Door Operator Adaptor for Modular Linkage and Control Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing door operator systems face challenges in installation and servicing due to bulky and specialized components, particularly when dealing with single or double doors, which complicates their integration and maintenance.

Innovation Solution

The introduction of an adaptor that operatively couples separate door operator assemblies together, including control components and a back plate assembly with improved installation options, allows for the creation of both single and double door operator systems with enhanced flexibility and accessibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate door operator assemblies are used for single or double doors, then the system can be customized for different door configurations, but the components become bulky and difficult to install and service

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization for different door configurationsVSAvoidinstallation and servicing difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single door operator assembly that can function for both single and double door configurations. The assembly includes a motor unit, control board, and mounting bracket that remain the same, while only the linkage configuration changes. This eliminates the need for separate bulky assemblies for single and double doors, reducing inventory complexity and making installation easier as the same basic unit is used in both applications.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the door operator system into modular components: a motor unit, a control board, a linkage mechanism, and a mounting bracket. These segmented parts can be independently manufactured, tested, and replaced. The linkage can be configured in different arrangements (single door or double door) while keeping the core motor and control components the same, making the system easier to install and service.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If specialized components are used for different door configurations, then the system can accommodate various installation requirements, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of installation requirementsVSAvoidnumber of specialized components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting bracket is designed as a universal component that can accommodate both single door and double door configurations. It includes adjustable mounting surfaces and standardized attachment points that work for different door types. This eliminates the need for separate specialized mounting brackets for single and double doors, reducing the number of specialized components while maintaining adaptability to various installation requirements.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The linkage mechanism is designed with dynamic adjustability, allowing it to be configured in different arrangements depending on whether a single or double door application is needed. The linkage can be repositioned and reconfigured without requiring specialized components for each configuration, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Extent of automation

If control components are integrated into the door operator assembly, then the system provides centralized control, but access to control components becomes difficult during servicing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecentralized controlVSAvoidaccess to control components
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The control board is nested within the motor housing but is positioned in a readily accessible location. The mounting bracket is designed to provide clear access pathways to the control components, allowing technicians to reach and service the control board without removing the entire motor assembly. This nested yet accessible arrangement maintains centralized control while facilitating easy servicing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The control board is extracted as a separate, independently accessible component from the motor assembly. It is mounted in a location that can be easily reached and serviced without disassembling the entire door operator system. This extraction of the control component allows for simplified maintenance and repair while maintaining centralized control functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS12252919B2Door operator system with adaptor and back plate
Publication Date: 2025.03.18 ASSA ABLOY ACCESSORIES & DOOR CONTROLS GRP INC
  • US12252919B2 patent drawing
  • US12252919B2 patent drawing
  • US12252919B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Door operator systems are described herein that include the use of an adaptor. It should be understood that the adaptor may be utilized in order to operatively couple separate door operator assemblies together in a double door operator system. The adaptor may include control components (e.g., switches, buttons, toggles, levers, or the like) that are used to turn the door operator system on and off. While the adaptor may be used to operatively couple two separate door operator assemblies together to form a double door operator system, the adaptor may also be used within a single door operator system. Furthermore, with respect to double door operator systems, the system may also utilize a back plate assembly comprising two or more separate back plates (e.g., two or more back plate portions).