sensor 61 detects an opening movement on the leaf L during the waiting time.

[0051] Advantageously, as illustrated in the sequence of Fig. 6 and 7, in the event that the first sensor 61 detects an open door state, said management and control unit 70 is programmed to activate the linear actuator 40 (jack) so as to bring the elongated stem (helical screw) from the first stroke end to the second stroke end as soon as the second position sensor 62 detects the contact between the abutment body 52 and the frame F, thereby allowing a controlled closing of the leaf L.

[0052] Thus, the system 1 according to the invention allows for a controlled and progressive closing of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0053] As already described, the system 1 offers a wide range of operating modes which will now be recalled in reference to a preferred embodiment using a mechanical jack: Door closed state: operating the handle activates the jack, which pushes the leaf open; if the handle is released within a predefined time (for example 1 second) during the stroke, the jack stops and (in the event where the screw had previously moved) reverses the motion; if the system, due to causes external to said system (e.g., locked door / barred door), does not detect any movement within a predefined time (e.g., 1 second) from the start of the cycle, it will lock (overload safety function). when the jack arrives at the stroke end (for example about 20 cm), it remains in waiting: if the leaf is pushed further within 5 seconds, the jack is held in waiting (OPENING) if the leaf is not pushed within 5 seconds, the jack retracts to the closing phase (TIMED CLOSING) Open door state: when the leaf is closed, the jack, as soon as it senses contact with the frame, begins its closing path and closes the cycle (ACCOMPANIED CLOSING) Electrical voltage failure status in the event of a power failure or alarm, the locking device 30 (in particular an electromagnet) is deactivated and the system 1 is disengaged from the leaf and remains inoperative; if the leaf was open, the system is deactivated and the leaf may be closed by the normal locking devices with which it is equipped; as soon as the voltage is reactivated, alarm the locking device 30 is reactivated and the system 1 is engaged again by the leaf; if the lack of voltage had caught the helical screw positioned at the first stroke end, the jack is activated and brings the helical screw back into the second stroke end until the leaf is closed; thus, the system may be rearmed (POWER FAILURE).

[0054] The invention allows numerous advantages to be obtained, which have already been described in part.

[0055] The system 1 facilitates the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures according to the invention and allows for a controlled and progressive opening of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0056] Thus, the system 1 according to the invention allows for a controlled and progressive closing of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0057] In particular, the system 1 makes it possible to: control the opening of the door if controlled by the rotation of the handle or panic bar allow the controlled return of the closing leaf so as to avoid the risk of shearing between the jamb and the movable leaf allow the door to self-close in case of a lack of voltage, as it must ensure a fire seal.

[0058] The system 1 is simple and economical to manufacture.

[0059] The system 1 is simple and easy to activate.

[0060] The invention thus conceived therefore achieves its intended objectives.

[0061] Obviously, in practice it may also assume different forms and configurations from the one illustrated above, without thereby departing from the present scope of protection.

[0062] Furthermore, all details may be replaced with technically equivalent elements, and the dimensions, shapes, and materials used may be any according to the needs.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]The system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with a hinged leaf between environments at different pressures according to the invention has been indicated as a whole with reference numeral 1 in the accompanying figures.

[0020]Herein and in the following description and the claims, reference will be made to the system facilitating the opening 1 installed in usage conditions. Therefore, any references to a lower or upper position or to a horizontal or vertical orientation should be interpreted in this sense.

[0021]As illustrated in Fig. 1, the system 1 is intended to be installed on a partitioning door D with hinged leaf between two environments E1, E2 having different pressures.

[0022]Typically, the door D is a fire door or a panic door and comprises a fixed support frame F and a leaf L hinged to said frame F (hinged leaf) to rotate about a leaf rotation axis Y1 in the environment E2 at higher pressure.

[0023]The system 1 is intended to be installed on the side of the ...

