Door Operator Microprocessor Control System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current door operators require specific hardware and wiring configurations for different functionalities, limiting flexibility and increasing costs when custom functions are needed, as they are not programmable and rely on direct connections for inputs and outputs.

Innovation Solution

A door operator system with a microprocessor-based control system that allows for programmable inputs and outputs through a user interface, enabling users to configure and associate specific inputs with desired functions without additional hardware, using a single set of inputs and outputs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If door operators use fixed relay coding for specific triggers, then the hardware wiring is simple and reliable, but the adaptability to different functions is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctionality adaptabilityVSAvoidhardware complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal door operator system where a single set of physical inputs and outputs can perform multiple different functions through software programming. The microprocessor-based controller allows users to configure any input device (switches, sensors, keypads) to trigger any output function (door opening, closing, holding open, signaling) without changing the physical wiring, making one device adaptable to many different accessibility needs and door configurations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical relay-based control system with a microprocessor-based electronic control system. Instead of using fixed physical relay connections that require different hardware configurations for different functions, the system uses software-programmable logic that can be configured through a user interface, eliminating the need for complex hardware reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If door operators require special build units or extra hardware for custom functions, then the default functionality is reliable, but the ease of operation for customization is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecustom function capabilityVSAvoidconfiguration ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables end-users to independently configure and customize the door operator system without requiring specialized technical knowledge or assistance from installers. The user interface allows customers to select different input devices and output functions from dropdown menus, configure timing parameters, and program custom sequences directly at the device, making the system self-configurable and empowering users to adapt it to their specific needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent provides a comprehensive library of pre-configured input devices and output functions that are ready to use immediately. The system includes predefined options for common accessibility devices (switches, sensors, keypads) and door operations (opening, closing, holding open), allowing users to quickly set up functional configurations without having to program everything from scratch, thus reducing configuration time and complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If door operators use multiple dedicated inputs and outputs for different functions, then the function reliability is high, but the device complexity and wiring requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinput-output rangeVSAvoidwiring complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If door operators require additional hardware for increased functionality, then the functional range can be expanded, but the manufacturing cost and loss of substance increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctionality rangeVSAvoidhardware material

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10372106B2Methods and apparatus for increasing the range of digital inputs and outputs on a door operator or closer

Publication Date: 2019.08.06 ASSA ABLOY ACCESSORIES & DOOR CONTROLS GRP INC

AI summary

A door operator includes a door driver for opening and closing a door, and a control system including a microprocessor having multiple microprocessor inputs. The microprocessor is connected to and controls the door driver. The microprocessor has multiple program modules corresponding to input functions to be performed by the door operator. The door operator includes a plurality of door operator inputs connected to corresponding ones of the microprocessor inputs, and a user interface connected to the microprocessor. The user interface allows a user to associate a selected door operator input and corresponding microprocessor input to a selected program module corresponding to a selected function to be performed by the door operator.