Foot-activated door opener

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a foot-activated door opener that enables hands-free operation of a door. The apparatus includes a housing that can be attached to a door, a foot pedal pivotally connected to the housing, and a series of mechanical components that convert the depression of the foot pedal into movement of the door.

Description

[0001] Docket No. 6192-005W01

[0002] FOOT- ACTIVATED DOOR OPENER

[0003] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 715,309 filed on November 01, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth herein.

[0005] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0006] The present disclosure relates generally to door operation mechanisms. More specifically, it pertains to systems and devices that allow for hands-free operation of a door, enabling a user to open and close the door using a foot-activated mechanism. The disclosure is applicable in various environments, including residential, commercial, and public settings, and is particularly relevant in contexts where reducing physical contact with door handles and promoting hands-free convenience are desired.

[0007] BACKGROUND

[0008] Over the centuries, doors have served as essential barriers, providing security, privacy, and control of access to various spaces. Doors are ubiquitous in homes, commercial establishments, and public spaces, offering protection from environmental factors such as weather, as well as preventing unauthorized entry. Traditionally, doors have been manually operated by using a handle or knob, an action that requires the use of one or both hands. While this method of operation has remained mostly unchanged, various issues have arisen from the need for direct physical contact with door handles, particularly in high-traffic areas.

[0009] The manual opening and closing of doors have inherent disadvantages, especially in contexts where sanitation is of prime importance. In environments such as hospitals, restaurants, public restrooms, and other high-contact areas, door handles often become vectors for the transmission of germs and pathogens. The act of touching a contaminated surface can result in the spread of illnesses, particularly in situations where individuals touch a door after failing to wash their hands properly. The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control have repeatedly highlighted the importance of minimizing contact with contaminated surfaces as part of broader efforts to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. Docket No. 6192-005W01

[0010] Technological solutions have been developed to address this issue, including automatic door systems. These systems, often seen in commercial settings like supermarkets and airports, use sensors or buttons to trigger the door to open without physical contact. While these systems offer a significant advantage in terms of reducing the spread of germs, they tend to be expensive, complex, and typically rely on an external power source to function. Moreover, these systems are not always feasible in residential or small-scale commercial settings due to their cost, installation complexity, and maintenance requirements. Thus, while automatic doors have their benefits, they are not universally applicable.

[0011] The issue of accessibility has also played a significant role in the evolution of dooropening mechanisms. Persons with disabilities, such as those in wheelchairs or with limited hand mobility, face significant challenges when trying to operate traditional doors. The design of manual door handles often requires a twisting motion or considerable grip strength, making it difficult for individuals with limited dexterity or strength to open doors independently. As a result, numerous regulations, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), mandate that certain public doors meet specific standards for ease of use. However, compliance with these standards does not always equate to true accessibility in all situations.

[0012] Furthermore, even individuals without disabilities can experience difficulty opening doors when their hands are occupied. Everyday tasks such as carrying groceries, luggage, or children can make operating a door inconvenient or impossible without setting items down first. This scenario can lead to frustration, delays, and, in some cases, safety concerns. Consequently, there is a growing need for solutions that allow people to open and close doors without the use of their hands, particularly in environments where cleanliness and convenience are priorities.

[0013] There have been a variety of mechanical door-opening solutions aimed at addressing some of these concerns. For example, lever-style handles have gained popularity as they require less force and can often be operated with an elbow or forearm, reducing the need for hand contact. Push plates, typically used on non-latching doors, allow for easy opening with the shoulder or hip. However, these designs do not fully eliminate the need for physical contact, and they are limited in application depending on the type of door or environment. Docket No. 6192-005W01

[0014] Additionally, the requirement for body contact still presents challenges in terms of hygiene, especially during health crises like pandemics.

