Roller Door Panel Assembly with Segmented Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing roller door systems with wind locking mechanisms are not suitable for domestic environments due to their robust construction and heavy manual operation requirements, making them expensive and impractical for residential use.
Innovation Solution
A panel assembly with locking members and guides that allow for lateral movement restriction, using lightweight materials and deformation techniques to create locking mechanisms integrated into the panel, along with edging strips and strengthening members, enabling secure operation with low-powered motors and manual use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If industrial wind locking mechanisms are used, then security and wind resistance are improved, but weight and cost increase making them unsuitable for domestic use
Solution Approach 1:
The wind locking function is segmented into multiple discrete locking members (first and second locking members) distributed along the panel edges, rather than using a single robust industrial mechanism. This segmentation allows the locking function to be distributed and simplified for domestic applications.
Solution Approach 2:
Locking members are positioned at specific locations along the panel edges where they engage with corresponding guides. The locking mechanism is applied locally at these engagement points rather than requiring robust construction throughout the entire panel, reducing overall weight while maintaining wind resistance.
2Reliability
If industrial wind locking mechanisms are used, then security and wind resistance are improved, but cost increases making them unsuitable for domestic use
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are integrated directly into the panel structure itself, merging the locking function with the panel manufacturing process. This eliminates the need for separate, expensive industrial locking mechanisms and allows the locking features to be produced as part of the standard panel fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members serve multiple functions: they provide wind locking engagement with guides, maintain panel positioning during operation, and can be integrated with the panel's structural design. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, lowering manufacturing cost.
3Strength
If robust industrial construction is used, then wind resistance is improved, but weight increases making manual operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Structural strengthening is applied locally at specific positions where locking members are located and where the panel engages with guides. Rather than making the entire panel robust throughout, strength is concentrated at these critical engagement points, maintaining structural integrity while minimizing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural reinforcement is segmented into discrete strengthening members positioned at specific locations along the panel, rather than using uniform robust construction across the entire panel. This allows strength to be provided where needed while keeping the overall panel lightweight for manual operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A panel assembly including a panel that can be positioned in an opening, the panel including a plurality of locking members spaced apart along at least part of a length of and proximate to opposing longitudinal edges of the panel and a guide extending along either side of the opening, each guide including at least one locking flange extending along at least part of a length of the guide, wherein in use the panel is received in the guides so that the locking members selectively engage the flanges to limit lateral movement of the panel edges.