US 2024/0384584 A1 · MOTOR-ACTUATED HANDS-FREE DOOR OPENING AND CLOSING SYSTEM

Abstract

A cost-effective, hands-free door opener activated via foot, cane, remote, Bluetooth, security systems, smart home technology, or proximity sensors which promotes hygienic and accessible door operation without physical contact. This device features a linear motion mechanism with a spring-loaded drive wheel, ensuring stable operation across varied surface types, environments, and door orientations. It includes precise control over the angle, distance, and speed of door opening and closing, complemented by user interfaces. Sensors adapt to environmental conditions and user presence, reducing pathogen transmission risks. Programmable delays for door operations cater to different traffic flows and safety requirements. The system supports various motor types and power setups including wireless operation and charging, suitable for retrofitting existing doors in commercial, institutional, and residential areas. Safety features detect obstructions, ensuring seamless operation. This invention integrates robust mechanical design with intelligent sensors integrated by a controller, enhancing door functionality in diverse environments.

Claims23

Dependent claims

A foot operable door opener with motor assist comprising:

a control module associated with a foot operable pedal, said foot operable door pedal communicating with a motorized unit having gears for moving a door opening and closing drive wheel;
said foot operable door opener having a delay mechanism with a wheel idler sensor 106.8, to send information to said controller module 106.7 to control the speed of the door opening, the length of travel for the door, the travel angle to open the door and to determine a delay for the closing by starting and extending or raising a linear motion device to engage the door opening and closing drive wheel for opening and closing the door.

A hands-free door opening and closing system, said system comprising:

a chassis, said chassis configured to mount to the door;
a first shaft, said first shaft being mounted with respect to said chassis;
a second shaft;
a drive wheel, said drive wheel being fixedly mounted to said second shaft;
at least one coupling link having a first end and a second end, said first end of said at least one coupling link being rotatably mounted to said first shaft, and said second shaft being rotatably mounted proximate to a second end of said at least one coupling link;
a first gear, said first gear being fixedly mounted with respect to said first shaft;
a second gear, said second gear being fixedly mounted with respect to said second shaft;
wherein said first gear is configured to mesh with said second gear;
a motor, said motor being configured, when actuated, to cause said first shaft to rotate a first selective amount of angular rotation;
wherein said first selective amount of angular rotation of said first shaft is configured to cause rotation of said first gear and thereby cause co-rotation of said second gear and corresponding co-rotation of said second shaft a second selective amount of angular rotation;
wherein said second selective amount of angular rotation of said second shaft thereby causes said drive wheel to rotate a third selective amount of rotation;
wherein said third selective amount of rotation of said drive wheel is correlated to a radial distance of the mounting location of said chassis on the door from the axis of a hinge of the door, and in combination with contact of said drive wheel with a floor surface or ground surface, causes rotation of the door a desired angular amount from a door closed position into a desired door open position;
and
means for triggering of said actuation of said motor.

11 more elements

A hands-free door opening and closing system comprising:

a chassis, said chassis configured to mount to the door;
a first shaft;
a second shaft;
at least one coupling link having a first end and a second end, said first end of said at least one coupling link being mounted with respect to said first shaft;
wherein said second shaft is rotatably mounted proximate to said second end of said at least one coupling link;
a drive wheel, said drive wheel being fixedly mounted to said second shaft;
a motor, said motor being configured, when activated, to cause said drive wheel to rotate a first selective amount of angular rotation;
a linear actuator, a first end of said linear actuator being rotatably mounted with respect to said chassis, and a second end of said linear actuator being rotatably mounted with respect to said at least one coupling link or with respect to said second shaft;
a controller module, said controller module configured to cause said linear actuator to extend to cause a desired amount of pressure between said drive wheel and the floor surface or ground surface;
a switch configured to be toggled to trigger said activation of said motor to cause said drive wheel to rotate said first selective amount of angular rotation, to thereby drive the door to move from a door closed position into a desired door open position.

7 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system

Life of this patent

Motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims23