Underground Door Operator Retrofit with Adjustable Spindle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door operating systems lack mechanisms for adjusting the spindle alignment after installation in a sub-floor stratum, limiting the conversion of overhead manual door closers to underground automatic door operators without precise initial alignment and preventing post-installation adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A retrofit conversion kit with positional adjustment mechanisms, including vertical, longitudinal, and lateral adjustments, allows for alignment of the spindle with the door arm after installation, using screws, shims, and adjustment rods to secure the spindle housing and sled within the enclosure, enabling precise alignment and operation from either overhead or sub-floor positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual door closers are converted to underground automatic door operators, then the door operating system can be modernized and automated, but precise initial alignment of the spindle with the door arm becomes difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable mounting brackets with multiple holes and positioning mechanisms that allow the spindle housing to be dynamically repositioned both during installation and after installation. This enables alignment adjustments without requiring perfect initial positioning, resolving the contradiction between automation conversion and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate adjustable components including the mounting bracket, spindle housing, and enclosure. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each component to achieve precise alignment, overcoming the limitation of fixed-position installations.
2Ease of operation
If the door operating apparatus is installed in a sub-floor stratum, then the installation is concealed and aesthetically pleasing, but post-installation alignment adjustments become impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket incorporates adjustable features with multiple positioning holes and movable components that enable alignment adjustments even after the apparatus is installed in the sub-floor stratum. This maintains the aesthetic concealed installation while providing post-installation adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable mounting system is designed with built-in adjustment mechanisms that are prepared in advance, allowing alignment corrections to be made after installation without requiring removal or disassembly of the concealed apparatus.
3Extent of automation
If overhead manual door closers are converted to underground automatic door operators, then the door system can be automated, but alignment errors during installation cannot be corrected
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable mounting bracket and spindle housing allow alignment corrections to be made after installation, ensuring that automation conversion does not compromise installation reliability. Errors can be corrected by adjusting the position of mounting components.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanisms provide feedback capability through observable alignment indicators and adjustable positioning, allowing installers to detect and correct alignment errors after installation, thereby improving overall installation reliability.
4Ease of manufacture
If the spindle position is fixed during installation, then the installation process is simplified, but alignment precision with the door arm deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is designed with adjustable features including multiple positioning holes and movable components. This allows the installation process to remain simple while enabling precision alignment adjustments to be made, resolving the contradiction between installation simplicity and alignment precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A retrofit conversion kit for facilitating the conversion of a door operating apparatus conventionally mounted above the door, to a position mounted and anchored underground for operating a swinging door therefrom. The conversion to an anchored underground position is facilitated by incorporating positional adjustment mechanisms covering any or all possible adjustment dimensions.