Powered Actuator for Sliding Closure Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sliding closure systems for windows and doors lack efficient and aesthetically integrated powered actuation solutions that allow for seamless operation and integration with existing designs, often protruding into the opening space or compromising the structural integrity and appearance.
Innovation Solution
A sliding closure assembly featuring a powered actuator assembly with a motor-driven drive rod of varying pitch, a clutch assembly, and a drive block, housed within the frame assembly's track portions, allowing for smooth sliding of panels without extending into the opening, and operated via a control panel or wireless transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a powered actuator assembly is installed in a sliding closure system, then automated operation efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and structural integration are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The powered actuator assembly is nested entirely within the second track portion of the frame assembly. The motor, clutch assembly, drive rod, and drive block are all contained within the track structure, with the drive block moving along the drive rod's length while remaining within the track boundaries. This nesting approach enables automated operation without compromising structural integration or requiring external mounting.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator operates along the longitudinal dimension of the drive rod, which varies in pitch along its length. The drive block moves longitudinally along the drive rod while the spiral engagement converts rotational motion to linear motion. This dimensional approach allows the actuator to achieve automated panel movement while maintaining a compact profile that fits within the track portion.
2Ease of operation
If the powered actuator assembly extends into the opening space, then operational reach is improved, but the aesthetic appearance and space utilization are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The powered actuator assembly is extracted from the opening space and relocated entirely within the second track portion of the frame assembly. The housing contains all actuator components (motor, clutch, drive rod, drive block) within the track structure, eliminating protrusion into the opening. This extraction maintains full operational capability while preserving aesthetic appearance and maximizing opening space.
3Power
If a variable pitch spiral is used on the drive rod, then force transfer efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The drive rod features a variable pitch spiral where the pitch changes along the length of the rod. Different sections of the spiral have different pitch values, allowing the actuator to optimize force transfer at different positions along the rod's length. This local variation in spiral geometry enables improved power transmission while the rod itself remains a single integrated component, balancing manufacturing feasibility with performance optimization.
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 efficient, aesthetically integrated, and space-efficient powered operation of sliding panels, maintaining the appearance and functionality of the closure system while allowing full access and secure sealing.
Implementation Method 1
a motor configured to drive a drive rod
Implementation Method 2
The drive rod includes a spiral of varying pitch extending along the length of the drive rod. The spiral engages the drive block such that rotation of the drive rod in a first direction causes the drive block to move to a first end of the drive rod
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~7
AI summary
A sliding closure assembly includes a frame assembly, at least one sliding closure panel, a second panel, and a powered actuator. The frame assembly has a first track portion, a second track portion, and a catch portion. The sliding closure panel slides within the first track portion of the frame assembly. The second closure panel is adjacent to the at least one sliding closure panel and is positioned within the second track portion of the frame assembly. The powered actuator assembly is positioned adjacent to the second panel and entirely within the second track portion. The sliding closure panel slides within the first track portion of the frame such that an opening is formed through the sliding closure assembly when the sliding closure panel is in the opened position and the opening is closed when the sliding closure panel is in the closed position.