Self-latching Sliding Door System for Wind Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Horizontal sliding doors, especially those in wider configurations, are prone to wind damage due to inadequate securing mechanisms, which can cause dislodgment, deformation, or damage to the frame and door.
Innovation Solution
A latching and locking system comprising a latch assembly, lifting rod assembly, door catch, and retainer system that secures sliding doors from both exterior and interior, allowing key-operated locking and unlocking, and automatic latching in open positions, with a retainer catch to prevent door displacement in high winds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple sliding door configuration is used, then ease of operation is improved, but wind resistance and security deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple securing functions (latching, locking, and retaining) into a single integrated system. The latch assembly, locking mechanism, and retainer system work together as one unified structure that provides both security and ease of operation through automated functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer system automatically engages to hold the door in the open position without requiring manual intervention. The system self-activates based on door movement, providing automated wind resistance and security while maintaining ease of operation.
2Reliability
If a secure locking system is implemented, then wind resistance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple securing functions are merged into a single integrated system that reduces overall complexity. The latch assembly, locking mechanism, and retainer system are combined into one unified structure rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously - it latches the door, provides locking capability, and coordinates with the retainer system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
3Device complexity
If manual latching procedures are used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer system automatically engages and disengages based on door movement without requiring manual operation. This self-service feature improves ease of operation while maintaining relatively simple device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer system is pre-positioned to automatically engage when the door reaches the open position. This preliminary positioning eliminates the need for manual latching actions while keeping the device structure simple.
4Ease of operation
If the door is left unlatched, then ease of operation is improved, but security and wind resistance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer system automatically activates to secure the door in the open position without requiring manual intervention. This prevents wind damage while maintaining ease of operation through automated protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer system is pre-positioned to automatically engage before wind can cause damage. This preliminary protective action prevents harmful effects while keeping the system simple and easy to operate.
Data Source
AI summary
A sliding door latching and locking system is disclosed which includes a latch assembly, a lift rod assembly, and a retainer assembly, among other things. In some embodiments, the latch assembly includes a support member mounted in a movable body and a latching arm pivotally mounted to the support member having a distal end thereof extending outside of the periphery of the movable body, wherein the distal end includes an engagement facilitating portion with a sloped outer surface for contacting an interlocking member.