Braking system for a door

Abstract

A door braking system connecting the door handle to a brake mechanism mounted on the door's hinge. When the door handle is displaced, force is transferred to release the brake. The system and method thereby control the door's movement and can lock the door in a selected position.

Description

[0001] BRAKING SYSTEM FOR A DOOR

[0002] RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 695,860 filed on 18 September 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a braking system for a door, and, more particularly, but not exclusively, which prevents a door from closing unintentionally and / or locks the door in a selected position.

[0006] Injuries from doors closing inadvertently can stem from a combination of factors such as mechanical failures (e.g., malfunctioning automatic doors, heavy doors with powerful closing mechanisms, and a lack of proper maintenance), and human vulnerabilities (e.g., distractions, slow rection times, playing with doors, slamming doors, etc.), and environmental factors (e.g., sudden gusts of wind, the actions of pets, etc.). These risks are amplified by human factors, including the slower reaction times of children and the elderly who can have reduced balance or might not react quickly enough to avoid being struck by a closing door or having fingers or limbs caught between a door and its’ door jams.

[0007] Common injuries caused by doors closing inadvertently on a person include crush injuries which can affect fingers, hands, limbs, and even the torso, the severity of which can range from bruising and swelling to fractures and, in extreme cases, amputations. Sudden impact or awkward movements while trying to avoid a closing door can lead to sprains and strains in joints like wrists, ankles, and knees. Further, a traumatic door incident can cause lasting fear and anxiety, especially in children.

[0008] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0010] In the drawings

[0011] FIG. 1 : Schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0012] FIG. 2: Schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0013] FIG. 3: Schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0014] FIG. 4: Schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0015] FIG. 5: Schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0016] FIG. 6: Schematic flow chart illustrating a use of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0017] FIG. 7: Block diagram of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0018] FIG. 8: Block diagram of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0019] FIG. 9: Flow chart illustrating a use of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0020] FIG. 10: Schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0021] FIGs. 11A-C: Schematic diagrams illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0022] FIGs. 12A-E: Schematic diagrams illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; FIGs. 13A-F: Schematic diagrams illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention;

[0023] FIG. 14: Block diagram of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention; and

[0024] FIG. 15 : Flow chart illustrating a use of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0025] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0026] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a braking system for a door including: a brake configured to inhibit movement of a hinge; and a door handle linker, connecting a door handle to the brake, wherein the brake is controlled by positioning of the door handle.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is configured to be engaged when the door handle is in a default position.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is configured to be disengaged when the door handle is moved from a default position.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is configured to be reengaged when the door handle is returned to a default position.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is configured to be reengaged when the door handle is returned to its’ original position.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is biased in an engaged position.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the invention, the hinge is load bearing.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the invention, the hinge is non-load bearing.

[0034] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is configured to slow rotation about the hinge.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is configured to prevent rotation about the hinge.

[0036] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake includes at least one of a caliper, a high friction bolt, a wedge, or a detent mechanism.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the invention, the high friction bolt is configured to be pushed against a hinge to prevent rotation. According to some embodiments of the invention, the wedge is configured to be pushed between hinge components to prevent relative motion.

[0038] According to some embodiments of the invention, the wedge is configured to be pushed into a crack between the door and the door frame to prevent motion of the door.

[0039] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake includes a detent mechanism; and a door handle linker, wherein the door handle linker is configured to connect to a door handle to the brake.

[0040] According to some embodiments of the invention, the detent mechanism includes a locking pin located on the door and a gear located on the hinge.

[0041] According to some embodiments of the invention, the locking pin is configured to interact with the gear.

[0042] According to some embodiments of the invention, the locking pin is configured to engage teeth of the gear to prevent rotation about the hinge.

[0043] According to some embodiments of the invention, the gear is attached or connected to the hinge.

[0044] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake includes a caliper configured to close onto a door hinge or a disc connected thereto to prevent movement of the door; and a door handle linker, wherein the door handle linker is configured to connect between a door handle and the brake.

[0045] According to some embodiments of the invention, the caliper is configured to close onto a door hinge or a disc connected thereto to prevent the door from rotating about the hinge.

[0046] According to some embodiments of the invention, the caliper includes a spring bias biased in a closed configuration.

[0047] According to some embodiments of the invention, the brake is a rim brake or disc brake.

[0048] According to some embodiments of the invention, the door handle linker is configured to connect to a spindle of a door handle outside the door panels.

[0049] According to some embodiments of the invention, the door handle linker is configured to connect to a spindle of a door handle between door panels.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the invention, the door handle linker is configured to move along with the spindle on movement of the door handle.

[0051] According to some embodiments of the invention, the door handle linker includes a cable.

[0052] According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable is configured to connect to the door handle linker on one end and the brake on the other end. According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable is configured to transfer a force from the door handle to the brake.

[0053] According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable is configured to transfer a force from the door handle to the brake to engage or release the brake.

[0054] According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable is configured to wind around the door handle linker.

[0055] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a movable support and a frame.

[0056] According to some embodiments of the invention, the movable support is attached to the cable.

[0057] According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable is configured to transfer a force from the door handle via the door handle linker to the movable support to engage or release a locking pin from teeth of a gear to prevent or facilitate movement of the door.

[0058] According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable is configured to transfer displacement force from movement of the door handle via the door handle linker to release the calipers from the hinge or the disc, thereby facilitating movement of the door.

[0059] According to some embodiments of the invention, the cable is selected from brake cable, hydraulic hose, Bowden cable, steel cable, copper cable, fabric cable, braided fibers, rope, rigid rod, or a combination thereof.

[0060] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system is mounted internally or externally to the door.

[0061] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system is mounted to an interior facing surface or an exterior facing surface of the door.

[0062] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system is mounted to one or more edges of the door.

[0063] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system is mounted to a channel within one or more surfaces of the door.

[0064] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system is mounted to a channel within one or more edges of the door.

[0065] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system is mounted between the panels of the door.

[0066] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system is mounted to an existing door.

[0067] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system, or part thereof, is concealed by a housing.

