Mechanical Obstacle Detection for Door Operators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional obstacle detection mechanisms in door systems, such as photoelectric sensors, often misjudge or fail due to external light interference or inability to detect transparent or hollow objects, potentially leading to safety hazards when obstacles are not properly detected.
Innovation Solution
An obstacle detection device comprising a hollow bearing, slide pin, output bushing, and sensor, where the slide pin slides along the output bushing's grooves to trigger or detrigger the sensor based on torque differences, providing real-time feedback without additional detection devices, reducing misjudgment and ensuring safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If photoelectric sensors are used for obstacle detection, then the detection range can be extended, but the reliability of detection decreases due to external light interference and inability to detect transparent or hollow objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical detection system (photoelectric sensors) with a mechanical detection system. The mechanical structure includes a detection arm that mechanically contacts obstacles, converting optical detection problems into mechanical force detection. This substitution eliminates susceptibility to light interference while maintaining detection capability through direct physical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mechanical intermediary (detection arm with contact elements) between the door system and the obstacle. This intermediary physically interacts with obstacles to generate detectable mechanical signals, serving as a mediator that converts various obstacle types (including transparent and hollow objects) into uniform mechanical contact signals for reliable detection.
2Device complexity
If traditional photoelectric obstacle detection is used, then the system structure remains simple, but the safety decreases due to misjudgment and failure to detect certain obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical detection system (photoelectric sensors) with a mechanical detection system. The mechanical structure includes a detection arm that mechanically contacts obstacles, converting optical detection problems into mechanical force detection. This substitution eliminates susceptibility to light interference while maintaining detection capability through direct physical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical detection system is designed to be self-activating through its own motion. As the door operates, the detection arm naturally moves into position to contact obstacles, eliminating the need for separate activation mechanisms. The system uses its operational motion to automatically perform detection, reducing additional complexity while improving safety.
3Area of stationary object
If photoelectric sensors are installed on both sides of the door frame, then the detection coverage is improved, but the susceptibility to external light interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical detection system (photoelectric sensors) with a mechanical detection system. The mechanical structure includes a detection arm that mechanically contacts obstacles, converting optical detection problems into mechanical force detection. This substitution eliminates susceptibility to light interference while maintaining detection capability through direct physical contact.
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
The solution effectively detects obstacles and prevents collisions by relying on mechanical feedback, enhancing safety, reliability, and service life, and can be applied to various door systems including slatted panel, electric rolling, and curtain systems.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member, and a sensor, wherein the hollow bearing includes a through slot; the slide pin is inserted into the through slot; the output bushing is fitted on the hollow bearing and includes an open groove... the elastic member is accommodated in the hollow bearing and is adapted to apply a biasing force to the slide pin
Data Source
AI summary
An obstacle detection device and a door operator includes a hollow bearing, a slide pin, an output bushing, an elastic member, and a sensor, wherein the slide pin is inserted into a through slot of the hollow bearing. One end of the slide pin is accommodated in an open groove of the output bushing, and the elastic member is accommodated in the hollow bearing and is adapted to apply a biasing force to the slide pin. The sensor is disposed on one side of the open groove of the output bushing. During a normal operation, the hollow bearing drives the output bushing to rotate synchronously through the slide pin. When an obstacle is encountered and the output bushing cannot rotate synchronously with the hollow bearing, the output bushing causes the slide pin to be guided by the open groove and slide, thereby triggering or detriggering the sensor.