CLOSURE SYSTEM

Abstract

A closure system may include a movable closure between an extended and a retracted state; the closure may be configured to at least partially obstruct an opening in the extended state and permit access through the opening in the retracted state; the closure may include a first portion and a second portion opposite the first portion; wherein the closure may deflect by a first deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to the closure; the closure system may include a tie rod attached to the first portion of the closure; the closure with the tie rod attached thereto may deflect by a second deflection distance when the vertical force is applied to the closure; the first distance may be at least 100 percent greater than the second deflection distance.

Description

CLOSURE SYSTEM FIELD OF INVENTION The present invention generally relates to locking systems and, more particularly, to a method and system for preventing locking systems from being opened for snooping. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION A closure system may include a latch that moves between an extended and a retracted state. The latch may be configured to at least partially obstruct an opening in the extended state and allow access through the opening in the retracted state. The latch may include a first portion and a second portion opposite the first portion. The latch may deflect by a first deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to it. The closure system may include a tie rod attached to the first portion of the latch. The latch, with the tie rod attached, may deflect by a second deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to it. The first deflection distance may be at least 100 percent greater than the second deflection distance. The vertical force may be appropriately 136.07 kg (300 lb). The first distance may be at least 200 percent greater than the second distance. The first distance may be at least 300 percent greater than the second distance. The first distance may be at least 400 percent greater than the second distance. The closure may comprise a plurality of slats, wherein each slat of the plurality of slats may be configured to interlock with another slat of the plurality of slats. The tie rod may be configured to prevent at least one slat of the plurality of slats from overlapping with another slat of the plurality of slats when vertical force is applied to the closure. The closure may wind around an axis as the closure moves from the extended to the retracted state, and more than one slat of the plurality of slats may be attached to the axis. The tie rod may be coupled to at least two slats of the plurality of slats.The second deviation distance may be a maximum of 0.5 centimeters (0.2 inches) to approximately 0.10 centimeters (0.04 inches). The tie rod may have a rectangular cross-section. The tie rod may have a height and a width, and the height-to-width ratio may be at least 2:1. The tie rod may be attached to the closure by fasteners, and the fasteners are exposed on the inside of the closure. The tie rod may comprise a steel tube. The closure may be wound around an axis as it moves from the extended to the retracted state. The tie rod may extend vertically from the first portion of the closure toward the axis. io Lfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi The tie rod may prevent the first portion of the closure from winding around the axis as the closure moves to the retracted state. The tie rod may be one of a plurality of tie rods attached to the closure. The plurality of tie rods may be spaced apart along the width of the closure. At least two of the plurality of tie rods may be separated from each other by a distance that is equal to or greater than the height of one of at least two of the plurality of tie rods. The opening may be defined by at least a first side wall and a second side wall, and the closure may include a guide attached to at least one of the first and second side walls. At least a portion of the closure may be configured to move within a track defined by the guide as the closure moves between the extended and retracted states. The closure can be wound around a shaft as it moves from the extended to the retracted state. The closure may include a height difference between the ground surface and the shaft, and the tie rod may extend less than 10 percent of the closure's height. In an additional embodiment, the closure includes a lower bar attached to the first portion of the closure and the tie rod. The closure, with the tie rod and the lower bar attached thereto, may deflect by a third deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to the closure, and this third distance may be at least 10 percent less than the first distance. The lower bar may comprise a metal angle or a tube. The lower bar may have a rectangular cross-section. The lower bar may be more resistant to deformation in a vertical direction than the tie rod. The tie rod may be attached to the lower bar with a fastener, and the fastener may be exposed on a lower surface of the lower bar. The third deflection distance may be a maximum of approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.01 inches) to approximately 0.07 centimeters (0.03 inches). In an additional embodiment, a method for preventing access through an opening includes attaching a tie rod to a closure, the closure being movable between an extended and a retracted state, wherein the closure at least partially obstructs the opening in the extended state and permits access through the opening in the retracted state. The closure can be configured to wind around an axis as it moves from the extended to the retracted state. The closure can be deflected by a first deflection distance when a vertical force of 136.07 kg (300 lb) is applied to it. The closure with the tie rod attached can be deflected by a second deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to