Espagnolette Lock Coupling Element for Selective Leaf Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing espagnolette locks for double-leaf doors require two cost-intensive electric door openers for fire protection doors, compromising fire protection, smoke protection, and burglary resistance, as they cannot selectively release either leaf independently.
Innovation Solution
An espagnolette lock with a coupling element that introduces a time delay between latch and connecting rod movements, allowing for sequential actuation of the latch and rods, enabling selective release of either leaf, and compatible with both manual and motor-driven operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two electric door openers are installed to enable selective release of either leaf, then operational flexibility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control slide's travel path is segmented into two distinct phases: a first stroke that actuates only the latch ejector, and a second stroke that actuates both the latch ejector and the connecting rod retractors. This segmentation allows a single electric opener to perform multiple functions sequentially, eliminating the need for two separate openers while maintaining selective release capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element dynamically engages and disengages based on the control slide's position. During the first stroke, the coupling element is disengaged from the retractor, allowing independent latch release. During the second stroke, the coupling element engages the retractor, enabling simultaneous rod retraction. This dynamic behavior allows one electric opener to control multiple locking components with different timing requirements.
2Speed
If simultaneous retraction of connecting rods and latch extension is implemented, then unlocking speed is improved, but control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The unlocking operation is segmented into two sequential phases controlled by the electric opener's stroke: Phase 1 extends the latch while holding rods locked, Phase 2 retracts the rods after latch extension is complete. This segmentation ensures precise sequencing without requiring complex control systems, as the mechanical stroke itself provides the timing separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element acts as a mechanical intermediary between the control slide and the connecting rod retractors. It is designed to engage only after the control slide has completed a predetermined distance, automatically ensuring that latch extension is complete before rod retraction begins. This mechanical mediation eliminates the need for electronic sensors or complex control logic to achieve precise sequencing.
3Device complexity
If lower locking bar is removed to simplify construction, then device complexity is reduced, but security and fire protection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The single electric door opener is designed to perform multiple functions: it can extend the latch, retract the upper connecting rod, and retract the lower connecting rod through the coupled retraction mechanism. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain both upper and lower locking bars for enhanced security and fire protection while using only one electric opener, rather than requiring separate actuators for each component.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a bolt lock for a door having a single leaf, comprising a latch ejector, a control slide movable parallel to a faceplate, a latch ejector drive driven by the control slide, and a retraction slide for a drive rod, wherein a coupling element is provided which drives the retraction slide with a time delay when the control slide is actuated.