Offset Hinge Mechanism for Automated Door Manual Override
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated bathroom stall door systems require significant power for operation and lack a mechanism for manual override without damaging the automated components, and they are not adapted for lighter stall doors which require different space and locking considerations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a novel hinge mechanism with three offset hinges that allows for self-positioning and manual override of the door, combined with a hands-free operation system using proximity sensors and LED indicators, and a low-power actuation mechanism for automated door control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a traditional power-assisted drive mechanism is used for automated door operation, then the door can be opened automatically, but the power consumption is high
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism transitions from a static friction-based system to a dynamic rolling friction system. The door handle acts as a cam that engages with rollers on the hinge leaves, converting sliding friction to rolling friction during door operation. This dynamic mechanical advantage reduces the power required by the actuator to open and close the door.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism incorporates multiple functional elements nested within each other: the door handle serves dual purposes as both a manual operating element and a cam mechanism; the rollers are nested within the hinge leaf structure; and the spring mechanism is integrated within the hinge assembly. This nesting reduces overall system complexity and power requirements.
2Extent of automation
If an automated door system is implemented, then hands-free operation is achieved, but manual override capability is lost or risks damaging automated components
Solution Approach 1:
The door handle is designed with multi-functionality: it serves as a manual pulling handle for traditional operation, as a cam mechanism that engages with rollers for automated operation, and as a lever that can disengage the locking mechanism. The hinge leaves also serve dual purposes as both structural components and as carriers for the roller mechanisms. This universality allows the same structure to support both manual and automated modes without damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller elements act as intermediaries between the door handle (cam) and the hinge leaves. During automated operation, the actuator moves the hinge leaves, causing the rollers to roll along the cam surface of the door handle. This intermediary rolling contact allows automated movement without direct mechanical conflict, enabling safe manual override when needed.
3Extent of automation
If a hinge mechanism is designed for automated operation, then automation is enabled, but adaptability to different door types and sizes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism is divided into separate modular components: two independent hinge leaves (fixed and movable), rollers, spring mechanisms, and the door handle cam. Each component can be independently sized and configured based on door weight and size requirements. The hinge leaves can be positioned at different locations on the door, and the roller size can be adjusted, allowing the same basic mechanism to adapt to various door types including lightweight stall doors and heavier entry doors.
4Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to indicate occupied status, then patron safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing hinge assembly rather than being a separate system. The spring-loaded roller mechanism that enables automated door operation also serves as the locking mechanism: when the door is closed, the spring maintains pressure keeping the rollers engaged with the door handle cam, effectively locking the door. The same mechanical elements provide both the automated opening function and the occupancy indication through their engagement state.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes three off-set hinges adapted to utilize the weight of the door to cause the door to self position and allow manual operation of the door. A center hinge includes a top leaf, a center pin, and a bottom leaf. The center pin includes an upper pin-portion adapted to slidably insert into an inverted slot on a top socket of the top leaf and an oppositely disposed lower pin-portion adapted to slidably insert into an upright cylindrical slot of the bottom leaf. A gear is disposed intermediate to the upper pin-portion and lower pin-portion. The gear is fixed or otherwise coupled to the pin whereby rotation of the gear results in corresponding rotation of the pin including both the top portion and the bottom portion. The lower pin-portion further includes a beveled lower (distal) end. This bevel matches a corresponding bevel in the bottom leaf.