[0015] Another approach has been the use of mechanical foot pedals in various other contexts, such as waste bins and water dispensers. These foot-operated devices allow individuals to perform tasks without using their hands, improving convenience and cleanliness. However, such mechanisms have rarely been applied to door systems, likely due to design challenges or a lack of widespread awareness of their potential benefits. Despite this, foot-operated systems have the potential to provide a simple, efficient, and hygienic means of operating doors without hand contact.

[0016] The increasing concern about the transmission of germs and diseases in public and private spaces has heightened awareness of the need for solutions that minimize hand-to- surface contact. For example, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant rise in public interest in touchless technologies across a wide range of industries. Hand sanitizers, touchless faucets, and sensor-based soap dispensers became common sights in public restrooms and other shared spaces. The door, however, remains one of the most frequently touched surfaces in any environment, and it is often overlooked in discussions about reducing the spread of germs.

[0017] In certain contexts, the need for hands-free door operation is more than a matter of convenience — it can be a matter of safety. Emergency situations may require rapid movement through a door without the luxury of using one's hands. In environments such as healthcare facilities, industrial plants, or even busy households, the ability to open a door while carrying critical items can prevent accidents and streamline workflow. For example, healthcare workers may need to move through doors while carrying medical supplies or assisting patients, making hands-free operation a critical consideration in hospital design.

[0018] Additionally, environmental concerns have led to a renewed focus on energy-efficient door solutions. Some automatic doors require constant energy to remain functional, especially in systems that rely on sensors or motors. In contrast, simpler mechanical systems can offer an energy-efficient alternative by eliminating the need for continuous power consumption. Reducing energy use in both residential and commercial buildings aligns with global efforts to decrease carbon footprints and promote sustainability. Docket No. 6192-005W01

[0019] Despite the existence of several approaches to address issues related to door operation, many solutions remain limited in scope or impractical for widespread use. Solutions like automatic doors, while effective in large commercial settings, are often cost- prohibitive and complex for smaller spaces. Mechanical solutions, such as lever handles or push plates, provide some relief but still involve physical contact or do not fully address the needs of individuals with disabilities or those carrying objects. The challenge lies in creating a solution that balances hygiene, convenience, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness.

[0020] In many ways, the current state of door-opening technology is a compromise between ease of use, hygiene, and practicality. The ongoing demand for improved solutions reflects the challenges that individuals face daily, from concerns about germ transmission to the inconvenience of handling doors while carrying objects. Given these longstanding and emerging issues, it is evident that there is room for further innovation in the realm of dooropening mechanisms.

[0021] As we continue to seek ways to improve the design of doors and their operation, it is clear that any future developments will need to address the fundamental concerns of hygiene, convenience, and accessibility. In particular, there is a growing need for solutions that allow individuals to operate doors without using their hands, without relying on costly or complex systems, and without compromising on ease of installation or use in a variety of environments.

[0022] SUMMARY

[0023] In general, the systems and methods disclosed herein provide a hands-free mechanism for opening and closing doors through the use of a foot-activated device. The system includes a foot pedal attached to the door or door frame, which, when depressed, engages a mechanical or automated mechanism that causes the door to open. After the user passes through the doorway, the door automatically closes by means of a return system, such as a spring or a hydraulic mechanism. This system is designed to reduce the need for physical contact with door handles, thereby minimizing the transmission of germs and offering a convenient, accessible solution for individuals carrying objects or those with limited hand mobility.

[0024] The foot-activated door opener presents a variety of advantages over traditional door systems, offering practical, hygienic, and accessible benefits. One of its primary advantages Docket No. 6192-005W01 is the significant reduction in the transmission of germs and other pathogens. In high-traffic environments, door handles are among the most frequently touched surfaces, acting as vectors for bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants. By enabling doors to be operated without hand contact, the foot-activated system helps to mitigate the spread of diseases, making it particularly valuable in healthcare settings, restaurants, and public restrooms. This feature is also beneficial during times of public health crises, such as pandemics, where minimizing touchpoints is essential.

