With Operating Means Patents (Class 160/188)
-
Patent number: 7143804Abstract: A system for raising and lowering a sectional overhead door between an open position and a closed position including, a counterbalance system adapted to be connected to the door, an operator motor assembly mounted proximate to the sectional overhead door in the closed position of the sectional overhead door, at least a portion of the operator motor assembly movable between a door operating position and a door locking position, and a locking assembly (370) having an engaged position to hold the motor assembly in the operating position and a disengaged position to release the motor assembly allowing it to move to the door locking position. The system may be provided with a remote light assembly having a switchable light source in sensing communication with the operator motor such that operation of the motor activates the light source.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle
-
Patent number: 7146345Abstract: A parking area entrance or exit barrier includes a control system which receives inputs from various accessories associated with the operation of the barrier, and which provides control signals to the various accessories of the barrier. One of the accessories includes a sensor attached to the barrier. The sensor senses an accident event, such as contact between the barrier and a vehicle. Whenever an accident event is sensed, the control system creates an accident event log of information concerning the accident event. The accident event log may include video images of the barrier, a position of the barrier, a movement direction and speed of the barrier, and an approximated speed of the vehicle. The control system may also monitor a performance of the various accessories of the barrier and create a performance log relating to any malfunction of the accessories.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2002Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventors: Martin Herman Weik, III, Paul Michael Brown, David Johan Van Tuyl
-
Patent number: 7064296Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, an oven having a flexible and retractable door is described. The oven door is adapted to move from a closed position wherein it effectively closes an open side of the oven box and an open position wherein the door is retracted into the body of the oven, typically below the oven box. In variations, an electric motor is provided to selectively move the oven door between the open and closed positions. In other variations, the oven includes an oven rack that is moveable between extended and retracted positions by way of a second electric motor.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2005Date of Patent: June 20, 2006Assignee: Culinary Logic, LLCInventors: Gary V. Harned, Kim A. Williams, Kenneth W. House, Douglas P. Collins
-
Patent number: 7055283Abstract: A control system for switching an electric operation to a manual operation of a door opener comprises: a housing 11, including a power unit 12 driving a shaft 120 electrically and transmitting the power to an output shaft 16; a braking device 13, used for braking the shaft 120 and releasing the shaft 120; a pull-chain disk device 15 allowed for exerting an external force via a pull chain 152 to rotate the shaft 120; a clutch device 18, disposed between the shaft 120 and the pull-chain disk device 15, used for unidirectionally rotating the shaft 120 controllably when the pull-chain disk device is rotated by the external force; a protective device 17 used for cutting off a circuit of a door opener 10? in an abnormal mode; and a driven disk 158 interlocked with the clutch device 18 so as to swing by an angle for actuating the protective device 17 to switch.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2004Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Inventor: Chung Hsien Hsieh
-
Patent number: 7048029Abstract: A sectional door having a door frame, a door panel comprising sections coupled to another in articulated manner, a weight equalization device coupled to the door panel, and an electrical door drive for opening and closing movements of said door panel. The uppermost section in the closed position of the door panel, is guided on running rails as the header section, wherein said rails extend essentially horizontally up to the door frame, and have a vertical end segment on the frame side. The other sections that follow below the header section are guided in guide rails that have a vertical segment along the door frame, a horizontal segment parallel to the running rail that holds the header section, and an arc that joins the two segments. With this device, the door drive is attached to one of the sections connected below the header section, and has at least one power take-off shaft having an impeller at the end. The driven impeller engages in the guide rail and moves the door panel.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2004Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Novoferm GmbHInventors: Franz-Wilhelm Rieder, Marco Göckus, Stefan Höfling
-
Patent number: 7009529Abstract: A garage door power module is provided with the capability of operating over a number of different operating frequencies by configuring a power module chassis with a receptacle for receiving radio receivers where each of the receivers is adapted to receive one of radio signals. The receptacle located near one edge of the chassis and is configured with a planer surface and support members that permit the receivers to be slidably inserted and removed from the receptacle. In addition the radio receiver is equipped with a plug connector and the receptacle is equipped with a socket for receiving the plug connector in order to transmit radio control signals from the receiver to logic control circuits in the power module.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2004Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: Marantec America CorporationInventor: Michael Hoermann
-
