Rotation Converter Mechanism for Bidirectional Latch Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing exit device assemblies require replacement of bulky trim assemblies to enable bidirectional actuation of the latch control assembly, which is costly and aesthetically undesirable, and lack efficient mechanisms for converting rotation in the non-actuating direction to actuation in existing systems.
Innovation Solution
A rotation converter comprising a case, an input member, a shuttle, and an output member, where the input member is rotatable in both directions, driving the shuttle to an actuated position, and the output member rotates in response, allowing bidirectional rotation conversion without increasing the assembly's size or complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing trim assemblies use mechanisms to convert rotation in the non-actuating direction to actuation, then bidirectional actuation is enabled, but the trim assembly becomes bulky and increases in size
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation converter mechanism is nested within the existing trim assembly housing. The input member, shuttle, and output member are arranged in a compact configuration where the shuttle moves linearly within the housing while the input and output members rotate about axes within the same housing space, effectively nesting the conversion mechanism within the existing trim assembly footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism converts rotational motion in one dimension (input member rotation in non-actuating direction) into linear motion (shuttle movement) and then back into rotational motion (output member rotation in actuating direction) along a different dimensional path, enabling bidirectional actuation without increasing the overall trim assembly envelope.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the entire trim assembly is replaced to enable bidirectional actuation, then the latch control assembly can be actuated in both directions, but the upgrade becomes costly and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the trim assembly into two parts: the existing trim assembly housing and the separate rotation converter mechanism. Only the rotation converter needs to be installed or attached to enable bidirectional actuation, while the existing trim assembly housing, handle, and other components can be retained, significantly reducing upgrade cost and time.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation converter mechanism serves multiple functions: it converts rotation in the non-actuating direction to actuating direction, enables bidirectional operation, and can be integrated with existing trim assembly designs. This multi-functionality allows a single component addition to provide the full bidirectional actuation capability without requiring complete assembly replacement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If bulky rotation-converting trim assemblies are used, then bidirectional actuation is achieved, but aesthetic appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rotation converter components (input member, shuttle, output member) are nested within the existing trim assembly housing, maintaining the sleek external appearance. The mechanism operates internally without requiring additional external bulk, preserving the aesthetic appeal of the traditional trim assembly design while enabling bidirectional actuation.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotation converter according to certain embodiments generally includes a case, an input member, a shuttle, and an output member. The input member is rotatably mounted to the case, and is rotatable from an input member home position in each of a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction. The shuttle is movably mounted in the case, and is engaged with the input member such that rotation of the input member from the input member home position in each of the first rotational direction and the second rotational direction drives the shuttle from a shuttle home position to a shuttle actuated position. The output member is rotatably mounted to the case and engaged with the shuttle such that the output member rotates in an output member rotational direction in response to movement of the shuttle from the shuttle home position to the shuttle actuated position.