[0068] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system further includes a deactivation mechanism configured to deactivate the braking system.

[0069] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method for locking a door in a selected position, the method including: engaging a braking system when a door handle is in a default position preventing movement of the door; displacing the door handle thereby disengaging the braking system; and maintaining the door handle in a rotated position to facilitate movement of the door.

[0070] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes: releasing the door handle thereby returning the door handle to the default position; and reengaging the braking system in response to the releasing thereby inhibiting further movement of the door.

[0071] According to some embodiments of the invention, the inhibiting is with the door in a partially open state.

[0072] According to some embodiments of the invention, the selected position is closed, opened, or partially closed.

[0073] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes transferring a force from the door handle via a door handle linker to a brake of the braking system for engaging or releasing the brake.

[0074] According to some embodiments of the invention, the engaging the brake includes maintaining or returning a component of the brake to a biased closed position.

[0075] According to some embodiments of the invention, the releasing the brake includes moving a component of the brake from a biased closed position.

[0076] According to some embodiments of the invention, a brake of the braking system includes at least one caliper configured to close onto a door hinge or a disc connected thereto; displacing the door handle thereby disengaging the caliper from the door hinge or the disc connected thereto; maintaining the door handle in a rotated position to facilitate movement of the door; releasing the door handle thereby returning the door handle to the default position; and reengaging the caliper thereby preventing the door from moving from the selected position.

[0077] According to some embodiments of the invention, the caliper includes a spring bias biased in a closed configuration.

[0078] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes transferring a force from the door handle via a door handle linker for engaging or releasing the caliper. According to some embodiments of the invention, the engaging the brake includes maintaining or returning the caliper to a biased closed position.

[0079] According to some embodiments of the invention, the releasing the brake includes moving the caliper from a biased closed position.

[0080] According to some embodiments of the invention, the braking system includes a detent mechanism including a locking pin configured for interacting with a gear located on a hinge holding the door in position and preventing the door from moving; displacing the door handle thereby disengaging the locking pin from teeth of the gear; maintaining the door handle in a rotated position to facilitate movement of the door; releasing the door handle thereby returning the door handle to the default position; and reengaging the gear with the locking pin thereby preventing the door from moving from the selected position.

[0081] According to some embodiments of the invention, reengaging the locking pin locks the door in the selected position.

[0082] According to some embodiments of the invention, the locking pin is moved by pulling or releasing a cable connecting the locking pin on one end to the door handle on the other end.

[0083] According to some embodiments of the invention, the locking pin is biased towards the door hinge.

[0084] According to some embodiments of the invention, the reengaging the locking pin is reengaging the same teeth of the gear.

[0085] According to some embodiments of the invention, the reengaging the locking pin is reengaging different teeth of the gear.

[0086] DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0087] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a braking system for a door, and, more particularly, but not exclusively, which prevents a door from closing unintentionally and / or locks the door in a selected position.

[0088] OVERVIEW

[0089] An aspect of some embodiments of the current invention relates to a braking system for a door. Optionally, the system may be configured to prevent a door from closing unintentionally. Optionally, the system may be configured to prevent a door from closing inadvertently on a person (e.g., slamming on a child’s hand). Optionally, the door may be an internal door, external door, security door, front door, car door, gate, cupboard door, cabinet door, etc. Optionally, the door may be constructed from wood, wood fiber, glass, metal, fiber glass, plastic, etc. or any combination thereof. Alternatively, or additionally, the system may be used to hold a door partially and / or completely opened and / or closed. Optionally, the system may be configured to lock a door in a selected position. Alternatively, or additionally, the system may be used to facilitate gradual closing of a door. For example, the system may prevent a door from closing unintentionally and / or to lock a door in a selected position and / or lock a door in its current position.

[0090] According to some embodiments, the door braking system may be installed and / or mounted internally and / or externally to the door. Optionally, the door braking system may be installed and / or mounted to an existing door (e.g., a door may be retrofitted with the door braking system). Optionally, the door braking system may be mounted to an interior facing surface, and / or an exterior facing surface of the door. Optionally, the system may be mounted to one or more edges of the door. Optionally, the system may be mounted to a channel within one or more surfaces of the door. Optionally, the system may be mounted to a channel within one or more edges of the door. Optionally, the system may be mounted between the panels of the door. Optionally, the system may be mounted within an interior space of the door, e.g., between internal surfaces of door panels. Optionally, the system may be mounted to an internal surface of the door. Optionally, the system, and / or part thereof, may be concealed by a decorative element of the door. Optionally, a decorative element may be used to conceal one or more components of the system.

[0091] According to some embodiments, the braking system may be connected to the door handle of the door. Optionally, the door handle may be a lever handle (e.g., lever handles on a rose, lever handles on a backplate, lever latch, lever lock, lever bathroom, etc.) doorknob (e.g., keyed entry doorknob, privacy doorknob, passage doorknob, etc.), pull handle, panic bar etc. Optionally, the braking system may be connected to one or more components of the door handle, e.g., spindle, lever, latch bolt, lock cylinder, etc.

[0092] According to some embodiments, the braking system may be connected to a hinge of the door. Optionally, the braking system may be mounted to one or more hinges of the door. Optionally, the hinge may be load bearing. Optionally, the hinge may be non-load bearing. Optionally, the system may be included, at least in part, in and / or on a non-load bearing hinge. Optionally, the system hinge may be added to a door. Optionally, the system hinge may be added to a functioning door. Optionally, the system hinge may be added to a door for the purpose of controlling and / or preventing movement of a door. Optionally, the system hinge may be added to a functioning door on site, and / or retrofitted to a door, and / or installed prior to use of a door.

[0093] According to some embodiments, the braking system may prevent and / or slow down movement of the door or a part of the door about a hinge, e.g., by increasing fiction, blocking the motion of the hinge, etc. Optionally, the braking system may lock a door in its current positions and / or in a selected position and / or prevent movement from the current position and / or a selected position. Optionally, the selected position may be closed, open, partially open, etc. Optionally, the braking system may be biased to inhibit movement of the door (e.g., prevent and / or the door from moving. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down rotation of the hinge and / or articulation of the hinge. For example, the brake may apply friction, e.g., rim brakes, disc brakes, etc. between parts of the hinge. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by a detent mechanism, e.g., spring-loaded balls that engage with indentations, interlocking shaped surfaces, magnetic forces, expanding parts (e.g., an expanding fulcrum) and / or extending parts etc. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured to resist movement, and / or arrest movement, and / or provide incremental steps for movement. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured for precise control of the system.