Field of application

[0001] The subject matter of the present invention is a system that facilitates the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures.Prior art

[0002] Typically, in datacenters and tunnels, but also in some industrial environments, there are environments subjected to forced ventilation for the cooling of machinery or for air ducting requirements.

[0003] The partitions between the pressurized environment and the atmospheric pressure environment are provided by technical doors, which often also have the function of an escape route and fire protection (panic exits and fire doors) .

[0004] In such situations, however, as required by the EN1125 standard, it is necessary to ensure that the opening of the door is effectively allowed with a thrust of 80 N.

[0005] By way of example, a door with dimensions of 1.2x2.5 m has an area of 3 sqm. If subjected even to an overpressure of only 100 Pa, the door must withstand a thrust of 30 kg.

[0006] It should be noted that 100 Pa corresponds to 0.001 Bar, i.e. one millibar. On average, for technical reasons, there are overpressures in the range of around 500 Pa. Therefore, to open these doors it is necessary to overcome a thrust of 150 kg.

[0007] Operatively, the pressure difference, and thus the thrust, reduces to zero after rotating the leaf of the door by at least 10 degrees.

[0008] Doors are known for partitioning rooms at different pressures that are provided with a system facilitating the opening of said door, for facilitating the opening thereof.

[0009] More specifically, such a system facilitating the opening involves generating an impulsive force between the door frame and said door leaf in order to open the leaf by an angle of at least 10°. Such a system is driven either by a presence sensor or by a sensor connected to the opening handle of the door. The system comprises a pusher that, in the opening phase of the leaf, is instantly pushed out of a housing so that it extends in length between the leaf and the frame. When the leaf is open, the pusher automatically returns to the housing. Thus, in the event that the door is not completely opened by the user, it is free to close due to the intervention of a traditional door closing mechanism.

[0010] This system is described, for example, in patent application DE102007041618A1.

[0011] Such a system facilitating the opening has a first limitation linked to the fact that the sudden opening of the leaf, although only by a few degrees, may startle the user and risk striking them.

[0012] A second limitation is linked to the fact that the closing of the leaf is not controlled, as it is subject to the action of the pressure difference between the two environments. The closing of the leaf may be violent. There is therefore a risk that a user may be struck by said leaf.

[0013] In the relevant field there is therefore the need for a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door between environments at different pressures, so as to allow the aforesaid limits to be overcome at least in part.Disclosure of the invention

[0014] Therefore, the main object of the present invention is to eliminate in whole or in part the drawbacks of the aforementioned prior art by providing a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door between environments at different pressures that allows for the controlled and progressive opening of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0015] A further object of the present invention is to provide a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures, which allows the leaf to be closed in a controlled and progressive manner without sudden movements.

[0016] A further object of the present invention is to provide a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures and which is simple and economical to manufacture.

[0017] A further object of the present invention is to provide a system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures and which is simple and easy to operate.Brief description of the drawings

[0018] The technical features of the invention, according to the aforementioned objectives, may be clearly seen in the content of the claims below, and the advantages thereof will become more readily apparent in the detailed description that follows, made with reference to the accompanying drawings, which represent one or more purely exemplifying and non-limiting embodiments thereof, wherein: Fig. 1 is a top orthogonal schematic view of a system facilitating the opening according to a preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a partitioning door with hinged leaf between two environments at different pressures, illustrated in the open leaf condition; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a system facilitating the opening according to a preferred embodiment of the invention installed on a partitioning door between two environments at different pressures, illustrated in a closed leaf condition; Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 2; Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 2 with some parts removed to better illustrate others; Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 4 in the open condition of the leaf; Fig. 6 and 7 show, in sequence, a controlled closing phase of a leaf by means of the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 4; Fig. 8 and 9 show, in sequence, an emergency closing phase of the leaf alone in the event of an absence of electrical power to the system facilitating the opening in Fig. 4; Fig. 10 and 11 show, in sequence, a step of restoring the functionality of the system facilitating the opening of Fig. 9 after the restoration of the electrical power supply; and Fig. 12 is a side orthogonal view of a support structure of the system facilitating the opening according to the invention. Detailed description

[0019] The system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with a hinged leaf between environments at different pressures according to the invention has been indicated as a whole with reference numeral 1 in the accompanying figures.

