Automatic Door Mode Control Without a Physical Operator Panel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic door systems require space-consuming operator panels with associated installation challenges and vulnerability to environmental wear and vandalism, especially in public areas with space constraints and high usage.
Innovation Solution
A control arrangement for automatic door systems that communicates with an external computing resource via a wide-area data communication network to set operating modes, eliminating the need for a physical operator panel by using sensors and wireless communication to control door movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an operator panel box is installed next to the movable door members, then the door operating mode can be set manually, but the installation requires additional space, cabling, and installation work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the mode setting functionality from the physical operator panel box and relocates it to a remote device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) that communicates with the door system via wireless communication. This eliminates the need for a dedicated panel box installation while preserving the ability to manually set operating modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical operator panel box with an electronic software-based interface on a remote device. The mode setting is achieved through wireless electronic communication rather than physical buttons and wiring, thereby eliminating cabling requirements and reducing installation complexity.
2Ease of operation
If an operator panel box is installed in a public area, then the door operating mode can be controlled on-site, but the panel is exposed to environmental wear and tear, vandalism, and unauthorized usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the operator panel box from the public area and relocates the control interface to a remote device that the authorized user carries with them. This extraction eliminates the vulnerability of having a fixed panel in a high-traffic public space while maintaining the ability to control the door system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication network as an intermediary between the user and the door system. This intermediary allows mode setting without requiring a physical presence at the door location, thereby protecting the door system from unauthorized access and environmental damage while maintaining operational control.
3Ease of operation
If an operator panel box is installed, then the door system can be controlled, but the box occupies additional space and increases material costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality from a dedicated physical panel box and integrates it into existing portable computing devices. This eliminates the need for additional wall-mounted or floor-standing equipment, thereby freeing up space in the installation area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the universal multi-functionality of smartphones, tablets, and computers to serve as the operator interface. These devices already possess processing power, display capabilities, and communication functions, eliminating the need for a specialized single-purpose panel box.
4Ease of operation
If conventional operator panels are used, then mode setting is straightforward, but cabling and installation work are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical wiring and physical connection system with wireless communication technology. The mode setting instructions are transmitted electronically through wireless networks, eliminating the need for installing cables, conduits, and electrical connections between the control panel and the door operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the control logic and mode setting functionality from the physical installation context and delivers it remotely through wireless communication. This allows the door system to be controlled without any physical connection infrastructure, significantly reducing installation effort.
Data Source
AI summary
A control arrangement (20) for an entrance system (10) having one or more movable door members (D1 . . . Dm) and an automatic door operator (30) for causing movements of the one or more movable door members (D1 . . . Dm) between closed and open positions is provided. The control arrangement (20) comprising a controller (32) configured to control operation of the automatic door operator (30) in a selected operating mode among a plurality of operating modes. The control arrangement (20) is characterized in that it comprises communication means (58), and the controller (32) is configured to communicate via the communication means (58) with an external computing resource (110) to set the selected operating mode.