Motorized Closure Control via Electronic Delay Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing overhead closure operating devices lack adjustability and control in the 'advance close' feature, making it difficult to fine-tune the full stop position and require complex mechanical setups for varying speeds and sensing system deactivation.
Innovation Solution
A motorized closure operating device with an electronic control system that includes a control unit to deactivate sensing systems based on a calculated delay characteristic, allowing for adjustable deactivation points and eliminating the need for multiple mechanical switches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a mechanical two-step activation switch with displaceable lever and cam disk is used to deactivate sensing features, then the closure can be stopped at a predetermined position, but the device lacks adjustability and requires complex setup and fine-tuning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical two-step activation switch system with an electronic control system that uses a microprocessor to calculate delay characteristics and control motor operation. This substitution eliminates the complex mechanical components (cam disk, displaceable lever, two-step switch) while achieving precise positioning through electronic timing and calculation based on motor speed and travel distance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the sensing features are deactivated mechanically using a cam disk and lever mechanism, then the closure can reach the fully closed position, but adjusting the deactivation point requires careful readjustment of relative positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability by allowing the deactivation point to be calculated and adjusted based on motor speed variations. The microprocessor calculates the delay characteristic dynamically, enabling the system to adapt to different operating conditions without requiring mechanical readjustment of component positions. This provides both adaptability to speed changes and ease of operation through software-based configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single stop switch with two-tiered stop button travel is used, then the closure can be stopped at different positions, but the mechanism remains mechanically complex and less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the single stop switch with two-tiered button travel with a microprocessor-based electronic control system. The electronic system achieves multiple stop positions and timing characteristics through software control of motor operation, eliminating the need for mechanically complex switch mechanisms while providing greater flexibility in positioning and timing control.
Data Source
AI summary
An operating device for an overhead closure which comprises a motor, operatively connected to the closure for opening and closing the closure, and at least one sensor unit mountable either the closure or a support surface bordering the closure. The sensor unit is operable to detect the presence of an obstacle obstructing a travel path of the closure and to generate a signal in response thereto. A control system is in communication with the sensor and with the motor. The control system includes a control unit which receives the signal and provides a sensing feature which stops and/or opens the closure in response to the signal. The control unit deactivates the sensing feature at a selected point prior to an end limit position of the closure. The selected point is determined by the control unit based on a calculated delay characteristic.