Bi-Fold Door Pin-and-Loop Locking Arrangement for Easy Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bi-folding doors and panels are difficult to secure effectively with existing locking mechanisms, which often require installation into the door frame or hinge, leading to complexity and difficulty in operation, especially in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A bi-folding door locking arrangement comprising rotatable sections with a pin and loop mechanism that can be easily installed and operated with minimal input elements, allowing secure latching without interference with the door's hinges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing locking mechanisms are installed into the door frame or hinge, then security is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is extracted from the door frame or hinge and repositioned to attach directly to the bi-folding door panel itself. The locking device includes a housing that attaches to the door panel, with the locking mechanism contained within this housing, eliminating the need for frame or hinge installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is divided into separate functional components: a housing that attaches to the door panel, a locking mechanism with bolt and strike plate, and a actuating mechanism. This segmentation allows for simplified installation and operation while maintaining security functionality.
2Reliability
If multiple lock-points are provided, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to multiple input elements required
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated mechanism. The locking device provides both a latch function (for holding the door closed) and a deadbolt function (for secure locking) through one unified structure that can be operated by a single input element such as a handle or thumbturn.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: latching the door closed, providing secure locked position, and allowing easy release. This multi-functionality is achieved through a compact design where the bolt can engage with different portions of the strike plate, and the housing integrates both latch and lock functions.
3Reliability
If locking arrangement requires manipulation of multiple input elements, then security is improved, but ease of operation in emergency situations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-releasing through a single input element. The handle or thumbturn simultaneously controls both the latch and deadbolt, allowing the user to unlock both mechanisms with one continuous motion, enabling quick egress in emergency situations without needing to manipulate multiple separate controls.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a bi-folding door locking arrangement comprising: a pin; a first member rotatably attached to the pin; a second member rotatably attached to the pin having an aperture; and a third member rotatably attached to the pin having a loop positioned and sized to fit through the aperture.