[0020] Herein and in the following description and the claims, reference will be made to the system facilitating the opening 1 installed in usage conditions. Therefore, any references to a lower or upper position or to a horizontal or vertical orientation should be interpreted in this sense.

[0021] As illustrated in Fig. 1, the system 1 is intended to be installed on a partitioning door D with hinged leaf between two environments E1, E2 having different pressures.

[0022] Typically, the door D is a fire door or a panic door and comprises a fixed support frame F and a leaf L hinged to said frame F (hinged leaf) to rotate about a leaf rotation axis Y1 in the environment E2 at higher pressure.

[0023] The system 1 is intended to be installed on the side of the door D facing the environment E2 at higher pressure.

[0024] According to the invention, the system 1 comprises an anchoring base 10 which is intended to be fixed to the leaf L of the door D.

[0025] In particular, said anchoring base 10 may consist of a metal plate.

[0026] The system 1 further comprises a support structure 20 hinged to said anchoring base 10 to rotate around a system rotation axis Y2 parallel to the leaf rotation axis Y1 by means of at least one hinge 11.

[0027] As will be clarified below, the support structure 20 is intended to support the operating components of the system 1.

[0028] In particular, the support structure 20 may consist of a box-like body divided into: a main portion 22, which is hinged to the anchoring base 10 and to which the operating components of the system are fixed; and a removable cover portion 23.

[0029] The system 1 further comprises a locking device 30 which is electro-actuated and is adapted to rotationally constrain said support structure 20 to said anchoring base 10 when electrically powered.

[0030] Preferably, said locking device 30 consists of an electromagnet which is associated with said support structure 20 and is adapted to hold the anchoring base 10 magnetically constrained to said support structure 10 only when electrically powered.

[0031] Operatively, as will be clarified below, in the event of an absence of electrical power to the system 1 (for example in the event of an electrical blackout), the locking device 30 deactivates and leaves the rotation around the system axis Y2 free between the anchoring base 10 (associated with the leaf L of the door) and the support structure 20 (with the associated operating components of the system 1).

[0032] Advantageously, the system 1 may comprise a return spring 21 that interconnects the anchoring base 10 to the support structure 20. Operatively, this spring 21, upon restoration of the electrical power supply, allows the electromagnet (now powered) to be brought into contact with the anchoring base 10, which is made of a ferromagnetic material or is provided with a plate of ferromagnetic material.

[0033] According to the invention, the system 1 further comprises: an electro-actuated linear actuator 40 anchored to said support structure 20, and an elongated stem 50 operatively associated with said linear actuator 40.

[0034] The linear actuator 40 is operatively drivable for moving said elongated stem 50 along a longitudinal drive axis X so as to vary the distance between the support structure 20 and a first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 between: a first stroke end, wherein said elongated stem extends with said first end 51 beyond the support structure toward the frame F of said door D so that in use with the active locking device said elongated stem is arranged between the leaf L and the frame F of said door D (see Fig. 5), and a second stroke end, wherein said elongated stem does not extend with said first end 51 beyond the leaf L so that, in use with the active locking device, said elongated stem does not interfere with the closing of the leaf L on the frame F of said door D (see Fig. 4)

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated in the accompanying figures, said linear actuator 40 consists of a mechanical jack operatively associated with an electric drive motor 41 (which ensures electro-actuation). The elongated stem 50, on the other hand, consists of a helical screw 50 which is operatively rotatable by said mechanical jack 40 about said longitudinal drive axis X to move the related first end 51 between said first stroke end and said second stroke end.

[0036] In particular, the term "mechanical jack" (or screw jack) is understood to mean a linear actuator which transforms the rotary motion of a shaft into a translational motion of a stem by means of a helical torque.