Patent number: 6945303Abstract: A parking area control and management system employs a card reader, which reads identification information from a card commonly carried by a person, such as a driver's license or credit card. A record is made of the identification information upon entrance of a vehicle into the parking area. The person may subsequently leave the parking area on foot and regain entry to the parking area by presenting the same card. Later, the same card is used to exit the parking area, via the vehicle, and to validate that the same person is leaving with the vehicle. The parking area control and management system also includes sensors, such as loop detectors and electric eyes, to determine if a second vehicle or a pedestrian follows behind a vehicle entering into, or exiting from, the parking area.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Inventor: Martin Herman Weik, III
-
Patent number: 6928894Abstract: An actuator combining mechanical and hydraulic forces includes a cylindrical body and a piston that can slide relative to the cylindrical body. The piston and the cylindrical body are connected by a mechanical system for transmitting mechanical power that constitutes a device that permanently controls the position of the actuator, a permanent locking device, and a safety device. The device for transmitting hydraulic power constitutes a load compensator device. The two power transmitting devices operate in parallel. Position control using the drive system at reduced power can be synchronized in a simple way for a plurality of actuators.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2002Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Assignee: Societe EcaInventors: Gérard Falcou, Gérard Yves Mothier, Bruno Robert Thieffry, Jean-Marie Coda
-
Patent number: 6911898Abstract: A system for opening and closing a garage door is provided. The system includes a vehicle communication module mounted to a vehicle, and a garage communication module, the vehicle communication module and the garage communication module preferably performing Bluetooth™ communication. On the basis of the communication of a vehicle identifier and engine state information, a garage door can be automatically opened and closed.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2002Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Ha-Yong Chung
-
Patent number: 6907323Abstract: The invention concerns a vehicle comprising a system enabling a user to control remotely an actuating mechanism (1) connected to an opening panel, in particular a boot opening panel (8). The control system comprises means, equipping the vehicle, for controlling at least an action of the actuating mechanism, according to the movement of an object, such as a hand, vertically in a delimited control zone adjacent to the opening panel. Said movement is determined from signals obtained from at least a movement sensor (7) placed on or proximate to the opening panel and whereof the radiation pattern if fixed to delimit the control zone.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: Valeo ElectroniqueInventor: Jean-Jacques Avenel
-
Patent number: 6886620Abstract: A security bar assembly has a plurality of bars that extend across an opening and have ends joined to drive chains. The bars may extend between two channels positioned on opposite faces of the opening, and may be slidable within the channels. The ends of the bars may be retained in the channels and the ends may have connections to chain links in opposing drive chains which are spaced apart a predetermined number of links to keep the bars a predetermined distance apart. A drive mechanism may be provided for moving the drive chains to slide the bars in the channels and a storage area adjacent the opening associated with the channels to retain the bars when they are not in place over the opening. The channels may each enclose a drive mechanism for independently moving the bar ends in each channel. In such embodiments, the drive mechanisms in the channels may be independently driven respectively by first and second motors. The first and second motors may be synchronized by a non-mechanical communication link.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: May 3, 2005Inventors: Moshe Cohen-Ravid, John A. Lane
-
Patent number: 6880609Abstract: A system for raising and lowering a sectional overhead door between an open position and a closed position including, a counterbalance system adapted to be connected to the door, an operator motor assembly mounted proximate to the sectional overhead door in the closed position of the sectional overhead door, at least a portion of the operator motor assembly movable between a door operating position and a door locking position, and a locking assembly (370) having an engaged position to hold the motor assembly in the operating position and a disengaged position to release the motor assembly allowing it to move to the door locking position. The system may be provided with a remote light assembly having a switchable light source in sensing communication with the operator motor such that operation of the motor activates the light source.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle
-
Patent number: 6868891Abstract: A security bar assembly has a plurality of bars that extend across an opening and have ends joined to drive chains. The bars may extend between two channels positioned on opposite faces of the opening, and may be slidable within the channels. The ends of the bars may be retained in the channels and the ends may have connections to chain links in opposing drive chains which are spaced apart a predetermined number of links to keep the bars a predetermined distance apart. A drive mechanism may be provided for moving the drive chains to slide the bars in the channels and a storage area adjacent the opening associated with the channels to retain the bars when they are not in place over the opening. Transfer mechanisms are provided for moving the security bars between a stored position and a position in which the bars engage the bar drive chain.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2001Date of Patent: March 22, 2005Inventors: Moshe Cohen-Ravid, John Alexander Lane
