Fire Shutter Locking Mechanism Using Magnetic Plates
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire shutter locking systems are complex and vulnerable to power failures, relying on external triggers, which complicates manufacturing and reduces reliability during emergency conditions.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically simple locking system that responds directly to tension or pressure within the shutter mechanism, using magnetically coupled plates and a tension-responsive resilient means to engage or disengage the actuation member with the shutter mechanism, ensuring operation even under manual control and facilitating automatic rearming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing fire shutter locking systems use electromagnets or solenoids with external power triggers, then the locking function can be activated, but the system becomes complex and vulnerable to power failures during emergencies
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system uses the shutter mechanism's own tension or pressure to automatically trigger the locking function. The tension-responsive resilient means converts the mechanical energy already present in the shutter system into the activation force needed for locking, eliminating dependence on external power sources and making the system self-sufficient during emergencies
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electromechanical systems (electromagnets, solenoids, electrical triggers) with a purely mechanical triggering system. The tension-responsive resilient means mechanically converts shutter tension into locking activation, substituting electrical control with mechanical control that is inherently more reliable during power failures
2Adaptability or versatility
If a magnet is used to achieve reversible locking, then the shutter can be reused after fire drills or false alarms, but the system requires external power control and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically arms and disarms itself through the natural tension cycles of the shutter mechanism. When the shutter is closed, tension builds and automatically arms the locking system. When opened, tension releases and automatically disarms it. This self-service operation enables reusable functionality without requiring external control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system transitions from a static, externally-controlled state to a dynamic, automatically-responsive state. The tension-responsive resilient means continuously monitors shutter tension and automatically adjusts the locking state based on real-time mechanical conditions, enabling seamless reuse after drills or false alarms
3Ease of operation
If the locking system responds to external triggers from outside the shutter, then the locking can be controlled, but the system is vulnerable to power failure conditions and requires complex manufacturing
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the shutter's own operational tension to trigger locking, eliminating the need for separate external control systems. The tension-responsive resilient means automatically converts the mechanical energy from shutter operation into locking activation, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the triggering function with the shutter's existing mechanical operation. The same tension that drives shutter movement also triggers the locking system through the tension-responsive resilient means, combining two functions into one integrated mechanism and reducing manufacturing complexity
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
The system provides reliable locking and unlocking of fire shutters without external power, maintaining functionality during emergencies and allowing for easy reusability, thus enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first element (101) from a pair of a magnet and its target, said pair of the magnet and its target being controllable such as to allow controlling of the magnetic force exerted between the magnet and its target
Implementation Method 2
a first resilient means (500) biasing the second plate (200) in a first position in view of the support structure (400)
Data Source
Figure 1A~1AB
Figure 1B~1BD
Figure 2A~2D
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cost effective, easily operable, and highly adaptable locking system for fire-retardant shutters. In particular, the invention concerns a system for locking a shutter or a mechanism that opens or closes a fire shutter, said system comprising at least two movable plates (100,200) coupled together by means of a magnet (201), and an actuation member (320,302), such as a pawl or a pin, coupled to either of the plates. The first plate (100) is responsive to tension or pressure that builds in said mechanism for opening or closing the shutter, and moves in response to said tension or pressure thus causing the movement of the magnetically coupled thereto second plate (200) and of the actuation member (320,302) coupled to the latter.