Hands-Free Entryways With Sensor-Activated Latch Disengagement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing entryways require users to use their hands to unlatch doors, which can be difficult for those encumbered, disabled, or unable to use their hands, and there is a need for cost-effective hands-free solutions suitable for residential installations.
Innovation Solution
Systems and methods utilizing sensors to detect user approach and intent, combined with a latch disengaging mechanism and user feedback components, enabling hands-free entry through entryways using sensors like motion, biometric, or mobile device authentication, and mechanisms like electric strikes and door actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual latching mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates for users with full or disabled hands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical latching system with an automated system using sensors (optical, acoustic, or electromagnetic) to detect user approach and trigger electronic actuators to disengage the latch mechanism, eliminating the need for manual hand operation while maintaining security functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The entryway system performs the latching operation automatically by detecting user presence and intent through sensors, then self-actuates the disengagement mechanism without requiring user intervention, allowing users with full or disabled hands to open the door independently
2Ease of operation
If hands-free entry mechanism is added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single unified mechanism: sensors detect both presence and intent, the processor authenticates users, and the actuator controls latching/dislatching, allowing one device to perform what previously required separate manual operations for different user needs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate components (sensors, processors, and actuators) that mediate between user intent and latch operation, translating automatic detection into controlled mechanical disengagement while maintaining security protocols
3Reliability
If authentication sensors are implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key-based authentication with sensor-based detection systems (optical, acoustic, or electromagnetic) that can identify and authenticate users automatically, enhancing security while enabling hands-free operation
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a system for a hands-free entryway, comprising at least one sensor configured to sense a user approaching an entryway with a pivotally attached door. A latch disengaging mechanism positioned in a jamb or frame of the entryway is controlled by a controller operatively associated with a processor. The controller determines whether to activate the latch disengaging mechanism to automatically unlatch the door based on sensor data. A user feedback component indicates to the user that the entryway can be used without requiring hands to unlatch it. An entryway closing device is configured to bias the door to a closed state. The system enables hands-free operation of the entryway while providing user feedback and automatic closing functionality.