it. The second distance can be at least 5 percent less than the first distance. In an additional embodiment, the method includes attaching a bottom bar to one end of the second portion of the closure, wherein the closure with the tie rod and the attached bottom bar are deflected by a third deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to the closure. The third distance may be at least 10 percent less than the first distance. The closure may include a plurality of slats, and the method may include fixing at least two slats from the plurality of slats to the shaft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES The foregoing brief description, as well as the following detailed description of the locking system's embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and features shown. For example, although not expressly stated herein, features of one or more of the various embodiments shown may be incorporated into another of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings: Figure 1 is a front elevation view of a locking system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a front elevation view of the locking system of Figure 1 in a folded state; Figure 3 is an exploded view of a portion of the locking system of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the closure system of Figure 1; and Figure 5 is a side perspective view of a portion of the locking system of Figure 1 coupled to a shaft. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Referring to the detailed drawings, where similar reference numbers indicate elements in the document, Figures 1 to 5 show a closure system, generally designated 100, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 1, a front perspective view of the closure system, generally designated 100, is shown. In some embodiments, the closure system 100 includes a closure 101 (e.g., a grille, curtain, door) configured to seal or conceal an opening (e.g., a window, door, roof opening, access route). In some embodiments, the opening is defined by at least a first side wall and a second side wall. In some embodiments, the closure 101 is movable from an extended state, where it prevents the passage of objects (Figure 1), to a retracted state to permit passage through an opening (Figure 2). In some embodiments, the closure 101 can be secured in the extended state to prevent unauthorized movement of the closure 101 from the extended to the retracted state.In some embodiments, a portion of the closure 101 may be inside a hood 103 when the closure 101 is in the folded state, as explained in more detail below. In some embodiments, the locking system 100 includes a guide 105 attached to at least one of the first and second side walls. In some embodiments, the lock 101 is configured to move within the guide 105 as it moves between the retracted and extended states. For example, the guide 105 may define a cavity, and a portion of the lock 101 may be within the cavity as it moves between the retracted and extended states. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the closure 101 is flexible so that the closure can be wound around itself or around an axis as the closure 101 moves from the extended to the retracted state. In some embodiments, the closure 101 includes a plurality of slats 102. In some embodiments, each slat 102 of the plurality of slats 102 is configured to interlock with another slat of the plurality of slats. In some embodiments, the slats 102 are configured to flex relative to each other. In some embodiments, slat 102 is configured to rotate or pivot relative to an adjacent slat. In some embodiments, the slats 102 are configured to rotate or flex relative to each other so that the closure can be wound around itself.In some embodiments, the closure 101 is wound around the shaft 104 inside the hood 103 as the closure 101 moves from the extended state to the retracted state. A flexible closure can save space as it rolls up for storage, but it can also be susceptible to allowing unwanted access through the opening. For example, at least a portion of the flexible closure may deflect when a force (e.g., horizontal or vertical) is applied. A gap may be created between one side or end of the closure and a surface (e.g., the side wall or floor) so that a person or object can pass through the opening even when the closure is in the extended position. Referring to Figures 1-4, in some embodiments, the closure 101 includes a rigid element at or near one end (for example, a bottom) configured to resist deformation when a force is applied to the closure 101. For example, the closure 101 may include a bottom bar 106 that is more rigid than another portion of the closure 101. In some embodiments, the bottom bar 106 is lever-resistant. In some modalities, the lower bar 106 has a stiffness of approximately 226.79 kg (500 lbs) per inch (2.54 cm), approximately 453.59 kg (1,000 lbs) per inch, approximately 1,226.79 kg / or Lfrnn / zznz / B / YiAi (500 lbs) per inch, approximately 907.18 kg (2,000 lbs) per inch, approximately 2,226.79 kg (500 lbs) per inch, or approximately 1360.77 kg (3,000 lbs) per inch in a vertical direction when the clasp is in the extended position.In some configurations, the lower bar 106 extends at least partially in the guide 105 so that the lower bar 106 resists a horizontal force. In some configurations, the lower bar 106 is configured to deflect approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.01 inches) to approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches) or less than approximately 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) in a vertical direction and approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.01 inches) to approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches) or less than approximately 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) in a horizontal direction when subjected to a force of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 