Jackshaft Door Operator Remote Monitoring Delay Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing remote garage door monitoring and control systems often require separate apparatus affixed to the garage door, which may not be desirable, and have not been entirely reliable for all conditions of service.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes a control module with a programmable platform to receive change-door-status commands, generate light or sound commands, and delay before sending door commands to change the garage door position, using a Bluetooth microprocessor for wireless communication with a remote fixture that can acknowledge receipt of commands, ensuring reliable and convenient remote monitoring and control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate apparatus are affixed to the garage door to monitor status, then door status monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedoor status monitoring reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the door status monitoring function with the existing door operator control system by integrating a microprocessor and sensors into the operator unit itself. This eliminates the need for separate monitoring apparatus on the door, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining monitoring capability through the integrated control module that can detect door position and status.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The door operator control system is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls motor operation, monitors door status, communicates with remote devices, and manages safety features. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for dedicated separate monitoring apparatus, reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If remote monitoring and control systems are implemented, then user convenience is improved, but system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote control convenienceVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs wireless communication technology as an intermediary between the door operator and remote user devices. The control system includes wireless transceivers that enable bidirectional communication, allowing users to monitor and control door operations from remote locations without requiring complex wired infrastructure or additional intermediate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces mechanical control interfaces (physical switches, buttons) with electronic and wireless communication mechanisms. The door operator includes microprocessors, wireless transceivers, and digital communication protocols that enable remote monitoring and control through standard wireless networks, eliminating the need for complex mechanical control systems while improving user convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Speed

If door commands are executed immediately upon receipt, then responsiveness is improved, but safety is compromised due to lack of warning

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedoor command response speedVSAvoidsafety hazards from unexpected door movement
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a warning mechanism that activates before door movement begins. When a door command is received, the system first activates warning indicators (visual and/or audible alerts) to notify persons in the vicinity of impending door motion. Only after the warning period elapses without interference does the door actually move, thus maintaining responsiveness while ensuring safety through advance notification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs preliminary anti-action by implementing a delay or warning period before executing door movement commands. This preliminary action counteracts the potential harmful effect of unexpected door movement by alerting persons nearby, allowing them to clear the area or prevent the command from executing, thus neutralizing safety hazards before they can occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS11746584B2Remote monitoring and control of moveable barrier in jackshaft door operator system
Publication Date: 2023.09.05 GMI HOLDINGS INC
  • US11746584B2 patent drawing
  • US11746584B2 patent drawing
  • US11746584B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A garage door status monitoring and control system for a jackshaft operator may include a control module comprising a programmable platform configured to: receive a change-door-status command to change a position of a door; in response to the change-door-status command, generate and communicate a light or sound command to a wireless controller; delay a period of time after communicating the light or sound command to the wireless controller; and only after the delay, generate a door command corresponding to said change-door-status command to change the position of the door.