[0025] In addition to its hygienic benefits, the foot-activated system offers unparalleled convenience. Users no longer need to use their hands to open or close doors, which proves advantageous in a variety of everyday scenarios. When carrying groceries, luggage, children, or other items, traditional door systems often require users to set things down or awkwardly attempt to manipulate door handles. This invention solves that problem by allowing users to simply press a foot pedal, enabling them to walk through doorways with ease while their hands remain free. This hands-free convenience not only saves time but also reduces frustration in busy or fast-paced environments.

[0026] The system also provides significant improvements in accessibility for individuals with limited mobility or strength. For people with disabilities, such as those in wheelchairs or those who suffer from conditions like arthritis, opening doors can be challenging. Traditional door handles often require fine motor skills and grip strength that some individuals may lack. The foot-activated mechanism provides an alternative that is both easy to use and inclusive, ensuring that people of all abilities can navigate through doors independently. This design also aligns with accessibility standards such as those outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), making it an ideal solution for public spaces aiming to accommodate diverse users.

[0027] Beyond these immediate benefits, the system also offers potential for enhanced safety. In emergency situations where rapid movement is required, the ability to open a door without the need to use one's hands could save valuable time. Healthcare workers, for instance, often need to pass through doors while carrying medical equipment or assisting patients, and this system allows them to do so without compromising their grip or speed. Likewise, in industrial settings, the hands-free operation could prevent accidents or delays, especially when workers are transporting hazardous materials or operating heavy machinery. Docket No. 6192-005W01

[0028] Moreover, the system operates without the need for complex electronics or expensive installations, making it an affordable alternative to traditional automatic doors. Automatic doors, while effective, often rely on sensors, motors, and power sources, which can be costly to install and maintain. The foot-activated mechanism is primarily mechanical in nature, meaning it requires less energy and fewer resources to operate. This makes it ideal for use in residential settings, small businesses, and locations where automatic door systems may not be economically feasible. It also offers a more environmentally friendly option by reducing energy consumption, aligning with broader sustainability goals.

[0029] Another advantage of the foot-activated door opener is its ease of installation. Unlike many automatic or sensor-based doors, which may require extensive wiring and infrastructure changes, the foot-activated system can be retrofitted onto existing doors with minimal modifications. This makes it an attractive option for property owners looking for an upgrade that does not involve significant construction or downtime. The straightforward design allows for widespread applicability in a range of settings, from private homes to large commercial facilities.

[0030] In addition, the self-closing feature incorporated into the design ensures that doors return to a closed position after use, improving both security and energy efficiency. Doors that are left open unintentionally can result in security risks, unwanted drafts, and wasted energy in temperature-controlled environments. The automatic closing mechanism of the foot-activated system addresses these issues by ensuring that the door closes reliably after each use, without requiring any additional effort from the user.

[0031] The versatility of the system also contributes to its wide-ranging applicability. It can be implemented on a variety of door types, including interior and exterior doors, swinging and sliding doors, and even doors with different weights and dimensions. This flexibility ensures that the system can be adapted to meet the needs of various environments, from residential homes to high-traffic commercial spaces.

[0032] The system promotes a more hygienic and efficient flow of movement in spaces where cleanliness and convenience are prioritized. Whether in hospitals, kitchens, or industrial environments, the ability to open doors without physical contact or effort enhances overall efficiency, cleanliness, and accessibility. The hands-free operation not only reduces Docket No. 6192-005W01 time spent opening and closing doors but also contributes to a more streamlined and sanitary experience for users in a variety of contexts.

