Magnetic Locking Mechanism for Sliding Door Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking mechanisms for sliding doors and windows are complex, require precise alignment, and lack flexibility, leading to unreliable and user-unfriendly operation, with risks of excessive movement and sound under wind load.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic locking system with blockers and stop elements that use magnetic attraction for secure attachment, combined with a movement mechanism and tensioning cable to facilitate easy alignment and robust locking at various positions along the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hook lock or extendable block locking mechanism is used, then the door can be locked to the frame, but the user must first close the door completely and align it precisely, which reduces ease of operation and flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical hook lock or extendable block system with a magnetic locking mechanism. The magnetic blocker automatically engages with the stop element through magnetic attraction when the movable object is in the closed position, eliminating the need for precise manual alignment and complex mechanical operations while maintaining reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic locking system is self-activating through magnetic attraction. When the movable object is closed, the magnetic blocker automatically engages with the stop element without requiring user intervention for alignment or activation, making the locking process automatic and user-friendly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking mechanisms are provided in the frame to achieve flexible locking at various positions, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic locking mechanism is designed to work with multiple stop elements positioned at different locations along the guide. A single magnetic blocker can engage with any of the stop elements, providing flexible locking at various positions without requiring multiple different locking mechanisms, thus maintaining simplicity while achieving versatility.
3Reliability
If precise alignment between the blocker and stop element is required for reliable locking, then locking reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the locking interaction from mechanical contact requiring precise alignment to magnetic attraction. The magnetic field creates a gradual engagement force that pulls the blocker toward the stop element, allowing for larger tolerances and reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining reliable locking engagement.
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
Provides simple, user-friendly, and reliable locking of sliding doors or windows at multiple positions, preventing undesirable manipulation and reducing unwanted movements or sounds.
Implementation Method 1
the blocker comprises a magnet and the stop element comprises a magnetically attractable material, and/or vice versa; configured so that in the extended state, the blocker is fixed to the stop element by attraction of the magnet toward the magnetically attractable material
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to means and methods for fixing a movable object, such as a door or window, to a frame. In particular, the present invention provides a magnetic locking system configured for releasably mounting a movable object to the frame.