-
Patent number: 6851465Abstract: A system for raising and lowering a sectional overhead door between an open position and a closed position including, a counterbalance system adapted to be connected to the door, an operator motor assembly mounted proximate to the sectional overhead door in the closed position of the sectional overhead door, at least a portion of the operator motor assembly movable between a door operating position and a door locking position, and a locking assembly (370) having an engaged position to hold the motor assembly in the operating position and a disengaged position to release the motor assembly allowing it to move to the door locking position. The system may be provided with a remote light assembly having a switchable light source in sensing communication with the operator motor such that operation of the motor activates the light source.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle
-
Patent number: 6848556Abstract: A movable barrier operator (10) has a first disconnect mechanism (20) and a second disconnect mechanism (35) wherein either mechanism can be used to cause the output drive of the operator to be disengaged from the movable barrier to allow the movable barrier to be manually moved. In one embodiment, the second disconnect mechanism (35) is located distal to the operator itself such that the disengagement mechanism can be operated from an area external to the operator.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.Inventors: Weixiong Chen, Leon J. Tate
-
Patent number: 6845804Abstract: An operator (10, 210) for moving in upward and downward directions a sectional door (D) having a counterbalancing system (30) including a drive tube (31) interconnected with the door comprising, a reversible motor (41), a drive gear (52) selectively driven in two directions by the motor, a driven gear (54) freely rotatably mounted on the drive tube and engaging the drive gear, a slide guide (56) non-rotatably mounted on the drive tube, a disconnect (70) mounted on the slide guide and selectively movable between a first position rotatably connecting the driven gear and the slide guide and a second position disconnecting the drive gear and the slide guide, and an actuator (80) for selectively moving the disconnect between the first position and the second position.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2003Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventor: Willis J. Mullet
-
Patent number: 6847303Abstract: A garage door power module is provided with the capability of operating over a number of different operating frequencies by configuring a power module chassis with a receptacle for receiving radio receivers where each of the receivers is adapted to receive one of radio signals. The receptacle located near one edge of the chassis and is configured with a planer surface and support members that permit the receivers to be slidably inserted and removed from the receptacle. In addition the radio receiver is equipped with a plug connector and the receptacle is equipped with a socket for receiving the plug connector in order to transmit radio control signals from the receiver to logic control circuits in the power module.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Marantec America CorporationInventor: Michael Hoermann
-
Patent number: 6830793Abstract: A composite material is provided that includes an array of machine elements disposed within a matrix material. Each machine element includes a cross-section defining an internal space that is filled with a viscous fluid. Preferably, the machine elements are provided in complementary pairs of tubular members, with the internal spaces of the tubular members communicating with one another. When subjected to a predetermined force, the cross-sections of the tubular members change shape, changing the volume of the internal spaces, and causing fluid to flow into or out of the internal spaces. Preferably, under the predetermined force, one tubular member increases in volume and the other tubular member simultaneously decreases in volume, thereby causing fluid to flow between the tubular elements to dissipate energy from the predetermined force.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2002Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: The Aerospace CorporationInventors: Gary F Hawkins, John W. Murdock
-
Publication number: 20040182528Abstract: A sectional door having a door frame, a door panel comprising sections coupled to another in articulated manner, a weight equalization device coupled to the door panel, and an electrical door drive for opening and closing movements of said door panel. The uppermost section in the closed position of the door panel, is guided on running rails as the header section, wherein said rails extend essentially horizontally up to the door frame, and have a vertical end segment on the frame side. The other sections that follow below the header section are guided in guide rails that have a vertical segment along the door frame, a horizontal segment parallel to the running rail that holds the header section, and an arc that joins the two segments. With this device, the door drive is attached to one of the sections connected below the header section, and has at least one power take-off shaft having an impeller at the end. The driven impeller engages in the guide rail and moves the door panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2004Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventors: Franz-Wilhelm Rieder, Marco Gockus, Stefan Hofling
-