may be more resistant to deflection than an adjacent portion of the fastener 101. In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 is more resistant to leverage in at least one of the horizontal and vertical directions than the fastener 101. In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 comprises a tube, angle, or I-beam. In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 includes a rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 is made of metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, or iron), plastic, or reinforced polymer. In some embodiments, the closure 101 comprises a plurality of slats 102, and the bottom bar 106 is attached to one of the slats 102 (e.g., a bottom slat). In some embodiments, the bottom bar 106 is attached to one of the slats 102 by means of a fastener, adhesive, or welding. In some embodiments, the closure 101 includes a bottom interface 110. In some embodiments, the bottom interface 110 is more rigid than at least a portion of the closure 101. In some embodiments, the bottom interface 110 is more rigid than at least one of the slats 102. In some modalities, the 102 bar (for example, a bar that is approximately 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) is set up to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.10 centimeters (0.04 inches) to approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches) when subjected to a horizontal force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the bar) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some forms, the 102 bar (for example, a bar that is approximately 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) is set up to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.012 centimeters (0.005 inches) to approximately 0.12 centimeters (0.05 inches) when subjected to a vertical force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the bar) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds).In some modalities, the 102 bar (for example, a bar that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) long) is set up to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches) to approximately 1.77 centimeters (0.7 inches) when subjected to a horizontal force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the bar) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some modalities, the 102 bar (for example, a bar that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) long) is set up to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.025 centimeters (0.1 inches) to approximately 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) when subjected to a vertical force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the bar) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds).In some modalities, the 102 bar (for example, a bar that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 feet) long) is set up to deflect by a distance of approximately 1.90 centimeters (0.75 inches) to approximately 4.44 centimeters (1.75 inches) when subjected to a horizontal force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the bar) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some modalities, the 102 bar (for example, a bar that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 feet) long) is set up to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.63 centimeters (0.25 inches) to approximately 1.90 centimeters (0.75 inches) when subjected to a vertical force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the bar) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some configurations, the lower interface 110 is set to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches) to approximately 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches), or less than approximately 1 inch, in the vertical direction and approximately 0.63 centimeters (0.25 inches) to approximately 1.90 centimeters (0.75 inches), or less than approximately 2.54 centimeters (1 inch) in the horizontal direction when subjected to a force of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some configurations, the slat 102 and lower interface 110 are set to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.63 centimeters (0.25 inches) to approximately 1.90 centimeters (0.75 inches), or less than approximately 1 inch, in a horizontal direction and approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches) to approximately 1.90 centimeters (0.75 inches), or less than approximately 3.81 centimeters (1 inch).5 inches) in a vertical direction when subjected to a force of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). io Lfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi In some forms, the slat 102, the lower interface 110, and the lower bar 106 form a closure 101 (for example, a closure that is about 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) that is set up to deflect by a distance of about 0.012 centimeters (0.005 inches) to about 0.07 centimeters (0.03 inches) when subjected to a horizontal force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to about 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some forms, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) is set to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.012 centimeters (0.005 inches) to approximately 0.07 centimeters (0.03 inches) when subjected to a vertical force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 lbs). In some embodiments, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) long) is set to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.10 centimeters (0.04 inches) to approximately 0.30 centimeters (0.12 inches) when subjected to a horizontal force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 lbs). In some forms, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) long) is set to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.12 centimeters (0.05 inches) to approximately 0.38 centimeters (0.15 inches) when subjected to a vertical force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds).In some configurations, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 feet) long) is configured to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.38 centimeters (0.15 inches) to approximately 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) when subjected to a horizontal force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some configurations, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 feet) long) is configured to deflect by a distance of approximately 0.63 centimeters (0.25 inches) to approximately 1.14 centimeters (0.45 inches) when subjected to a vertical force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the lower interface 110 includes a first portion 112 and a second portion 114. In some embodiments, the lower interface 110 includes a width extending from a first guide attached to a side wall to a second guide attached to an opposite side wall. In some embodiments, the lower interface 110 includes a height Hi and a width Wi. In some embodiments, the first portion 112 is attached to a lower slat 102. In some embodiments, the first portion 112 extends vertically and comprises a majority of the height of the lower interface 110. In some embodiments, the second portion 114 extends horizontally away from the first portion 112 and forms a majority of the width of the lower interface 110. In some embodiments, the second portion 114 extends horizontally away from one side of the first portion 112.In some forms, the second portion 114 extends horizontally away from both sides (e.g., front and back) of the first portion 112. Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the locking system 100 includes a fastener 108 configured to couple the lower bar 106 to the lower interface 110. For example, the fastener 108 may be a bolt, threaded fastener, or rivet. In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 is detachably coupled to the lower interface 110 via the fastener 108. In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 is detachably coupled to the lower interface 110 via the fastener 108, and the fastener is exposed on a lower surface of the lower bar 106. In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 is welded or bonded to the lower interface 110 with adhesive. In some embodiments, the lower interface 110 is less rigid than the lower bar 106.In some configurations, the lower bar 106 is approximately 50%, approximately 100%, approximately 150%, approximately 200%, approximately 300%, approximately 400%, approximately 500%, approximately 600%, approximately 700%, approximately 800%, approximately 900%, or approximately 1,000% more resistant to a force (e.g., a vertical or horizontal force) than the lower interface 110. For example, a deflection distance when a force (e.g., a vertical force) is applied to the lower bar 106 may be approximately 50%, approximately 100%, approximately 150%, approximately 200%, approximately 300%, approximately 400%, approximately 500%, approximately 600%, approximately 700%, approximately 800%, approximately 900%, or approximately 1,000% less than a deflection distance when A force is applied to the lower interface 110. In some embodiments, a localized portion (e.g., a portion of the length between the guides) of the lower interface 110 can be forced upward when subjected to sufficient force (e.g., a force above a threshold). In some embodiments, the lower bar 106 coupled to the lower interface 110 or closure 101 results in a structure that can withstand a maximum leverage force that can be applied when using hand tools (e.g., an iron bar or pry bar) and can deform less than approximately 30.48 centimeters (12 inches), approximately 27.94 centimeters (11 inches), approximately 25.4 centimeters (10 inches), approximately 22.86 centimeters (9 inches), approximately 20.32 centimeters (8 inches), approximately 17.78 centimeters (7 inches), approximately 15.24 centimeters (6 inches), approximately 12.7 centimeters (5 inches), approximately 10.16 centimeters (4 inches), approximately 7.62 centimeters (3 inches), approximately 5.08 centimeters (2 inches), or approximately 2.54 centimeters (1 inch). In some configurations, a hand tool can generate a force of approximately 68.03 kg (150 pounds) to approximately 204.11 kg (450 pounds), or approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). Existing latch slats can be forced to overlap, at least partially, when the latch is in its extended state and sufficient force (e.g., an upward force) is applied. These slats can overlap when an upward force is applied to the bottom bar, even if the bottom bar itself does not deform. For example, the bottom bar may retain its shape when a force is applied, but the entire bottom bar or one side of it may be lifted, causing the slats above it to overlap. This overlapping can create enough space between the bottom bar and the surface (e.g., the floor or side wall) to allow an unauthorized person or object to enter through the opening while the latch is in its extended state. Referring to Figures 3-4, in some embodiments, the closure system 100 includes one or more stays 116 (e.g., stays prevent compression) configured to prevent the closure 101 from misaligning or overlapping itself when subjected to a force (e.g., a lever force). For example, the stay 116 may be attached to a first or lower portion 117 of the closure 101 such that the combination of the closure 101 and the stay 116 resists the lever force. In some embodiments, the first or lower portion 117 includes a portion of the closure 101 that is more likely to deflect or deform when a force is applied to the closure (e.g., a lever force applied with a lever along a length of the closure). In some models, the 116 strap is attached to the 101 fastener via adhesive, welding, or a fastener. In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 is coupled