[0033] In a first general aspect, an apparatus for hands-free operation of a door includes a housing attachable to the door and enclosing at least a transmission assembly, a first member mounted for rotation about a first axis within the housing, and a second member mounted for rotation about a second axis within the housing. The transmission assembly interconnects the first and second members such that rotation of the first member produces movement of the second member, the second member being attachable to a door element to effect movement of the door, and a return mechanism acts upon at least one of the members to restore the members toward initial positions after movement.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the transmission assembly includes a plurality of interacting mechanical elements arranged to transfer rotational motion between the first and second members. In some embodiments, the transmission assembly includes a first axle associated with the first member and a second axle associated with the second member, each axle supporting a pinion engaged with a corresponding rack disposed for translational movement within the housing. In further embodiments, the racks are coupled by a fluid medium contained within the housing, the fluid medium transmitting force between the racks during relative motion of the first and second members. In yet other embodiments, the fluid medium is contained within a pair of cylinders positioned along a longitudinal axis of the housing, and a rod member extends between the cylinders to transfer the fluid during operation. The rod member can include a check valve at one end permitting fluid flow in a single direction between the cylinders. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can include a fluid passage extending between the cylinders and a flow restrictor disposed within the fluid passage to regulate the rate of movement of the members. In certain implementations, the return mechanism includes a first spring acting upon the first member and a second spring acting upon the second member, the first spring exerting a greater biasing force than the second spring.

[0035] In a second general aspect, a method of assembling a foot-operated door opener includes providing a housing defining a cavity, mounting a first axle within the housing, attaching a foot pedal to the first axle such that depression of the foot pedal produces rotation of the first axle, mounting a second axle within the housing at a spaced location from the first Docket No. 6192-005W01 axle, attaching a door arm to the second axle for movement with rotation of the second axle, installing a first rack-and-pinion assembly in association with the first axle and a second rack-and-pinion assembly in association with the second axle, coupling the first and second rack-and-pinion assemblies by respective hydraulic cylinders arranged for linear translation within the housing, and positioning a spring mechanism between ends of the housing and the hydraulic cylinders to return the foot pedal and door arm to initial positions after operation.

[0036] In some embodiments, coupling the first and second rack-and-pinion assemblies includes securing a rod member to one of the hydraulic cylinders and passing the rod member through the other hydraulic cylinder. The rod member can include a one-way valve at an end portion to permit hydraulic fluid to flow in one direction from the first hydraulic cylinder toward the second hydraulic cylinder. In certain embodiments, the method further includes filling the housing with hydraulic fluid so that the hydraulic cylinders are immersed within the fluid. In other embodiments, the method further includes installing a fluid channel between the hydraulic cylinders and inserting a flow-restricting element within the channel to control the rate of operation of the door opener. The method can further include securing a linkage to the door arm and connecting the linkage to an anchor mounted on a structure adjacent to the door. Additionally, the method can include enclosing the components within the housing by attaching a cover to the housing and securing the cover with fasteners through apertures formed in the housing.

[0037] In a third general aspect, a door operating system includes a foot-actuated mechanism attachable to a swinging door and including a housing, a foot pedal, a first axle, a second axle, and a coupling structure interconnecting the first and second axles. Depression of the foot pedal by a user produces rotational movement of the first axle that is transmitted through the coupling structure to the second axle, thereby moving a door arm connected to the second axle and opening the door. A spring assembly is disposed within the housing for returning the door to a closed position when the foot pedal is released.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the coupling structure includes a pair of rack-and-pinion assemblies arranged within the housing and a hydraulic connection extending between the rack-and-pinion assemblies. The hydraulic connection can include a pair of hydraulic cylinders linked by a rod member having a check valve at one end and a fluid passage extending along its length. The spring assembly can include a first spring positioned to urge Docket No. 6192-005W01 the foot pedal toward an upward position and a second spring positioned to urge the door arm toward a closed-door position. In some embodiments, the housing includes a fluid channel extending between the hydraulic cylinders and an adjustable restrictor disposed within the channel for varying the rate of opening and closing of the door.

[0039] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of any described embodiment, suitable methods and materials are described below. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. In case of conflict with terms used in the art, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

[0040] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, advantages and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description and claims.

