Garage door system and interchangable panel system

Abstract

A garage door system includes a track assembly including a pair of first guide tracks and an adjacent pair of second guide tracks with a guide profile. A multi-panel door is coupled to the track assembly for movement between closed and open states. The guide profile causes panel assemblies of the multi-panel door to fold relative to each other as the multi-panel door moves toward the open state. A top panel assembly and some intermediate panel assemblies have wheels that are releasably engaged with the second guide tracks to facilitate folding. Additionally, an interchangeable panel system may allow for the replacement of panels without disassembling the multi-panel door from the track assembly. Here, each panel assembly includes a frame defining a panel void, an interchangeable panel configured to be disposed within the panel void, and trim members releasably coupled to the frame to selectively secure the interchangeable panels.

Description

Docket No. 065685.00285GARAGE DOOR SYSTEM AND INTERCHANGABLE PANEL SYSTEMTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The subject invention relates to a door system, such as a garage door system, for selectively enclosing an opening of a building and an interchangeable panel system for a door system for selectively enclosing an opening of a building.BACKGROUND

[0002] Traditional garage door systems typically utilize a track assembly including a horizontal portion that extends horizontally into the building, occupying significant overhead space within the building. It is desirable to eliminate the use of these horizontal portions to free up overhead spaces for storage purposes, especially in residential settings. Some prior art systems have attempted to address this need by introducing garage doors that fold in an accordion-like manner above the opening. However, these systems often involve complicated track arrangements and / or complicated linkage arrangements for folding the door panels relative to each other. Additionally, these systems are often too large for residential applications because they occupy too much space between the opening of the building and the ceiling. Another issue with existing garage door systems is the difficulty in replacing individual panels. Typically, replacing a panel requires disassembling the entire door from the track assembly, which is a labor-intensive process. Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for garage door systems that optimize overhead space and / or allow for the easy replacement of panels without disassembling the entire door from the track assembly.SUMMARY

[0003] One general aspect of the present disclosure includes a door system for selectively enclosing an opening of a building. The door system includes a pair of first guide tracks extendingDocket No. 065685.00285 between a top end and a bottom end and configured to be arranged vertically on opposite sides of the opening. The door system also includes a pair of second guide tracks disposed adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks and including a first portion parallel to the pair of first guide tracks and a second portion extending from the first portion to an outlet to define a guide profile. The door system further includes a multi-panel door coupled to the pair of first guide tracks and the pair of second guide tracks for movement along the pair of first guide tracks and the pair of second guide tracks between a closed state and an open state. The multi-panel door includes a plurality of panel assemblies operatively attached to each other. The door system additionally includes a retractor assembly coupled to the multi-panel door to move the multi-panel door between the closed state and the open state. In the closed state, the panel assemblies are aligned vertically for covering the opening of the building. In the open state, the panel assemblies are folded relative to each other for providing the opening of the building.

[0004] The plurality of panel assemblies includes a top panel assembly, a first intermediate panel assembly, a second intermediate panel assembly, and a bottom panel assembly. The top panel assembly includes a pair of first wheels disposed on opposing sides of the top panel assembly and engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks to move along the pair of first guide tracks during movement of the multi-panel door. The top panel assembly also includes a pair of second wheels disposed on opposing sides of the top panel assembly and spaced from the pair of first wheels at a first distance. The pair of second wheels is releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks. The guide profile of the pair of second guide tracks guides the top panel assembly to pivot about the pair of first wheels as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state. The pair of second wheels is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door movesDocket No. 065685.00285 toward the open state. The first intermediate panel assembly is operatively attached to the top panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the top panel assembly. The second intermediate panel assembly is operatively attached to the first intermediate panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the first intermediate panel assembly. The second intermediate panel assembly includes a pair of third wheels disposed on opposing sides of the second intermediate panel assembly and engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks to move along the pair of first guide tracks during movement of the multi-panel door. The second intermediate panel assembly also includes a pair of fourth wheels disposed on opposing sides of the second intermediate panel assembly and spaced from the pair of third wheels at a second distance. The pair of fourth wheels is releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks, where the guide profile of the pair of second guide tracks guides the second intermediate panel assembly to pivot about the pair of third wheels as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state. The pair of fourth wheels is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door moves toward the open state. The bottom panel assembly is operatively attached to the second intermediate panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the second intermediate panel assembly. The bottom panel assembly including a pair of fifth wheels disposed on opposing sides of the bottom panel assembly and adjacent to a bottom edge of the bottom panel assembly. The pair of fifth wheels is engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks to move along the pair of first guide tracks during movement of the multi-panel door.

[0005] Another general aspect of the present disclosure includes an interchangeable panel system for a door system selectively enclosing an opening of a building. The interchangeable panel system includes a track assembly adapted for arrangement on opposite sides of the opening.Docket No. 065685.00285The interchangeable panel system also includes a multi-panel door including a plurality of panel assemblies operatively attached to each other for movement along the track assembly between a closed state and an open state. Each of the panel assemblies includes a frame defining a panel void. The frame includes an exterior face having an exterior retention flange delimiting the panel void in a first direction and an interior face defining a locking channel extending into the frame. Each of the panel assemblies also includes an interchangeable panel releasably disposed in the panel void. Here, the exterior retention flange of the frame constrains translation of the interchangeable panel within the panel void in the first direction. Each of the panel assemblies further includes a plurality of trim members each releasably engaged with a respective portion of the frame. The plurality of trim members each include an engagement feature releasably engaged with the locking channel and a trim retention flange delimiting the panel void in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to constrain translation of the interchangeable panel in the second direction. The interchangeable panel is configured to be replaced without disassembly of the multi-panel door from the track assembly by disengaging each of the plurality of trim members from the respective portion of the locking channel, removing the interchangeable panel from the panel void, inserting a second interchangeable panel into the panel void, and re-engaging each of the plurality of trim members into the respective portion of the locking channel.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0007] FIG. 1A is an exterior perspective view of a door system according to the present disclosure with a multi-panel door in a closed state.Docket No. 065685.00285

[0008] FIG. IB is an exterior perspective view of a door system according to the present disclosure with a multi-panel door in an open state.

[0009] FIG. 2A is an exterior front view of a door system according to the present disclosure with a multi-panel door in a closed state.

[0010] FIG. 2B is an exterior front view of a door system according to the present disclosure with a multi-panel door in an open state.

[0011] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional representation of the door system of FIG. 2A taken along line 3A-3A.

[0012] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional representation of the door system of FIG. 2B taken along line 3B-3B.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a detail view of the door system of FIG. 3B.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a front view of a multi-panel door including a plurality of panel assemblies in the closed state.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a side view of the multi -panel door of FIG. 5.

[0016] FIG. 7 is an interior exploded view of the door system according to the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 8A is a detail view of the door system of FIG. 7.

[0018] FIG. 8B is another detail view of the door system of FIG. 7.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a side view of the multi-panel door in the open state.

[0020] FIG. 10 is an interior detail view of the multi-panel door in the open state showing hinges for operatively attaching the plurality of panel assemblies.

[0021] FIG. 11 is an interior perspective view of the door system illustrating a track assembly.Docket No. 065685.00285

[0022] FIG. 12 is a detail view of the door system of FIG. 11.

[0023] FIGS. 13A-13D are perspective views of the door system showing a sequence of the multi -panel door moving between the closed state (shown in FIG. 13 A) and the open state (shown in FIG. 13D).

[0024] FIGS. 14A-14D are cross-sectional views of the door system showing a sequence of the multi-panel door 102 moving between the closed state (shown in FIG. 14A) and the open state (shown in FIG. 14D).

[0025] FIG. 15 is a side view of another configuration of the door system according to the present disclosure where a second portion of the second guide track is formed as a separate component.

[0026] FIG. 16 is a detail view of FIG. 15.

[0027] FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of a multi -panel door according to the present disclosure including additional features for coordinating motion of the panel assemblies relative to each other during movement of the multi-panel door between the open state and the closed state.

[0028] FIG. 18 is a detail view of FIG. 17.

[0029] FIG. 19 is another detail view of FIG. 17.

[0030] FIG. 20A is a partial side perspective view of another configuration of the door system according to the present disclosure with the multi-panel door in the open state such that the panel assemblies are substantially horizonal relative to each other, and further includes additional features for preventing the panel assemblies from moving down the pair of first guide tracks as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state.Docket No. 065685.00285

[0031] FIG. 20B is a partial side view of another configuration of the door system according to the present disclosure with the multi-panel door in the open state such that the panel assemblies are substantially horizonal relative to each other.

