Abstract: The invention relates to a device for releasing and resetting a fire and smoke barrier. In a normal use state, a clutch member is held by an electromagnetic attraction unit, so that a push rod ejecting module cannot be actuated, and a door operator is controlled by a clutch module thereof. Upon power failure, for example upon an accident, the clutch member is released by the electromagnetic attraction unit, and a barrier release member is activated by the push rod ejecting module so as to shut the fire and smoke barrier. Upon power restoration, the clutch member is attracted and held by the electromagnetic attraction unit, and the push rod ejecting module is reset by a push rod resetting module. At the same time, the barrier release member is also reset.

Abstract: An automatic original cover operator of a copying machine, includes a hinge part and a driving part. The hinge part includes a mounting member attached to the main body of the copying machine, a supporting member rotatably mounted on the mounting member via a main shaft, a lifting member rotatably mounted on side plates of the supporting member via a drive shaft, a part for controlling rotation of the hinge part, the part for controlling rotation serving to urge the supporting member in an opening direction of the original cover and the lifting member to overlap the supporting member, and a rotation controlling mechanism for the lifting member. The driving part includes a drive case, a drive motor mounted in the drive case, and a reduction mechanism mounted in the drive case for transmitting a rotation drive force from the drive motor to the main shaft.

Abstract: A method and system is provided that controls pet access to various different locations and/or objects. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention provides an automated system whereby pets are identified by sensors and allowed access to various locations and/or objects, such as food contained within a feeder dish for example. The feeder further includes a door structure and control system that keeps the pet safe through the use of a door which is made up of several repeated panels which together move to cover the food when access is not allowed and having a jam sensing system in order to protect pets from being caught in the closing door. Further embodiments employ the system to control access to litter boxes, pet toys, pet watering systems, pet gate access, pet containment systems or pet doors.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method conducted by a movable barrier gateway device is disclosed for controlling a movable barrier, comprising receiving, by a communication interface, a remote command from a remote control device to move the movable barrier, the remote command sent over a network, delaying transmission of a signal to a movable barrier controller to move the movable barrier, by a processor, for a predetermined time period after the remote command is received, detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period by a barrier movement detector, and ignoring the remote command by the processor in response to detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period.

Abstract: Control devices that operate automatic door controllers and methods of operating automatic door controllers are disclosed. An embodiment of controller control device that operates with an automatic door closer includes a sensor that is attached to the door, the sensor operable to transmit data indicative of the orientation of the door. The controller also includes a receiver that is operable to receive the data from the sensor; monitor the orientation of the door based on the data received from the sensor; transmit a door closing instruction to the automatic door closer when the door orientation has been open for a first period; and pause the transmitting of door closing information to the automatic door closer for a second period when a pause input is received from a user.

Abstract: A system and method of determining the status of an appliance door is provided. The status of the door of the appliance can be determined based an output signal provided by a door switch coupled in series with a latch motor feedback. A change in the output signal of the door switch can be indicative of either the opening of the appliance door or the actuating of the latch motor. The source of the change in an output of the door switch can be determined based on the latch command provided to the latch motor. The appliance can be controlled based on the status of the appliance door.

Abstract: Control devices that operate automatic door controllers and methods of operating automatic door controllers are disclosed. An embodiment of controller control device that operates with an automatic door closer includes a sensor that is attached to the door, the sensor operable to transmit data indicative of the orientation of the door. The controller also includes a receiver that is operable to receive the data from the sensor; monitor the orientation of the door based on the data received from the sensor; transmit a door closing instruction to the automatic door closer when the door orientation has been open for a first period; and pause the transmitting of door closing information to the automatic door closer for a second period when a pause input is received from a user.

Abstract: An emergency vehicle window opener that includes a power window switch that controls an electrical motor to open and to close a window of a vehicle, a retractable handle that is extended to manually open and close the window of the vehicle, a first pinion gear connected to the retractable handle, a second pinion gear that is engaged with the first pinion gear, an electrical magnet, an electrical switch, an actuator having a controller that receives an emergency signal and controls the electrical switch based on the emergency signal, a coupling part, a coupling button, and a coupling spring.

Abstract: A movable barrier system with a moving-barrier imminent motion notification includes a movable barrier and a movable barrier operator connected to control movement of the movable barrier between a first position and a second position. To reduce user dissatisfaction with the moving-barrier imminent motion notification, communications to the movable barrier operator include information to assist the operator in determining whether to operate the moving-barrier imminent motion notification in combination with moving the door or to specifically command that the moving-barrier imminent motion notification operate or not. The communication may include a signal or input separate from and in addition to a typical command signal or input to the operator.

Abstract: A security kit is provided for automatic closing of a garage door after a predetermined time of garage door being open. The security kit comprises a replacement wall switch for operating the garage door operating mechanism. The replacement wall switch comprises a timer module and a sensor disposed to detect that the garage door is open or closed. The sensor is coupled to a timer input. The sensor and the timer cooperatively operate such that when the sensor detects that the garage door is closed, the timer is reset and disabled, and further cooperatively operate such that when the sensor detects that the garage door is open, the timer initiates timing a predetermined time period. The timer operates a switch at end of the predetermined time period to cause the garage door mechanism to close the garage door.

Abstract: A security kit is provided for automatic closing of a garage door after a predetermined time of garage door being open. The security kit comprises a replacement wall switch for operating the garage door operating mechanism. The replacement wall switch comprises a timer module and a sensor disposed to detect that the garage door is open or closed. The sensor is coupled to a timer input. The sensor and the timer cooperatively operate such that when the sensor detects that the garage door is closed, the timer is reset and disabled, and further cooperatively operate such that when the sensor detects that the garage door is open, the timer initiates timing a predetermined time period. The timer operates a switch at end of the predetermined time period to cause the garage door mechanism to close the garage door.