Publication number: 20040177934Abstract: A garage door movement apparatus comprising a garage door vertically movable in tracks to open and close a garage door opening. A jack shaft may be mounted horizontally above the door opening and support a sprocket disposed thereon. A chain may be connected to the door near a bottom thereof and engaged with the sprocket. A spring may be disposed about the jack shaft to provide rotation forces to act against the weight of the door. A track for carrying the garage door is mounted near the garage door opening and has at least a vertical section. In order to convey downward forces on the door from the sprocket, the chain between the sprocket and the door bottom may include a substantially vertical section of a chain guide, which is disposed beneath the sprocket in a direction substantially parallel with the door track.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2003Publication date: September 16, 2004Applicant: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.Inventor: Robert J. Olmsted
-
Patent number: 6789599Abstract: A door driving-mechanism torque transmission (20, 40, or 50) for transmitting torque from a door-driving motor assembly, especially a geared motor (36), to a shaft (33) connected to a door panel (31). A driving component rotates around an axis and can be engaged with the door-driving motor assembly. A driven component rotates around another axis and can be engaged with the shaft. A bearing assembly accommodates both components mounted on separated axes of rotation. There is a coupling connection (2) between both components. The object is to promote smooth operation and decrease frequency of repair. The bearing assembly (4 or 51) is accordingly provided with a driving-component bearing half (5 or 52) that the driving component (1) is mounted on and with, separated therefrom, a driven-component bearing half (6 or 53) that the driven component (3) is mounted on. The bearing halves (5 & 6 or 52 & 53) are connected elastically for the purpose of attenuating torsional vibrations and impacts.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2002Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Inventors: Herr Viktor Schütz, Herr Michael Sanke
-
Patent number: 6761205Abstract: A flow device for location within an aperture (A) to regulate flow through the aperture on a path from a first location (5) on one side of the aperture to a second location (6) on the other side of the aperture wherein there is provided a barrier (1) defined by a sequence of vertical elements; device for driving the sequence of elements, so that the barrier serves to generate a predetermined wave form along the path such that the barrier serves to create in sequence: an entry region for occupation by at least one individual which entry region is initially open toward the one side of the aperture but isolated from the other side of the aperture; a traversing region (R) on the path generated from the entry region by progressive movement of the barrier, and an exit region open towards the other side of the aperture but isolated form the one side.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Inventor: Eric John Atherton
-
Patent number: 6752476Abstract: A structure of a garbage-box having a container body and a collection container, a moving door module being provided to the garbage inlet of the container body, characterized in that a sensor is provided to a top plate of the container body to sense the approaching of a person to open the moving door on the container body, another sensor is located within the container body, a pair of corresponding inverted L-shaped guiding rail seat are provided at the inner wall of the container body, the transmission shaft is pivotally mounted to the two guiding rail seats, the two ends of the transmission shaft are respectively mounted with a zigzag gear to drive flexible moving door, the bottom end of the flexible moving door, corresponding to the micro-touch switch, is provided with a pushing block so as to sense the opening of the flexible moving door.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2001Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Inventor: Chung Jen Lin
-
Patent number: 6745814Abstract: Guide track assemblies for upward acting doors include identical vertical and horizontal linear track sections and a curvilinear transition track section. The linear track sections include spaced-apart elongated slots formed at acute angles with respect to the longitudinal extent of the track sections for cooperation with retainer members mounted on angle-shaped jamb brackets. A header bracket also includes one or more retainer members thereon for disposition in similar elongated slots formed in the curvilinear track section. The linear track sections fit in telescoping relationship within enlarged end portions of the curvilinear track section. The configurations of the header brackets, jamb brackets and track sections facilitate quick assembly and easy positional adjustment of the track sections with respect to a door opening covered by a door guided by the track assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2002Date of Patent: June 8, 2004Assignee: Overhead Door CorporationInventors: Richard K. Hoofard, Celestino Duran, David M. Wells
-
Patent number: 6742564Abstract: Hardware that improves safety and minimizes the risk involved in installing, maintaining, and operating sectional doors that use springs to facilitate door movement. A lock-on side bearing bracket bears up a spring on a garage door. This side-bearing bracket includes a hook and a perpendicular tab to prevent the spring from dangerously releasing its energy when parts supporting the spring are removed or fail. A lock-on bottom roller bracket having a bottom bearing plate and a safety hook similarly prevents a potential release of energy when the garage door lift cable is tensed. A curled portion at the bottom of the lift cable prevents the cable from coming off the drum. A safety latch with a latch bar and a latch cover acts as a lock for the garage door.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Martin Door Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: David O. Martin
-