[0032] FIG. 21 A is an exterior front view of another configuration of a door system according to the present disclosure with a multi-panel door including six panel assemblies in a closed state.

[0033] FIG. 2 IB is an exterior front view of another configuration of a door system according to the present disclosure with a multi-panel door including six panel assemblies in an open state.

[0034] FIG. 22A is a cross-sectional representation of the door system of FIG. 21 A taken along line 21A-21A.

[0035] FIG. 2 IB is a cross-sectional representation of the door system of FIG. 21B taken along line 21B-21B.

[0036] FIG. 23 is a front view of one panel assembly of an interchangeable panel system according to the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 24 is a perspective exploded view of the panel assembly of FIG. 23.

[0038] FIG. 25A is an exploded cross-sectional representation of a panel assembly taken along line A- A of FIG. 23, with an interchangeable panel and a plurality of trim members spaced from a frame of the panel assembly.

[0039] FIG. 25B is a detail view of FIG. 25 A.

[0040] FIG. 26A is an exploded cross-sectional representation of a panel assembly taken along line A- A of FIG. 23, with the interchangeable panel engaged in a panel void of the frame and the plurality of trim members spaced from the frame of the panel assembly.Docket No. 065685.00285

[0041] FIG. 26B is a detail view of FIG. 26 A.

[0042] FIG. 27A is a cross-sectional representation of a panel assembly taken along line A- A of FIG. 23, with the interchangeable panel engaged in a panel void of the frame and the plurality of trim members engaged with the frame to retain the interchangeable panel within the frame.

[0043] FIG. 27B is a detail view of FIG. 27 A.

[0044] FIG. 28 is a partial perspective cross-sectional representation of the panel assembly of FIG. 27A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The embodiments below are described with reference to the drawings in which like elements are referred to with like numerals. The relationship and functioning of the various elements of the embodiments are better understood by the following detailed description. However, the embodiments as described below are by way of example only, and the invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings. It should also be understood that the drawings may not be drawn to scale and, in certain instances, details which are not necessary for an understanding of the embodiments have been omitted.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1A-2B, the present disclosure includes a door system 100 for selectively enclosing an opening 98 of a building. The door system 100, such as a garage door system 100, includes a multi-panel door 102 configured for movement between a closed state CS (shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A) and an open state OS (shown in FIGS. IB and 2B). The multi-panel door 102 includes a plurality of panel assemblies 104 (described in further detail below) which are operatively attached to each other. Referring to FIGS. 3A-4 and FIG. 7, the door system 100 includes a track assembly 106 (which may also be referred to as a “rail system 106”) including aDocket No. 065685.00285 pair of first guide tracks 108 and a pair of second guide tracks 110. The pair of first guide tracks 108 each extend between a top end 112 and a bottom end 114 and are configured to be arranged vertically on opposite sides of the opening 98. The pair of second guide tracks 110 are disposed adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks 108 and each include a first portion 116 parallel to the pair of first guide tracks 108 and a second portion 118 extending from the first portion 116 to an outlet 120 to define a guide profile GP. As described in further detail below, the multi -panel door 102 is coupled to the pair of first guide tracks 108 and the pair of second guide tracks 110 by a plurality of wheels (described in detail below) for movement along the pair of first guide tracks 108 and the pair of second guide tracks 110 between the closed state CS and the open state OS. Notably, at least some of the wheels of the plurality of panel assemblies 104 are configured detach from the track assembly 106 to allow the plurality of panel assemblies 104 to fold relative to each other at the very end or top of the track assembly 106. Furthermore, the wheels of the plurality of panel assemblies 104 are configured to fully re-attach to the track assembly 106 when the multi-panel door 102 moves to the closed state CS. Some prior art systems require track systems with multiple side channels to perform such folding and unfolding operations.

[0047] The door system 100 also includes a retractor assembly 122 (described in further detail below) coupled to the multi -panel door 102 to move the multi-panel door 102 between the closed state CS and the open state OS. In the closed state CS, referring to FIG. 3 A, the panel assemblies 104 are aligned vertically for covering the opening 98 of the building. In the open state OS, referring to FIG. 3B, the panel assemblies 104 are folded relative to each other for providing the opening 98 of the building. In the open state OS, referring to FIG. 4, the panel assemblies 104 may be folded relative to each other and arranged substantially horizontally for providing the opening 98 of the building. Stated differently, in the open state OS, the panel assemblies 104 mayDocket No. 065685.00285 be folded relative to each other and arranged above the opening 98 of the building such that the panel assemblies 104 do not occlude the opening 98 of the building.

[0048] In the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 1A-20, the plurality of panel assemblies 104 includes a top panel assembly 104T, a first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1, a second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2, and a bottom panel assembly 104B. However, it should be appreciated that in some examples the plurality of panel assemblies 104 may include additional panel assemblies 104, as described in further detail below in the context of FIGS. 21A-22B. In the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 1A-20, the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 is operatively attached to the top panel assembly 104T for pivotal movement relative to the top panel assembly 104T, the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 is operatively attached to the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 for pivotal movement relative to the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1, and the bottom panel assembly 104B is operatively attached to the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 for pivotal movement relative to the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the top panel assembly 104T includes a pair of first wheels 124 disposed on opposing sides of the top panel assembly 104T, and pair of second wheels 126 disposed on opposing sides of the top panel assembly 104T and spaced from the pair of first wheels at a first distance DI. For example, referring to FIG. 9, the top panel assembly 104T may include a pair of first brackets 125 disposed on opposite sides of the top panel assembly 104T. Each first bracket 125 may include a first portion 125 A rotatably supporting a respective one of the pair of first wheels 124 for engagement with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks 108 and a second portion 125B transverse to the first portion 125A and extending away from the top panel assembly 104T to rotatably support a respective one of the pair of second wheels 126 forDocket No. 065685.00285 engagement with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks 110. Here, each first bracket 125 defines the first distance DI, and generally defines the axis or plane that the respective wheels move within. It is to be appreciated that the first bracket 125 may be of any suitable configuration or design as required to allow folding of the door system. In the preferred embodiment, the first bracket 125 is generally L- shaped with wheels mounted at each end of the L. As best shown in FIG. 14A-14D, the first wheels 124 are respectively engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks 108 to move along the pair of first guide tracks 108 during movement of the multi -panel door 102, and the second wheels 126 are respectively releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks 110. As described in further detail below, as the multi -panel door 102 moves between the closed state CS (shown in FIG. 14A) and the open state OS (shown in FIG. 14D), the guide profile GP of the pair of second guide tracks 110 guides the top panel assembly 104T to pivot about the pair of first wheels 124. Here, as described in further detail below, as the multi-panel door 102 moves toward the open state OS, the pair of second wheels 126 is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 through the outlet 120.

[0050] Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 6, the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 includes a pair of third wheels 128 disposed on opposing sides of the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 and a pair of fourth wheels 130 disposed on opposing sides of the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 and spaced from the pair of third wheels 128 at a second distance D2, which is different from the first distance DI. For example, referring back to FIG. 9, the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 may include a pair of second brackets 127 disposed on opposite sides of the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2. Each second bracket 127 may include a third portion 127A rotatably supporting a respective one of the pair of third wheelsDocket No. 065685.00285128 for engagement with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks 108 and a fourth portion 127B transverse to the third portion 127 A and extending away from the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 to rotatably support a respective one of the pair of fourth wheels 130 for engagement with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks 110. Here, each second bracket 127 defines the second distance D2, and generally defines the axis or plane that the respective wheels move within. It is to be appreciated that the second bracket 127 may be of any suitable configuration or design as required to allow folding of the door system. In the preferred embodiment, the second bracket 127 is generally L-shaped with wheels mounted at each end of the L. Also, in this preferred embodiment, the second bracket 127 is of a different configuration than the first bracket 125. Specifically, the L- shape of the second bracket 127 is smaller than the L-shape of the first bracket 125. As best shown in FIGS. 14A-14D, the third wheels 128 are respectively engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks 108 to move along the pair of first guide tracks 108 during movement of the multi-panel door 102, and the fourth wheels 130 are respectively releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks 110. As described in further detail below, as the multi-panel door 102 moves between the closed state CS (shown in FIG. 14A) and the open state OS (shown in FIG. 14D), the guide profile GP of the pair of second guide tracks 110 guides the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 to pivot about the pair of third wheels 128. Here, as described in further detail below, as the multi-panel door 102 moves toward the open state OS, the pair of fourth wheels 130 is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 through the outlet 120.

