Retractable Door Lintel Interconnection Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional interconnection systems for retractable sliding doors require trained personnel and specialized equipment for adjusting the upper lintel, often causing damage to the wall and components, and are time-consuming, especially when height adjustments are needed.
Innovation Solution
A box-like interconnection device with a metallic or plastic profile featuring a cylindrical axial seat and a U-shaped portion, combined with an L-shaped bolt that allows for easy manual insertion and secure fixing of the upper lintel to vertical posts without adhesives or specialized tools, enabling quick and damage-free adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fixing systems (screws, adhesives, silicone) are used to secure the upper lintel, then the lintel is firmly fixed to the vertical posts, but the removal and adjustment of the lintel becomes time-consuming, requires trained personnel, and may cause damage to the wall or components
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is divided into separable components: a retention element with retention members that can be independently engaged and disengaged from the vertical posts. This segmentation allows the lintel to be firmly fixed when engaged, yet easily removed when the retention members are disengaged, eliminating the need for destructive removal methods
Solution Approach 2:
The retention members are designed to be movable between an engaged position (protruding into recesses for secure fixing) and a disengaged position (allowing easy removal). This dynamic capability enables the system to transition between strong fixation and easy adjustment/removal states, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation
2Shape
If trim elements are fixed with nails or adhesives to hide the fixing system, then the appearance is improved, but any adjustment or removal of the lintel requires removing these trim elements, causing damage and requiring trained personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The retention element is designed as a separate component from the trim elements. The retention members can be engaged/disengaged independently without affecting the trim elements, allowing maintenance and adjustment operations to be performed without damaging the aesthetic covering elements
Solution Approach 2:
The retention element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the lintel and the vertical posts, providing a hidden fixing solution that doesn't require visible screws or adhesives. The trim elements can cover the retention element without compromising the ability to quickly access and adjust the lintel through the retention members
3Ease of operation
If screws are used to fix the upper lintel from the lower edge, then the fixing is simpler and trim elements can hide the coupling slots, but repeated removal and reinstallation can strip the threading in the wooden lintel
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of threading screws into the lintel (which can be stripped), the retention members engage with recesses in the lintel from the opposite approach. The retention members are inserted through the lintel and engaged with vertical posts, reversing the traditional screw-fixing approach and eliminating thread stripping risks
Solution Approach 2:
The retention members are designed as simple, replaceable components that can be easily manufactured. If a retention member becomes worn or damaged, it can be replaced without affecting the lintel or vertical posts, providing a cost-effective solution compared to repairing stripped lintel threads
Data Source
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AI summary
An interconnection device (1) for retractable sliding doors which are associable with a casing comprising at least one upper lintel (4) and a pair of vertical posts (3) which can be covered by means of transverse trim elements (5) and vertical trim elements (6). The device is constituted by at least one bolt (7), which can be associated proximate to at least one end (20) of the upper lintel (4) and is adapted to be connected selectively and temporarily to at least one of the vertical posts (3).