Publication number: 20040094275Abstract: An automatic door and method of operating the same. The door includes a first processor which may be located proximate a leading movable edge of the door and a second processor which is remotely located from the first processor. The first and second processors are operably coupled with a bus configured to transmit digital signals therebetween. One or more input devices may be coupled with the first processor to indicate the status of an operational parameter of the door. Operational parameters are transmitted to the second processor, which controls a drive operably coupled with the door to control the position thereof in response to such operational parameters. The second processor is configured such that, upon breakdown of communication between the first and second processors, the second processor causes the door to enter into a predetermined status.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2003Publication date: May 20, 2004Inventors: E. Carl Goodman, D. George Field, Kevin D. Banta, John G. Garrett
-
Publication number: 20040069419Abstract: Disclosed is a door (2) comprising a door leaf (1) and a door operator (10) for motorized operation of the door leaf (1) as well as an ID controlling and actuating means (12, 52) for mounting outside from the zone to be closed off, by means of which following or during implementation of an ID check an authorized user can enable the door operator (10) for the purpose of opening the door (2). Preferably to save, in an easy way time, material and money it is proposed in accordance with the invention to mount the ID controlling and actuating means (12, 52) on or in the door leaf (1) for movement therewith. In addition, the invention relates to a method of fabricating, furnishing and/or fitting such a door (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventors: Axel Becker, Matthias Hedrich, Franz Ziesche
-
Patent number: 6719032Abstract: Shutter (4) with articulated elements (6) guided by two rails (8) having a first rectilinear part (8V) mounted in the plane that the shutter (4) is to occupy in the closed position, connected by a curved part (8C) to a second rectilinear part (8H), mounted in the plane that the shutter (4) is to occupy in the open position. This shutter (4) is equipped with an electrical drive device having: two drive tracks (10) mounted respectively along said second rectilinear part (8H) of the rails (8), a carriage (5) having a frame carried and guided by the second rectilinear part (8H) of the rails (8), there being mounted on this frame a drive shaft (24), an electric motor (22) and a transmission between the shaft (24) and the motor (22), pinions (27) or notched wheels fixed to the two ends of the shaft (24) meshing with the drive tracks (10), connection mechanisms (30, 31) between the carriage (5) and the closest shutter element (6), and a control station for controlling the running and stopping of the motor.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2001Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Inventor: Edward Miers
-
Patent number: 6719033Abstract: The present invention discloses the novel placement of two pairs of vertical track disposed adjacent to each other together with a pair of radiused horizontal tracks being attached to the outer pair of vertical tracks allowing the use of a flexible lift and reverse cable system to open, close and reverse multi-paneled garage doors. Use of an inner and outer pair of vertical tracks disposed adjacent to each other allows the lowermost rollers to be guided on the inner vertical tracks and the remaining rollers to be guided on the outer vertical tracks and, ultimately, the horizontal tracks as the garage door opens. This configuration allows the lift cable a clear pathway to travel from the drum down the center of the inner vertical tracks to the connection with the shaft journal mounted near the bottom of the garage door.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2002Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Inventor: Karl Stoltenberg
-
Patent number: 6712116Abstract: A drive mechanism for use with an overhead shaft of a sectional door for raising and lowering the door via a rotation of the overhead shaft. The drive mechanism has a support structure, a first gear, a drive shaft, a second gear, a pocket wheel and an actuator. The second gear is interconnected to the first gear so that a rotation of the second gear is transmitted to the first gear and vice versa. The pocket wheel is operable between first and second positions. The second gear is rotatable along a first direction corresponding to a raising of the sectional door and along an opposite second direction corresponding to a lowering of the sectional door. The actuator is used for rotating the pocket wheel about the drive shaft, operating the pocket wheel between the first and second positions, and driving the second gear along the first and second directions when the pocket wheel is in the second and first positions respectively.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Canimex Inc.Inventors: Michel Beaudoin, Pierre-Louis Foucault, Richard Tremblay, Jonathan Fréchette
-
Publication number: 20040020611Abstract: The invention concerns a shutter device (1) in particular for closing an aperture (3) or the like, by displacement of the shutter (1) relative to one or several guide paths (7, 8), wherein the transmission means (5, 6) co-operating with the guide paths (7, 8), are provided between the lateral edges (9, 10) of the shutter (1) and the guide paths (7, 8) such that when a certain tractive force transverse to the longitudinal direction of the guide paths (7, 8) is exerted on the lateral edges (9, 10) of the shutter (1), said edges (9, 10) are separated at least partly from said transmission means (5, 6).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 2, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventor: Benoit Coenraets
-