[0051] Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 6, the bottom panel assembly 104B includes a pair of fifth wheels 132 disposed on opposing sides of the bottom panel assembly 104B and adjacent to a bottom edge 134 of the bottom panel assembly 104B. As best shown in FIG. 14A, the fifthDocket No. 065685.00285 wheels 132 are respectively engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks 108 to move along the pair of first guide tracks 108 during movement of the multi -panel door 102. The bottom panel assembly 104B may also include a seal 136 disposed along the bottom edge 134 of the bottom panel assembly 104B for contacting a floor surface to inhibit air and / or water from passing between the bottom panel assembly 104B and the floor surface. The seal 136 may be comprised of an elastomeric material or the like, other configurations are contemplated.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 7-8B, the retractor assembly 122 may be coupled to bottom panel assembly 104B of the multi -panel door 102 to move the multi -panel door 102 between the closed state CS and the open state OS. For example, the retractor assembly 122 may include a cable 138 coupled to the bottom panel assembly 104B adjacent to the bottom edge 134 of the bottom panel assembly 104B (best shown in FIG. 8B), and a motor 140 coupled to the retractor assembly 122 for rotating the retractor assembly 122 to move the cable 138 vertically to move the multi -panel door 102 between the closed state CS and the open state OS. Referring to the sequence between FIGS. 14A and 14D, in configurations where the panel assemblies 104 are folded relative to each other and arranged substantially horizontally in the open state OS, coupling the cable 138 coupled to the bottom panel assembly 104B adjacent to the bottom edge 134 permits the bottom panel assembly 104B to pivot about the fifth wheels 132 to permit the bottom panel assembly 104B to fold relative to the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 as the cable 138 pulls the bottom panel assembly 104B upward.

[0053] In the illustrated configuration, the motor 140 is side-mounted (e.g., coupled directly to the retractor assembly 122 at one side of the opening 98), but other configurations are contemplated. The retractor assembly 122 may also include a spring system 142 for counterbalancing the weight of the multi-panel door 102. The spring system 142 can be madeDocket No. 065685.00285 using known components, with required modifications for use in the invention. In some examples, a guide pin 144 may be supported adjacent to each of the first guide tracks 108 so the cable 138 of the retractor assembly 122 passes over the guide pin 144 to direct the cable 138 away from colliding with the multi-panel door 102. The guide pin 144 may include or otherwise support a nylon sleeve or the like to permit the cable 138 to pass over the guide pin 144. Other configurations of routing the cable 138 are contemplated.

[0054] The door system 100 may also include an upper enclosure 146 disposed above the opening 98 of the building. The upper enclosure 146 may house the retractor assembly 122 for clean aesthetics. Referring to the exploded view of FIG. 7, the upper enclosure 146 may include a top wall 148, two side walls 150, and a front wall 152, but other configurations are contemplated. As best shown in FIGS. 1A-4B, in configurations where the panel assemblies 104 are folded relative to each other such that the multi -panel door 102 is arranged substantially horizontally in the open state OS, the upper enclosure 146 may be sized to house the panel assemblies 104. Furthermore, in some examples, the door system 100 may include lower side panels 154 coupled to upper enclosure 146 for at least partially enclosing the track assembly 106 for aesthetics. It should be appreciated that the upper enclosure 146 and / or the lower side panels 154 are not required for operation of the door system 100 and other configurations of enclosing the door system 100 are contemplated.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, to effectuate folding of the panel assemblies 104 relative to each other in a substantially horizontal arrangement of the multi -panel door 102 in the open state OS, the plurality of panel assemblies 104 may be operatively attached to an adjacent panel assembly 104 by one or more hinges 156. The one or more hinges 156 may be implemented as 180-degree hidden hinges 156. For example, referring to FIG. 10, the hinge(s) 156 may eachDocket No. 065685.00285 include a first plate 157A coupled to one of the plurality of panel assemblies 104, a second plate 157B coupled to another of the plurality of panel assemblies 104, and a linkage assembly 159 extending between the first plate 157A and the second plate 157B to permit the first plate 157A to pivot 180 degrees relative to the second plate 157B. In these examples, the hinge(s) 156 are not visible when the multi-panel door 102 is in the closed state CS, and, referring to FIG. 9, the hinge(s) 156 are configured to pivot 180-degrees to allow the panel assemblies 104 to be substantially horizontal in the open state OS, thereby demanding a lower overhead space than conventional folding door systems. Accordingly, the multi -panel door 102 according to the present disclosure is more compact than conventional folding door systems. As used herein, the term “substantially horizontal” refers to each of the panel assemblies 104 being within 10 degrees or less from horizontal and / or relative to each other. For example, in the configurations best shown in FIG. 14D, the panel assemblies 104 are each completely folded relative to each other (e.g., folded 180 degrees relative to each other) such that the panel assemblies 104 are fully horizonal. However, in other configurations, such as shown in FIG. 20, the panel assemblies 104 are not necessarily completely folded relative to each other (e.g., folded less than 180 degrees relative to each other) such that the panel assemblies 104 are substantially horizontal in the open state OS. Ultimately, it is desired that the panel assemblies 104 are folded relative to each other sufficiently such that the panel assemblies 104 are arranged above the opening 98 of the building such that the panel assemblies 104 do not occlude the opening 98 of the building.

[0056] The multi -panel door 102 may define a first height Hl in the closed state CS and a second height H2 in the open state OS. Here, the first height Hl may be 12 inches or less, 8 inches or less, etc. In some examples, a ratio of the second height H2 to the first height Hl may be less than 1: 10. In the illustrated example, the door system 100 (including the multi-panel door 102 andDocket No. 065685.00285 the retractor assembly 122) occupies 16 inches of space above the opening 98, whereas conventional folding door system typically require 25+ inches of space above the opening 98. Accordingly, the door system 100 according to the present disclosure may employed in more space-constrained applications (e.g., residential garages) than conventional folding door systems. It should be appreciated that the dimensions recited above are merely illustrative and may vary based on the design of the hinge(s) 156, thickness of the panel assemblies 104, etc.

[0057] Exemplary configurations of the track assembly 106 are described in further detail below in the context of FIGS. 11 and 12, as well as FIGS. 15 and 16. As described above, the track assembly 106 includes the pair of first guide tracks 108 and the pair of second guide tracks 110. FIGS. 11 and 12 show one exemplary first guide track 108 and one exemplary second guide track 110 arranged on one side of the opening 98 of the building. It should be appreciated that the other first guide track 108 of pair of first guide tracks 108 and the other second guide track 110 of the pair of second guide tracks 110 may be a mirror image of the illustrated first guide track 108 and second guide track 110 and disposed on an opposite side of the opening 98 of the building. The pair of first guide tracks 108 and the pair of second guide tracks 110 may be comprised of galvanized steel, stainless steel, or other suitable materials. In some examples, the pair of first guide tracks 108 and the pair of second guide tracks 110 may be supported relative to the opening 98 of the building by brackets or the like. In other examples, such as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, at least a portion of the pair of first guide tracks 108 and the pair of second guide tracks 110 may be supported relative to the opening 98 of the building by the upper enclosure 146 and / or the lower side panels 154.

[0058] With continued reference FIGS. 11 and 12, as described above, the pair of first guide tracks 108 extend between the top end 112 and a bottom end 114 and are configured to beDocket No. 065685.00285 arranged vertically on opposite sides of the opening 98 of the building. The bottom end 114 may extend to the floor surface and the top end 112 may extend higher than the opening 98 of the building (e.g., to provide space to accommodate the multi-panel door 102 above the opening 98 of the building when folded and arranged substantially horizontality in the open state OS). In the illustrated configuration, the pair of first guide tracks 108 are substantially straight and are spaced from the opening 98 of the building at a first spacing SI. The pair of first guide tracks 108 may each include a first lip 158A and a second lip 160 A opposite the first lip 158 A. As best shown in FIGS. 14A-14D, the first lip 158A and the second lip 160A of each of the pair of first guide tracks 108 are arranged to define a respective channel 162A configured to receive a respective first wheel 124, third wheel 128, and fifth wheel 132 of the multi-panel door 102 to guide movement of the respective first wheel 124, third wheel 128, and fifth wheel 132 along the respective first guide track 108 during movement of the multi-panel door 102 between the closed state CS and the open state OS. Accordingly, the pair of first wheels 124, the pair of third wheels 128, and the pair of fifth wheels 132 may be aligned with a common plane defined by the pair of first guide tracks 108 during movement of the multi-panel door 102 between the closed state CS and the open state OS.

