Magnetic Garage Door Controller with Wireless Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current garage door controller systems are cumbersome to install, require additional accessories, and lack adequate visual detail for user experience, making them difficult to integrate with existing garage door openers and not providing sufficient automation or convenience.
Innovation Solution
A garage door controller and monitoring (GDCM) device with a magnetic base for easy installation, network module for wireless connectivity, sensors for data collection, and geofencing/image recognition technologies to automate garage door operations based on user proximity, allowing control through a single or multiple garage door openers using a smartphone or smart device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hub or bridge accessory is added to connect to a local wireless network, then wireless connectivity is achieved, but device complexity and installation burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the wireless network connectivity functionality directly into the garage door controller unit itself, merging the controller and network interface into a single device. This eliminates the need for separate hub or bridge accessories, allowing the controller to connect to the local wireless network autonomously while maintaining simplicity in installation and operation
2Ease of operation
If a wall mount installation is used, then the controller can be positioned for unobstructed views, but installation becomes burdensome and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wall mounting system with a magnetic mounting system. The controller incorporates a magnetic base that allows it to be easily attached to and removed from various metal surfaces, including garage door panels and metal structures. This magnetic attachment mechanism eliminates the need for complex wall mounting hardware while maintaining optimal positioning for visibility and operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional accessories are required for the controller to function, then functionality is enhanced, but ease of integration with existing garage door openers decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the garage door controller with universal compatibility features that allow it to integrate with existing garage door opener systems without requiring additional accessories. The controller incorporates multiple communication interfaces and mounting options that enable it to work with various opener types and models, providing enhanced functionality while maintaining ease of integration with existing systems
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
Enhances user convenience by automatically controlling garage doors based on user proximity, providing detailed visual and audio feedback, and integrating seamlessly with existing systems without the need for additional accessories or complex installations.
Implementation Method 1
The GDCM device may be magnetically coupled to any portion of the garage door or a bottom surface, track, or rail of the at least one garage door opener
Data Source
AI summary
A GDCM device having a processor coupled to the at least one memory, at least one connection terminal, a network module coupling the GDCM device to a local wireless network, the at least one connection terminal communicably coupled to at least one garage door opener, and the processor configured to cause an action based on a determination of the proximity of a transmitter to the at least one garage door opener, the proximity of the transmitter being determined using at least one of geofencing technology, image recognition technology or voice recognition technology, the GDCM device coupling magnetically to the at least one garage door opener and having a plurality of sensors for distinguishing individual and vehicle, the GDCM performing one or a plurality of actions sequentially or simultaneously on a single or plurality of garage door openers.