Door Seal Proximity Switch for Cycle Counting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for manually operated doors, such as those in emergency exit and fire protection applications, require additional space and installation for counters to record opening and closing cycles, which is not feasible in all scenarios.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a proximity switch into a door seal or door sill that can detect the movement of a sealing strip, allowing for the recording of door cycles without the need for additional space or installation, and optionally using an electronic counter connected to a controller for wireless data transmission.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a mechanical or electronic counter is added to manually operated doors to record opening/closing cycles, then maintenance needs can be determined, but additional space and installation requirements are created

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional reliabilityVSAvoidadditional space requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The proximity switch is integrated into the door seal assembly, merging the counting function with the existing door seal structure. This eliminates the need for separate counter devices and their associated space requirements while maintaining the ability to record opening/closing cycles for maintenance determination

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The door seal assembly is given multiple functions: it continues to provide its primary sealing function while simultaneously housing a proximity switch that detects door position and enables cycle counting. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by adding monitoring capability without requiring additional dedicated space

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a counter is installed on the door to record opening/closing cycles, then maintenance needs can be assessed, but installation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The proximity switch is combined with the door seal assembly during manufacturing, so that the counting functionality is integrated into the existing structure. This integration eliminates separate installation steps for mounting additional counter devices, reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The door seal assembly with integrated proximity switch automatically performs the counting function without requiring external installation of separate counter devices. The system uses its own structure to provide the monitoring capability, simplifying both manufacture and installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables maintenance needs assessment and condition monitoring of doors without additional hardware, improving reliability and facilitating remote monitoring of door states, including open or closed conditions, which is crucial for safety and operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a door seal which has a proximity switch. Opening or closing of the door can be directly or indirectly detected with the proximity switch

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectProximity sensing:

Data Source

PatentEP3901405A1Door seal, in particular automatic door seal, door threshold, arrangement comprising a door seal and a door threshold and door with such an arrangement

Publication Date: 2021.10.27 ATHMER

Figure 1

AI summary

The present invention relates to a door seal which has a proximity switch.