[0059] Still referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, as described above, the pair of second guide tracks 110 are disposed adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks 108 and each include a first portion 116 parallel to the pair of first guide tracks 108 and a second portion 118 extending from the first portion 116 to an outlet 120 to define a guide profile GP. Each first portion 116 may be substantially straight and be spaced from the opening 98 of the building at a second spacing S2, greater than the first spacing SI, such that the pair of second guide tracks 110 are disposed further inside the building than the pair of first guide tracks 108. As best shown in FIG. 11, in some configurations, the first portion 116 of the pair of second guide tracks 110 may terminate adjacentDocket No. 065685.00285 to the bottom end 114 of the pair of first guide tracks 108. However, referring to FIG. 15, it is contemplated that in other configurations the first portion 116 of the pair of second guide tracks 110 may terminate at a location spaced upward from the bottom end 114 of the pair of first guide tracks 108. For example, the first portion 116 of the pair of second guide tracks 110 may terminate just below the location of the fourth wheel 130 when the panel door 102 is in the closed state CS. The pair of second guide tracks 110 may each include a first lip 158B and a second lip 160B opposite the first lip 158B. As best shown in FIGS. 14A-14D, the first lip 158B and the second lip 160B of each of the pair of second guide tracks 110 are arranged to define a respective channel 162B configured to receive a respective second wheel 126 and fourth wheel 130 of the multi -panel door 102 to guide movement of the respective second wheel 126 and fourth wheel 130 along the respective second guide track 110 during movement of the multi -panel door 102 between the closed state CS and the open state OS. It should be appreciated that a variety of configurations of the lips 158, 160 are contemplated. In some examples, the lips 158, 160 may be C-shaped to laterally constrain the wheels within their respective guide tracks. However, in other examples, the lips 158, 160 may be planar.

[0060] As best shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the second portion 118 of the pair of second guide tracks 110 may include an angled portion 164 disposed at an angle a relative to the pair of first guide tracks 108, and a curved portion 166 extending between the first portion 116 and the angled portion 164. The angled portion 164 and curved portion 166 may at least partially define the guide profile GP. Particularly, the angle a of the angled portion 164 may be defined such that the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 are guided away from the pair of first guide tracks 108 as the multi -panel door 102 moves toward the open state OS such that the top panel assembly 104T pivots about the pair of first wheels 124 and the second intermediateDocket No. 065685.00285 panel assembly 1041-2 pivots about the pair of third wheels 128 to effectuate folding and substantially horizontal arrangement of the multi-panel door 102 as the multi-panel door 102 moves from the closed state CS and the open state OS. The angle a of the angled portion 164 may be determined based on a number of variables including the first distance D 1 , the second distance D2. For example, the a of the angled portion 164 may be 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 45 degrees, etc. The curved portion 166 may define a radius that is tangential to the first portion 116 and the angled portion 164. Other configurations of the second portion 118 of the pair of second guide tracks 110 are contemplated.

[0061] As described above, the second portion 118 of each second guide track 110 defines a respective outlet 120. Each outlet 120 is generally defined to permit a respective second wheel 126 and respective fourth wheel 130 of the multi -panel door 102 to be released from engagement with the respective second guide track 110 through the outlet 120 as the multi -panel door 102 moves toward the open state OS. Additionally, each outlet 120 is defined to receive the respective second wheel 126 and respective fourth wheel 130 such that the respective second wheel 126 and respective fourth wheel 130 are re-engaged with the respective second guide track 110 as the multipanel door 102 moves from the open state OS toward the closed state CS. Each outlet 120 may generally be sized to permit the respective second wheel 126 and respective fourth wheel 130 to be released from and re-engaged with the channel 162B of the respective second guide track 110. Additionally, each outlet 120 may be spaced from the pair of first guide tracks 108 by a predetermined distance D. The predetermined distance D may be defined to permit the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 to be released from engagement with their respective guide tracks 110 through the outlet 120 as the multi -panel door 102 moves from the open state OS toward the closed state CS. Stated differently, the second portion 118 of eachDocket No. 065685.00285 second guide track 110 may terminate as a predetermined location to define the outlet 120 such that a respective second wheel 126 and respective fourth wheel 130 of the multi-panel door 102 are no longer engagement with the channel 162B of the respective second guide track 110 (i.e., released through the outlet 120) as the multi -panel door 102 transitions to the open state OS.

[0062] In one example, the second lip 160B of each of the pair of second guide tracks 110 may terminate in the second portion 118 to define the outlet 120. By terminating the second lip 160B, the respective second wheel 126 and respective fourth wheel 130 are free to move into and out of the channel 162B through the outlet 120. Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, in the illustrated configuration, the angled portion 164 defines the outlet 120. Here, the second lip 160B of each of the pair of second guide tracks 110 terminates in the angled portion 164 to define the outlet 120. Also, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, in some examples, each second guide track 110 may include a vertical wall 168 extending from the outlet 120 (e.g., from the terminated end of the second lip 160B of the second guide track 110). Here, referring to the sequence from FIG. 14D to FIG. 14C, the vertical wall 168 is arranged to guide the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 into re-engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 as the multi-panel door 102 moves from the open state OS toward the closed state CS. Other configurations of the outlet 120 are contemplated for permitting the second wheels 126 and the fourth wheels 130 of the multipanel door 102 to be released from engagement with the second guide tracks 110 through the outlets 120 as the multi -panel door 102 moves toward the open state OS, and for receiving the second wheels 126 and the fourth wheels 130 such that the second wheels 126 and the fourth wheels 130 are re-engaged with the second guide tracks 110 as the multi -panel door 102 moves from the open state OS toward the closed state CS.Docket No. 065685.00285

[0063] As best shown in FIG. 12, in some examples of the second guide tracks 110, the second portion 118 is integral with the first portion 116. In these examples, the second guide tracks 110 may be formed from a single piece of track with one end formed to define the second portion 118 having the guide profile GP. For example, the single piece of track may be bent along the curved portion 166 such that the angled portion 164 is disposed at the angle a, as described above. The piece of track defining the angled portion 164 may be further modified to define the outlet 120. For example, a portion of the second lip 160B of the single piece of track may be trimmed or otherwise removed from the angled portion 164 to define the outlet 120, with a portion of the second lip 160B bent upward to define the vertical wall 168. Other configurations of the second guide tracks 110 where the second portion 118 is integral with the first portion 116 are contemplated.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 15-16, in other examples of the second guide tracks 110, the second portion 118 is formed as a separate component that is fixed relative to the first portion 116. For example, the second portion 118 may be formed as a second portion member 184 defining a second portion channel 186 extending from the first portion 116 to the outlet 120 to define the guide profile GP. The second portion member 184 may be coupled to the first portion 116 and / or the side walls 150 of the upper enclosure 146 such that the second portion channel 186 is aligned with the first portion 116. More specifically, the second portion channel 186 may be delimited by a first lip 158C aligned with the first lip 158B of the first portion 116 of the second guide track 110 and an opposing second lip 160C aligned with the second lip 160B of the first portion 116 of the second guide track 110. Similar to as described above, the second portion channel 186 may define an angled portion 164 arranged at an oblique angle relative to the first portion 116 of the second guide track 110 and a curved portion defining a radius that is tangential to the first portionDocket No. 065685.00285116 and the angled portion 164. The second portion member 184 may be formed from a plastic material that is injection molded or otherwise formed. However, it is also contemplated that second portion member 184 may be formed from a metal that is machined or otherwise formed to define the second portion channel 186. The guide profile GP defined by the second portion member 184 may be the same as the guide profile GP described above. However, in other configurations, the geometry of the guide profile GP defined by the second portion member 184 may be different than described above. For example, it should be appreciated from FIG. 16 that in some configurations the angled portion 164 does not necessarily need to be linear and may have additional curvature to guide motion of the multi-panel door 102 as the multi -panel door 102 moves between the open state OS and the closed state CS. Additionally, as best shown in FIG. 16, the second portion 118 may include a tangential surface 188 extending from the second lip 160C at the outlet 120 and arranged to guide the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 into re-engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 as the multi-panel door 102 moves from the open state OS toward the closed state CS. The tangential surface 188 provides similar functionality to the vertical wall 168 as described herein. Other configurations of the second guide tracks 110 where the second portion 118 is formed as a separate component that is fixed relative to the first portion 116 are contemplated.