Publication number: 20040020612Abstract: The invention concerns an ceiling electromechanical actuator for up-and-over and sectional doors. It comprises a guide profile (11), a sliding block or carriage (12) moving along the guide profile and connected to the door to be controlled, and an electrical gear motor (19) to control the opening and closing movements of the door by means of a transmission chain (13). The transmission chain (13) has one end (13′) attached to the sliding block or carriage (12), turns on said sprocket (18) driven by a gear motor (19) and returns, with a free end section (13″) in the guide profile (11) in a direction parallel to the movement of said sliding block or carriage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventor: Giuseppe Bosio
-
Patent number: 6674255Abstract: An improved window covering and lighting system for a window in a room includes a plurality of cornices, each cornice including a window covering supported by the cornice and movable between an open position and a closed position, an actuator supported by the cornice for moving the window covering between the open position and the closed position, a lighting system mounted to the cornice, and a programmable logic unit for operating at least one of the actuator and the lighting system independently from one another upon demand. The system also includes a remote control unit providing a signal selectively to the programmable logic unit to operate at least one of the plurality of cornices. Each of the plurality of cornices further includes a light sensor for sensing ambient light conditions in the room, and a motion detector for detecting occupance of the room. The programmable logic control unit is responsive to the sensed ambient light conditions and the detected occupance.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Decotex 2000 CorporationInventors: John T. Schnebly, Kevin C. Martin, Randy Koleda, Leo Litto
-
Patent number: 6662848Abstract: An automatic door and method of operating the same. The door includes a first processor which may be located proximate a leading movable edge of the door and a second processor which is remotely located from the first processor. The first and second processors are operably coupled with a bus configured to transmit digital signals therebetween. One or more input devices may be coupled with the first processor to indicate the status of an operational parameter of the door. Operational parameters are transmitted to the second processor, which controls a drive operably coupled with the door to control the position thereof in response to such operational parameters. The second processor is configured such that, upon breakdown of communication between the first and second processors, the second processor causes the door to enter into a predetermined status.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Won-Door CorporationInventors: E. Carl Goodman, D. George Field, Kevin D. Banta, John G. Garrett
-
Publication number: 20030205337Abstract: A system for raising and lowering a sectional overhead door between an open position and a closed position including, a counterbalance system adapted to be connected to the door, an operator motor assembly mounted proximate to the sectional overhead door in the closed position of the sectional overhead door, at least a portion of the operator motor assembly movable between a door operating position and a door locking position, and a locking assembly (370) having an engaged position to hold the motor assembly in the operating position and a disengaged position to release the motor assembly allowing it to move to the door locking position. The system may be provided with a remote light assembly having a switchable light source in sensing communication with the operator motor such that operation of the motor activates the light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2003Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle
-
Publication number: 20030205338Abstract: A system for raising and lowering a sectional overhead door between an open position and a closed position including, a counterbalance system adapted to be connected to the door, an operator motor assembly mounted proximate to the sectional overhead door in the closed position of the sectional overhead door, at least a portion of the operator motor assembly movable between a door operating position and a door locking position, and a locking assembly (370) having an engaged position to hold the motor assembly in the operating position and a disengaged position to release the motor assembly allowing it to move to the door locking position. The system may be provided with a remote light assembly having a switchable light source in sensing communication with the operator motor such that operation of the motor activates the light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2003Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle
-
Patent number: 6640871Abstract: In one aspect, the invention provides an endless loop lock including a drive wheel adapted to be driven or not driven. An endless loop may be provided, engaging the drive wheel and adapted to be driven by the drive wheel to move a device, such as a security bar, connected to the endless loop. A guide may be provided, biased against the endless loop at a position spaced apart from the drive wheel. A lock may be provided, for engaging the endless loop to inhibit movement of the endless loop, the guide being positioned to bias the endless loop out of engagement with the lock when the endless loop is driven by the drive wheel. The lock may be actuated by a force applied to the device connected to the endless loop when the drive wheel is not driven.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventors: Moshe Cohen-Ravid, John Alexander Lane
-
