Motorized Hinge Operator with Spool and Pull Cord
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of non-contact door hinge operators on the market that can be actuated via remote signal processing, such as voice control or mobile app, for controlling the opening and closing of doors in public and personal spaces.
Innovation Solution
A non-contact automatic door hinge operator system that utilizes a motor mechanism with a spool and pull cord, powered by battery, which can be controlled using electronic switches, sensors, or smartphone apps, allowing for hands-free operation and integration with smart home technologies like Alexa and eWeLink.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motor mechanism with spool and pull cord is used to operate the door hinge, then the door can be opened and closed automatically without manual contact, but the device complexity increases compared to traditional manual door operation
Solution Approach 1:
The motor mechanism is integrated within the door hinge assembly itself, with the motor housing serving as part of the hinge structure. The spool mechanism is nested within the hinge body, and the pull cord is routed through the hinge components. This nesting eliminates the need for separate external motor housings and mounting structures, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining automatic door operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The door hinge is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides the structural connection between door and frame, enables manual operation, and incorporates the motor mechanism for automatic operation. The same hinge components serve both mechanical support and actuation functions, eliminating the need for separate actuators and reducing device complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If a retrofit kit is installed on an existing door, then the solution can be applied to existing installations without new construction, but the adaptability to different door types and configurations becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The retrofit kit is divided into separate modular components: the motor mechanism assembly, the hinge replacement components, the mounting hardware, and the pull cord system. This segmentation allows each component to be selected and installed independently based on the specific door configuration, enabling adaptation to various existing door types while maintaining ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor mechanism is designed with adjustable parameters including mounting position, torque settings, and pull cord attachment points. The hinge components accommodate variations in door weight, size, and material. These parameter adjustments allow the same retrofit kit to be adapted to different existing door configurations without requiring custom design for each application.
3Ease of operation
If the motor and spool mechanism are mounted directly on the door and powered by battery, then the system achieves portability and ease of installation, but the weight of the moving object increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is designed to leverage the door's own weight and gravitational force as counterweights. The spring-loaded hinge components and the door's mass itself provide the counterbalancing force needed to offset the weight of the motor and battery, reducing the net additional weight burden while maintaining portable battery-powered operation.
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
Enables hands-free, automatic opening and closing of doors using remote signals, enhancing convenience and accessibility in various settings, including residential and commercial environments, while providing a retrofit solution for existing doors.
Implementation Method 1
motor mechanism with spool and pull cord, powered by battery
Implementation Method 2
door having one or more spring-loaded hinges
Data Source
AI summary
A non-contact, automatic door hinge operator system that allows a common door to be opened and closed automatically through use of a voice-activated sensor, optical switch or mobile app.