[0094] According to some embodiments, the braking system may be engaged when the door handle is in its’ default position. Optionally, when the brake is engaged, it may prevent the door from moving. Optionally, when the brake is engaged, the door may be locked in the selected position. Optionally, displacing (e.g., turning) the door handle may disengage the brake. Optionally, provided that the door handle is maintained in a rotated position, the door brake may be disengaged and / or the door may be free to move (e.g., opened and / or closed). Optionally, when the door handle is released, the door handle may return to its’ default position. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the door handle may return to its’ original position. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the door handle may return to the biased closed position. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the brake may be reengaged. Optionally, when the brake is reengaged, it may prevent the door from moving. Optionally, when the brake is reengaged, the door may be locked in the selected position. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled (e.g., with a key, Allen key, screwdriver, etc.) to facilitate free movement of the door, e.g., the braking system may be disabled by tightening and / or loosening one or more connecting screws. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled without the need for a specialized tool. According to some embodiments, the braking system may include a linker to a door handle, and / or a cable, and / or a brake. Optionally, the door handle linker may include a lever, and / or a bolt, and / or an actuator, and / or a movement mechanism. Optionally, the door handle linker may move in response to displacement of the door handle. Optionally, the door handle linker may be configured to transfer displacement of the door handle to one or more additional components of the system.

[0095] According to some embodiments, the door handle linker may be connected to one or more cables. Optionally, the cable may be a brake cable, hydraulic hose, Bowden cable, steel cable, copper cable, fabric cable, braided fibers, rope, rigid rod, etc., or a combination thereof. Optionally, when a user displaces the door handle, the force may be transferred from door handle to the door handle linker and / or the cable to release the brake.

[0096] According to some embodiments, the cable may be a hydraulic hose. Optionally, the hydraulic hose may contain hydraulic fluid. Optionally, when a user displaces the door handle, the hydraulic fluid may be pushed through the system, causing pressure that deactivates the brake. Optionally, selection of the type of cable may be dependent on the type of door, e.g., a heavier door may require greater braking force to be applied. Alternatively, or additionally, a door handle linker may include a lever and / or hinged set of bars that apply force from the door handle to the brake.

[0097] According to some embodiments, the cable may be wound about one or more drums and / or spools and / or capstans and / or pulleys. Optionally, the cable may be affixed to a drum and / or spool and / or capstan and / or pulley. Optionally, the cable may be affixed to a drum and / or spool and / or capstan and / or pulley located on and / or attached to a component of a door handle and / or hinge. Optionally, rotation of the door handle may wind and / or unwind the cable from a drum and / or spool and / or capstan and / or pulley located on and / or attached to a component of a door handle and / or hinge. Optionally, rotation of the door handle may wind and / or unwind the cable to engage and / or disengage and / or reengage the braking system.

[0098] According to some embodiments, the brake may include a caliper, and / or a high friction bolt, and / or a wedge, and / or detent mechanism. Optionally, a high friction bolt may be pushed against a hinge to prevent rotation. Optionally, a wedge may be pushed between hinge components (e.g., knuckles and / or pin) to prevent relative motion. Optionally, a wedge and / or bolt may be pushed into a crack between the door and the door frame. Optionally, the wedge and / or bolt may be pushed into a space between a door and a door jam, e.g., on the bottom of the door, and / or top of the door, and / or edge of the door. Optionally, a hinge may be configured to include one or more components of a detent mechanism. Optionally, the detent mechanism may include a gear and / or a pawl and / or locking pin (e.g., bolt). Optionally, a locking pin may engage the teeth of a gear to prevent movement of the door. Optionally, the gear may be located on and / or within and / or be included as a component of a door hinge. Optionally, the locking pin may be located on and / or within and / or be included as a component of the braking system.

[0099] According to some embodiments, the brake may include one or more calipers. Optionally, the calipers may be connected to one or more hinges of the door. Optionally, the calipers may be configured to close onto a door hinge and / or a disc connected thereto. Optionally, the calipers may include a spring bias. Optionally, the calipers may be biased in a closed configuration. Optionally, the calipers may be biased closed to hold the door and / or prevent the door from rotating about the hinge. Optionally, the calipers may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by friction, e.g., rim brakes, disc brakes, etc. Optionally, the door handle may be connected to the calipers by a door handle linker and / or cable. Optionally, the door handle linker between the door handle and the calipers may run along the outside of the door, along the inside of the door, along an edge of the door (e.g., top or bottom), etc.

[0100] According to some embodiments, the calipers and / or door handle linker and / or cable may be installed (e.g., retrofit) to an existing door, e.g., to the outside of an existing door. Optionally, the calipers may be engaged when the door handle is in its’ default position. Optionally, displacement of a door handle may disengage the calipers. Optionally, once the door handle has been released to its’ default position and the calipers may return to its’ biased closed position, and the door may be prevented from moving.

[0101] According to some embodiments, the braking system may include a detent mechanism. Optionally, the detente mechanism may include a gear and / or a pawl and / or locking pin. Optionally, a locking pin may engage the teeth of a gear to prevent movement of the door, to slow movement of the door, to facilitate incremental movement of the door, to lock the door in a selected position, etc. Optionally, the gear may be located on and / or within and / or be included as a component of a door hinge. Optionally, the locking pin may be located on and / or within and / or be included as a component of the braking system.