to the closure 101 by means of a fastener 118. In some embodiments, the fastener 118 is exposed on an interior portion of the closure 101. In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 is coupled to the lower bar 106 by means of the fastener 108. In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 is fixed to the lower portion 117 of the closure 101 and is configured to resist compression when an upward force is applied to the lower bar 106 or lower interface 110. In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 is coupled to the lower portion 117 of the closure 101 and is configured to resist shear when a transverse (e.g., vertical) force is applied to the closure 101, the lower bar 106, or lower interface 110.In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 is coupled to the lower portion 117 of the closure 101 and is configured to resist compression and shear when a force is applied to the closure 101, the lower bar 106, or the lower interface 110. In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 is coupled to one or more of the lower bar 106, the lower interface 110, and one or more slats 102. In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 is coupled or fixed to a plurality of slats 102. In some embodiments, the slats 102 in a first portion of the closure 101 are made of a first material, and the slats 102 in a second portion of the closure 101 are made of a second material. In some embodiments, the first portion is the lower portion 117 of the closure. In some embodiments, the first material is stronger (e.g., more resistant to compression or shear) than the second material. In other embodiments, the first and second materials are the same.In some forms, the first material and the second material are the same, but the slats 102 in the first portion 112 have different geometric properties (e.g., thickness or strength) from the slats in the second portion, so that the slats in the first portion are stronger than the slats in the second portion. In some embodiments, tie rod 116 comprises a metal bar, steel pipe, rebar, wood, or polymer. In some embodiments, tie rod 116 includes a rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the tie rod has a height of approximately 10.16 cm (4 in.), approximately 15.24 cm (6 in.), approximately 20.32 cm (8 in.), approximately 25.4 cm (10 in.), approximately 30.48 cm (12 in.), approximately 35.56 cm (14 in.), approximately 40.64 cm (16 in.), approximately 20.32 cm (8 in.), approximately 50.8 cm (20 in.), approximately 55.88 cm (22 in.), approximately 60.96 cm (24 in.), approximately 76.2 cm (30 in.), or approximately 91.44 cm (36 in.). In some models, the 116 strap has a width of approximately 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches), approximately 2.54 centimeters (1 inch), approximately 3.81 centimeters (1.5 inches), approximately 5.08 centimeters (2 inches), approximately 6.35 centimeters (2.5 inches), approximately 7.62 centimeters (3 inches), approximately 8.89 centimeters (3.5 inches), approximately 10.16 centimeters (4 inches), approximately 11.43 centimeters (4.5 inches), approximately 12.7 centimeters (5 inches), approximately 13.97 centimeters (5.5 inches), or approximately 15.24 centimeters (6 inches). In some models, the 116 strap has a thickness of approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches), approximately 0.5 centimeters (0.2 inches), approximately 0.63 centimeters (0.25 inches), approximately 0.76 centimeters (0.3 inches), approximately 1.01 centimeters (0.4 inches), approximately 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches), approximately 1.90 centimeters (0.75 inches), approximately 2.54 centimeters (1.0 inches), approximately 3.17 centimeters (1.25 inches), or approximately 3.81 centimeters (1.5 inches). In some embodiments, tie rod 116 includes a height and a width, and the height-to-width ratio is at least approximately 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, or approximately 1:1. In some embodiments, tie rod 116 is a steel bar with dimensions of V” x 1” x 12”. In some embodiments, closure 101 includes a height as measured between a ground surface and axis 104, and tie rod 116 has a tie rod length that is less than approximately 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or approximately 5% of the height of closure 101. In some configurations, tie rod 116 has a tensile strength of approximately 1,757.67 kg-force per square centimeter (25,000 pounds per square inch (psi)) to approximately 5,273.02 kg-force per square centimeter (75,000 psi), or approximately 3,515.34 kg-force per square centimeter (50,000 psi). In some configurations, tie rod 116 has a shear modulus of approximately 10,000 kilopounds per square inch (ksi) (7.03 x 10⁹ kgf / m²) to approximately 15,000 ksi (1.05 x 10¹⁰ kgf / m²), or approximately 12,000 ksi (8.44 x 10⁹ kgf / m²). In some embodiments, tie rod 116 extends vertically from the lower interface 110 or lower bar 106. In other embodiments, tie rod 116 extends away from the lower interface 110 or lower bar 106 along an axis transverse to the lower interface 110 or lower bar 106. In some configurations, the slat 102, the lower interface 110, and the tie rod 116 form a fastener 101 (for example, a fastener that is approximately 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) that is configured to deflect by a horizontal distance of approximately 0.10 centimeters (0.04 inches) to approximately 0.02 to 0.32 centimeters (0.8 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some configurations, the fastener 101 (for example, a fastener that is approximately 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) is configured to deflect by a vertical distance of approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.01 inches) to approximately 0.07 centimeters (0.02 inches).0.3 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the lath) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 