Articulated Overhead Door Lead Screw Lifting Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional articulated overhead door systems rely on bulky counterweights, springs, and hydraulic systems, which are not inherently failsafe and require recalibration when additional cladding is added, and extend into the space, compromising aesthetics and safety.
Innovation Solution
The articulated door system employs a lead screw system with a pin mechanism and cam slot design to lift and fold door sections, eliminating the need for counterweights, springs, and unsightly arm extensions, ensuring a failsafe operation and simplifying calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional counterweight systems are used, then the door can be easily operated, but the system becomes bulky and requires recalibration when cladding is added
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the counterweight component entirely from the system. Instead of using counterweights to balance the door, the invention uses a lead screw mechanism that directly converts rotational motion to linear lifting motion, eliminating the need for separate counterweight calibration and adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional counterweight-based mechanical balancing system with a lead screw-driven lifting mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for heavy counterweights and their associated cable systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining operational ease through precise mechanical control.
2Ease of operation
If extended arm profiles are used to start articulation, then the door can be lifted, but the aesthetic is compromised and clear space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the articulation mechanism from an extended horizontal arm profile into the vertical dimension. The lead screw mechanism operates within the vertical space of the door frame, converting rotational motion to linear lifting motion without requiring horizontal arm extensions that would compromise aesthetics and reduce clear space.
Solution Approach 2:
The lead screw acts as an intermediary mechanism between the motor and the door lifting action. It converts rotational motion into precise linear lifting motion directly within the door frame structure, eliminating the need for extended arm profiles and intermediate linkage mechanisms that would occupy valuable space.
3Ease of operation
If heavy counterweights are used, then the door operates easily, but the system is not failsafe and requires recalibration
Solution Approach 1:
The lead screw mechanism is designed to be self-regulating and failsafe. The precise mechanical engagement of the lead screw with the lifting block ensures that the door is held securely in position without requiring heavy counterweights. The system automatically maintains proper balance and positioning through its inherent mechanical design, eliminating the need for external calibration or adjustment.
4Ease of operation
If counterweights are added to compensate for cladding, then the door operates properly, but the system becomes more complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of how the door is balanced and operated. Instead of adjusting counterweight mass to compensate for cladding, the lead screw mechanism provides precise control through its mechanical design, allowing the same system to handle varying door weights without requiring recalibration or additional components.
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
The lead screw system provides a reliable, space-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing door operation that maintains safety and eliminates the need for recalibration with added cladding, ensuring the door sections are held in position even if the screw drive fails.
Implementation Method 1
a lead screw system including a rotatable lead screw that is configured to engage the lifting block and lift the lower door section up and down based on rotation of the lead screw
Implementation Method 2
a cam slot including an angled slot and associated cam pin engaging the angled slot to start a folding action between the one or more door sections
Data Source
AI summary
An articulated door system includes one or more door sections; a lifting block associated with a lower door section of the one or more door sections; a frame supporting the one or more door sections and engaging the lifting block; and a lead screw system including a rotatable lead screw that is configured to engage the lifting block and lift the lower door section up and down based on rotation of the lead screw.