Multi-Panel Patio Door Stacking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sliding glass doors have limited opening sizes, restricting the ability to create larger openings for entertainment or other purposes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-panel door assembly with at least three panels that can be configured into multiple orientations, featuring a swinging door jamb and movable panels, allowing for a larger 'party' opening by overlaying panels on each other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional sliding glass doors with two panels are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the opening size is limited to the size of the sliding panel
Solution Approach 1:
The door assembly is divided into multiple independent panels (fixed panel, primary movable panel, secondary movable panel) that can operate independently or collectively. This segmentation allows the opening size to exceed the dimensions of any single panel while maintaining manageable individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension of movement by allowing panels to stack vertically within the door frame rather than only moving horizontally. The fixed panel provides a vertical stacking surface, enabling multiple panels to be arranged in layers, thereby creating a larger effective opening when stacked to one side.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple door panels are added to increase opening size, then the opening can be larger for entertainment purposes, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each panel serves multiple functions: the fixed panel acts as both a structural support and a vertical stacking surface; the movable panels can independently open for individual access or stack together for group access. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for different opening scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The door assembly incorporates dynamic elements including a movable door jamb that can shift between locked and unlocked positions, and panels that can transition between fixed and movable states. This dynamic design allows the system to adapt its complexity level based on the required opening configuration.
3Length of moving object
If panels are made movable to enable stacking, then larger openings are possible, but the reliability of sealed connection may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate sealing elements and door jambs that act as mediators between the movable panels and the frame. These intermediaries maintain continuous sealed connections during panel movement and stacking operations, preventing gaps or leaks while allowing the panels to achieve their full range of motion for creating large openings.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-panel door assembly is arrangeable into multiple configurations. The multi-panel door assembly includes at least three panel positions, including a first side position, a second side position, and a center position between the first and second side positions, and a corresponding at least three door panels. A fixed door panel is fixed in the first side position, and a secondary door panel is displaceable between the first side position and the second side position. A swinging door jamb is selectively displaceable between an engaged position where the primary door panel is displaceable between the center position and the second side position, and a disengaged position, where the primary door panel is displaceable between the first side position and the second side position.