lbs). In some forms, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 ft) long) is set to deflect a vertical distance of approximately 0.63 centimeters (0.25 inches) to approximately 1.27 centimeters (0.5 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the lath) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 lbs). In some configurations, the 101 closure (for example, a closure that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) long) is set to deflect a vertical distance of approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.01 inches) to approximately 0.12 centimeters (0.In some configurations, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 feet) long) is configured to deflect a horizontal distance of approximately 0.20 to approximately 3.55 centimeters (1.4 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some configurations, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 feet) long) is configured to deflect a vertical distance of approximately 0.10 centimeters (0.04 inches) to approximately 0.020.32 centimeters (8 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some embodiments, a plurality of straps 116 are joined and separated along a width (for example, a width measured as the distance between the first side wall and the second side wall of the opening) of the closure 101. In some embodiments, at least two straps of the plurality of straps 116 are separated from each other by a distance that is equal to or greater than a height of one of the straps 116. In some embodiments, the straps 116 are separated along the width of the closure 101 but are oriented such that at least two straps 116 are transverse or overlap each other. In some models, the 101 closure itself deflects by an initial deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to the closure. In some modalities, the vertical strength is approximately 45.35 kg (100 lbs), approximately 90.71 kg (200 lbs), approximately 136.07 kg (300 lbs), approximately 181.43 kg (400 lbs), approximately 226.79 kg (500 lbs), approximately 272.15 kg (600 lbs), approximately 317.51 ​​kg (700 lbs), approximately 362.87 kg (800 lbs), approximately 408.23 kg (900 lbs), approximately 453.59 kg (1,000 lbs), approximately 45.35 kg (100 lbs) to approximately 136.07 kg (300 lbs), approximately 136.07 kg (300 lbs) to approximately 226.79 kg (500 lbs), approximately 226.79 kg (500 pounds) to approximately 340.19 kilograms (750 pounds), approximately 340.19 kilograms (750 pounds) to approximately 453.59 kg (1,000 pounds), less than 453.59 kg (1,000 lb), or greater than 453.59 kg (1,000 lb). In some models, the closure with the attached tie rod 116 deflects by a second distance when vertical force is applied to the closure. In some models, the second distance is at least approximately 100%, 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or approximately 5% less than the first distance. In some models, the closure with the tie rod 116 and the attached bottom bar 106 deflects by a third distance when vertical force is applied to the closure. In some modalities, the second distance is at least approximately 100%, 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or approximately 5% shorter than the first distance. In some modalities, the third distance is at least approximately 100%, 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or approximately 5% shorter than the first distance.In some modalities, the first deflection distance is a maximum of approximately 0.5 centimeters (0.2 inches) to approximately 1.52 centimeters (0.6 inches) in a vertical direction when the 101 closure is approximately 2.43 meters (8 feet) to approximately 3.65 meters (12 feet) or approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) wide and the 101 closure is subjected to a force of approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some modalities, the second deflection distance is a maximum of approximately 0.05 centimeters (0.02 inches) to approximately 0.10 centimeters (0.04 inches) in a vertical direction when the 101 closure is approximately 2.43 meters (8 feet) to approximately 3.65 meters (12 feet) or approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) wide and the 101 closure is subjected to a force of approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some modalities, the third deviation distance is a maximum of approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.0.01 inches) to approximately 0.07 centimeters (0.03 inches) in a vertical direction when the closure 101 is approximately 2.43 meters (8 feet) wide to approximately 3.65 meters (12 feet) or approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) and the closure 101 is subjected to a force of approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some embodiments, the fastener 101 (for example, a fastener that is approximately 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) includes the slat 102, the lower interface 110, the lower bar 106, and the tie rod 116 and is configured to deflect by a horizontal distance of approximately 0.12 centimeters (0.05 inches) to approximately 0.00381 centimeters (0.0015 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some configurations, the 101 closure (for example, a closure that is approximately 1.52 meters (5 feet) long) is set to deflect a vertical distance of approximately 0.12 centimeters (0.05 inches) to approximately 0.00381 cm (0.In some forms, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) long) is configured to deflect a horizontal distance of approximately 0.010 centimeters (0.04 inches) to approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some forms, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 3.04 meters (10 feet) long) is configured to deflect a vertical distance of approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.01 inches) to approximately 0.07 centimeters (0.07 inches).0.3 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 