Bi-fold Door Latch Assembly Automation via Merged Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bi-fold door latch systems require manual operation or complex mechanical setups to secure and open large doorways, lacking efficient automation for consistent and reliable operation.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly integrated with an electric motor-driven shaft and lift mechanism using flexible straps to securely hold bi-fold doors in an upright position, allowing for automatic operation between closed and open positions, utilizing latch drums and straps to wind and unwind for seamless movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation or complex mechanical setups are used for latch systems, then the door can be secured, but the operation is not efficient and lacks automation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the latch mechanism with the door lift mechanism by sharing the motor and drive shaft. The single motor drives both the lift drum for door movement and the latch drum for securing the door, eliminating the need for separate actuators and reducing overall system complexity while achieving automation
Solution Approach 2:
The motor-driven shaft serves multiple functions: it operates both the lift mechanism for moving the door between open and closed positions and the latch mechanism for securing the door in the closed position. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed for automated operation
2Reliability
If conventional mechanical latch systems are used, then the door can be held closed, but manual effort is required and operation is not reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the door's position. When the door is lowered to the closed position, the latch drum automatically rotates to engage the latch strap with the door frame, securing the door without requiring manual intervention. The spring-loaded mechanism ensures automatic and reliable engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an electric motor-driven system. The motor provides consistent and reliable force to operate both the lift and latch mechanisms, eliminating variability associated with manual operation and ensuring dependable door closure and securing
3Device complexity
If separate latching mechanisms are used for each door panel, then each panel can be secured independently, but the mechanical setup becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single motor and drive shaft that controls both lift drums and latch drums for multiple door panels. This centralized control system reduces mechanical complexity by eliminating the need for separate motors and control mechanisms for each panel, while still providing independent latching for each door
4Productivity
If automated latch operation is implemented, then efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated latch operation is achieved by integrating the latch mechanism with the existing door lift mechanism. The single motor and shared drive shaft provide automated control for both door movement and latching, improving operational efficiency without requiring additional motors or complex control systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, automatic, and reliable operation of bi-fold doors, ensuring secure closure and easy opening, reducing manual effort and mechanical complexity while maintaining door alignment and safety.
Implementation Method 1
A door lift mechanism comprises an electric motor driven shaft connect to lift drums accommodating flexible straps
Implementation Method 2
The lift mechanism straps wind on the lift drums and the latch straps unwind from the latch drums during movement of the bi-fold door
Data Source
AI summary
A latch assembly connected to the drive unit of a bi-fold door for retaining the bi-fold door secure to a building has elongated straps attached to rotatable latch drums mounted on the outer ends of the drive shaft of the drive unit. Lift drums powered by a motor driven gearbox raise and lower the bi-fold door. Latch assemblies having springs attached to the straps maintain tension on the straps during the opening and closing of the bi-fold door.