[0102] Optionally, the locking pin may include a spring bias. Optionally, the detente mechanism may be biased in a closed configuration, e.g., with the locking pin engaging the teeth of the gear. Optionally, the detente mechanism may be biased closed to hold the door and / or prevent the door from rotating about the hinge. Optionally, the door handle may be connected to the locking pin by a door handle linker and / or cable. Optionally, the door handle linker (e.g., connector and / or cable, etc.) between the door handle and the locking pin may run along the outside of the door, along the inside of the door, along an edge of the door (e.g., top or bottom), etc. Optionally, the detente mechanism may be installed (e.g., retrofit) on an existing door. Optionally, the detente mechanism may include one or more magnetic components.

[0103] According to some embodiments, the locking pin may be engaged when the door handle is in its’ default position. Optionally, displacement of a door handle may disengage the locking pin. Optionally, once the door handle has been released to its’ default position and the locking pin may return to its’ biased closed position, and the door may be prevented from moving.

[0104] According to some embodiments, the brake system may be used with any type of hinge. Optionally, the hinge may include a leaf, knuckle and pin. Optionally, the hinge may be any type of hinge, for example, butt hinge, spring-loaded hinge, double-action spring hinge, concealed hinge, overlay hinge, strap hinge, gate hinge, ball-bearing hinge, offset hinge, scissor hinge, continuous hinge, piano hinge, knuckle hinge, mounting hinge, barrel hinge, etc. A hinge may connect a door to a door post, wall and / or building. Alternatively or additionally, hinge may include a pivot. For example, a pivot may connect a door to a ceiling or floor. Alternatively or additionally, a hinge may connect between parts of an articulated door and / or a folding screen. Optionally, the system may be configured to fit a wide range of hinge sizes.

[0105] According to some embodiments, one or more components of the system may be composed of a metal (e.g., stainless steel, iron, brass, bronze, pewter, aluminum, copper, etc.), and / or ceramic, and / or plastic (e.g., a phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyester resin, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polysulfone (PSU), fluoropolymers (PTFE, ETFE, etc.), or a combination thereof. Optionally, one or more components of the system may include a finish (e.g., primed, polished, plated, rust-resistant, etc.). Optionally, the finish may complement the design of the door and / or surrounding decor.

[0106] Advantageously, the braking system may be easy to install. Further advantageously, the system may prevent doors from closing inadvertently on a person. Additionally, or alternatively, the system may be configured to lock a door in a selected position, e.g., open, closed, partially closed, etc.

[0107] SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0108] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0109] Reference is now made to the figures.

[0110] FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary door braking systems, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the system may include a door handle linker 10, 20 to a door handle 12, 22 and a brake 14, 24a, 24b. The braking system may be connected to a hinge 16, 26a, 26b of the door 18, 30 (e.g., FIG. 1). The braking system may be mounted to one or more hinges 16, 26a, 26b of the door 18, 30 (e.g., FIG. 2). Optionally, the hinge 16, 26a, 26b may be load bearing and / or non-load bearing. Optionally, the door handle linker 10, 20 may be a lever, and / or a bolt, and / or an actuator, and / or a movement mechanism. Optionally, the door handle linker 10, 20 may move in response to displacement of the door handle 12, 22. Optionally, the door handle linker 10, 20 may be configured to transfer displacement of the door handle 12, 22 to one or more additional components of the system. The door handle linker 10, 20 may include a cable. Optionally, the cable may be a brake cable (for example, the brake cable may include an inner cable and / or an outer cable and / or housing). Optionally, when a user displaces the door handle 12, 22, the force may be transferred through the door handle linker 10, 20 and / or the cable to release the brake 14, 24a, 24b. Optionally, the cable may include a hydraulic hose. In some embodiments, the door handle linker 20 may branch to different brakes. For example, door handle linker 20 includes an upper branch 28a connecting to an upper hinge 26a connected to an upper brake 24a on an upper hinge 26a and a lower branch 28b connecting to a lower hinge 26b connected to a lower brake 24b on a lower hinge 26b. Optionally, the hydraulic hose may contain hydraulic fluid. Optionally, when a user displaces the door handle 12, 22, the hydraulic fluid may be pushed through the system, causing pressure that deactivates the brake 14, 24a, 24b. Optionally, the brake 14, 24a, 24b may include a caliper, and / or a high friction bolt, and / or a wedge, and / or detente mechanism. Optionally, a high friction bolt may be pushed against a hinge to prevent rotation. Optionally, a wedge may be pushed between hinge components (e.g., knuckles and / or pin) to prevent relative motion. Optionally, a wedge and / or bolt may be pushed into a crack between the door and the door frame. Optionally, the wedge and / or bolt may be pushed into a space between a door and a door jam, e.g., on the bottom of the door, and / or top of the door, and / or edge of the door. Optionally, a hinge may be configured to include one or more components of a detent mechanism. Optionally, the detent mechanism may include a gear and / or a pawl and / or locking pin (e.g., bolt). Optionally, a locking pin may engage the teeth of a gear to prevent movement of the door. Optionally, the gear may be located on and / or within and / or be included as a component of a door hinge. Optionally, the locking pin may be located on and / or within and / or be included as a component of the braking system.

