Display provided with automatically and manually operable revolving door panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerated displays face issues with door panel operation failure due to actuation and detection system malfunctions, safety risks, synchronization problems, and high maintenance costs, particularly when electric motors are blocked or malfunctioning.
Innovation Solution
The display incorporates fast-coupling/uncoupling means, such as magnetic retention, allowing door panels to be automatically or manually operated, with a single electric motor actuating all panels synchronously, and easy mounting/dismounting features to prevent injury and reduce maintenance costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If door panels are automatically actuated by electric motors, then convenience of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates when motors are blocked or malfunctioning
Solution Approach 1:
The door panel system is segmented into two independent operating modes: automatic actuation mode (with electric motors) and manual operation mode. The fast-coupling/uncoupling means enable the door panel to be quickly transferred between these modes, so if the automatic system fails, manual operation becomes immediately available, ensuring continuous reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between automatic and manual operation modes based on system status. The fast-coupling/uncoupling means allow the door panel to transition from being coupled to the automatic actuation mechanism to being uncoupled for manual operation, and vice versa, providing adaptability to different operational conditions.
2Reliability
If door panels are firmly connected to actuation means, then automatic operation reliability is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the door panel and actuation means is made dynamic rather than static. The fast-coupling/uncoupling means enable the connection to be quickly established when automatic operation is needed and just as quickly released when repair or manual operation is required, allowing the system to adapt between reliable automatic operation and easy maintenance modes.
3Ease of operation
If multiple electric motors are used to actuate door panels, then synchronization control complexity increases, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple door panels are merged into a single actuation system. Instead of using separate electric motors for each door panel, one electric motor is coupled to a movement component that simultaneously actuates all door panels. This merging approach reduces the number of motors from multiple to one, simplifying the system while maintaining synchronization.
4Ease of operation
If fast-coupling/uncoupling means are added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fast-coupling/uncoupling means act as an intermediary mechanism between the door panel and the actuation system. This intermediary allows quick transition between manual and automatic modes by providing a mechanical interface that can be rapidly engaged or disengaged, facilitating easy switching without requiring complex control systems.
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
Ensures safe and reliable operation even with actuation or detection system failures, simplifies maintenance, and synchronizes door panel movement effectively, reducing the need for multiple motors and enhancing user safety.
Implementation Method 1
fast-coupling/uncoupling means, such as magnetic retention, allowing door panels to be automatically or manually operated
Data Source
AI summary
A display includes at least one revolving door panel hinged to a box frame by means of a hinging means actuated by an actuation means The display has a movement component that can be coupled with the door panel to move the door panel, as well as a fast coupling/uncoupling means for the fast coupling of the movement component with the door panel to actuate the door panel by means of the actuation means, and permit the fast uncoupling of the movement component from the door panel to move the door panel manually, independently from the actuation means.