Drive Module for Building Openings with Dual-Mode Gearbox
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions require separate drive modules for opening and closing, as well as locking and unlocking building openings, which increases complexity and reduces efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A single drive module incorporating a motor unit, drive lever, and locking unit, coupled via a gear system, that transitions between linear translational and rotational movements to manage both functions, utilizing a force transmission element with toothing and guide sections to efficiently operate the closure element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate drive modules are used for opening/closing and locking/unlocking, then each function can be reliably performed, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines opening/closing and locking/unlocking functions into a single drive module. The motor unit drives a transmission mechanism that can selectively perform either function through a coupling element that engages or disengages from the locking unit based on the operational phase, eliminating the need for separate drive modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The single drive module is designed to perform multiple functions: it can both open/close the building opening and lock/unlock it. The transmission mechanism and coupling element enable the motor unit to selectively execute different operational modes (opening/closing vs. locking/unlocking) without requiring separate specialized drives.
2Productivity
If a single drive module performs both opening/closing and locking/unlocking, then efficiency improves and system reduction is achieved, but the mechanism complexity within the module increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive module employs dynamic coupling between the transmission mechanism and locking unit. The coupling element can selectively engage or disengage from the locking unit based on operational requirements, allowing the system to adapt its internal configuration dynamically rather than maintaining fixed complex connections for all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive module is segmented into distinct functional components: motor unit, transmission mechanism with first and second transmission elements, coupling element, and locking unit. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together in a coordinated manner, managing internal complexity through modular design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the transmission mechanism switches between linear translational and rotational movements, then versatile control is achieved, but the precision of movement control decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission mechanism dynamically switches between linear translational movement (first transmission element) and rotational movement (second transmission element) based on operational mode. The coupling element's engagement or disengagement from the locking unit determines which movement type is active, allowing versatile control while maintaining precision through dedicated transmission paths for each movement type.
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 seamless opening, closing, locking, and unlocking of building openings using a single module, improving efficiency and reducing the need for multiple systems while effectively managing seal compression and decompression.
Implementation Method 1
The motor unit and the drive lever are coupled to each other via a gearbox. The gearbox is configured to convert a force and/or a torque generated by the motor unit into a moment of motion for displacing the drive lever.
Implementation Method 2
the power transmission element has projections and/or recesses, in particular toothing, which engage in the guide section of the power receiving section, wherein the guide section itself can have projections and/or recesses, in particular toothing
Data Source
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AI summary
A building opening (1) is revealed, comprising a frame (2), a locking element (3), and a drive module for repositioning the locking element (3) relative to the frame (2) by rotation about a connecting axis (4) between the locking element (3) and the frame (2), and for locking and unlocking the locking element (3) within the frame (2). The drive module includes a motor unit (5), a drive lever (6), and a locking unit. The motor unit (5) and the drive lever (6) are coupled to each other via a gearbox. The gearbox is configured to convert a force or torque generated by the motor unit (5) into a moment of motion for repositioning the drive lever (6). In a first gearbox position, this moment of motion causes a linear translational movement, and in a second gearbox position, a rotational movement of the drive lever (6).The drive lever (6) is configured to transmit the linear translational movement to the locking unit in the first gear position and the rotational movement to the locking element (3) in the second gear position. The gearbox comprises a power transmission element (7) connected to the motor unit (5) and a power receiving section (8). The power receiving section (8) is part of the drive lever (6) and has a guide section (9) along its longitudinal extension.