[0111] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary door braking systems, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the system may include a door handle linker 32, 42 to a door handle 34, 44 and a brake 36, 46. The braking system may be connected to a hinge 38, 48 of the door 40, 50. The braking system may be mounted to one or more hinges 38, 48 of the door 40, 50. Optionally, the hinge 38, 48 may be load bearing and / or non-load bearing. Optionally, the door handle linker 32, 42 may be a lever, and / or a bolt, and / or an actuator, and / or a movement mechanism. Optionally, the door handle linker 32, 42 may move in response to displacement of the door handle 34, 44. Optionally, the door handle linker 32, 42 may be configured to transfer displacement of the door handle 34, 44 to one or more additional components of the system. The door handle linker 32, 42 may include a cable. The door braking system may be installed and / or mounted internally and / or externally to the door. Optionally, the door braking system may be installed and / or mounted to an existing door 40, 50 (e.g., a door may be retrofitted with the door braking system). Optionally, the door braking system may be mounted to an interior facing surface and / or an exterior facing surface of the door 40, 50 (e.g., FIG. 3). Optionally, the system may be mounted to one or more edges of the door 40, 50 (e.g., FIG. 4). Optionally, the system may be mounted to a channel within one or more surfaces of the door 40, 50. Optionally, the system may be mounted to a channel within one or more edges of the door. Optionally, the system may be mounted between the panels of the door. Optionally, the system may be mounted within an interior space of the door, e.g., between internal surfaces of door panels. Optionally, the system may be mounted to an internal surface of the door. Optionally, the system, and / or part thereof, may be concealed by a decorative element of the door. Optionally, a decorative element may be used to conceal one or more components of the system. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the brake system may include one or more calipers 52. Optionally, the calipers 52 may be connected to one or more hinges (not shown) of the door. Optionally, the calipers 52 may be configured to close onto a door hinge and / or a disc 54 connected thereto. Optionally, the calipers 52 may include a spring bias 56. Optionally, the calipers 52 may be biased in a closed configuration. Optionally, the calipers 52 may be biased closed to hold the door and / or prevent the door from rotating about the hinge and / or to lock the door in a selected position. Optionally, the calipers 52 may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by friction, e.g., rim brakes, disc brakes, etc. Optionally, the door handle 58 may be connected to the calipers 52 by a door handle linker 60 and / or cable 62. Optionally, the door handle linker 60 (e.g., connector and / or cable 62, etc.) between the door handle 58 and the calipers 52 may run along the outside of the door. Optionally, the calipers 52 and / or door handle linker 60 and / or cable 62 may be installed (e.g., retrofit) on the outside and / or within an existing door. Optionally, the calipers 52 may be engaged when the door handle 58 is in its’ default position. Optionally, displacement of a door handle 58 may disengage the calipers 52. Optionally, once the door handle 58 has been released to its’ default position and the calipers 52 may return to the biased closed position, and the door may be prevented from moving and / or locked in the selected position, e.g., closed, opened, partially closed.

[0112] FIG. 6 is a schematic flow chart illustrating a use of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the braking system may be engaged when the door handle 64 is in its’ default position (e.g., 6A). Optionally, displacing (e.g., turning) the door handle 64 may disengage the brake 68. Optionally, provided that the door handle 64 is maintained in a rotated position, the door brake 68 may be disengaged and / or the door 66 may be free to move (e.g., 6B). Optionally, when the door handle 64 is released, the door handle 64 may return to its’ default position. Optionally, when the door handle 64 is released, the door handle 64 may return to the biased closed position. Optionally, when the door handle 64 is released, the brake 68 may reengage. Optionally, when the brake 68 is reengaged, it may prevent the door 66 from moving. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled (e.g., with a key, Allen key, screwdriver, etc.) to facilitate free movement of the door 66, e.g., the braking system may be disabled by tightening and / or loosening one or more connecting screws. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled without the need for a specialized tool. FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the door braking system 70 may include a door handle 72, a door handle linker 74 configured for connection to the door handle 72, optionally including a cable, and a brake 76, where the door handle linker 74 is configured to transfer the force of displacement of the door handle 72 to release the brake 76 from a hinge 78, thereby facilitating movement of the door. Optionally, the hinge 78 may be load bearing and / or nonload bearing. Optionally, the door braking system may be installed and / or mounted to an existing door (e.g., a door may be retrofitted with the door braking system).

[0113] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the door braking system 80 may include a door handle linker 82 configured for connection between a door handle and a cable 84, and calipers 86, where the cable 84 is configured to transfer the force of displacement of the door handle from the door handle linker 82 to release the calipers 86 from a hinge or disc, thereby facilitating movement of the door.

[0114] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a use of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, in method 88, the braking system may be engaged when the door handle is in its’ default position to prevent 90 movement of the door. Optionally, displacing 92 (e.g., turning) the door handle may disengage 94 the brake. Optionally, provided that the door handle is maintained 96 in a rotated position, the door brake may be disengaged and / or the door may be free to move 98 (e.g., opened and / or closed). Optionally, when the door handle is released, the door handle may return to its’ default position. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the door handle may return to its original position. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the door handle may return to the biased closed position. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the brake may be reengaged. Optionally, when the brake is reengaged, it may prevent the door from moving.

[0115] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the braking system may include a hinge 100. Optionally, the hinge 100 may be configured to include one or more components of a detent mechanism, e.g., spring-loaded balls that engage with indentations, interlocking shaped surfaces, magnetic forces, etc. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured to resist movement, and / or arrest movement, and / or provide incremental steps for movement. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured for precise control of the system. Optionally, the hinge 100 may be configured to include a gear 102 and / or one or more teeth of a gear. Optionally, the gear 102 may be configured to interlock with a locking pin 104. Optionally, the locking pin 104 may be configured to lock the gear 102 in a selected position and / or prevent movement of the door. Optionally, rotation of a door handle to an unlocked position may withdraw the locking pin 104 from the teeth of the gear 102, e.g., disengaging the locking pin. Optionally, maintaining the door handle in a rotated (unlocked) position may facilitate movement of the door. Optionally, releasing the door handle (returning the door handle to its’ original position) may reengage the brake. Optionally, releasing the door handle (returning the door handle to a default unrotated locked position) may reengage the locking pin 104 in the teeth of the gear 102. Optionally, the locking pin 104 may reengage the same teeth of the gear 102. Optionally, the locking pin 104 may reengage different teeth of the gear 102. Optionally, reengaging the locking pin 104 may lock the door in a selected position (e.g., closed, opened, partially closed).

[0116] FIGs. 11 A-C are schematic diagrams illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the braking system may be mounted to a door 106. Optionally, the braking system may be mounted to the outside of a door 106, e.g., retrofitted to an existing door. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to attach to a door handle 110 and a hinge 116 of a door 106. Optionally the hinge 116 may be load bearing and / or non-load bearing. Optionally, the braking system may interact with the hinge 116. Optionally, the braking system may include a door handle linker (not shown), a cable (not shown), and a brake 118. Optionally, one or more components of the braking system may be concealed by a housing 112, 114. Optionally, the cable may be concealed by a housing 114, e.g., a covered channel. Optionally, the housing may be constructed, at least in part, from metal and / or plastic. Optionally, the housing 112, 114 may be decorative. Optionally, the housing 112, 114 may include an outer cover. Optionally, the outer cover may be removable. Optionally, housing 112, 114 may conceal all or part of the brake 118.

