Internal Latch Fixing Roller Shutter Box Flanges

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for fixing lateral flanges on roller shutter boxes are cumbersome, require external accessibility for screw installation, leading to vulnerability and inaccurate adjustments, and do not allow for flexible spacing between components.

Innovation Solution

A latch-based fixing device that slides or pivots internally within the roller shutter box, engaging with a notch on the wall to secure the flange, eliminating the need for external screws and lugs, and providing elastic return for precise alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fixing screws are used to attach lateral flanges to the box walls, then the flanges can be securely fixed, but the installation requires external accessibility which creates vulnerability and the screws are visible and can be easily removed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity of flange attachmentVSAvoidvulnerability to external access and removal

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the traditional external screw fixation by using an internal latch mechanism. The latch is positioned inside the box and engages with the flange from the interior, making the fixation invisible and inaccessible from the outside, thereby eliminating vulnerability while maintaining secure attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the visible and vulnerable external screws from the system and replaces them with an internal latch mechanism. The fixation function is separated from external accessibility, with the latch operating entirely within the box interior to secure the flanges

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If fixing screws are used to attach lateral flanges, then the flanges can be fixed, but the installation process is cumbersome and time-consuming requiring precise alignment from outside

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure attachment of flangesVSAvoidinstallation and adjustment time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By inverting the fixation approach to use an internal latch rather than external screws, the patent enables the installer to work from the accessible interior side. The latch mechanism with its elastic element and notched engagement provides self-aligning properties that eliminate the need for precise external alignment, significantly reducing installation time

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism incorporates an elastic return element that automatically positions the latch in its engaged state. The notched strike geometry provides self-aligning features that guide the latch into proper engagement without requiring precise manual alignment, making the installation process simpler and faster

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If traditional screw fixation is used, then flanges can be attached, but the spacing between components cannot be easily modulated and access to inspection hatches is restricted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflange attachment strengthVSAvoidflexibility in spacing and access

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

By moving the fixation mechanism to the interior of the box, the patent eliminates interference with external spacing requirements and inspection hatch access. The latch operates independently within the box interior, allowing external components to be positioned with greater flexibility while maintaining secure attachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The latch mechanism is designed as a separate, modular component that can be independently positioned and adjusted within the box. This segmentation allows the fixation function to be separated from the spacing and access requirements, enabling independent optimization of each function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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

This solution simplifies the installation and adjustment process, enhances security by hiding the fixing mechanism externally, and ensures proper alignment without the need for screws, allowing flexible access to inspection hatches.

Implementation Method 1

a latch (21) designed to be mounted sliding or pivoting on the inner side (22) to the box (2) of a closing flange (19), in such a way as to be able to occupy a first unlocked position and a second locking position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical interlocking: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 2

characterized in that it consists of a latch (21) designed to be mounted sliding or pivoting on the inner side (22) to the box (2) of a closing flange (19)... equipped with an elastic element capable of returning the latch (21) to its initial position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElastic return: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP1717407B1Device for fixing an end cap to a roller shutter box

Publication Date: 2011.06.22 BUBENDORFF SA

Figure 1~2
Figure 3

AI summary

The device has a latch slidably or pivotably mounted at a case from an inner side (22) of a closing flange in a manner so as to be pushed back in the locking and unlocking positions, where the latch is engaged in a notch (23) in its locking position. The notch forms a strike plate arranged in the thickness of one of the front (3), upper, rear and subside walls of the case, where the subside wall of the case forms an access door.