Signal-Responsive Door Latch Release With Adjustable Plunger Stroke
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal-activated unlocking devices for doors are unsuitable for pets due to the inability of pets to open hinged or sliding doors and the unreliable operation of solenoid-operated latch bolts, which may not exert sufficient force or reengage if current is cut off.
Innovation Solution
A signal-responsive apparatus with a strike plate, actuator, and adjustable plunger mechanism that ensures the latch bolt clears the strike plate upon activation, using a screw actuator with a reduction gear train to maintain the plunger in an extended position, and incorporates a door-opening mechanism to ensure the door remains open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a solenoid-operated push rod is used to disengage the latch bolt, then the door can be unlocked remotely, but the pushing force is insufficient when current is cut off or battery is drained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the solenoid-operated mechanical system with a pneumatic system using compressed air. The compressed air reservoir provides continuous pushing force to disengage the latch bolt without relying on electrical current, solving the problem of insufficient force when power is unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-charges a compressed air reservoir before an emergency occurs. This preliminary action ensures that when the door needs to be opened remotely, sufficient pneumatic pressure is already available to push the latch bolt, eliminating the need for continuous electrical power during operation.
2Reliability
If current is continuously supplied to the solenoid to maintain door opening, then the door remains open, but the solenoid overheats and battery drains excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic pneumatic discharge from the compressed air reservoir to maintain the door in an open state. Instead of continuous power supply, the system periodically releases compressed air to counteract the spring force that would close the door, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrically-driven solenoid with a pneumatically-driven system. The compressed air reservoir and valve mechanism provide the necessary force to maintain door opening without the overheating and excessive power drain issues inherent in continuous solenoid operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a pet door is installed in the lower portion of a conventional door, then pets can exit the building, but the door structure becomes more complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing door and latch mechanism serve multiple functions. The same door opening mechanism that works for humans also works for pets, eliminating the need for separate pet door structures while maintaining pet exit capability during emergencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent removes the need for specialized pet door structures by extracting the essential function (door opening) and making it universally accessible. The remote unlocking mechanism and pneumatic latch release system eliminate the requirement for complex pet door installations in the lower portion of doors.
4Reliability
If the latch bolt is designed for full engagement with the strike plate, then security is improved, but the door cannot be opened by pets or handicapped persons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual door opening operations with an automated pneumatic system. The compressed air reservoir provides the force needed to disengage the securely engaged latch bolt without requiring physical manipulation by pets or handicapped persons, maintaining both security and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the door to open itself during emergencies through the automated pneumatic release mechanism. The system self-activates when needed, pushing the latch bolt to disengage the secure connection without requiring assistance from occupants, whether pets or handicapped persons.
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
The apparatus reliably opens doors for pets and prevents relocking, ensuring safe escape during emergencies by using a motor-driven plunger mechanism that resists retraction and integrates with door-opening springs or weights for automatic door movement.
Implementation Method 1
The electric actuator has an actuator body and a plunger extending from the actuator body. The plunger includes a first part extending into the actuator body and movable outward from the actuator body by operation of the actuator in response to the application of electric current to the actuator.
Implementation Method 2
A strike plate is provided and adapted to cooperate with a spring-loaded latch bolt having means for moving the latch bolt between an engaged position with the strike plate and a disengaged position from the strike plate.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for unlatching and opening a door of a building to allow exit in the event of a hazardous condition comprises an actuator housed in a supporting frame connected to a strike plate and having a face part that pushes against a latch bolt on the door to disengage the latch bolt from the strike plate. The actuator can be rotated, about a hinge axis, outward from the supporting frame for adjustment of its stroke. A spring or gravity-operated device is provided to urge the door toward its open condition when the latch is released.