[0041] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0042] The present embodiments are illustrated by way of the figures of the accompanying drawings, which may not necessarily be to scale, in which like references indicate similar elements, and in which:

[0043] FIG. 1 is right-side perspective view of a foot-operated door opener according to one embodiment;

[0044] FIG. 2 is a left-side perspective view of the opener shown in FIG. 1, according to one embodiment;

[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates the opener of FIG. 1 operatively attached to a door, according to one embodiment;

[0046] FIG. 4 is a bottom-side perspective view of a foot-operated door opener according to one embodiment;

[0047] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional detail of a foot-operated door opener according to one embodiment; and

[0048] FIGS. 6-8 illustrate the operation of a foot-operated door opener according to one embodiment. Docket No. 6192-005W01

[0049] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0050] FIG. l is a right-side perspective view of a foot-activated door opener (hereinafter ‘opener’) 100 according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a left-side perspective view of the opener 100. In this embodiment, the opener 100 includes a housing 105 that encloses mechanical and hydraulic components of the opener 100 and is configured to be securely attached to a hinged door by providing through-apertures 101, 102 and 103. In practice, connectors such as bolts, screws, nails and other fasteners can be fed through the apertures 101, 102, 103 to secure the housing 105 to an exterior portion of a door, as depicted, e.g., in FIG. 3.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in this embodiment, the opener 100 includes a foot lever 110 on the right side of the opener that is rotatable in the direction indicated by the doubleheaded arrow. Foot pedal axle 130 is connected to the foot lever 110 and rotates synchronously with the foot pedal 110 as explained in greater detail below. Foot pedal axle 130 serves as the rotation axis for the foot pedal 110. Additionally, in this embodiment, the opener 100 includes a rotatable door arm 115 on the left side of the opener that is rotatable in the direction of the double-headed arrow as illustrated. The door arm 115 is connected to axle 140, which itself serves as the rotation axis for the door arm.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 3, in this embodiment, the opener 100 is configured to be installed on a door D perpendicular to, and adjacent a wall ffl. When installed, the front of the opener (104) is arranged to point away from the wall W, and the rear of the opener (106) points toward the wall W. A linkage 120, such as a bar, rod or chain is connected on a proximal end to the door arm 115, and connected on a distal end to an anchor 125 secured to the wall W.

[0053] To operate the opener 100, the user depresses the foot pedal 110 by stepping on it, causing the pedal to rotate downward as shown in FIG. 3. This action initiates a series of mechanical movements as described in detail below, which result in the door arm 115 rotating to the left, away from the wall W. As the door arm rotates, it pulls on the linkage 120, which in turn opens the door. The door D closes automatically after opening. Accordingly, the opener 100 provides for hands-free operation of the door D.

[0054] Referring now to FIG. 4, internal components of the opener 100 are now discussed in detail. In FIG. 4, housing 105 is not shown for the sake of figure clarity; however, dashed Docket No. 6192-005W01 lines 104 and 106 indicate the boundaries of the left and right end portions of the housing, respectively.

[0055] In this embodiment, the opener 100 includes a first (120) and a second (125) cylinder. Both cylinders 120, 125 are translatable along the horizontal axis (the x-axis as shown in FIG. 1) within the housing 105. Each of the cylinders 120, 125 includes a first (131) and second (141) rack-and-pinion assembly, respectively. That is, cylinder 120 includes a rack 150 and a pinion 135, the pinion 135 extending from axle 130; and cylinder 125 includes a rack 155 and a pinion 145, the pinion 145 extending from axle 140.

[0056] The rack and pinion assemblies 131, 141 independently convert rotational motion of the axles 130, 140 to translational motion of the cylinders 120, 125, respectively. Accordingly, according to the convention of FIG. 4, depressing pedal 110 downward causes axle 130 to rotate counterclockwise, and through the first rack and pinion assembly 131, cylinder 120 correspondingly shifts laterally to the left and vice-versa; likewise, when cylinder 125 shifts laterally to the right, axle 140 rotates clockwise, thereby rotating door arm 115 clockwise, and vice-versa.