[0065] FIGS. 13A-13D are perspective views of the door system 100 showing a sequence of the multi-panel door 102 moving between the closed state CS (shown in FIG. 13A) and the open state OS (shown in FIG. 13D). FIGS. 14A-14D are cross-sectional views of the door system 100 showing a sequence of the multi -panel door 102 moving between the closed state CS (shown in FIG. 14A) and the open state OS (shown in FIG. 14D). As best shown in the sequence between FIGS. 14A and 14B, as the multi-panel door 102 moves upward from the closed state CS towardDocket No. 065685.00285 the open state OS in response to the retractor assembly 122 pulling the bottom panel assembly 104B upwards, the pair of second wheels 126 of the top panel assembly 104T move along the second portion 118 (particularly, the angled portion 164) of the pair of second guide tracks 110 such that the top panel assembly 104T pivots about the first pair of wheels 124 toward a substantially horizontal orientation. As described above, the pair of second wheels 126 of the top panel assembly 104T are spaced from the pair of first wheels 124 at a first distance DI. Here, as best shown in in FIG. 14B, the first distance DI may be defined such that the pair of second wheels 126 are aligned with the outlet 120 to release the pair of second wheels 126 from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 through the outlet 120 (see arrow 170 in FIG. 14B and the sequence between FIGS. 14B and 14C) as the multi-panel door 102 moves from the closed state CS toward the open state OS.

[0066] Referring to the sequence between FIGS. 14B and 14C, as the multi-panel door 102 continues to move upward from the closed state CS toward the open state OS in response to the retractor assembly 122 pulling the bottom panel assembly 104B upwards, the pair of fourth wheels 130 of the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 move along the second portion 118 (particularly, the angled portion 164) of the pair of second guide tracks 110 such that the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 pivots about the third pair of wheels 128 toward a substantially horizontal orientation. Referring to FIG. 14C, as described above, the pair of fourth wheels 130 of the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 are spaced from the pair of third wheels 128 at a second distance D2, which is different from the first distance D 1. Here, the second distance D2 may be defined such that the pair of fourth wheels 130 are aligned with the outlet 120 to release the pair of fourth wheels 130 from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 through the outlet 120 (see arrow 172 in FIG. 14C and the sequence between FIGS. 14C and 14D) as theDocket No. 065685.00285 multi -panel door 102 moves from the closed state CS toward the open state OS. In the illustrated configurations, the second distance D2 is less than the first distance DI. Here, in the configuration best illustrated in FIG. 14C, the second distance D2 is less than the first distance DI because the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 is oriented more horizontally when the pair of fourth wheels 130 are aligned with the outlet 120 as compared to the orientation of the top panel assembly 104T in FIG. 14B where the pair of second wheels 126 is aligned with the outlet 120. Thus, geometrically, the second distance D2 in this example must be less than the first distance DI for the pair of fourth wheels 130 to be aligned with the outlet 120 to release the pair of fourth wheels 130 from their respective second guide tracks 110 to prevent binding of the multi-panel door 102 relative to the track assembly 106.

[0067] With continued reference to the sequence between FIGS. 14B and 14C, in some examples, the door system 100 may further include a pair of support pins 174 supported adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks 108. As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8A, each support pin 174 may be respectively supported between the pair of first guide tracks 108 and the opening 98 on opposing sides of the opening 98. For example, each support pin 174 may be supported between the pair of first guide tracks 108 and the opening 98 by the respective side walls 150 of the upper enclosure 146. In examples including the pair of support pins 174, the top panel assembly 104T may further include a pair of locking members 176 disposed adjacent to a top edge 178 of the top panel assembly 104T and configured to engage a respective the support pin 174 to prevent the top panel assembly 104T from moving down the pair of first guide tracks 108 as the multi-panel door 102 moves from the closed state CS toward the open state OS. Referring to the sequence between FIGS. 14B and 14C, the locking members 176 may be defined such that the locking members 176 engage the respective support pins 174 as the top panel assembly 104T pivots about the pair ofDocket No. 065685.00285 first wheels 124 as the multi -panel door 102 moves from the closed state CS toward the open state OS. Additionally, still referring to the sequence between FIGS. 14B and 14C, it should be appreciated that since the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 is operatively attached to the top panel assembly 104T at a top edge and operatively attached to the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 at a bottom edge, the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 may move by virtue of movement of the top panel assembly 104T and the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2. Accordingly, in some configurations, the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 is free of any wheels.

[0068] FIG. 14D shows the multi -panel door 102 in the open state OS. In the illustrated configuration, the panel assemblies 104 are folded relative to each other and arranged substantially horizontally for providing the opening 98 of the building. As described above and shown again in FIG. 14D, the pair of first wheels 124, the pair of third wheels 128, and the pair of fifth wheels 132 may be aligned with a common plane defined by the pair of first guide tracks 108 during movement of the multi-panel door 102 between the closed state CS and the open state OS. Notably, however, referring to FIGS. 14A and 14D, in the illustrated configuration, the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 are aligned with a common plane defined by the first portion 116 of the pair of second guide tracks 110 in the closed state CS (shown in FIG. 14A), but are not aligned with a common plane defined by the pair of second guide tracks 110 in the open state OS (shown in FIG. 14D). Importantly, releasing the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 in the open state OS permits the multi-panel door 102 to be folded more compactly than previous folding door systems and eliminates the need for complicated multi-track guides employed by previousDocket No. 065685.00285 folding door systems, leading to a simpler and more space-efficient folding system than the prior art.

[0069] It should be appreciated that the movement of the multi-panel door 102 from the closed state CS toward the open state CS illustrated in the sequence of FIGS. 14A to 14D may be reversed for movement of the multi -panel door 102 from the open state OS toward the closed state CS, illustrated in the reverse sequence illustrated from FIG. 14D to FIG. 14 A. Referring first to FIG. 14D, in the illustrated configuration, the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 are both disposed above the outlet such that the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 are configured to re-engage their respective second guide track 110 as the multi-panel door 102 moves from the open state OS toward the closed state CS. For example, referring to the sequence between FIGS. 14D and 14C, as the multi-panel door 102 moves from the open state OS toward the closed state CS, the pair of fourth wheels 130 will first be aligned with the outlet 120 to re-engage their respective second guide track 110. For example, each vertical wall 168 may urge the pair of fourth wheels 130 into alignment with their respective outlet 120. Next, referring to the sequence between FIGS. 14C and 14B, as the multi-panel door 102 continues to move toward the closed state CS, the pair of second wheels 126 will next be aligned with their respective outlet 120 to re-engage their respective second guide track 110. Again, each vertical wall 168 may urge the pair of second wheels 126 into alignment with their respective outlet 120.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 17-19, in some configurations, the multi-panel door 102 may include additional features for coordinating motion of the panel assemblies 104 relative to each other during movement of the multi-panel door 102 between the open state OS and the closed state CS. For example, as best shown in the detail view of FIG. 18, the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 may further includes a pair of guide brackets 190 each defining a guide slot 192 extendingDocket No. 065685.00285 along an arc, and the top panel assembly 104T may further includes a pair of guide projections 194 each arranged to translate within a respective guide slot 192 of the guide brackets 190 to coordinate pivotal movement of the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 relative to the top panel assembly 104T as the multi-panel door 102 moves between the open state OS and the closed state CS. Similarly, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the bottom panel assembly 104B may further include a pair of guide brackets 190 each defining a guide slot 192 extending along an arc, and the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 may further includes a pair of guide projections 194 each arranged to translate within a respective guide slot 192 of the guide brackets 190 to coordinate pivotal movement of the bottom panel assembly 104B relative to the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 as the multi -panel door 102 moves between the open state OS and the closed state CS. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the pair of second brackets 127 may each further define a guide slot 192 extending along an arc, and the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 may further includes a pair of guide projections 194 each arranged to translate within a respective guide slot 192 of the second bracket 127 to coordinate pivotal movement of the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 relative to the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 as the multi-panel door 102 moves between the open state OS and the closed state CS. Other configurations for coordinating motion of the panel assemblies 104 relative to each other during movement of the multi -panel door 102 between the open state OS and the closed state CS are contemplated.

