Powered Opening Module Retrofit for Hydraulic Door Closers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door closers do not provide powered opening capabilities, leading to frequent manual operation and potential transmission of pathogens through commonly touched door surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A retrofit module configured for use with conventional hydraulic door closers, comprising a case, an output shaft, a motor, and a control assembly, which allows for powered opening of doors by rotating the output shaft to couple with the door closer's pinion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional hydraulic door closers are used, then door closing function is provided, but powered opening capability is missing requiring frequent manual operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a motorized opening mechanism with an existing hydraulic door closer to create a hybrid door operator system. The motor assembly integrates with the door closer body, allowing powered opening while maintaining hydraulic closing functionality, thus eliminating the need for separate manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The door operator assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: powered opening via motor, hydraulic closing via the integrated door closer, and manual operation capability. This multi-functional design allows the same mechanism to handle all door opening and closing scenarios without requiring separate systems.
2Extent of automation
If replacement door opening systems are installed, then powered opening is achieved, but installation cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The door operator is divided into modular components: a motor assembly that can be separately installed and configured. This segmentation allows for easier installation and maintenance, as individual components can be replaced or adjusted without affecting the entire door operator system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes adjustable components that allow the door operator to be configured for different door weights, opening speeds, and holding positions. This dynamic adjustability enables a single standardized unit to serve multiple installation scenarios, reducing the need for custom-built solutions and lowering overall installation costs.
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 and hygienic powered opening of doors, reducing the need for manual operation and minimizing the risk of pathogen transmission, while being cost-effective and easy to install as a retrofit solution.
Implementation Method 1
The motor is mounted to the case, and is operable to rotate the output shaft in a door-opening direction
Data Source
AI summary
A retrofit module configured for use with a door closer having a pinion. The retrofit module generally includes a case, an output shaft, a motor, and a control assembly. The output shaft is rotatably mounted in the case, and is configured for rotational coupling with the pinion. The motor is mounted to the case, and is operable to rotate the output shaft in a door-opening direction. The control assembly is mounted to the case, and is configured to operate the motor to drive the output shaft in the door-opening direction in response to an actuating signal.