Sliding Wall Movable Sealing Strips for Low-Friction Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sliding walls face challenges in achieving effective sealing between the frame and sash without the use of complex mechanisms or large magnets, which can obstruct visibility and require additional components like compressors or large magnets.
Innovation Solution
A sealing arrangement with movable sealing strips perpendicularly arranged in the frame's guide channel, driven by a mechanical or electric drive mechanism, allowing the strips to move perpendicular to the sash for sealing and opening the gap, forming a sealing frame around the sash for enhanced tightness and sound insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If brush seals are used to seal the gap between the sliding sash and frame, then sealing is provided, but the sealing effect is limited and the forces required to move the sliding sash increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing strip is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. In the closed position, it extends to seal the gap effectively. During opening/moving, it can be retracted or moved aside by the drive mechanism, reducing friction and the forces required to move the sliding sash.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing strip is positioned and adjusted in advance to optimal sealing contact when the sliding sash is closed. The drive mechanism ensures the sealing strip is already in the correct position before closing, maximizing sealing effect while minimizing the force needed to maintain contact.
2Reliability
If an inflatable seal is used to seal the gap, then tight sealing is achieved, but a compressor and pneumatic components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pneumatic system (compressor, hoses, valves) with a simpler mechanical drive mechanism. This mechanical system directly moves the sealing strip into and out of the sealing position, achieving the same tight sealing effect without requiring compressed air infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex pneumatic components (compressor, control valves, hoses) are extracted and removed from the system. Only the essential sealing function is retained, implemented through a simpler mechanical movement of the sealing strip controlled by a basic drive mechanism.
3Reliability
If a movable auxiliary frame with seal is used to press the sash against the frame, then sealing is improved, but visibility through the sliding sash is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The movable auxiliary frame structure is removed entirely. Instead, only a thin sealing strip is used, which can be moved into the sealing position without obstructing the view through the glass. The sealing function is separated from the structural frame elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is localized to a thin strip element rather than a substantial frame structure. This localized approach provides effective sealing at the gap interface while maintaining visual transparency through the majority of the sliding sash area.
4Strength
If magnets of large size are used to mount the sliding sash, then mounting is achieved, but the size significantly exceeds the schematic illustration
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic mounting system is replaced with a mechanical guide channel and roller system. The guide channels provide structural support and positioning, while rollers enable smooth movement. This mechanical approach achieves the required mounting strength without the bulk of large magnets.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A sliding wall comprising at least the following: at least one sliding sash (3), a frame (2) comprising at least one receiving and guide channel (4) in which the at least one sliding sash (3) is slidably guided, and a sealing arrangement for at least partially sealing a gap (S) between the frame (2) and the sliding sash (3) at least in a closed position of the sliding sash (3), is characterized in that the sealing arrangement comprises at least one sealing strip (5) arranged in the receiving and guide channel (4) of the frame (2) and movable perpendicularly or substantially perpendicular to a main plane of the sliding sash (3), which is movable into a gap-sealing position (I) in which it rests against the sliding sash (3) and a gap-open position (II) in which it does not rest against the sliding sash or does not rest substantially against it.