[0037] Alternatively, the linear actuator may consist of an electric cylinder, although the solution with a mechanical jack is wholly preferred.

[0038] Also according to the invention, the system 1 comprises a drive control 60 for driving the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) so as to increase the distance between the support structure 20 and the first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 (helical screw).

[0039] Operatively, this drive control 60 may be activated by a user who intends to open the door D. Therefore, in the case of a closed leaf, the activation of the drive control 60 drives the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) which in turn sets the elongated stem in motion (rotating the helical screw) by progressively bringing the first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 (helical screw) from said second stroke end to said first stroke end and thus progressively pushing the leaf D from a closed position to a semi-open position.

[0040] Operatively, this is possible because, since the locking device 30 is electrically powered in the same way as the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack), it constrains the anchoring base 10, and thus also the leaf L of the door D, to the support structure 20, to which the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) is in turn constrained.

[0041] Preferably, said drive control 60 is intended to be operatively associated with an opening handle H of said door D.

[0042] By virtue of the invention, the system 1 facilitates the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures, allowing for a controlled and progressive opening of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0043] The linear actuator 40 (in particular if consisting of a mechanical jack) is able to provide the force necessary to overcome the thrust exerted against the leaf L due to the pressure difference between the two environments E1 and E2. The movement generated by the linear actuator on the elongated stem (action of the mechanical jack on the helical screw) results in a progressive thrust on the leaf, generating a controlled and not abrupt motion of the leaf until the leaf is brought to a semi-open position (at least 10°).

[0044] The system 1 according to the invention does not cause the leaf to suddenly open; therefore, opening the leaf will not startle the user. In any case, since the opening is progressive, any impact with the user would be minor.

[0045] Preferably, the system 1 comprises a management and control unit 70, programmed to drive the linear actuator 40 (mechanical jack) according to predefined automatic operating modes.

[0046] Preferably, the system 1 comprises at least a first position sensor 61 that is intended to be installed on said door D to detect the position of the leaf L with respect to the frame F and thus the open or closed state of the door D.

[0047] Preferably, the system 1 comprises an abutment body 52 (e.g., consisting of a rigid Teflon pad) which is associated with the first end 51 of said elongated stem 50 (helical screw) and is provided with at least one second position sensor 62, which in use is adapted to detect the contact between the abutment body 52 and the frame F of the door D.

[0048] Advantageously, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, the system 1 may comprise a pair of guide rods 53 parallel to said elongated stem 50 (helical screw) and adapted to keep said abutment body 52 stable.

[0049] Advantageously, as illustrated in the accompanying figures, the system 1 may comprise a profile 54 intended to be associated with the frame F of said door D at the section in which said abutment body 52 is intended to come into contact.

[0050] Advantageously, in the event that the first sensor 61 detects a closed door state, after an activation of the linear actuator 40 (jack) by means of the drive control 60 which has subsequently brought the leaf L into the semi-open position (with the elongated stem / helical screw at the second stroke end), said management and control unit 70 is programmed to: a) deactivate the linear actuator 40 (jack) for a predefined waiting time; b) activate the linear actuator 40 (jack) to return the elongated stem (helical screw) to the second stroke end and allow the leaf L to close, if the first position sensor 61 does not detect any movement on the leaf L after the waiting time; or c) keeping the linear actuator 40 (jack) and the elongated stem (helical screw) deactivated at the first stroke end, if the first position sensor 61 detects an opening movement on the leaf L during the waiting time.

[0051] Advantageously, as illustrated in the sequence of Fig. 6 and 7, in the event that the first sensor 61 detects an open door state, said management and control unit 70 is programmed to activate the linear actuator 40 (jack) so as to bring the elongated stem (helical screw) from the first stroke end to the second stroke end as soon as the second position sensor 62 detects the contact between the abutment body 52 and the frame F, thereby allowing a controlled closing of the leaf L.