[0117] Optionally, brake 118 may include gear 128 which may be configured to interact with locking pin 120. Optionally, hinge 116 may include one or more gears 128, e.g., at the top and / or bottom of the hinge. Optionally, the gears 128 may be attached and / or connected to a standard door hinge. Optionally, locking pin 120 may be mounted to a movable support 122. Optionally, movable support 122 may include an attachment 124 for attachment to the cable (not shown). Optionally, movable support 122 may be moved by pulling and / or releasing the cable (not shown). Optionally, movable support 122 may be biased towards the hinge 118, such that the locking pin 120 interacts with the teeth of gear 128, holding the door in position and / or preventing the door from moving. Optionally, movable support 122 may be attached to the door by a frame 126. Optionally, movable support 122 may be secured to frame 126 by a deactivation mechanism 127, e.g., by tightening a deactivation screw. Optionally, use of deactivation mechanism 127 may disable the braking system. Optionally, the deactivation mechanism 127 may be accessed by removing the cover. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled (e.g., with a key, Allen key, screwdriver, etc.) to facilitate free movement of the door, e.g., the braking system may be disabled by tightening and / or loosening one or more connecting screws. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled without the need for a specialized tool.

[0118] Optionally, the braking system may prevent and / or slow down movement of the door about a hinge, e.g., by increasing fiction, blocking the motion of the hinge, etc. Optionally, the braking system may lock a door in a selected position and / or prevent movement from a selected position. Optionally, the selected position may be closed, open, partially open, etc. Optionally, the braking system may be biased to prevent the door from moving. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by friction, e.g., rim brakes, disc brakes, etc. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by a detent mechanism, e.g., spring-loaded balls that engage with indentations, interlocking shaped surfaces, magnetic forces, etc. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured to resist movement, and / or arrest movement, and / or provide incremental steps for movement. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured for precise control of the system.

[0119] FIGs. 12A-E are schematic diagrams illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the braking system may be mounted to a door 130. Optionally, the braking system may be mounted to the inside of a door 130, e.g., retrofitted to an existing door. Optionally, the system may be mounted between the panels of the door 130. Optionally, the system may be mounted within an interior space of the door 130, e.g., between internal surfaces of door panels. Optionally, the system may be mounted to an internal surface of the door 130. Optionally, the system, and / or part thereof, may be concealed by a decorative element of the door. Optionally, a decorative element may be used to conceal one or more components of the system. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to attach to a door handle 134 and a hinge 138 of a door 130. Optionally the hinge 138 may be load bearing and / or non-load bearing. Optionally, the braking system may interact with the hinge 138. Optionally, the braking system may include a door handle linker 136, a cable (not shown), and a brake. Optionally, one or more components of the braking system may be concealed by a housing 132. Optionally, the housing 132 may be constructed, at least in part, from metal and / or plastic. Optionally, the housing 132 may be decorative. Optionally, the housing 132 may include an outer cover. Optionally, the outer cover may be removable. Optionally, housing 132 may conceal all or part of the brake.

[0120] Optionally, the brake may include gear 142 which may be configured to interact with locking pin 144. Optionally, hinge 138 may include one or more gears 142, e.g., at the top and / or bottom of the hinge. Optionally, the gears 142 may be attached and / or connected to a standard door hinge. Optionally, locking pin 144 may be mounted to a movable support 108. Optionally, movable support 108 may include an attachment for attachment to the cable (not shown). Optionally, movable support 108 may be moved by pulling and / or releasing the cable (not shown). Optionally, movable support 108 may be biased towards the hinge 138, such that the locking pin 144 interacts with the teeth of gear 142, holding the door in position and / or preventing the door from moving. Optionally, movable support 108 may be attached to the door by a frame 140. Optionally, frame 140 may include one or more pulley wheels 148. Optionally, the pulley wheels 148 may be located in the interstitial space between the door panels. Optionally, the pulley wheels 148 may redirect the cable from inside door to parallel to locking pin 144 to pull the locking pin 144. Optionally, the pulley wheels 148 may be configured to redirect the cable from within the door to the movable support 108. Optionally, the pulley wheels 148 may be configured to redirect the force from the door handle 134 to the movable support 108 to withdraw the locking pin 144 from the teeth of the gear 142. Optionally, the cable may be connected to the movable support 108 on one end and to the door handle linker 136 at the other end. Optionally, the cable may be wound around the door handle linker 136 and / or secured to the door handle linker 136. Optionally, the door handle linker 136 may be connected to the spindle 137 of the door handle 134. Optionally, the door handle linker 136 may be connected to the spindle 137 of the door handle 134 outside the door panels (e.g., between the handle and the door panel) and / or between door panels (e.g., within the door). Optionally, rotation of the door handle may rotate the spindle 137 and thereby door handle linker 136. Optionally, rotation of the door handle may rotate the spindle 137 and thereby door handle linker 136, winding the cable about the door handle linker 136. Optionally, winding the cable about the door handle linker 136 may tighten the cable and pull the movable support 108 towards the door handle 134 (away from the hinge 138), thereby withdrawing the locking pin 144 from the teeth of the gear 142 allowing movement of the door 130. Optionally, movable support 108 may be secured to frame 140 by a deactivation mechanism 150, e.g., by tightening a deactivation screw. Optionally, use of deactivation mechanism 150 may disable the braking system. Optionally, the deactivation mechanism 150 may be accessed by removing the cover. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled (e.g., with a key, Allen key, screwdriver, etc.) to facilitate free movement of the door, e.g., the braking system may be disabled by tightening and / or loosening one or more connecting screws. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled without the need for a specialized tool.

