Building Closure Device with Integrated Spindle Drive
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional drive devices for pivoting building openings, such as doors and windows, often require visible levers that protrude from the plane of the swing leaf, limiting access and aesthetics when open.
Innovation Solution
A coupling element is introduced that rotates about an axis of rotation, connected to a spindle nut, allowing for direct force application to the pivoting wing, eliminating the need for external levers by being integrated within the transverse section of the frame, and featuring a slipping clutch for manual operation and anti-trap protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional drive devices with visible levers are used, then the pivoting function is achieved, but accessibility and aesthetics are compromised when the opening is open
Solution Approach 1:
The disturbing element (visible lever) is extracted from the external view by integrating the drive mechanism within the plane of the opening. The coupling element rotates within the transverse section, eliminating the need for protruding levers while maintaining the pivoting function.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive mechanism is nested within the transverse section of the frame. The coupling element is arranged within the plane of the opening, with its rotation axis positioned such that the entire drive assembly is contained within the structural boundaries, hiding mechanical components from external view.
2Reliability
If a spindle drive with articulated rod is used, then reliable power transmission is achieved, but the mechanism requires complex external linkages
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the rotation element for power transmission, the connection point for the articulated rod, and the integrated mechanism within the transverse section. This merging eliminates the need for separate external levers and linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element acts as an intermediary between the spindle drive and the pivoting wing. It receives rotational motion from the spindle via the articulated rod and translates it into pivoting motion, serving as a compact intermediate mechanism that eliminates complex external linkages.
3Ease of operation
If manual operation is allowed, then ease of use is improved, but pinching hazards and trap risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback through the articulated rod-coupling element mechanism that detects resistance or obstruction during manual operation. When pinching or trapping is detected, the mechanism prevents further motion or signals an alarm, allowing manual operation while mitigating safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive mechanism is designed with preliminary safety features that prevent pinching and trapping before they can occur. The articulated rod and coupling element arrangement creates inherent clearance and motion control that eliminates dangerous pinching points, and the system can detect potential hazards before they become actual threats.
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
This design enables smooth, reliable power transmission for pivoting the wing without visible levers, enhancing accessibility and aesthetics while allowing manual operation and preventing pinching hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a spindle nut which is in threaded engagement with the spindle and can be moved along the longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
a coupling element that is rotatable about an axis of rotation and is arranged on a side of the transverse section facing the pivoting wing
Data Source
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AI summary
According to the invention, a closure device for an opening in a building comprises: a pivoting side; a frame comprising a hinge-side frame section, relative to which the pivoting side can be pivoted about a pivot axis, an opening-side frame section opposite the hinge-side frame section, and a transverse section which extends between the hinge-side frame section and the opening-side frame section; a motor drive device which acts between the pivoting side and the frame in order to pivot the pivoting side; and a spindle drive with a spindle extending along a longitudinal shaft and with a spindle nut which is in threaded engagement with the spindle and can move along the longitudinal shaft. Further provided is a coupling element (307) which can rotate about a rotational axis (S), is disposed on a face (102A) of the transverse section (102) facing the pivoting side (2) or on a face (22) of the pivoting side (2) facing the transverse section (102), and is connected to a joint rod (303) which is coupled in hinged manner to the spindle nut (310) such that, when the spindle nut (310) moves, the coupling element (307) is rotated about the rotational axis (S) in order to pivot the pivoting side (2). In this way, with a simple structure and reliable force transmission, a closure device is produced which enables a clearly visible lever which would project out of the plane of a pivoting side to be dispensed with.