Sliding Door Brake and Interlock for Stable Multi-Panel Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sliding doors in marine environments experience instability and undesirable movement due to external forces, leading to rattling and improper alignment, especially when multiple panels are used, and existing designs are difficult to adjust without causing instability.
Innovation Solution
A multi-panel sliding door system with a handle release braking system and panel interlock arrangement, featuring a secure framework, rollers, and adjustable height mechanisms, along with an interlock mechanism to synchronize panel movement and a brake system to secure doors in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple sliding panels are used to close off large openings, then the door assembly can cover larger areas, but the panels become unstable and may move undesirably under external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The door assembly is divided into multiple independent sliding panels (outward door and inward door) that can operate separately but are connected through an interlock mechanism. This segmentation allows large openings to be covered while maintaining individual panel stability through the interlock system.
Solution Approach 2:
An interlock mechanism acts as an intermediary between the outward door and inward door. This interlock includes a bumper on the outward door that engages with a stop on the inward door, preventing the inward door from moving undesirably when the outward door is opened or closed.
2Ease of operation
If the outward door is opened, then access is improved, but the inward door may move undesirably due to lack of connection
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock mechanism serves as an intermediary that maintains connection between the outward door and inward door during operation. The bumper on the outward door engages the stop on the inward door, preventing the inward door from moving undesirably even when the outward door is opened for access.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing door designs are made adjustable, then adaptability is improved, but the doors become unstable and rattle during use
Solution Approach 1:
The door system incorporates adjustable components that allow height and positioning adjustments while maintaining stability during operation. The adjustable features are designed with proper engagement mechanisms that prevent rattling when the doors are in their adjusted positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlock mechanism acts as a stabilizing intermediary that connects the outward and inward doors, preventing relative movement and rattling between panels even when the system is adjusted to different positions.
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 system provides stable, smooth operation and secure door positioning, facilitating maintenance and repair, and ensures synchronized movement of multiple panels, preventing unwanted contact and alignment issues.
Implementation Method 1
a primary roller fixed to the primary truck is secured in rolling engagement with the bottom rail
Implementation Method 2
a brake system secures the doors in place regardless of a position of the doors once the handle is released
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding door assembly includes a door frame with a top trim member, a bottom sill, and side jambs connected between the top trim member and the bottom sill, and a primary sliding panel secured in the door frame. The top trim member includes a track configured to support a weight of the primary sliding panel and prevent the primary sliding panel from coming off the track. Other features include an interlock mechanism to limit relative movement using multiple sliding doors and a brake mechanism to secure the doors in position when the door handle is released. A drop window includes features to accommodate for manufacturing tolerances and box frame assemblies that are out of square.