[0121] Optionally, the braking system may prevent and / or slow down movement of the door about a hinge, e.g., by increasing fiction, blocking the motion of the hinge, etc. Optionally, the braking system may lock a door in a selected position and / or prevent movement from a selected position. Optionally, the selected position may be closed, open, partially open, etc. Optionally, the braking system may be biased to prevent the door from moving. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by friction, e.g., rim brakes, disc brakes, etc. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by a detent mechanism, e.g., spring-loaded balls that engage with indentations, interlocking shaped surfaces, magnetic forces, etc. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured to resist movement, and / or arrest movement, and / or provide incremental steps for movement. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured for precise control of the system.

[0122] FIGs. 13A-F are schematic diagrams illustrating an exemplary door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, the braking system may be mounted to a door 151. Optionally, the braking system may be mounted to the inside of a door 151, e.g., retrofitted to an existing door. Optionally, the system may be mounted between the panels of the door 151. Optionally, the system may be mounted within an interior space of the door 151, e.g., between internal surfaces of door panels. Optionally, the system may be mounted to an internal surface of the door 151. Optionally, the system, and / or part thereof, may be concealed by a decorative element of the door. Optionally, a decorative element may be used to conceal one or more components of the system. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to attach to a door handle 152 and a hinge 166 of a door 151. Optionally the hinge 166 may be load bearing and / or non-load bearing. Optionally the hinge 166 may be concealed by housing 158. Optionally, the braking system may interact with the hinge 166. Optionally, the braking system may include a door handle linker 156, a cable (not shown), and a brake. Optionally, one or more components of the braking system may be concealed by a housing 154, 158. Optionally, the housing 154, 158 may be constructed, at least in part, from metal and / or plastic. Optionally, the housing 154, 158 may be decorative. Optionally, the housing 154, 158 may include an outer cover. Optionally, the outer cover may be removable. Optionally, housing 154, 158 may conceal all or part of the brake system.

[0123] Optionally, the brake may include gear 170 which may be configured to interact with locking pin 168. Optionally, hinge 166 may include one or more gears 170, e.g., at the top and / or bottom of the hinge. Optionally, the gears 170 may be attached and / or connected to a standard door hinge. Optionally, locking pin 168 may be mounted to a movable support 165. Optionally, movable support 165 may include an attachment for attachment to the cable (not shown). Optionally, movable support 165 may be moved by pulling and / or releasing the cable (not shown). Optionally, movable support 165 may be biased towards the hinge 166, such that the locking pin 168 interacts with the teeth of gear 170, holding the door in position and / or preventing the door from moving. Optionally, movable support 165 may be attached to the door by a frame 164. Optionally, frame 164 may be located in the interstitial space between the door panels. Optionally, the frame 164 may be configured to redirect the force from the door handle 152 to the movable support 165 to withdraw the locking pin 168 from the teeth of the gear 170. Optionally, the cable may be connected to the movable support 165 on one end and to the door handle linker 156 at the other end. Optionally, the cable may be wound around the door handle linker 156 and / or secured to the door handle linker 156. Optionally, the door handle linker 156 may be connected to the spindle 160 of the door handle 152. Optionally, the door handle linker 156 may be connected to the spindle 160 of the door handle 152 outside the door panels (e.g., between the handle and the door panel) and / or between door panels (e.g., within the door). Optionally, rotation of the door handle may rotate the spindle 160 and thereby door handle linker 156. Optionally, rotation of the door handle may rotate the spindle 160 and thereby door handle linker 156, winding the cable about the door handle linker 156. Optionally, winding the cable about the door handle linker 156 may tighten the cable and pull the movable support 165 towards the door handle 152 (away from the hinge 166), thereby withdrawing the locking pin 168 from the teeth of the gear 170 allowing movement of the door 151.

[0124] Optionally, movable support 165 may be secured to frame 164 by a deactivation mechanism 162, e.g., by tightening a deactivation screw. Optionally, use of deactivation mechanism 162 may disable the braking system. Optionally, the deactivation mechanism 162 may be accessed by removing the cover of housing 154. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled (e.g., with a key, Allen key, screwdriver, etc.) to facilitate free movement of the door, e.g., the braking system may be disabled by tightening and / or loosening one or more connecting screws. Optionally, the braking system may be disabled without the need for a specialized tool.

[0125] Optionally, the braking system may prevent and / or slow down movement of the door about a hinge, e.g., by increasing fiction, blocking the motion of the hinge, etc. Optionally, the braking system may lock a door in a selected position and / or prevent movement from a selected position. Optionally, the selected position may be closed, open, partially open, etc. Optionally, the braking system may be biased to prevent the door from moving. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by friction, e.g., rim brakes, disc brakes, etc. Optionally, the braking system may be configured to prevent and / or slow down movement of the door by a detent mechanism, e.g., spring-loaded balls that engage with indentations, interlocking shaped surfaces, magnetic forces, etc. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured to resist movement, and / or arrest movement, and / or provide incremental steps for movement. Optionally, the detent mechanism may be configured for precise control of the system.

[0126] FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, system 172 may include a door handle linker 174. Optionally, the door handle linker 174 may be connected to the spindle of the door handle. Optionally, the door handle linker 174 may be connected to the spindle of the door handle outside the door panels (e.g., between the handle and the door panel) and / or between door panels (e.g., within the door). Optionally, rotation of the door handle may rotate the spindle and thereby the door handle linker 174. The system may include a cable 176. Optionally, the cable 176 may be attached to the door handle linker 174. Optionally, the cable 176 may be wound around the door handle linker 174 and / or secured to the door handle linker 174. Optionally, the cable 176 may be connected to the locking pin 178 (e.g., via a movable support and / or attachment point), on one end and to the door handle linker 174 at the other end. Optionally, locking pin 178 may be configured to interact with gear 180. Optionally, gear 180 may be attached and / or connected to a standard door hinge. Optionally, a hinge may include one or more gears 180, e.g., at the top and / or bottom of the hinge.

