Motorized Storm Shutter Automation via External Signal Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional storm shutter systems require human intervention to operate and secure, which can be time-consuming and dangerous, especially for non-residential buildings during adverse weather events.
Innovation Solution
A motorized storm shutter system with a control assembly that receives information from external devices to automatically operate and secure the shutters, using a motor and transmission system to drive panels between open and closed positions, and includes a latch assembly for secure closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional storm shutter systems are used requiring manual operation, then the system structure remains simple, but the operation time increases and safety risks arise during adverse weather events
Solution Approach 1:
The storm shutter system automatically detects adverse weather conditions through sensors and closes the shutters without human intervention. The control system self-manages the entire process from detection to execution, eliminating the need for manual operation and reducing response time during critical weather events
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of adverse weather conditions using sensors that monitor environmental parameters. Once thresholds are exceeded, the control system pre-initiates the shutter closing sequence before the weather event fully impacts the building, ensuring protection is in place proactively
2Reliability
If manual shutter operation is required, then the system complexity remains low, but the reliability of protection decreases when building occupants cannot be present
Solution Approach 1:
The storm shutter system operates autonomously by detecting adverse weather conditions through integrated sensors and automatically executing the shutter closing sequence. This self-service capability ensures reliable protection even when building occupants are absent, as the system independently manages the entire protection process without requiring human presence or intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors weather conditions through sensors and adjusts shutter operation accordingly. The feedback loop ensures the shutters close when adverse conditions are detected and can open when conditions improve, maintaining reliable protection while adapting to changing environmental conditions
3Speed
If automated control systems are implemented, then the response time to adverse weather events improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of adverse weather conditions using sensors that continuously monitor environmental parameters. Once thresholds are exceeded, the control system pre-initiates the shutter closing sequence before the weather event fully impacts the building, ensuring protection is in place proactively and rapidly
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated control system that uses electronic sensors and motorized actuation. This substitution enables faster response times by eliminating human reaction delays and enabling direct electronic control of the shutter mechanism through integrated circuits and control algorithms
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 automated and remote operation of storm shutters, ensuring timely and safe protection of buildings from adverse weather without the need for human presence, enhancing safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a motor operable to drive the panel between a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary method involves operating a storm shutter system installed to a building adjacent an opening. The storm shutter system includes a panel, a motor operable to drive the panel between a first position and a second position, and a control assembly operable to control the motor. The method includes receiving, by the control assembly, information from an external device. The method further includes operating the motor to linearly drive the panel from the first position to the second position in response to receiving the information.