Inclined Patch Fitting Cover for Glass Door Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patch fittings for glass doors have an abrupt transition from the patch fitting to the glass door pane, which can be inaccessible for individuals with disabilities and do not provide a smooth surface for applying forces, such as pushing or kicking.
Innovation Solution
A patch fitting cover with an inclined wall and a leading edge that forms a continuous surface with the glass door pane, including a mounting arrangement for attachment to the patch fitting, and optionally a buffer for structural support and shock absorption, to create a smooth and accessible transition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional patch fitting is used with an abrupt transition to the glass door pane, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but accessibility is poor and forces cannot be applied smoothly
Solution Approach 1:
The patch fitting is divided into two separate components: the original patch fitting body and a new cover assembly. The cover assembly includes an inclined wall and a buffer, which are separate elements that can be manufactured independently and then assembled onto the patch fitting. This segmentation allows the complex inclined surface to be created without redesigning the entire patch fitting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A buffer element is introduced as an intermediary component between the inclined wall and the glass door pane. This buffer provides a gradual transition zone that mediates the interaction between applied forces and the glass pane, distributing forces smoothly and preventing direct impact. The buffer acts as a mediator that enables accessible force application while protecting the glass.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If an inclined wall and buffer are added to create a gradual transition, then accessibility and force distribution are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly is segmented into distinct components (inclined wall and buffer) that can be manufactured separately using standard manufacturing processes. The inclined wall can be formed as a separate structural element, and the buffer can be produced independently, then assembled together. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by allowing each component to be optimized and produced using appropriate techniques without requiring complex integrated manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer is nested within the cover assembly structure, fitting into a recess or cavity formed by the inclined wall and other cover components. This nesting arrangement allows the buffer to be integrated into the existing patch fitting geometry without requiring significant redesign of the overall structure. The buffer can be inserted into a pre-formed cavity, simplifying assembly and reducing manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the patch fitting cover is made removable for easy installation, then ease of operation is improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the cover assembly and the patch fitting is designed to be dynamically adjustable. The cover can be easily attached and removed when needed, providing flexibility during installation and maintenance. The mounting mechanism allows for simple attachment while maintaining stable structural connection during normal use, balancing ease of operation with structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable cover assembly is designed as a separate, self-contained unit that can be independently attached and detached from the patch fitting. This segmentation allows for simple installation and removal operations while maintaining structural stability during use. The cover assembly includes all necessary mounting features integrated into its structure, enabling easy attachment without compromising the overall structural integrity of the patch fitting system.
Data Source
AI summary
A patch fitting cover or cap for a patch fitting creates a substantially continuous surface toward a glass door pane using an inclined wall of the cover/cap. The patch fitting cover may be attached to a patch fitting to improve the accessibility of an associated glass door. The cover may be constructed as a retrofit cover to replace an existing patch fitting cover. The cap may be constructed to cooperate with an existing patch fitting cover such that the cap is installed on the existing patch fitting cover.