[0127] FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating a use of a door braking system, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. For example, in method 182, the braking system may be engaged 184 by the locking pin engaging the teeth of a gear on a door hinge, when the door handle is in its’ default position to prevent movement of the door. Optionally, a locking pin may be moved by pulling and / or releasing a cable connecting the locking on one end to the door handle on the other end. Optionally, locking pin may be biased towards the door hinge, such that the locking pin interacts with the teeth of a gear on the hinge, holding the door in position and / or preventing the door from moving. Optionally, displacing (e.g., rotating 186) the door handle may disengage 188 the locking pin from the teeth of a gear. Optionally, provided that the door handle is maintained in a rotated position, the door brake may be disengaged and / or the door may be free to move 190 (e.g., opened and / or closed). Optionally, when the door handle is released, the door handle may return to its’ default position. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the locking pin may reengage the teeth of the gear. Optionally, when the door handle is released, the brake may be reengaged. Optionally, when the brake is reengaged, it may prevent the door from moving.

[0128] These embodiments are provided by way of example and are in no means intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0129] While the invention has been described in its preferred form or embodiment with some degree of particularity, it is understood that this description has been given only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction, fabrication, and use, including the combination and arrangement of parts, may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0130] GENERAL

[0131] It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methodologies, computer user interfaces, image capture devices will be developed and the scope of the terms for design elements, analysis routines, user devices is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

[0132] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0133] As used herein the term “about” refers to ± 10% The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".

[0134] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”.

[0135] The term "consisting essentially of' means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0136] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0137] As used herein, the term "multiple" relates to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 50, 100, 500, or any sub-range therein.

[0138] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0139] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0140] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0141] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

[0142] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A braking system for a door comprising: a brake configured to inhibit movement of a hinge; and a door handle linker, connecting a door handle to the brake, wherein the brake is controlled by positioning of the door handle.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake is configured to be engaged when the door handle is in a default position.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake is configured to be disengaged when the door handle is moved from a default position.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake is configured to be reengaged when the door handle is returned to a default position.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake is configured to be reengaged when the door handle is returned to its’ original position.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake is biased in an engaged position.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the hinge is load bearing.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the hinge is non-load bearing.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake is configured to prevent rotation about the hinge.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake includes at least one of a caliper, a high friction bolt, a wedge, or a detent mechanism.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the high friction bolt is configured to be pushed against a hinge to prevent rotation.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein the wedge is configured to be pushed between hinge components to prevent relative motion.

13. The system according to claim 10, wherein the wedge is configured to be pushed into a crack between the door and a door frame to prevent motion of the door.

14. The braking system according to claim 1, wherein the brake includes a detent.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the detent includes a locking pin preventing movement of a gear located on the hinge.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the locking pin is configured to engage teeth of the gear to prevent rotation about the hinge.

17. The braking system according to claim 1, wherein the brake includes a caliper configured to close onto a door hinge or a disc connected thereto to prevent movement of the door.

18. The system according to claim 1, wherein the door handle linker is configured to connect to a spindle of a door handle outside the door.

19. The system according to claim 1, wherein the door handle linker is configured to connect to a spindle of a door handle located inside the door.

20. The system according to claim 1, wherein the door handle linker includes a cable.

21. The system according to claim 20, wherein the cable is configured to transfer a force from the door handle to the brake to engage or release the brake.

22. The system according to claim 21, wherein the cable is configured to wind around the door handle linker.

23. The system according to claim 20, wherein the cable is configured to transfer displacement force from movement of the door handle via the door handle linker to release calipers from the hinge or a disc, thereby facilitating movement of the door.

24. The system according to claim 20, wherein the cable is selected from brake cable, hydraulic hose, Bowden cable, steel cable, copper cable, fabric cable, braided fibers, rope, rigid rod, or a combination thereof.

25. The system according to claim 1, wherein the door handle linker is mounted to a channel within one or more surfaces of the door.

26. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brake is mounted to a channel within one or more edges of the door.

27. The system according to claim 1, wherein the door handle linker and the brake are mounted between panels of the door.

28. The system according to claim 1, configured to be mounted to an existing door.

29. The system according to claim 1, further including a deactivation mechanism configured to deactivate the braking system.

30. A method for locking a door in a selected position, the method comprising: engaging a braking system when a door handle is in a default position preventing movement of the door; displacing the door handle thereby disengaging the braking system; and maintaining the door handle in a rotated position to facilitate movement of the door.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising: releasing said door handle thereby returning said door handle to the default position; and reengaging said braking system in response to said releasing thereby inhibiting further movement of the door.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein said inhibiting is with the door in a partially open state.

33. The method according to claim 30, wherein the selected position is partially closed.

34. The method according to claim 30, further comprising transferring a force from the door handle via a door handle linker to a brake of the braking system for engaging or releasing the brake.

35. The method according to claim 34, wherein the engaging the brake includes maintaining or returning a component of the brake to a biased closed position.

36. The method according to claim 34, wherein the releasing the brake includes moving a component of the brake from a biased closed position.

37. The method according to claim 30 further comprising: wherein a brake of the braking system includes at least one caliper configured to close onto a door hinge or a disc connected thereto; displacing the door handle thereby disengaging the caliper from the door hinge or the disc connected thereto.

38. The method according to claim 37, wherein the caliper includes a spring bias biased in a closed configuration.

39. The method according to claim 37, further comprising transferring a force from the door handle via a door handle linker for engaging or releasing the caliper.

40. The method according to claim 39, wherein the releasing the brake includes moving the caliper from a biased closed position.

41. The method according to claim 30 comprising: wherein the braking system includes a detent mechanism comprising a locking pin configured for interacting with a gear located on a hinge holding the door in position and preventing the door from moving; displacing the door handle thereby disengaging the locking pin from teeth of the gear; maintaining the door handle in a rotated position to facilitate movement of the door; releasing said door handle thereby returning said door handle to the default position; and reengaging said gear with said locking pin thereby preventing the door from moving from the selected position.

42. The method according to claim 41, wherein reengaging the locking pin locks the door in the selected position.

43. The method according to claim 41, wherein the locking pin is moved by pulling or releasing a cable connecting the locking pin on one end to the door handle on the other end.

44. The method according to claim 41, wherein the locking pin is biased towards the door hinge.

45. The method according to claim 41, wherein the reengaging the locking pin is reengaging the same teeth of the gear.

46. The method according to claim 41, wherein the reengaging the locking pin is reengaging different teeth of the gear.

Images