[0052] Thus, the system 1 according to the invention allows for a controlled and progressive closing of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0053] As already described, the system 1 offers a wide range of operating modes which will now be recalled in reference to a preferred embodiment using a mechanical jack: Door closed state: operating the handle activates the jack, which pushes the leaf open; if the handle is released within a predefined time (for example 1 second) during the stroke, the jack stops and (in the event where the screw had previously moved) reverses the motion; if the system, due to causes external to said system (e.g., locked door / barred door), does not detect any movement within a predefined time (e.g., 1 second) from the start of the cycle, it will lock (overload safety function). when the jack arrives at the stroke end (for example about 20 cm), it remains in waiting: if the leaf is pushed further within 5 seconds, the jack is held in waiting (OPENING) if the leaf is not pushed within 5 seconds, the jack retracts to the closing phase (TIMED CLOSING) Open door state: when the leaf is closed, the jack, as soon as it senses contact with the frame, begins its closing path and closes the cycle (ACCOMPANIED CLOSING) Electrical voltage failure status in the event of a power failure or alarm, the locking device 30 (in particular an electromagnet) is deactivated and the system 1 is disengaged from the leaf and remains inoperative; if the leaf was open, the system is deactivated and the leaf may be closed by the normal locking devices with which it is equipped; as soon as the voltage is reactivated, alarm the locking device 30 is reactivated and the system 1 is engaged again by the leaf; if the lack of voltage had caught the helical screw positioned at the first stroke end, the jack is activated and brings the helical screw back into the second stroke end until the leaf is closed; thus, the system may be rearmed (POWER FAILURE).

[0054] The invention allows numerous advantages to be obtained, which have already been described in part.

[0055] The system 1 facilitates the opening of a partitioning door with hinged leaf between environments at different pressures according to the invention and allows for a controlled and progressive opening of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0056] Thus, the system 1 according to the invention allows for a controlled and progressive closing of the leaf without sudden movements.

[0057] In particular, the system 1 makes it possible to: control the opening of the door if controlled by the rotation of the handle or panic bar allow the controlled return of the closing leaf so as to avoid the risk of shearing between the jamb and the movable leaf allow the door to self-close in case of a lack of voltage, as it must ensure a fire seal.

[0058] The system 1 is simple and economical to manufacture.

[0059] The system 1 is simple and easy to activate.

[0060] The invention thus conceived therefore achieves its intended objectives.

[0061] Obviously, in practice it may also assume different forms and configurations from the one illustrated above, without thereby departing from the present scope of protection.

[0062] Furthermore, all details may be replaced with technically equivalent elements, and the dimensions, shapes, and materials used may be any according to the needs.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]The system facilitating the opening of a partitioning door with a hinged leaf between environments at different pressures according to the invention has been indicated as a whole with reference numeral 1 in the accompanying figures.

[0020]Herein and in the following description and the claims, reference will be made to the system facilitating the opening 1 installed in usage conditions. Therefore, any references to a lower or upper position or to a horizontal or vertical orientation should be interpreted in this sense.

[0021]As illustrated in Fig. 1, the system 1 is intended to be installed on a partitioning door D with hinged leaf between two environments E1, E2 having different pressures.

[0022]Typically, the door D is a fire door or a panic door and comprises a fixed support frame F and a leaf L hinged to said frame F (hinged leaf) to rotate about a leaf rotation axis Y1 in the environment E2 at higher pressure.

[0023]The system 1 is intended to be installed on the side of the ...