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 5, a cross-sectional view of the opener 100 in the x-y plane (according to the convention of FIG. 1) is shown, where foot pedal 110 is shown at halftransparency for the sake of clearly depicting the internal components of the opener 100. In this embodiment, each of the cylinders 120, 125 has a hollowed core, thus appearing “U” shaped in the cross-sectional view. In this embodiment, the opener includes first (170) and second (175) spring members, each associated with the first (120) and second (125) cylinders, respectively. In this and other embodiments, the first spring member 170 can have a larger spring force than the second spring member 125; the relative spring force (or spring strength) between the first (170) and second (175) spring members can influence the rate of door opening and closing and can be chosen according to preference.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first spring member 170 is biased between the left end portion 104 of the housing and a bottom surface 122 of the cylinder 120; the second spring member 175 is biased between the right end portion 106 of the housing and a bottom surface 123 of cylinder 125.

[0059] In this embodiment, a rod member 160 is connected to, and extends from cylinder 120 as illustrated. The rod member 160 passes through the second cylinder 125 and Docket No. 6192-005W01 terminates at end portion 162 which is threaded to receive an end cap 180 having complimentary threading so that the end cap can be secured to the rod member 160. In this embodiment, the diameter of end cap 180 is large enough such that when the first cylinder 120 - and correspondingly, rod member 160 - shifts laterally to the left, the end cap 180 compresses the second spring 175 against the bottom surface 123 of the second cylinder 125.

[0060] In this embodiment, rod member 160 is hollow, allowing for fluid transfer from the first cylinder 120 to the end of the rod 162 as explained in greater detail below. At the end of the rod member 160, a one-way check valve 185 permits fluid to flow out of the rod member 160 but prevents fluid from flowing into the rod member 160 at the end portion 162. Rod member 160 includes an aperture 165, out of which fluid can flow into and out of the rod member 160 during the operation of the opener 100 as described in greater detail below.

[0061] Turning now to the operation of the opener 100, FIGS. 6-8 illustrate the functions of the internal components of the opener 100, with the housing removed and only a portion of foot pedal 110 shown for clarity of the figures. In this embodiment, the opener is filled with hydraulic fluid which occupies the empty internal spaces of the opener. To operate the opener 100, a user first depresses foot pedal 110 (see dashed curved arrow), thereby causing axle 130 to rotate in the counter-clockwise direction according to the convention of FIG. 6. In doing so, the first rack and pinion assembly 131 causes the first cylinder 120 and, by extension, rod member 160 to shift laterally to the left according to the convention of FIG. 6. As the first cylinder 120 shifts to the left, the first spring 170 compresses between the front end portion 104 and the bottom surface 122.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 7, when the foot pedal 110 is fully depressed, the first cylinder 120 shifts laterally to the left, forcing hydraulic fluid from the interstitial space 210 proximal to the first cylinder 120, through the rod member 160. Hydraulic fluid escapes from the end portion 162 of the rod member 160 via the one-way valve 185 and fills the interstitial space 215 proximal to the second cylinder 125. At this stage of the operation, the foot pedal 110 remains in the ‘down’ position, while the door is still closed

[0063] It is important to note that once the user depresses the foot pedal 110, they can remove their foot, and the pedal will remain in the ‘down’ position. This is due to the hydraulic lock in the first cylinder, which prevents the pedal from returning to its original position. Hydraulic fluid is prevented from flowing back to the first interstitial space due to Docket No. 6192-005W01 the one-way value 185 preventing backflow, and the aperture 165 in the rod member 160 is covered, since in this configuration the aperture 165 is within the second cylinder 125.