lb). In some forms, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 ft) long) is set to deflect a horizontal distance of approximately 0.25 centimeters (0.1 in) to approximately 1.01 centimeters (0.4 in) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 lb). In some forms, the 101 fastener (for example, a fastener that is approximately 4.57 meters (15 ft) long) is set to deflect a vertical distance of approximately 0.05 centimeters (0.02 in) to approximately 0.15 centimeters (0.02 in).06 inches) when subjected to a force (for example, a force applied with a lever at a point along the length of the slat) of up to approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds). In some embodiments, the lock 101 is configured to prevent a person from forcing their way through (e.g., with an iron bar, pry bar, sledgehammer, lever, or hand tool) for a selected period of time. In some embodiments, one or more of the slat 102, the lower interface 110, the bottom bar 106, and the tie rod 116 may be compressed or deformed when a force is applied to the lock 101, but a gap between the lock 101 and the side wall or floor is too small for a person to enter through it, even if someone attempts to force their way through (e.g., with an iron bar, pry bar, sledgehammer, lever, or hand tool) for a selected period of time. In some modes, the selected time period is at least 1 minute, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 50 minutes, or 60 minutes. Existing locking systems can roll around an axis as the lock moves from a closed to an open configuration. However, existing locking systems can be lifted, allowing the slats to hang freely and rotate about the axis even if the lock does not deform or overlap itself (e.g., where the slats do not remain in the same plane), thus permitting unauthorized access through the opening. Referring to Figure 5, in some embodiments, the lock 101 is fixed to the axis 104 to prevent the lock 101 from rotating about the axis 104 when an upward force is applied to the lock 101. In some embodiments, the lock 101 is fixed to the axis 104 by means of an anchor 120 (e.g., threaded fastener, self-drilling screw, adhesive, welding, or rivet).In some embodiments, a first anchor 120 couples a first portion of the fastener 101 to the shaft 104, and a second anchor 120 couples a second portion of the fastener 101 to the shaft 104. In some embodiments, the first anchor is circumferentially separated around a centerline of the shaft 104 from the second anchor 120 by approximately 180 degrees, approximately 150 degrees, approximately 120 degrees, approximately 90 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, or approximately 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the tie rod 116 prevents at least a portion of the fastener 101 from wrapping around the shaft 104. In some configurations, one or more of the tie rod 116, the bottom bar 106, and the anchor 120 can be retrofitted onto an existing closure. In some configurations, one or more of the tie rod 116, the bottom bar 106, and the anchor 120 can be retrofitted onto an existing closure while that closure is in place. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that changes could be made to the exemplary embodiments shown and described above without departing from their broad inventive concepts. It is therefore understood that this invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described, but is intended to encompass modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. For example, specific features of the exemplary embodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention, and the various features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. The words “lower” and “upper” designate directions in the referenced drawings. The words “inward” and “outward” refer to directions. 6 toward and away, respectively, from the geometric center of the closure system. Unless specifically stated herein, the terms “a,” “one,” and “the” are not limited to one element, but should rather be read as indicating “at least one.” It is understood that at least some of the figures and descriptions of the invention have been simplified to focus on elements relevant to a clear understanding of the invention, while other elements, which those skilled in the art will appreciate may also contribute to understanding a portion of the invention, have been omitted for the sake of clarity. However, because such elements are well known in the art, and because they do not necessarily facilitate a better understanding of the invention, a description of these elements is not provided here. Furthermore, to the extent that the methods of the present invention are not based on the particular order of steps set forth herein, the particular order of the steps should not be construed as a limitation on the claims. Any claims relating to the methods of the present invention should not be restricted to the performance of its steps in the order written, and a person skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the steps may be modified and still remain within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1A closure system, characterized in that it comprises: a closure movable between an extended state and a retracted state, wherein the closure is configured to at least partially obstruct an opening in the extended state and permit access through the opening in the retracted state, the closure including a first portion and a second portion opposite the first portion, wherein the closure is deflected by a first deflection distance when a vertical force is applied to the closure; and a tie rod attached to the first portion of the closure, wherein the closure with the tie rod attached thereto is deflected by a second deflection distance when the vertical force is applied to the closure, wherein the first deflection distance is at least 100 percent greater than the second deflection distance.