Patent number: 6637494Abstract: A combined electric/manual folding door 100 of the invention comprises: a small door (60) having a pivot on one side edge, and a large door 50 foldably connected to the small door 60 via a hinge 9. The width of the small door 60 to the large door 50 is set at 1:2. A guide roller 8 is attached to an upper face central portion of the large door 50. The guide roller 8 can move freely inside a suspension rail 7 arranged parallel with the upper side of the doors 50, 60. An electric drive section 3 drives the large door 50 via a rotation rod 5. The electric drive section 3 also drives when a load is detected applied to door pulls 21, 22 for manual opening and closing, to thereby assist the manual opening and closing.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Misky Limited CorporationInventor: Shuji Nabeta
-
Publication number: 20030196766Abstract: An operator (10, 210) for moving in upward and downward directions a sectional door (D) having a counterbalancing system (30) including a drive tube (31) interconnected with the door comprising, a reversible motor (41), selectively driven in two directions by the motor, a driven gear (54) freely rotatably mounted on the drive tube and engaging the drive gear, a slide guide (56) non-rotatably mounted on the drive tube, a disconnect (70) mounted on the slide guide and selectively movable between a first position rotatably connecting the driven gear and the slide guide and a second position disconnecting the drive gear and the slide guide, and an actuator (80) for selectively moving the disconnect between the first position and the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2003Publication date: October 23, 2003Inventor: Willis J. Mullet
-
Patent number: 6634408Abstract: An automatic barrier operator system for operating a gate or upward acting garage door, for example, includes a controller for operating a reversible motor, a base radio frequency transmitter and a base radio frequency receiver. One or more remote control units include a radio frequency remote receiver and remote transmitter. The controller is operable to automatically close or open the barrier in response to a query signal sent from the base transmitter to the remote receiver and when the remote receiver is within range, returning a signal to effect operation of the barrier. The system is operable to effect operation or maintain the status quo of the barrier depending on the state of the barrier and a particular signal or lack of signal received by the controller from an authorized remote control unit or units. The system provides essentially hands-free automatic operation of opening and closing a garage door and the like.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2001Date of Patent: October 21, 2003Inventor: Wesley M. Mays
-
Publication number: 20030192657Abstract: A system for raising and lowering a sectional overhead door between an open position and a closed position including, a counterbalance system adapted to be connected to the door, an operator motor assembly mounted proximate to the sectional overhead door in the closed position of the sectional overhead door, at least a portion of the operator motor assembly movable between a door operating position and a door locking position, and a locking assembly (370) having an engaged position to hold the motor assembly in the operating position and a disengaged position to release the motor assembly allowing it to move to the door locking position. The system may be provided with a remote light assembly having a switchable light source in sensing communication with the operator motor such that operation of the motor activates the light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2003Publication date: October 16, 2003Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle
-
Patent number: 6605910Abstract: A door operator and related method of setting custom limits on movable barrier travel, includes a motor for moving the movable barrier between two travel limit positions, an operator for controlling operation of the motor, and a disconnect system coupled between the motor and the operator. The disconnect system is switchable between a connected position and a disconnected position, wherein the motor can engage the operator only when the disconnect system is in the connected position. The operator is connected to a potentiometer for ascertaining movable barrier position, regardless of the position of the disconnect system, and provides position information to the operator. A travel limit is set by placing the disconnect system in the disconnected position and manually moving the door to a desired position whereupon the disconnect system is moved to the connected position so that the operator can detect a positional location to be designated as one of the travel limits.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, David B. Davies
-
Patent number: 6588483Abstract: A locking system for a roll-up door that is substantially integrated into the roll-up door so that the locking resists vandalism and damage.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2001Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Inventor: Avron Rosenberg
-
Publication number: 20030121619Abstract: A garage door security device for use with a GDOS in a garage to prevent unauthorized access to the garage includes a switch actuator device for actuating and de-actuating an electric current, a female socket operably connected to the switch actuator and for receiving a male plug of the GDOS, a male plug operably connected to the switch actuator and configured to be received within a conventional electric outlet, and wherein the switch actuator includes on/off capabilities to allow or prevent electric current to flow from the electric outlet to the GDOS.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2001Publication date: July 3, 2003Inventor: Roman Szpur
-
