Shutter Slat Rotation via Eccentric Cogwheel and Rack
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing orientable shutter systems face challenges in efficiently rotating slats due to issues with the alignment of ratchets and tabs, pressure distribution during rolling, and light transmission, as well as limitations in automating the guiding of slats, particularly when the driving slat's height does not coincide with guiding elements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a shaft with a cogwheel that engages a rack, allowing the slat to rotate through relative movement, with an eccentric shaft location above the slat's center of gravity, and a braking system using tabs and a U-shaped rail to control the slat's movement, enabling independent rotation of slats and facilitating controlled adjustment of slat inclination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If tabs are used to block the descent of rack parts, then the slat rotation is enabled, but the alignment and operation complexity of ratchets and tabs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotation control function from a complex ratchet-tab alignment system and implements it through a simpler mechanism where the shaft with cogwheel engages a rack. The relative movement between shaft and rack directly produces rotation without requiring precise alignment of multiple components like tabs and ratchets, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using tabs to block descent and indirectly cause rotation, the patent inverts the approach by having the shaft engage the rack directly through cogwheel teeth. The rotation is produced positively through the engagement mechanism rather than through blocking and friction, simplifying the operational sequence and reducing alignment requirements.
2Extent of automation
If additional guiding elements are incorporated to automate slat guiding, then automation is improved, but the device complexity and pressure concentration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shaft with cogwheel serves multiple functions: it provides the rotation mechanism through engagement with the rack, acts as a guiding element through its groove that directs relative movement, and enables automated operation through its interaction with the rack. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate guiding components, reducing device complexity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the rotation mechanism and guiding function into a single integrated shaft component. The groove in the shaft combines the rotational engagement feature with the guiding feature, allowing one component to perform what previously required multiple separate elements, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Productivity
If the shaft is located at the center of gravity, then structural simplicity is maintained, but rotation efficiency and light distribution are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent deliberately positions the shaft eccentrically, away from the center of gravity of the slat. This asymmetric positioning creates an optimal rotation axis that improves rotation efficiency and enables better light distribution through the slat. The eccentric position allows the slat to rotate in a way that maximizes functional performance while the shaft's groove compensates for the asymmetry to maintain structural balance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for efficient rotation and alignment of slats, reduces wear by distributing pressure through a hub and groove system, and enables automated operation, improving the overall functionality and durability of the shutter system.
Implementation Method 1
a shaft provided with gear components, such as a cogwheel that engages with a rack, in such a manner that the relative movement of the slat with regard to the rack makes the slat rotate
Implementation Method 2
the slat continues its descent enough as for the engagement or friction between the shaft of the slat and the rack to cause the rotation of the body of the slat
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an improved shutter comprising slats that can be oriented by rotation characterised in that the rotation of the slats is caused due to the slats incorporating a shaft ending in a cogwheel that engages a rack, such that the relative movement of the slat with respect to the rack causes the rotation thereof, and wherein the slat has an offset and a stop and is associated to a hub that is wider than the slat, the shaft of the slat being geared to a rack part that is joined to a catch the path of which can be blocked by the action of pivoting tabs.