Composite Bi-Fold Door Height Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current door construction materials, such as wood, steel, and fiberglass, face issues with maintenance, durability, and aesthetic appeal, particularly in humid environments, and lack the ability to be easily adjusted in height without compromising structural integrity or aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
The development of composite closure assemblies using polymeric materials with cellulose-based or wood substitute components, featuring adjustable designs that include reinforcement plates and rail extensions, allowing for height adjustment while maintaining strength and aesthetic qualities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If wood doors are used, then aesthetic appeal and natural appearance are improved, but maintenance requirements increase and susceptibility to humidity and water damage worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials consisting of polymeric material mixed with cellulose-based material or wood substitute components to create door assemblies that combine the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability and moisture resistance of synthetic materials, eliminating the need for frequent maintenance while maintaining natural appearance
2Stability of the object's composition
If metal panels are used, then dimensional stability under temperature fluctuations is improved, but susceptibility to denting and oxidation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The composite construction combines polymeric material with cellulose-based or wood substitute components to create a material that achieves dimensional stability comparable to metal while avoiding denting and oxidation issues, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal
3Shape
If fiberglass facing panels are used, then resemblance to wooden door appearance is improved, but construction cost and production complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite material system that integrates polymeric material with cellulose-based or wood substitute components, allowing the door assembly to resemble wooden doors while using more economical manufacturing processes compared to expensive fiberglass molding techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The door assembly is divided into multiple components including side stiles, horizontal rails, and a central planar assembly that can be manufactured separately and assembled, simplifying production and reducing tooling costs compared to monolithic fiberglass construction
4Ease of manufacture
If fixed height door construction is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to different opening sizes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates adjustable height mechanisms allowing the door assembly to be modified after manufacturing, with side stiles that can be extended or shortened to fit different opening sizes while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appearance
Solution Approach 2:
The door assembly is constructed with modular components including side stiles, horizontal rails, and central assemblies that can be independently adjusted in height, enabling versatility for different applications while keeping manufacturing processes standardized
Data Source
AI summary
Composite bi-fold doors and other composite closures having improved assemblies are described, wherein the assemblies provide enhanced strength and durability of the doors and their construction while simultaneously maintaining their aesthetics. Additional improved bi-fold door and semi-solid door assemblies are also provided, which allow for the dimensional adjustment of the height of the doors by the installer as necessary, while simultaneously maintaining the structural integrity of the doors following the height adjustment.