Claims

1. System (1) facilitating the opening of a partitioning door (D) between two environments (E1, E2) having different pressures, said door (D) comprising a fixed support frame (F) and a leaf (L) hinged to said frame (F) to rotate about a leaf rotation axis (Y1) in the environment (E2) at higher pressure, said system (1) being intended to be installed on the side of the door (D) facing the environment (E2) at higher pressure, said system (1) being characterized by comprising: - an anchoring base (10) which is intended to be fixed to the leaf (L) of said door (D); - a support structure (20) hinged to said anchoring base (10) to rotate around a system rotation axis (Y2) parallel to the leaf rotation axis (Y1) by means of at least one hinge (11); - a locking device (30) which is electro-actuated and is adapted to rotationally constrain said support structure (20) to said anchoring base (10) when electrically powered; - an electro-actuated linear actuator (40) which is anchored to said support structure (20) and is operatively associated with an elongated stem (50) which is movable by said linear actuator (40) along a longitudinal driving axis (X) to vary the distance between said support structure (20) and a first end (51) of said elongated stem (50) between a first stroke end, wherein said elongated stem extends with said first end (51) beyond the support structure towards the frame (F) of said door (D), so that in use with an active locking device, said elongated stem is arranged between the leaf (L) and the frame (F) of said door (D), and a second stroke end, wherein said elongated stem does not extend with said first end (51) beyond the leaf (L), so that in use with an active locking device, said elongated stem does not interfere with the closing of the leaf (L) on the frame (F) of said door (D); - a drive control (60) for driving the linear actuator (40) so as to increase the distance between the support structure (20) and the first end (51) of said elongated stem (50) and, in the case of a closed leaf, to carry the first end (51) of said elongated stem (50) from said second stroke end to said first stroke end by progressively pushing the leaf (D) from a closed position to a semi-open position.

2. System (1) according to claim 1, comprising a management and control unit (70), programmed to drive the linear actuator (40) according to predefined automatic operating modes.

3. System (1) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising at least a first position sensor (61) which is intended to be installed on said door (D) to detect the position of the leaf (L) with respect to the frame (F) and thus the open or closed state of the door (D).

4. System (1) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, comprising an abutment body (52) which is associated with the first end (51) of said elongated stem (50) and is provided with at least a second position sensor (62), which in use is adapted to detect the contact between abutment body (52) and frame (F) of the door (D).

5. System (1) according to claims 3 and 4, when dependent on claim 2, wherein, if the first sensor (61) detects a closed door state, after an activation of the linear actuator (40) by means of the drive control (60) which has brought the leaf (L) into the semi-open position, said management and control unit (70) is programmed to: a) deactivate the linear actuator (40) for a predefined waiting time; b) activate the linear actuator (40) to return the elongated portion (50) to the second stroke end and allow the leaf (L) to close, if the first position sensor (61) does not detect any movement on the leaf (L) after the waiting time; c) keep the linear actuator (40) and elongated stem (50) deactivated at the first stroke end, if the first position sensor (61) detects an opening movement on the panel (L) during the waiting time.

6. System (1) according to claims 3 and 4 or claim 5, when dependent on claim 2, wherein, if the first sensor (61) detects an open door state, said management and control unit (70) is programmed to activate the linear actuator (40) so as to bring the elongated stem (50) from the first stroke end to the second stroke end as soon as the second position sensor (62) detects the contact between the abutment body (52) and the frame (F), thereby allowing a controlled closing of the leaf (L).

7. System (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, when dependent on claim 4, comprising a pair of guide rods (53) parallel to said elongated stem (50) and adapted to keep said abutment body (52) stable.

8. System (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, when dependent on claim 4, comprising a profile (54) intended to be associated with the frame (F) of said door (D) at the section in which said abutment body (52) is intended to make contact.

9. System (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said locking device (30) consists of an electromagnet which is associated with said support structure (20) and is adapted to magnetically retain the anchoring base (10) constrained to said support structure (10) only when electrically powered.

10. System (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a return spring (21) interconnecting the anchoring base (10) to the support structure (20).

11. System (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said drive control (60) is intended to be operatively associated with an opening handle (H) of said door (D).

12. System (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said linear actuator (40) consists of a mechanical jack operatively associated with an electric drive motor (41) and wherein said elongated stem (50) consists of a helical screw (50) which is operatively rotatable by said mechanical jack (40) about said longitudinal drive axis (X).

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