[0071] FIGS. 20 A and 20B illustrate one configuration of the multi -panel door 102 in the open state OS where the panel assemblies 104 are folded relative to each other such that they are substantially horizonal but not fully horizonal (as described above). As best shown in FIG. 20B, in this configuration, similar to as described above in the context of FIGS. 14A-14D, when the multi -panel door 102 in the open state OS, the second wheel 126 and fourth wheel 130 areDocket No. 065685.00285 disengaged from the second guide track 110. FIGS. 20A and 20B also illustrate another configuration for preventing the panel assemblies 104 from moving down the pair of first guide tracks 108 as the multi-panel door 102 moves between the closed state CS and the open state OS. Here, similar to as described above, the door system 100 may further include a pair of first support pins 174 supported adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks 108. In this configuration, however, the pair of first brackets 125 each respectively define a first abutment surface 196 disposed adjacent to the top edge 178 of the top panel assembly 104T. The first abutment surface 196 of the first brackets 125 are configured to engage a respective first support pin 174 to prevent the top panel assembly 104T from moving down the pair of first guide tracks 108 as the multi -panel door 102 moves between the closed state CS and the open state OS. Additionally, the door system 100 may further include a pair of second support pins 198 supported adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks 108 and arranged below the pair of first support pins 174. Here, the pair of second brackets 127 each define a second abutment surface 199 disposed adjacent to a top edge 179 of the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2. The second abutment surface 199 of the second brackets 127 are configured to engage a respective second support pin 198 to prevent the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 from moving down the pair of first guide tracks 108 as the multi-panel door 102 moves between the closed state CS and the open state OS. Other configurations for preventing the panel assemblies 104 from moving down the pair of first guide tracks 108 as the multi -panel door 102 moves between the closed state CS and the open state OS are contemplated.

[0072] It should be appreciated that in some configurations, the plurality of panel assemblies 104 may include more than the four panel assemblies 104 illustrated in the configurations of FIGS. 1A-20. In configurations where the panel assemblies 104 are folded relative to each other and arranged substantially horizontally for providing the opening 98 of theDocket No. 065685.00285 building, the plurality of panel assemblies 104 will typically include an even number of panel assemblies (e.g., four panel assemblies 104, six panel assemblies 104, eight panel assemblies 104, etc.). FIGS. 21A-22B show one configuration where the plurality of panel assemblies 104 includes six panel assemblies 104. Here, the plurality of panel assemblies 104 includes the top panel assembly 104T, the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1, the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2, and the bottom panel assembly 104B as describe above, and further includes a third intermediate panel assembly 1041-3 and a fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4. In these configurations, the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 is operatively attached to the top panel assembly 104T for pivotal movement relative to the top panel assembly 104T, the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 is operatively attached to the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 for pivotal movement relative to the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1, and the third intermediate panel assembly 1041-3 is operatively attached to the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 for pivotal movement relative to the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2, the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4 is operatively attached to the third intermediate panel assembly 1041-3 for pivotal movement relative to the third intermediate panel assembly 1041-3, and the bottom panel assembly 104B is operatively attached to the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4 for pivotal movement relative to the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4.

[0073] In the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 21A-21B, the top panel assembly 104T, the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1, the second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2, and the bottom panel assembly 104B are similar to as described above. Here, the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4 includes a pair of sixth wheels 180 disposed on opposing sides of the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4. The pair of sixth wheels 180 are engaged with a respectiveDocket No. 065685.00285 one of the pair of first guide tracks 108 to move along the pair of first guide tracks 108 during movement of the multi-panel door 102, similar to the pair of first wheels 124, the pair of third wheels 128, and the pair of fifth wheels 132 described above. The fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4 further includes a pair of seventh wheels 182 disposed on opposing sides of the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4 and releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks 110, similar to the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 described above. Accordingly, the guide profile GP of the pair of second guide tracks 110 guides the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4 to pivot about the pair of sixth wheels 180 as the multi -panel door 102 moves between the closed state CS and the open state OS, and the pair of seventh wheels 182 is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks 110 through the outlet 120 as the multi -panel door 102 moves toward the open state OS, similar to the pair of second wheels 126 and the pair of fourth wheels 130 described above. In this configuration, similar to the first intermediate panel assembly 1041-1 described above, the third intermediate panel assembly 1041-3 may move by virtue of movement of second intermediate panel assembly 1041-2 and the fourth intermediate panel assembly 1041-4. Accordingly, in some configurations, the third intermediate panel assembly 1041-3 is free of any wheels. Other configuration of the plurality of panel assemblies 104 may include more than the four panel assemblies 104 are contemplated.

[0074] Referring to FIGS. 23-28, the present disclosure is also directed to an interchangeable panel system 200. As described in further detail below, the interchangeable panel system 200 allows a user to change and service / upgrade one or more panel assemblies with alternative panels, without the necessity of buying a new garage door or unmounting the entire system from the track assembly and / or the wall of the building. The interchangeable panel systemDocket No. 065685.00285200 may be included as part of the door system 100 disclosed herein, but is not limited to use with the door system 100. Where implemented independently from the door system 100 described above, the interchangeable panel system 200 includes a track assembly (e.g., a conventional track assembly) adapted for arrangement on opposite sides of the opening 98 of the building, and a multi-panel door including a plurality of panel assemblies 204 operatively attached to each other for movement along the track assembly between a closed state CS and an open state OS.

[0075] FIGS. 23-28 show one exemplary panel assembly 204 of the interchangeable panel system 200. For illustrative purposes, the other parts of the multi-panel door are removed, but it is to be understood that the panel replacement occurs while the multi-panel door remains installed / engaged with the track assembly. Each panel assembly 204 includes a frame 206 defining a panel void 208. The frame 206 is preferably an aluminum extrusion. The frame 206 includes an exterior face 210 having an exterior retention flange 212 delimiting the panel void 208 in a first direction DR1 and an interior face 214 defining a locking channel 216 extending into the frame 206. Each panel assembly 204 also includes an interchangeable panel 218 configured to be disposed in the panel void 208. The interchangeable panel 218 may comprise at least one of glass, metal (e.g., aluminum or steel), plastic (e.g., polyurethane), and wood. In some examples, the interchangeable panel 218 may include an insulation layer, such as expanded polyurethane. Accordingly, the interchangeable panel system 200 allows for multiple panel options to be offered (solid panels, panels with windows, full glass panels), while the competition is only providing aluminum frames with permanent fixed glass panels.

[0076] As best shown in the cross-sectional representation of FIGS. 25A-28, the exterior retention flange 212 of the frame 206 constrains translation of the interchangeable panel 218 within the panel void 208 in the first direction DR1. Each of the plurality of panel assemblies 204 furtherDocket No. 065685.00285 includes a plurality of trim members 222. Each of the plurality of trim members 222 are releasably engaged with a respective portion of the frame 206 and include an engagement feature 224 releasably engaged with the locking channel 216 of the frame 206 and a trim retention flange 226 delimiting the panel void 208 in a second direction DR2, opposite the first direction DR1, to constrain translation of the interchangeable panel 218 in the second direction DR2 (i.e., to retain the interchangeable panel 218 within the panel void 208).

[0077] As mentioned above, the interchangeable panel system 200 allows a user to change and service / upgrade one or more of the panel assemblies 204 with alternative interchangeable panels 218, without the necessity of buying a new garage door or unmounting the entire system from the track assembly and / or the wall of the building. For example, the interchangeable panel(s) 218 is / are configured to be replaced without disassembly of the multi -panel door from the track assembly by i) disengaging each of the plurality of trim members 222 from the respective portion of the locking channel 216, ii) removing the interchangeable panel 218 from the panel void 208, iii) inserting a second interchangeable panel 218 into the panel void 208 (shown in the sequence between FIGS. 25A and 26B), and iv) re-engaging each of the plurality of trim members 222 into the respective portion of the locking channel 216 (shown in the sequence between FIGS. 25A and 26B).