[0064] Now, still referring to FIG. 7, the second spring 175, being compressed, urges the second cylinder 125 to the left, according to the convention of FIG. 7. At the same time, door arm 115 will rotate counterclockwise as indicated, through the action of the second rack-and- pinion assembly 141. When the door arm 115 rotates counterclockwise, a force is applied to the linkage 120, which itself is connected to a stationary anchor on the adjacent wall as previously described. This movement causes the linkage 120 to pull the door open, as the wall remains fixed, allowing the force to act solely on the door.

[0065] FIG. 8 illustrates the opener 100 in a ‘pedal down, door open’ configuration, where the second cylinder 125 has shifted fully to the left, resulting in the door being pulled all the way open. In this configuration, aperture 165 is now unencumbered, allowing hydraulic fluid to flow from the second interstitial area 215, into aperture 165, through rod member 160 and into the first interstitial area 210, thereby breaking the hydraulic lock of the first cylinder 120.

[0066] In this configuration, the first cylinder is still under an urging force to shift to the right due to the compression of the first spring 170. The first spring 170 has a higher spring force than the second spring 175. Accordingly, once the hydraulic lock is broken, the first cylinder 120 begins to shift back to the right. In doing so, the first cylinder 120 confronts the second cylinder 125, urging it to the right. The shifting of the first (120) and second (125) cylinders to the right rotates axles 130 and 140 clockwise, according to the convention of FIG. 8, which synchronously rotates foot pedal 110 and door arm 115 clockwise via the first and second rack and pinion assemblies 131, 141, respectively. As this happens, foot pedal 110 rotates to the ‘up’ position and door arm 115 effectively pushes against the wall via linkage 120, closing the door. Now, with the foot pedal 110 in the ‘up’ position and the door arm 115 in the right-most position, the opener 100 is effectively reset into a ‘ready’ configuration as illustrated in FIG. 6, ready for a user to depress the foot pedal 110 to start the door-opening operation as described.

[0067] In this embodiment, the opener 100 includes a fluid channel 200 that allows hydraulic fluid to flow from a first channel opening 190 (generally in the area of the first cylinder 120) to a second channel opening 195 (generally in the area of the second cylinder 125). The fluid Docket No. 6192-005W01 channel 200 is sealed to prevent fluid from flowing outside the housing and only allows fluid flow generally between left and right sides of the opener 100 depending on the position of the first (120) and second (125) cylinders. A hydraulic relief channel 201 allows hydraulic fluid between the first (120) and second (125) cylinders to flow into and out of the fluid channel 200 to prevent hydraulic lock between the confronting faces (217, 218) of the first (120) and second (125) cylinders, respectively. (See FIG. 7.)

[0068] Referring back to FIG. 6, both fluid channels 190 and 195 remain unblocked. As the first cylinder 120 shifts to the left, hydraulic fluid is pushed through the rod member 160 as previously explained. Additionally, fluid flows from the first interstitial area 210 to the second interstitial area 215 through the fluid channel 200, allowing faster movement of fluid between the two areas. Thus, the fluid channel 200 may support the transfer of hydraulic fluid from the first interstitial area 210 to the second interstitial area 215 faster than fluid traveling through the rod member 160 alone.

[0069] Continuing the present example, in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 7, when the first cylinder 120 is shifted to the left, it blocks the first channel opening 190 so that the hydraulic lock previously described is not broken. As the first cylinder 120 shifts back to the right (e.g., as the door is closing, as previously described), the first channel opening 190 becomes unblocked, allowing hydraulic fluid to fill the first interstitial area faster than if the hydraulic fluid flowed through the rod member 160 alone.

[0070] It should be understood that the incorporation of the fluid channel 200 and related first (190) and second (195) fluid channels are an optional adaptation of the opener 100. However, through use of fluid flow restricting measures, such as an adjustable set screw or other flow-limiting mechanism configured within the fluid channel 200, the rate at which the opener 100 operates can effectively be controlled.