2. The closing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the vertical force is approximately 136.07 kg (300 pounds).

3. The closing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first distance is at least 200 percent more than the second distance.

4. The closing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first distance is at least 300 percent more than the second distance.

5. The closing system according to claim 1, characterized in that the first distance is at least 400 percent more than the second distance.

6. The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that the closure comprises a plurality of slats, wherein each slat of the plurality of slats is configured to interlock with another slat of the plurality of slats.

7. The closure system according to claim 6, characterized in that the tie rod is configured to prevent at least one slat of the plurality of slats from overlapping with another slat of the plurality of slats when vertical force is applied to the closure.

8. The closure system according to claim 6, characterized in that the closure is wound around an axis as the closure moves from the extended state to the folded state and more than one slat of the plurality of slats is fixed to the axis.

9. The closure system according to claim 6, characterized in that the tie rod is coupled to at least two slats of the plurality of slats. io Lfrnn / zznz / B / YiAi 10. The locking system according to claim 1, characterized in that the second deflection distance is a maximum of 0.5 centimeters (0.2 inches) to approximately 0.10 centimeters (0.04 inches).

11. The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that the tie rod includes a rectangular cross-section. 12 - The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that the tie rod includes a height and a width and a height-to-width ratio of at least 2:

1.

13. The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that the strap is coupled to the closure by means of fasteners and the fasteners are exposed on an interior of the closure. 14 - The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that the tie rod comprises a steel tube.

15. The closure system according to claim 1, wherein the closure is wound around an axis as the closure moves from the extended state to the retracted state and the tie rod extends vertically from the first portion of the closure towards the axis.

16. The closure system according to claim 15, characterized in that the tie rod prevents the first portion of the closure from winding around the axis as the closure moves to the folded state. 17 - The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that the tie rod is one of a plurality of tie rods coupled to the closure.

18. The closure system according to claim 17, characterized in that the plurality of straps are separated from each other along a width of the closure. 19 - The closure system according to claim 18, characterized in that at least two of the plurality of straps are separated from each other by a distance that is equal to or greater than the height of one of at least two of the plurality of straps.

20. The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that the opening is defined by at least a first side wall and a second side wall, wherein the closure further comprises a guide coupled to at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall, wherein at least a portion of the closure is configured to move within a rail defined by the guide as the closure moves between the extended state and the folded state.

21. The closure system according to claim 20, characterized in that the closure is wound around an axis as the closure moves from the extended state to the retracted state and the closure includes a height between a ground surface and the axis, yio Lfrnn / zznz / E / YiAi 1 9 wherein the tie rod extends less than 10 percent of the height of the closure.

22. The closure system according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a lower bar coupled to the first portion of the closure and the tie rod, wherein the closure with the tie rod and the lower bar coupled thereto is deflected by a third deflection distance when vertical force is applied to the closure and the third distance is at least 10 percent less than the first distance.

23. The closing system according to claim 22, characterized in that the lower bar comprises a metal angle or tube.

24. The closure system according to claim 22, characterized in that the lower bar includes a rectangular cross-section shape.

25. The closure system according to claim 22, characterized in that the lower bar is more resistant to deformation in a vertical direction than the tie rod.

26. The closure system according to claim 22, characterized in that the strap is coupled to the lower bar with a fastener and the fastener is exposed on a lower surface of the lower bar. 27.- The locking system according to claim 22, characterized in that the third deviation distance is a maximum of approximately 0.02 centimeters (0.01 inches) to approximately 0.07 centimeters (0.03 inches).

28. A method for preventing access through an opening, characterized in that it comprises: attaching a tie rod to a closure, the closure being movable between an extended state and a retracted state, wherein the closure at least partially obstructs the opening in the extended state and permits access through the opening in the retracted state, the closure configured to wind around an axis as the closure moves from the extended state to the retracted state, wherein the closure is deflected by a first deflection distance when a vertical force of 136.07 kg (300 lbs) is applied to the closure, wherein the closure with the tie rod attached thereto is deflected by a second deflection distance when the vertical force is applied to the closure, wherein the second distance is at least 5 percent less than the first distance.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that it further comprises: attaching a lower bar to one end of the second portion of the closure, wherein the closure with the tie rod and lower bar attached thereto is deflected by a third distance of deflection when a vertical force is applied to the closure, wherein the third distance is at least 10 percent less than the first distance.

30. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that the closure includes a plurality of slats and the method further comprises: 5 fixing at least two slats of the plurality of slats to the shaft.

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