Vertically Sliding Door Lock Mechanism for One-Handed Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vertically sliding doors in machine tools require two hands to maintain an open state and close, as they lack an efficient one-handed operation mechanism, especially in small workspaces where space is limited.

Innovation Solution

A vertically sliding manual opening and closing door with a lock mechanism that includes a lock member biased by a spring hinge, allowing the door to be easily opened and closed with one hand by automatically locking in the open state and releasing with a simple operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a sliding door is used to save space in small workspaces, then space efficiency is improved, but the door requires a lock mechanism that must be operated with one hand, increasing operational complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace requirementVSAvoidone-handed operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The lock mechanism is designed to automatically lock when the door reaches the fully open position, eliminating the need for manual locking operations. The spring member automatically engages the locking protrusion with the locking recess, allowing the door to maintain its open state without requiring the operator to use their hand for locking operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex manual locking mechanisms with a simple spring-based automatic locking system. The spring member provides the necessary biasing force to engage the locking protrusion, substituting for manual locking operations and enabling one-handed door operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If a handle is provided on the door for easy one-handed operation, then ease of operation is improved, but additional space is required on the outside for opening and closing

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveone-handed operationVSAvoidspace requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The locking function and the door member are merged into a single integrated structure. The locking protrusion is formed directly on the door member, and the lock mechanism is integrated into the door assembly, eliminating the need for separate handles or external operating mechanisms that would require additional space.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 one-handed operation of the door, maintaining the open state with automatic locking and easy closure, enhancing usability in confined spaces while preventing liquid droplets from falling onto the work area.

Implementation Method 1

biased to the external side by biasing force of a biasing member

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS10450784B2Vertically sliding manual opening and closing door

Publication Date: 2019.10.22 FUJI CORP

AI summary

A vertically sliding manual opening and closing door with good one-handed operability, including: a plate-like door member configured to open and close an opening section by being slid vertically; a support member configured to guide the vertical sliding of the door member by a support section configured to support left and right end sections of the door member; and a lock mechanism configured to position the door member that has been raised.