Central Bearing Unit for Roller Shutter Boxes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roller shutter systems face challenges in providing static support to center bearing elements, leading to excessive deformation and requiring additional reinforcement, which disrupts thermal insulation and complicates maintenance, especially in divided systems where space constraints prevent the installation of static consoles at interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A central bearing unit combining a metallic static console and a reinforcement plate, allowing for static connection with the window frame and lintel, enabling load transfer without interrupting thermal insulation, and facilitating easy disassembly and inspection by guiding the unit around the outside of the roller shutter box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If additional reinforcement elements (static consoles) are attached near the center bearing element to provide static support, then the roller shutter box is stiffened against wind loads and vertical loads, but the thermal insulation in the roller shutter box must be interrupted and adapted thermal insulation elements must be used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the static console function and the thermal insulation function into a single integrated component. The static console is designed with an insulating coating or insulating elements that are applied directly to its surface, allowing it to provide both mechanical support and thermal insulation without interrupting the thermal insulation layer. This merging eliminates the need for separate insulation elements and maintains continuous thermal protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The static console is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides static support to stiffen the roller shutter box against wind and vertical loads, while also serving as a thermal insulation element through its insulating coating or integrated insulation features. This multi-functionality allows a single component to address both structural and thermal requirements without compromise.
2Strength
If static consoles are installed to provide static support, then load transfer between ceiling and frame is enabled, but in divided systems the mounted static consoles must be removed during overhaul
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the static console as a segmented or modular component that can be easily detached and reinstalled. The console is divided into sections or features quick-connect interfaces that allow it to be removed and reattached without damaging other components. This segmentation enables maintenance personnel to access and service divided roller shutter systems without permanent obstruction from the static console.
Solution Approach 2:
The static console incorporates dynamic or adjustable features that allow it to be easily repositioned or removed during maintenance operations. The design includes movable elements or detachable connections that enable the console to adapt to maintenance requirements while maintaining its load-bearing function during normal operation. This dynamic capability ensures ease of repair while preserving structural integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the roller shutter shaft is supported in a central area of the roller shutter box, then wide roller shutters or windows with divided sections can be accommodated, but the point load introduced via the center bearing element leads to excessive deformation of the bottom area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary reinforcement measures in the design of the static console and its mounting structure. Before the load is applied to the bottom area, the console is designed with extended support surfaces, reinforcement ribs, or anchoring features that pre-stiffen the bottom area and distribute the point load over a larger area. This preliminary structural preparation prevents excessive deformation when the roller shutter shaft is supported in the central area.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A central bearing unit (100) for at least one roller shutter shaft mounted in a roller shutter box comprises a metallic structural element (10) that includes a support plate (11) with a bearing recess (16, 26) opening towards one side edge for receiving a roller shutter shaft central bearing element and two fastening tabs attached to the support plate at right angles on opposite sides. It also has at least one reinforcement plate (20) that is thicker than the structural element and has a bearing recess (26) opening towards one side edge, which is congruent with the bearing recess (16) of the structural element (10).