Nested Locking Device for Lateral Runner Profiles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing locking devices for door leaves moving in lateral runner profiles are not tamper-proof and require additional space, limiting their integration and functionality across various door positions, including closed and open positions.

Innovation Solution

A locking device comprising a stationary part within the runner profile and a movable part with a spring-loaded holding piece and beveled locking plate, allowing secure locking in any door position, integrated within the runner profiles without additional space, using a combination of mechanical or electromechanical release mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If locking devices are integrated into lateral runner profiles, then space is saved and integration is improved, but tamper-proof integration and reliability are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration spaceVSAvoidtamper-proof integration
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is nested within the lateral runner profile structure. The locking plate is received in the runner profile, and the holding piece is received in the locking plate, creating a compact nested arrangement that integrates the locking function within the existing profile space without requiring additional external space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The locking device merges the locking function with the existing runner profile structure. The stationary part of the locking device is received in the runner profile, combining the guidance function of the rollers and the locking function in a single integrated structure, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Device complexity

If locking devices are designed for closed position only, then simplicity is maintained, but versatility and adaptability are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking mechanism simplicityVSAvoidlocking position flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The holding piece is designed as a movable component that can be actuated between locked and unlocked states. The spring element provides automatic resetting functionality, allowing the holding piece to return to its original position after actuation, enabling the locking device to function in multiple positions without complex mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If additional space is allocated for locking devices, then integration is simplified, but space efficiency and compactness are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration simplicityVSAvoidspace consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The locking device is designed to work with the existing runner profile structure that serves multiple functions: guiding the door leaf movement and housing the locking mechanism. The roller elements serve both as movement guides and as part of the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate dedicated locking space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 secure locking in any door position, including closed and open states, with tamper-proof integration within the runner profiles, accommodating various profile types and compensating for tolerances, while allowing easy release through mechanical or electromechanical means.

Implementation Method 1

The holding piece is spring-loaded in such a way that, in its basic position, it protrudes partially from the locking plate

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSpring force: Spring

Data Source

PatentEP3109385B1Closure device for a door with a single or multi-part door leaf
Publication Date: 2023.08.02 ALPHA DEUREN INT
  • EP3109385B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3109385B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3109385B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a locking device (1) for a one- or multi-part gate with at least one movable gate element (3) which can be moved in lateral running profiles (2) by means of rollers (13, 17), wherein the locking device (1) essentially comprises a bolt piece (23) which can be moved along the running profile (2) and which is arranged on at least one gate element (3), and a rigid bolt (15), and a locking plate (18) which cooperates with the bolt and is fixed in position in the running profile (2), wherein the locking plate (18) is associated with a movable retaining piece (21) with a bolt receptacle (22).