Sectional Door Coupling Mechanism for Independent Section Movement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sectional door coupling mechanisms require manual operation or electronic control systems to couple or uncouple upper and lower sections, limiting their functionality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A purely mechanical coupling mechanism using elongated appendixes and clamping connectors with adjustable openings and retaining devices, allowing for coupling and uncoupling without the need for manual labor or electronic control, enabling independent movement of door sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual or electronic control systems are used to couple or uncouple door sections, then the door can be operated to separate sections for ventilation and safety, but the device complexity and operational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to automatically couple and uncouple door sections based on their relative positions and weights. The upper section automatically couples to the lower section when lowered, and automatically uncouples when raised, eliminating the need for manual operation or electronic control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static, manually-operated system to a dynamic, automatically-operating system that responds to the movement and positioning of door sections. The mechanical design allows automatic engagement and disengagement based on the natural motion of the door.
2Extent of automation
If electronic or electromechanical control systems are used, then automated coupling and uncoupling can be achieved, but the loss of energy and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the weight and movement of the door sections themselves to drive the coupling and uncoupling process. The upper section's weight and position automatically engage the coupling mechanism with the lower section, and the reverse occurs when raising the upper section, with no external energy source required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electronic or electromechanical control systems with a purely mechanical coupling mechanism that utilizes the natural weight and movement of the door sections to achieve automatic coupling and uncoupling without external power or control.
3Ease of manufacture
If manual operation is required for coupling and uncoupling, then simpler mechanical components can be used, but the productivity and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism automatically performs coupling and uncoupling operations based on the door sections' relative positions, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This maintains mechanical simplicity while significantly improving operational efficiency and productivity.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 1c~1d
Figure 2a~2b
AI summary
A sectional door comprising: a frame (1 ), a door (2) divided into an upper and a lower section (2a, 2b), each section (2a, 2b) having one or more panels, at least one coupling unit (3) used to couple or uncouple both sections (2a, 2b) of the door (2) and an actuator (4) used to move the door (2). The one or more coupling units (3) installed in the door (2) each include at least one coupling mechanism (7) which can be in a coupling configuration, with both sections (2a, 2b) of the door (2) coupled together, moving as a single unit, or in an uncoupling configuration, in which the upper section (2a) is moved independently from the lower section (2b) of the door (2).