Universal Stop Tube for Automatic Strut Locking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door and strut closer systems are cumbersome to manually set or release, often complicated, and expensive, with none capable of automatic locking open and release without manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A universal stop tube apparatus that attaches to common spring-loaded cylinder or strut assemblies, allowing automatic activation and holding open of the strut assembly by pivoting a locking tube, which can be retrofitted to existing systems, and includes a flexible clip for easy disengagement and self-closing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hold-open washer is used to maintain door position, then the door can be held open at a predefined position, but the device requires manual intervention to set and release, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The door closer system automatically holds the door open at a predefined position without manual intervention. The hold-open mechanism self-activates when the door reaches the predetermined angle, and self-releases when the door is pulled open further, eliminating the need for manual setting and releasing operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the door's angular position as feedback to automatically activate the hold-open function. When the door reaches a predetermined angle during closing, the mechanism detects this position and automatically engages to hold the door open, creating a closed-loop control system
2Extent of automation
If existing door closer systems are used, then basic closing function is provided, but the systems are cumbersome to manually set or release and lack automatic locking capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hold-open function, locking mechanism, and releasing function into a single integrated door closer system. The hold-open washer, locking tube, and release mechanism work together as one unified device that automatically performs all functions without separate components or manual interventions
Solution Approach 2:
The door closer system performs multiple functions: basic door closing, automatic hold-open at predefined position, automatic locking to prevent accidental closure, and automatic releasing when needed. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate devices for each function
3Ease of operation
If manual release mechanisms are used, then the door can be released from held position, but the process requires significant manual effort and is not user-friendly
Solution Approach 1:
The release mechanism automatically activates when the door is pulled open a predetermined distance. The user simply needs to pull the door slightly, and the system self-releases the locking mechanism and self-closes the door, eliminating the need for significant manual force or complex manual release operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for release by monitoring the door's opening distance. When the door reaches the predetermined pull distance, the release mechanism is pre-positioned and automatically activates, making the release process effortless for the user
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
Enables easy, automatic locking and unlocking of the strut assembly with minimal effort, reducing complexity and cost, and can be retrofitted to existing systems, providing a convenient and reliable solution for maintaining doors or struts in a self-actuated, opened position.
Implementation Method 1
compress a spring coiled between an inner wall of the cylinder and the piston. When the door is released, energy stored within the spring pushes against the surface of the piston
Implementation Method 2
The retracting momentum of the piston is typically cushioned by compression of fluid, such as air or oil inside the cylinder tube, to create a damping resistance opposite the force that propels the door to close
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A strut assembly (10) is provided including a holding and releasing mechanism adapted to be attached to a cylinder-type closer. The mechanism comprises the strut assembly including a strut cylinder (28), a strut rod (24), a pivot block (60), and a locking tube (62). The strut assembly further comprises a stop member or stop tube (50) including a clip (72) at a first end (73) and a connector or collar (70) at a second end (71). The stop tube further includes a rigid angled member or ramp (76) connecting the clip and the collar. The clip (72) moves from a first position to a second position while pivoting the locking tube (62) at a first end in order to engage the locking tube at another end with the strut cylinder (28) thereby holding the strut assembly in an extended position.