Door Drive Function Module Slot Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing door drives are prone to faults and are expensive due to the need for multiple function modules, which also occupy significant installation space and limit the number of functions that can be implemented.

Innovation Solution

A method for operating a door drive that uses a single slot for function modules, where each module contains a unique identifier and function code, allowing for activation and storage of additional functions without the need for multiple slots, enabling flexible and cost-effective expansion with standardized modules.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple function modules are plugged onto a basic module to enable special functions, then the door drive can meet special requirements (e.g., emergency stop, automatic opening), but the door drive becomes susceptible to faults and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidfault susceptibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal single slot that can accept any function module type, making the slot multi-functional. The control unit universally processes different module types through a standardized interface, enabling the system to adapt to various functions (emergency stop, automatic opening, push-and-go) without requiring multiple specialized slots, thereby reducing fault susceptibility while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple function modules are plugged onto a basic module to enable special functions, then the door drive can meet special requirements, but the installation space required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidinstallation space
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple potential function modules into a single physical slot. Instead of having separate slots for each function module type, the system combines all function module interfaces into one universal slot, allowing only one module to be installed at a time. This significantly reduces the installation space required while maintaining the ability to implement various functions by plugging in different modules

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple function modules are plugged onto a basic module to enable special functions, then the door drive can meet special requirements, but the number of possible functions is restricted by the limited number of slots

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction varietyVSAvoidslot limitation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal slot design that can accommodate any type of function module through standardized electrical and mechanical interfaces. The control unit is designed to universally recognize and process different module types, allowing the system to implement any combination of functions by plugging in corresponding modules, thereby eliminating the restriction imposed by a limited number of specialized slots

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2286049B1Enabling of functions in a door drive
Publication Date: 2015.07.01 DORMA GMBH & CO KG
  • EP2286049B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2286049B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2286049B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method for operating a door drive having at least one case of activation. The case of activation comprises the step of plugging (S1) a first functional module (20) into a slot (12) of the door drive (10). The first functional module (10) comprises first information (DCW) about at least one function to be enabled. Said first information (DCW) is then transmitted to the door drive (10). It is determined in the door drive (10), based on the transmitted first information (DCW), which additional function(s) is/are to the enabled. Furthermore, a unique first identification (22) is created in the door drive (10). Said first identification (22) is transmitted back to the first functional module (20) and is then stored in the first functional module (20). Then or concurrently, the determined function(s) to be enabled is/are activated or enabled in the door drive (10).