[0078] In some examples, the frame 206 may include a top frame member 206A, a bottom frame member 206B spaced from the top frame member 206A, a first side frame member 206C extending between the top frame member 206A and the bottom frame member 206B at a first end El, and a second side frame member 206D extending between the top frame member 206A and the bottom frame member 206B at a second end E2, opposite the first end El. Here, the top frame member 206A, the bottom frame member 206B, the first side frame member 206C, and the secondDocket No. 065685.00285 side frame member 206D cumulatively define the panel void 208 shaped to receive the interchangeable panel 218. In these examples, each of the top frame member 206A, the bottom frame member 206B, the first side frame member 206C, and the second side frame member 206D may include a respective exterior retention flange 212 and define a respective locking channel 216. Other configurations of the frame 206 are contemplated. Referring to the exploded view of FIG. 24, in these examples, the plurality of trim members 222 may include a first trim member 222A releasably engaged with the locking channel 216 defined by the top frame member 206A, a second trim member 222B releasably engaged with the locking channel 216 defined by the bottom frame member 206B, a third trim member 222C releasably engaged with the locking channel 216 defined by the first side frame member 206C, and a fourth trim member 222D releasably engaged with the locking channel 216 defined by the second side frame member 222D. Each of the plurality of trim members 222 are preferably aluminum extrusions. Other configurations of the plurality of trim members 222 are contemplated.

[0079] As best shown in FIGS. 25A-28, the locking channel 216 may define a first ridge 228A and a second ridge 228B opposite the first ridge 228A. Here, the engagement feature 224 of the plurality of trim members 222 includes a first engagement member 230A configured to elastically deform to releasably engage the first ridge 228A, and a second engagement member 230B configured to elastically deform to releasably engage the second ridge 228B. In the illustrated example, the first engagement member 230A and the second engagement member 230B are implemented as projections / fingers extending from the trim member 222 configured to elastically deform to releasably engage the locking channel 216, but it should be appreciated that other configurations of engaging the locking channel 216 are contemplated. In some examples, referring to FIG. 28, one or more fasteners 232 may be configured to extend through a respectiveDocket No. 065685.00285 trim member 222 and into the frame 206 to further secure the respective trim member 222 to the frame 206.

[0080] With continued reference to FIGS. 25A-28, the interchangeable panel 218 may include a seal 234 arranged to abut the trim retention flange 226. The seal 234 may be comprised of an elastomer or other suitable material. In some examples, the seal 234 may extend around the perimeter of the interchangeable panel 218. Additional seals are contemplated. Referring to FIG. 27B, the exterior retention flange 212 has a first length LI and the trim retention flange 226 has a second length L2. In some examples, especially where the interchangeable panel 218 is made of glass, the first length LI and the second length L2 may be equal for aesthetics. Furthermore, in some examples, the trim retention flange 226 may be flush with the interior face 214 of the frame 206 for aesthetics. Other configurations of the plurality of trim members 222 are contemplated.

[0081] Several configurations have been discussed in the foregoing description. However, the configurations discussed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the invention to any particular form. The terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings and the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

Claims

Docket No. 065685.00285CLAIMS1. A door system for selectively enclosing an opening of a building, the door system comprising: a pair of first guide tracks extending between a top end and a bottom end and configured to be arranged vertically on opposite sides of the opening; a pair of second guide tracks disposed adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks and including a first portion parallel to the pair of first guide tracks and a second portion extending from the first portion to an outlet to define a guide profile; a multi-panel door coupled to the pair of first guide tracks and the pair of second guide tracks for movement along the pair of first guide tracks and the pair of second guide tracks between a closed state and an open state, the multi-panel door including a plurality of panel assemblies operatively attached to each other; and a retractor assembly coupled to the multi-panel door to move the multi-panel door between the closed state in which the panel assemblies are aligned vertically for covering the opening of the building and the open state in which the panel assemblies are folded relative to each other for providing the opening of the building; wherein the plurality of panel assemblies includes: a top panel assembly including a pair of first wheels disposed on opposing sides of the top panel assembly and engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks to move along the pair of first guide tracks during movement of the multi-panel door, and a pair of second wheels disposed on opposing sides of the top panel assembly and spaced from the pair of first wheels at a first distance, the pair of second wheels releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks, wherein the guide profile of the pair of second guide tracks guides the top panel assembly to pivot about the pair of first wheels as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state, and wherein the pair of second wheels is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door moves toward the open state; a first intermediate panel assembly operatively attached to the top panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the top panel assembly; a second intermediate panel assembly operatively attached to the first intermediate panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the first intermediate panel assembly, the second intermediate panel assembly including a pair of third wheels disposed on opposingDocket No. 065685.00285 sides of the second intermediate panel assembly and engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks to move along the pair of first guide tracks during movement of the multi-panel door, and a pair of fourth wheels disposed on opposing sides of the second intermediate panel assembly and spaced from the pair of third wheels at a second distance, the pair of fourth wheels releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks, wherein the guide profile of the pair of second guide tracks guides the second intermediate panel assembly to pivot about the pair of third wheels as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state, and wherein the pair of fourth wheels is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door moves toward the open state; and a bottom panel assembly operatively attached to the second intermediate panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the second intermediate panel assembly, the bottom panel assembly including a pair of fifth wheels disposed on opposing sides of the bottom panel assembly and adjacent to a bottom edge of the bottom panel assembly, the pair of fifth wheels engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks to move along the pair of first guide tracks during movement of the multi-panel door.

2. The door system according to claim 1 , wherein the panel assemblies are folded relative to each other and arranged substantially horizontally for providing the opening of the building where the multi-panel door is in the open state.

3. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the second portion of the pair of second guide tracks includes: an angled portion disposed at an angle relative to the pair of first guide tracks; and a curved portion extending between the first portion and the angled portion.

4. The door system according to claim 3, wherein the angled portion defines the outlet.

5. The door system according to claim 1, wherein each second guide track of the pair of second guide tracks includes a first lip and a second lip opposite the first lip, the first lip and the second lip arranged to receive a respective second wheel and a respective fourth wheel therebetween toDocket No. 065685.00285 guide movement of the second wheel and the fourth wheel along the second guide track during movement of the multi-panel door, wherein the second lip terminates in the second portion of the second guide track to define the outlet.

6. The door system according to claim 1 , wherein the second portion of each second guide track is integral with the first portion.

7. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the second portion of each second guide track is a separate component fixed relative to the first portion and defining a second portion channel aligned with the first portion, the second portion channel extending from the first portion to the outlet to define the guide profile.

8. The door system according to claim 7, wherein the second portion is formed from a plastic material.

9. The door system according to claim 1, wherein each outlet of the pair of second guide tracks is spaced from the pair of first guide tracks by a predetermined distance, the predetermined distance defined to permit the pair of second wheels and the pair of fourth wheels to be released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door moves from the open state toward the closed state.

10. The door system according to claim 1, wherein each second guide track of the pair of second guide tracks includes a vertical wall extending from the outlet and arranged to guide the pair of second wheels and the pair of fourth wheels into re-engagement with the pair of second guide tracks as the multi-panel door moves from the open state toward the closed state.

11. The door system according to claim 1 , wherein each second guide track of the pair of second guide tracks includes a tangential surface at the outlet and arranged to guide the pair of second wheels and the pair of fourth wheels into re-engagement with the pair of second guide tracks as the multi-panel door moves from the open state toward the closed state.Docket No. 065685.0028512. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the first distance is defined such that the pair of second wheels are aligned with the outlet to release the pair of second wheels from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door moves from the closed state toward the open state; and wherein the second distance is defined such that the pair of fourth wheels are aligned with the outlet to release the pair of fourth wheels from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door moves from the closed state toward the open state.

13. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the second distance is less than the first distance.

14. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the top panel assembly includes a pair of first brackets disposed on opposite sides of the top panel assembly, wherein each first bracket includes a first portion rotatably supporting a respective one of the pair of first wheels for engagement with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks and a second portion transverse to the first portion and extending away from the top panel assembly to rotatably support a respective one of the pair of second wheels for engagement with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks, wherein each first bracket defines the first distance; and wherein the second intermediate panel assembly includes a pair of second brackets disposed on opposite sides of the second intermediate panel assembly, wherein each second bracket includes a third portion rotatably supporting a respective one of the pair of third wheels for engagement with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks and a fourth portion transverse to the third portion and extending away from the second intermediate panel assembly to rotatably support a respective one of the pair of fourth wheels for engagement with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks, wherein each second bracket defines the second distance.

