Sliding Door Actuation Connecting Device for Compact High-Load Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing door operating devices for sliding doors are geometrically large, difficult to assemble, and aesthetically unappealing, lacking adaptability to varying door loads and requiring complex designs that do not meet functional requirements such as rapid, low-noise operation and emergency unlocking.

Innovation Solution

A compact door operating device featuring a connecting device with an adapter element and a toothed belt system, allowing for flexible adaptation to different loads and sizes, with a connecting element that securely engages the toothed belt ends and includes an emergency release mechanism for easy disengagement in emergency situations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If traditional door operating devices are used, then the door can be operated, but the device becomes geometrically large and aesthetically unappealing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidload capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device is divided into separate modular components: a base element, a connecting element, and an adapter element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for strength and size, enabling a compact overall design while maintaining high load capacity through precise mechanical engagement of the modular parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter element is designed to be received within the base element, creating a nested configuration. The adapter element fits into a recess of the base element, allowing the connecting device to maintain a compact footprint while accommodating varying door leaf weights through interchangeable adapter elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of manufacture

If traditional door operating devices are used, then the door can be operated, but the device is complicated to assemble

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device is divided into separate modular components: a base element, a connecting element, and an adapter element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for strength and size, enabling a compact overall design while maintaining high load capacity through precise mechanical engagement of the modular parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter element is pre-configured with specific thicknesses to match different toothed belt specifications. This preliminary preparation allows for quick interchangeability and simplifies assembly, as the appropriate adapter element can be selected and installed without complex adjustments or custom fabrication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional door operating devices are used, then the door can be operated, but the device lacks adaptability to different door loads

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload adaptationVSAvoiddevice design
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The base element is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple adapter elements of different thicknesses. This universal base element, combined with interchangeable adapter elements, allows the same connecting device to adapt to various door leaf weights and toothed belt specifications without requiring a completely different device design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter elements are provided in different thicknesses to change the mechanical parameters of the connecting device. By selecting an adapter element with appropriate thickness, the device can be adapted to match different toothed belt thicknesses and accommodate varying door loads, effectively changing the load-bearing characteristics of the connecting device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Strength

If the connecting device uses a simple design, then assembly is easy, but it cannot securely connect the toothed belt ends under load

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidconnecting device structure
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting device is divided into separate modular components: a base element, a connecting element, and an adapter element. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for strength and size, enabling a compact overall design while maintaining high load capacity through precise mechanical engagement of the modular parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The adapter element acts as an intermediary component between the base element and the connecting element. It mediates the connection by providing a precise interface that ensures proper alignment and secure engagement of the toothed belt ends, distributing loads effectively across the connecting device components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3336294B1Device and actuation of a sliding door
Publication Date: 2019.12.25 LIBERDA VICTOR
  • EP3336294B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP3336294B1 patent drawingFigure 1c
  • EP3336294B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

Device (100) for operating a sliding door with a door leaf, comprising a drive device with a drive gear, a deflection gear, and a toothed belt. The connecting device (150) comprises a base element (160) and a connecting element (170). Two support surfaces (163, 164) are provided on the upper side for supporting the two ends (132, 133) of the toothed belt (130). The connecting element (170) is designed to press its teeth (173) against the complementary teeth (131) of the two ends (132, 133) of the toothed belt (130), thereby creating a firm connection between the two ends (132, 133) of the toothed belt (130).The connecting device (150) further comprises an adapter element (180) which is essentially formed by a plate on the upper side of which teeth are formed which are intended to engage in the teeth of the connecting element (170), and the base element (160) has an adapter surface on the upper side between the two bearing surfaces (163, 164) for receiving the adapter element (180).