Powered Door Frame Layout for Integrated Low-Voltage Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exterior and interior doors for residential and commercial buildings lack integration of electric devices with a central power supply, leading to unattractive installations, battery dependency, and potential impacts on structural integrity, insulation, and energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A door system with a power converter (AC/DC converter) integrated into the door frame, connected to an AC power unit, providing low-voltage DC power to electric devices through a DC power distribution system, allowing for seamless integration and operation of electric devices without the need for frequent battery replacements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electric devices are mounted to doors with separate battery packs, then the devices can operate independently, but the installation becomes unattractive and requires periodic battery replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate battery-powered devices into a single integrated door assembly with a centralized power supply system. The power converter and distribution system combine previously separate functions into one unified structure, eliminating the need for multiple individual battery packs and improving installation aesthetics while reducing maintenance frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized power supply system serves multiple electric devices simultaneously (door lock, camera, intercom, lighting), making the power system universal rather than device-specific. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate power sources for each device and reduces overall maintenance requirements.
2Reliability
If power is run to the door for electric devices, then battery replacement is eliminated, but structural integrity and insulation may be adversely impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical components (power converter, distribution system, wiring) are nested within the existing door assembly structure. The power converter is mounted on the door frame, and wiring is routed through channels within the door construction, allowing power delivery without compromising the external structural integrity or insulation properties of the door.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies electrical modifications only in specific localized areas of the door assembly where they are needed, rather than altering the entire door structure. The power converter and wiring are confined to specific zones, preserving the overall structural integrity and insulation properties of the door while enabling reliable power delivery to electric devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electric devices are integrated into the door assembly, then functionality is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution system into modular components: a centralized power converter and separate distribution channels for different electric devices. This segmentation allows each device to be independently connected to the power supply while maintaining a relatively simple overall architecture, reducing the complexity burden of integrating multiple devices.
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
The solution enables reliable and efficient operation of electric devices while maintaining the door's structural integrity, insulation, and aesthetic appeal, reducing the reliance on batteries and enhancing the overall performance and cost-effectiveness of door assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
a power converter such as an AC/DC converter operably associated with the door frame, and a DC electric device mounted to the door and electrically connected to the AC/DC converter. The AC/DC converter is configured to be electrically connected to an AC power unit
Data Source
AI summary
A door system comprises a door frame adapted to be mounted within an opening, a door pivotally attached to the door frame, a power converter such as an AC/DC converter operably associated the door frame, and a DC electric device mounted to the door and electrically connected to the AC/DC converter. The AC/DC converter is configured to be electrically connected to an AC power unit operably associated with the door system.