Door Operator Coupling Mechanism for Axial Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door operators face challenges with precise positional alignment and interconnection of components, leading to potential axial and angular deviations, which can result in premature failure and hinder the use of additional structural components like closer springs, and require extensive space for mounting, making series fabrication and integration into door systems difficult.
Innovation Solution
A coupling mechanism with right-hand and left-hand threads is used to align and interlock components, allowing for precise axial and angular alignment without deviations, enabling modular connection of drive systems and housings, and allowing for compact installation within door profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional flange connection is used to mount drive components, then components can be connected, but axial and angular deviations occur leading to premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling device as an intermediary component between the first and second drive components. This coupling device includes a coupling body with a first connection portion that engages with the first drive component and a second connection portion that engages with the second drive component. The coupling device acts as a mediator that precisely aligns and connects the components, eliminating the axial and angular deviations that occur with conventional flange connections, thereby improving both reliability and manufacturing precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional components like closer spring are added to the drive system, then functionality is improved, but the drive becomes longer and more prone to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the coupling device is integrated within the overall drive system structure. The coupling body is positioned between the first and second drive components, with connection portions that engage into the components. This nesting approach allows additional functionality to be added without proportionally increasing the overall length, as the components are arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration rather than extending linearly.
3Strength
If conventional cast housing is used, then housing strength is achieved, but housing length becomes too long for door installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the housing into multiple segments: a first housing portion and a second housing portion, which are connected through the coupling device. This segmentation allows each housing portion to be shorter and more suitable for door installation, while the overall structure maintains strength through the rigid coupling connection. The segmented design enables the housing to fit within door constraints while preserving structural integrity.
4Ease of manufacture
If modular components are connected with conventional methods, then assembly flexibility is improved, but mounting space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coupling function with the housing structure by integrating the coupling device into the housing assembly. The coupling body is positioned within the housing portions, and the connection portions engage with the drive components in a compact arrangement. This merging of functions allows modular assembly flexibility while minimizing the mounting space required, as the coupling mechanism does not require additional external space but is incorporated within the existing housing volume.
Data Source
AI summary
A door operator includes a first component having a right-hand thread, a second component having a left-hand thread, and a plug-in or rotatable coupling having two complementary threads. The first and second compartments are interconnected to each other by the coupling when the right-hand thread of the first compartment and the left-hand thread of the second compartment engage the respective complementary threads of the coupling.