Automatic Sliding Door Motor Drive Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sliding door systems face challenges such as requiring large and maintenance-intensive torsion springs, reducing usable space due to overhead tracks, difficulty in manual operation, especially in windy conditions, and exposure to debris and weather when automated systems are externally mounted.
Innovation Solution
An automatic door moving system with a motor-driven engagement mechanism that moves horizontally sliding door panels along a track or chain, mounted internally to preserve space and protect equipment from the elements, using a sprocket and axle or pinion gear to open and close doors efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an overhead door with torsion spring is used, then the door can be manually opened easily, but the spring requires maintenance and may be damaged after a certain period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the torsion spring from the system entirely, replacing it with a motor-driven carriage that travels along a track. The spring mechanism is extracted and substituted with an electric motor (150) that directly drives the door through a chain and carriage system, eliminating the reliability issues associated with spring fatigue and maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical spring-based counterbalance system is replaced with an electric motor-driven system. The motor (150) connects to a chain (152) that moves a carriage (154) along a track (158), substituting the elastic potential energy storage mechanism with an electromechanical actuation system that provides more reliable and maintainable operation.
2Reliability
If the track hangs low from the ceiling, then the door can be supported properly, but the useable vertical height of the internal space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the track from a vertical suspension system to a horizontal mounting system. The track (158) is mounted horizontally above the door opening rather than hanging vertically from the ceiling, allowing the door to slide horizontally. This dimensional change eliminates the need for vertical clearance above the door, preserving the useable vertical height of the internal space while maintaining proper door support through the horizontal track structure.
3Reliability
If cinches are manually manipulated to lock the door, then the door can be held against jambs, but it is difficult to implement especially in windy conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic cinching mechanisms that engage and disengage without manual intervention. As the door approaches its closed position, automated cinching devices activate to secure the door panels against the jambs, and automatically release when the door opens. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for users to manually manipulate cinches, making the system operable even in adverse windy conditions where manual operation would be difficult or dangerous.
4Extent of automation
If the motor is mounted externally, then the door can be automated, but the equipment is exposed to debris and weather
Solution Approach 1:
The motor (150), chain (152), carriage (154), and track (158) are nested within the building structure, specifically mounted inside the door opening area. The motor is positioned within the interior space, and the chain and carriage operate within the protected envelope of the building. This nesting arrangement allows the door to be fully automated while protecting all mechanical components from external weather elements, debris, and environmental damage.
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 automates the opening and closing of sliding doors, maintains vertical and horizontal space, prevents doors from being pushed out of alignment, and provides weather protection, allowing for easy passage of tall equipment while ensuring secure sealing against jambs.
Implementation Method 1
a motor having an engagement mechanism, wherein the motor drives the door panel horizontally over the entry opening
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to sliding door systems, apparatus and methods of using and making the same. Specifically, the present invention relates to systems for opening horizontally sliding doors on a structure, such as, for example, a barn, warehouse, hangar, or other building or structure. Moreover, the present invention relates to apparatuses for providing the automatic opening of sliding doors. In addition, methods of making and using the same are provided.