Patent number: 6568454Abstract: A system for raising and lowering a sectional overhead door between an open position and a closed position including, a counterbalance system adapted to be connected to the door, an operator motor assembly mounted proximate to the sectional overhead door in the closed position of the sectional overhead door, at least a portion of the operator motor assembly movable between a door operating position and a door locking position, and a locking assembly (370) having an engaged position to hold the motor assembly in the operating position and a disengaged position to release the motor assembly allowing it to move to the door locking position. The system may be provided with a remote light assembly having a switchable light source in sensing communication with the operator motor such that operation of the motor activates the light source.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2000Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventors: Willis J. Mullet, Donald Bruce Kyle
-
Patent number: 6561255Abstract: An operator (10,210) for moving in upward and downward directions a sectional door (D) having a counterbalancing system (30) including a drive tube (31) interconnected with the door comprising, a reversible motor (41), a drive gear (52) selectively driven in two directions by the motor, a driven gear (54) freely rotatably mounted on the drive tube and engaging the drive gear, a slide guide (56) non-rotatably mounted on the drive tube, a disconnect (70) mounted on the slide guide and selectively movable between a first position rotatably connecting the driven gear and the slide guide and a second position disconnecting the drive gear and the slide guide, and an actuator (80) for selectively moving the disconnect between the first position and the second position.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.Inventor: Willis J. Mullet
-
Patent number: 6554047Abstract: Guide track assemblies for upward acting doors include substantially linear vertical and horizontal track sections and curvilinear transition sections formed as portions of each of the vertical and horizontal linear sections. The track assemblies are supported, respectively, by mounting brackets which also support a counterbalance mechanism for the door. The curvilinear transition track sections are formed integral with the vertical and horizontal track sections and may have a constant or elliptical radius of curvature, the latter to provide clearance for the guide track assemblies in low headroom installations. The mounting brackets are formed of stamped metal plates which are folded to provide a first flange for attaching the mounting bracket to a structural wall, a support part including a flag portion for connection to the guide track sections and a second flange for connection to a door counterbalance mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2000Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Overhead Door CorporationInventors: Joseph J. Mondragon, Richard K. Hoofard, Robert K. Wright, James W. Compton, LeRoy G. Krupke, Robert S. Cogger
-
Patent number: 6527035Abstract: Guide track assemblies for upward acting doors include identical vertical and horizontal linear track sections and a curvilinear transition track section. The linear track sections include spaced-apart elongated slots formed at acute angles with respect to the longitudinal extent of the track sections for cooperation with retainer members mounted on angle-shaped jamb brackets. A header bracket also includes one or more retainer members thereon for disposition in similar elongated slots formed in the curvilinear track section. The linear track sections fit in telescoping relationship within enlarged end portions of the curvilinear track section. The configurations of the header brackets, jamb brackets and track sections facilitate quick assembly and easy positional adjustment of the track sections with respect to a door opening covered by a door guided by the track assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: Overhead Door CorporationInventors: Richard K. Hoofard, Celestino Duran, David M. Wells
-
Publication number: 20030029579Abstract: An automatic barrier operator system for operating a gate or upward acting garage door, for example, includes a controller for operating a reversible motor, a base radio frequency transmitter and a base radio frequency receiver. One or more remote control units include a radio frequency remote receiver and remote transmitter. The controller is operable to automatically close or open the barrier in response to a query signal sent from the base transmitter to the remote receiver and when the remote receiver is within range, returning a signal to effect operation of the barrier. The system is operable to effect operation or maintain the status quo of the barrier depending on the state of the barrier and a particular signal or lack of signal received by the controller from an authorized remote control unit or units. The system provides essentially hands-free automatic operation of opening and closing a garage door and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2001Publication date: February 13, 2003Applicant: OVERHEAD DOOR CORPORATIONInventor: Wesley M. Mays
-
Patent number: 6516858Abstract: A headrail including a detachable battery holder for powered coverings for architectural openings is disclosed. The headrail comprises a housing defining an interior into which a battery magazine is removably mounted. In this manner, the batteries are hidden within the headrail for a more aesthetically pleasing look than can be achieved when the batteries are mounted outside of the headrail. The housing may include one or more small slots into which corresponding tabs on end caps mounted on the ends of the battery magazine may be inserted. The housing may also include a larger opening through which batteries may be inserted into or extracted from the battery magazine while it is mounted in the housing. Further, the housing may include one or more elongated openings for cooling, or through which installed batteries may be inspected, or into which tools may be inserted to move the batteries that are installed in the battery magazine.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2000Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Inventors: Richard N. Anderson, Donald E. Fraser, Everett S. Coleman