15. The door system according to claim 14, further comprising a pair of first support pins supported adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks; and wherein the pair of first brackets each define a first abutment surface disposed adjacent to a top edge of the top panel assembly and configured to engage a respective first support pin toDocket No. 065685.00285 prevent the top panel assembly from moving down the pair of first guide tracks as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state.

16. The door system according to claim 15, further comprising a pair of second support pins supported adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks and arranged below the pair of first support pins; and wherein the pair of second brackets each define a second abutment surface disposed adjacent to a top edge of the second intermediate panel assembly and configured to engage a respective second support pin to prevent the second intermediate panel assembly from moving down the pair of first guide tracks as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state.

17. The door system according to claim 14, wherein the pair of second brackets each further define a guide slot extending along an arc, and wherein the first intermediate panel assembly further includes a pair of guide projections each arranged to translate within a respective guide slot to coordinate pivotal movement of the second intermediate panel assembly relative to the first intermediate panel assembly as the multi-panel door moves between the open state and the closed state.

18. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the first intermediate panel assembly further includes a pair of guide brackets each defining a guide slot extending along an arc, and wherein the top panel assembly further includes a pair of guide projections each arranged to translate within a respective guide slot to coordinate pivotal movement of the first intermediate panel assembly relative to the top panel assembly as the multi-panel door moves between the open state and the closed state.

19. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the bottom panel assembly further includes a pair of guide brackets each defining a guide slot extending along an arc, and wherein the second intermediate panel assembly further includes a pair of guide projections each arranged to translate within a respective guide slot to coordinate pivotal movement of the bottom panel assemblyDocket No. 065685.00285 relative to the second intermediate panel assembly as the multi-panel door moves between the open state and the closed state.

20. The door system according to claim 1, further comprising a pair of support pins supported adjacent to the pair of first guide tracks; and wherein the top panel assembly includes a pair of locking members disposed adjacent to a top edge of the top panel assembly and configured to engage a respective support pin to prevent the top panel assembly from moving down the pair of first guide tracks as the multi-panel door moves from the closed state toward the open state.

21. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the multi -panel door defines a first height in the closed state and a second height in the open state, wherein a ratio of the second height to the first height is less than 1 : 10.

22. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the retractor assembly includes: a cable coupled to the bottom panel assembly adjacent to the bottom edge of the bottom panel assembly; and a motor coupled to the retractor assembly for rotating the retractor assembly to move the cable vertically to move the multi-panel door between the closed state and the open state.

23. The door system according to claim 22, further comprising a guide pin supported adjacent to the first pair of first guide tracks so the cable of the retractor assembly passes over the guide pin to direct the cable away from colliding with the multi-panel door.

24. The door system according to claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of panel assemblies are operatively attached to an adjacent panel assembly by one or more hinges; and wherein the one or more hinges each include a first plate coupled to one of the plurality of panel assemblies, a second plate coupled to another of the plurality of panel assemblies, and a linkage assembly extending between the first plate and the second plate, wherein the linkage assembly is configured to permit the first plate to pivot 180 degrees relative to the second plate.Docket No. 065685.0028525. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the first intermediate panel assembly is free of any wheels.

26. The door system according to claim 1 , wherein the multi -panel door includes an even number of panel assemblies.

27. The door system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of panel assemblies further includes: a third intermediate panel assembly operatively attached to the second intermediate panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the second intermediate panel assembly; and a fourth intermediate panel assembly operatively attached to the third intermediate panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the third intermediate panel assembly, the fourth intermediate panel assembly including a pair of sixth wheels disposed on opposing sides of the fourth intermediate panel assembly and engaged with a respective one of the pair of first guide tracks to move along the pair of first guide tracks during movement of the multi-panel door, and a pair of seventh wheels disposed on opposing sides of the fourth intermediate panel assembly and releasably engaged with a respective one of the pair of second guide tracks, wherein the guide profile of the pair of second guide tracks guides the fourth intermediate panel assembly to pivot about the pair of sixth wheels as the multi-panel door moves between the closed state and the open state, and wherein the pair of seventh wheels is released from engagement with the pair of second guide tracks through the outlet as the multi-panel door moves toward the open state; wherein the bottom panel assembly is operatively attached to the fourth intermediate panel assembly for pivotal movement relative to the fourth intermediate panel assembly.

28. The door system according to claim 27, wherein the third intermediate panel assembly is free of any wheels.

29. The door system according to claim 1 , wherein one or more of the plurality of panel assemblies includes:Docket No. 065685.00285 a frame defining a panel void and including an exterior face having an exterior retention flange delimiting the panel void in a first direction and an interior face defining a locking channel extending into the frame; an interchangeable panel releasably disposed in the panel void, wherein the exterior retention flange of the frame constrains translation of the interchangeable panel within the panel void in the first direction; and a plurality of trim members each releasably engaged with a respective portion of the frame and including an engagement feature releasably engaged with the locking channel and a trim retention flange delimiting the panel void in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to constrain translation of the interchangeable panel in the second direction.

30. The door system according to claim 29, wherein the interchangeable panel is configured to be replaced without disassembly of the multi-panel door from the pair of first guide tracks and the pair of second guide tracks by: disengaging each of the plurality of trim members from the respective portion of the locking channel, removing the interchangeable panel from the panel void, inserting a second interchangeable panel into the panel void, and re-engaging each of the plurality of trim members into the respective portion of the locking channel.

31. An interchangeable panel system for a door system selectively enclosing an opening of a building, the interchangeable panel system comprising: a track assembly adapted for arrangement on opposite sides of the opening; a multi-panel door including a plurality of panel assemblies operatively attached to each other for movement along the track assembly between a closed state and an open state, each of the panel assemblies including: a frame defining a panel void and including an exterior face having an exterior retention flange delimiting the panel void in a first direction and an interior face defining a locking channel extending into the frame;Docket No. 065685.00285 an interchangeable panel releasably disposed in the panel void, wherein the exterior retention flange of the frame constrains translation of the interchangeable panel within the panel void in the first direction; and a plurality of trim members each releasably engaged with a respective portion of the frame and including an engagement feature releasably engaged with the locking channel and a trim retention flange delimiting the panel void in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to constrain translation of the interchangeable panel in the second direction; wherein the interchangeable panel is configured to be replaced without disassembly of the multi-panel door from the track assembly by: disengaging each of the plurality of trim members from the respective portion of the locking channel, removing the interchangeable panel from the panel void, inserting a second interchangeable panel into the panel void, and re-engaging each of the plurality of trim members into the respective portion of the locking channel.

32. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 31 , wherein the locking channel defines a first ridge and a second ridge opposite the first ridge, and the engagement feature of the plurality of trim members includes a first engagement member configured to elastically deform to releasably engage the first ridge, and a second engagement member configured to elastically deform to releasably engage the second ridge.

33. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 31, wherein the exterior retention flange has a first length and the trim retention flange has a second length, with the first length and the second length being equal.

34. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 31 , wherein the trim retention flange is flush with the interior face of the frame.Docket No. 065685.0028535. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 31, wherein the interchangeable panel includes a seal arranged to abut the trim retention flange.

36. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 31, wherein the interchangeable panel comprises at least one of glass, metal, plastic, and wood.

37. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 31, wherein the interchangeable panel includes an insulation layer.

38. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 31, wherein the frame includes: a top frame member; a bottom frame member spaced from the top frame member; a first side frame member extending between the top frame member and the bottom frame member at a first end; and a second side frame member extending between the top frame member and the bottom frame member at a second end, opposite the first end; wherein the top frame member, the bottom frame member, the first side frame member, and the second side frame member cumulatively define the panel void.

39. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 38, wherein each of the top frame member, the bottom frame member, the first side frame member, and the second side frame member include a respective exterior retention flange and define a respective locking channel.

40. The interchangeable panel system according to claim 39, wherein the plurality of trim members includes: a first trim member releasably engaged with the locking channel defined by the top frame member; a second trim member releasably engaged with the locking channel defined by the bottom frame member; a third trim member releasably engaged with the locking channel defined by the first side frame member; andDocket No. 065685.00285 a fourth trim member releasably engaged with the locking channel defined by the second side frame member.

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