[0071] A number of illustrative embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the various embodiments presented herein. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Docket No. 6192-005W01WHAT TS CLAIMED IS:

1. An apparatus for hands-free operation of a door, comprising: a housing attachable to the door and enclosing at least a transmission assembly; a first member mounted for rotation about a first axis within the housing; a second member mounted for rotation about a second axis within the housing; the transmission assembly interconnecting the first and second members such that rotation of the first member produces movement of the second member, the second member being attachable to a door element to effect movement of the door; and a return mechanism acting upon at least one of the members to restore the members toward initial positions after movement.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the transmission assembly comprises a plurality of interacting mechanical elements arranged to transfer rotational motion between the first and second members.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the transmission assembly comprises a first axle associated with the first member and a second axle associated with the second member, each axle supporting a pinion engaged with a corresponding rack disposed for translational movement within the housing.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the racks are coupled by a fluid medium contained within the housing, the fluid medium transmitting force between the racks during relative motion of the first and second members.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the fluid medium is contained within a pair of cylinders positioned along a longitudinal axis of the housing, and a rod member extends between the cylinders to transfer the fluid during operation.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the rod member comprises a check valve at one end permitting fluid flow in a single direction between the cylinders.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the housing further comprises a fluid passage extending between the cylinders and a flow restrictor disposed within the fluid passage to regulate the rate of movement of the members.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the return mechanism comprises a first spring acting upon the first member and a second spring acting upon the second member, the first spring exerting a greater biasing force than the second spring.Docket No. 6192-005W019. A method of assembling a foot-operated door opener, comprising: providing a housing defining a cavity; mounting a first axle within the housing; attaching a foot pedal to the first axle such that depression of the foot pedal produces rotation of the first axle; mounting a second axle within the housing at a spaced location from the first axle; attaching a door arm to the second axle for movement with rotation of the second axle; installing a first rack-and-pinion assembly in association with the first axle and a second rack-and-pinion assembly in association with the second axle; coupling the first and second rack-and-pinion assemblies by respective hydraulic cylinders arranged for linear translation within the housing; and positioning a spring mechanism between ends of the housing and the hydraulic cylinders to return the foot pedal and door arm to initial positions after operation.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of coupling the first and second rack-and-pinion assemblies comprises securing a rod member to one of the hydraulic cylinders and passing the rod member through the other hydraulic cylinder.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the rod member comprises a one-way valve at an end portion to permit hydraulic fluid to flow in one direction from the first hydraulic cylinder toward the second hydraulic cylinder.

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising filling the housing with hydraulic fluid so that the hydraulic cylinders are immersed within the fluid.

13. The method of claim 9, further comprising installing a fluid channel between the hydraulic cylinders and inserting a flow-restricting element within the channel to control the rate of operation of the door opener.

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising securing a linkage to the door arm and connecting the linkage to an anchor mounted on a structure adjacent to the door.

15. The method of claim 9, further comprising enclosing the components within the housing by attaching a cover to the housing and securing the cover with fasteners through apertures formed in the housing.Docket No. 6192-005W0116. A door operating system comprising: a foot-actuated mechanism attachable to a swinging door and comprising a housing, a foot pedal, a first axle, a second axle, and a coupling structure interconnecting the first and second axles; wherein depression of the foot pedal by a user produces rotational movement of the first axle that is transmitted through the coupling structure to the second axle, thereby moving a door arm connected to the second axle and opening the door; and a spring assembly disposed within the housing for returning the door to a closed position when the foot pedal is released.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the coupling structure comprises a pair of rack-and- pinion assemblies arranged within the housing and a hydraulic connection extending between the rack-and-pinion assemblies.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the hydraulic connection comprises a pair of hydraulic cylinders linked by a rod member having a check valve at one end and a fluid passage extending along its length.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein the spring assembly comprises a first spring positioned to urge the foot pedal toward an upward position and a second spring positioned to urge the door arm toward a closed-door position.

20. The system of claim 16, wherein the housing comprises a fluid channel extending between the hydraulic cylinders and an adjustable restrictor disposed within the channel for varying the rate of opening and closing of the door.

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