Compression Member Hinged Panel Closure
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closure systems for hinged panels, such as doors and windows, are inadequate in withstanding bidirectional forces, particularly in scenarios like blasts and hurricanes, as they rely on conventional bolts that are weak against bending moments and require additional locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A closure system that employs a compression member, such as an abutment block, which engages with both the hinge jamb and strike jamb to provide bilateral support, using primarily compressive forces that do not generate bending moments, ensuring the panel is locked and resistant to forces in both inward and outward directions without the need for additional locking operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional bolts are used to secure hinged panels, then the closure system can be simple in structure, but it is weak against bending moments and cannot effectively withstand bidirectional forces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the conventional approach by using compression members (abutment blocks) instead of tension-based bolts. The abutment blocks engage with the panel and jambs to provide support primarily through compression forces, which are much stronger and do not generate bending moments. This inversion of the force direction fundamentally resolves the weakness of conventional bolts against bidirectional forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the mechanical parameter from tension-based fastening to compression-based support. By using abutment blocks that engage through compression, the system achieves superior strength against blasts and hurricanes while maintaining structural simplicity. The compression members can withstand forces in both inward and outward directions without the bending moment issues that plague conventional bolt systems.
2Reliability
If additional locking mechanisms are added to withstand forces, then the strength against blasts and hurricanes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The abutment blocks serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide primary structural support, resist bidirectional forces including blasts and hurricanes, and eliminate the need for separate locking mechanisms. This multi-functionality achieves high reliability against extreme forces while keeping the system simple, as the same compression members handle all security and structural requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the support function and locking function into a single integrated system. The abutment blocks both support the panel and provide inherent locking through their engagement with the jambs and panel, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms. This consolidation achieves reliable force resistance while reducing overall system complexity.
3Strength
If conventional closure systems are used, then the panel thickness can be reduced, but the structure requires reinforcement to withstand forces
Solution Approach 1:
By inverting from tension-based bolts to compression-based abutment blocks, the system achieves superior force resistance that allows for thinner panels without requiring additional reinforcement. The compression members distribute forces effectively, enabling the use of thinner panel materials while maintaining or improving overall strength against blasts and hurricanes.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A closure includes a panel closing against a frame. A set of abutment surfaces for supporting the panel against applied forces is completed by a displaceable compression member which selectively assumes an engaged state disposed between an abutment surface of the panel and an abutment surface of a strike jamb. The geometry of engagement is such that forces acting on the compression member opposing opening of the panel are primarily compressive forces. Certain implementations additionally, or alternatively, employ compression members for locking along the lintel or the threshold of the opening.