Abstract: A touch control arrangement is arranged for a container having a foldable cover being folded between an opened position and a closed position via an actuation unit. The touch control arrangement includes a power source and a touch actuator electrically linked to the power source, wherein the touch actuator is located out of the storage cavity of the container body and is arranged in such a manner that when the touch actuator is activated by a presence of a touch, the actuation unit is actuated to move the foldable cover from the closed position to the opened position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to door control systems, especially to door control systems for power-controlled swinging doors of a vehicle, wherein the door control system is adapted to control the movement of a door panel being pivotable between a closed position and an open position, and comprising a belt drive system having a belt and two pulleys, a driving element securely connected to the belt, a connection arm pivotally connected to the driving element in one end and adapted to be fixedly connected to the door panel to be controlled in another end, driving means to drive the belt drive system, and a control unit to control the driving means to move the driving element along a predetermined path. The door control system may have an automatic safety stop if an obstruction in the path of the moving door is detected. The vehicle may be a disability-adapted vehicle.

Abstract: An automatic pet door device having a pet-specific identification component whereby only authorized animals are permitted to access the pet door.

Abstract: A system for use with a emergency exit door, comprising: a door opener including a stationary actuator with a movable distal arm for pushing the door open; a door strike mountable to a door frame having an opening to receive a latch of the emergency exit door, the electric door strike including a gate having a locked condition and a release condition; a controller connected to the door opener and the door strike; a remote activator having a triggered condition, which provides a signal to the controller when the remote activator is triggered, to unlock the gate and then the door opener, to open the emergency exit door.

Abstract: A closure device is provided for opening and/or re-closing a wall element, with an unlocking locking device for opening and re-closing the wall element. A holding device is provided by which the wall element is arranged in a first function position from which it is re-closed again or by which the wall element is arranged in a second function position, from which the wall element is openably held. A control device is provided that releases a tensioning device of the unlocking locking device. For a first release period with which the wall element is loaded with a force in the direction of the second function position. When the wall element on actuation of an actuating device is closed or arranged in the first function position and at least locks the tensioning device after the second release period when the wall element on actuating the actuating means is opened.

Abstract: A method of controlling an operation of an induction actuated container cover includes the steps of (a) normally retaining a cover panel of the container cover in a closed position; (b) detecting a target movement of a user by a sensor; (c) generating a first actuating signal to an actuation unit when the sensor detects the target movement of the user; (d) generating an actuation output from the actuation unit to the cover panel of the container cover, wherein the actuation output contains a decelerating and torque enhancing force which moves the cover panel of the container cover at an opened position; (e) pivotally actuating the cover panel of the container cover at the opened position via the actuation output to expose a storage cavity, and (f) generating a second actuating signal to pivotally actuate the cover panel of the container cover back to the closed position.

Abstract: A movable barrier operator (303) that is configured and arranged to selectively control movement of a barrier (302), upon detecting (101) motion of an object, can automatically modify (102) near term automated movement options for that barrier. As but one example in this regard, this can comprise automatically temporarily modifying planned movement of the barrier as was instigated by reception of a remote control command from a wireless remote control transmitter. By one approach, this can further comprise taking such action as function of the relative distance of the object from a given location. This can provide the basis, for example, of automatically modifying near term automated movement options of the barrier when the object is relatively far from the given location and not modifying such options when the object is relatively close to the given location.

Abstract: A system and method for providing access to animal food utilizes identification tags on domestic animals, generally attached to a collar. The identification tag generates a signal that is detected by a receiver mounted on an enclosed food container. When the receiver detects a pre-selected acceptable signal from an animal, it activates a motor that causes a movable portion of the container to move to an open position. If the signal is no longer detected by the receiver, it activates the motor to move the movable portion of the container to a closed position. If the receiver detects a signal from an identification tag that is not one of the pre-selected signals, it activates the motor to move the movable portion of the container to a closed position.

Abstract: An automated garage door closing device for a remote controlled overhead garage door wherein the device is mounted on one of a pair of parallel tracks receiving rollers suitably mounted on the outer edges of the door panels, the device including a switch housing containing a switch for the leading edge of the door, and a circuit located in a second housing adjacent the garage floor and including an interval timer acting to close the door after a predetermined period of time, an audible alarm which is activated upon the garage door reaching the fully open position, a switch deactivating the entire unit when the garage door is deliberately to be left in the fully open position, and a flexible switch arm extending through the switch housing to a position to engage the upper edge of the garage door panel and acts to activate the automated closing device.

Abstract: A system includes a transmitter, a receiver, and a processor. The processor detects a trigger event. In response to the trigger event, the transmitter transmits a detection signal. If the receiver receives a reflected detection signal, the processor determines that a door is in a first position. Additionally, if the receiver receives a reflected detection signal, the processor signals an opener to move the door to a second position.

Abstract: A waste storage device includes an inlet aperture and a length of flexible tubing passing through the inlet aperture from a cassette. The flexible tubing is pinched by a pair of rollers which can have continuous surfaces or multiple paddles. The waste product is placed into the aperture and the rollers rotate drawing the waste product down into the device and pinching the storage bag above it. The operation can be manually or motor driven.

Abstract: An antipinch circuit prevents the motor driven closure of an automotive window if a soft obstacle is compressed between the window and the top of the door frame, and the window is opened in response to the sensing of the obstacle. The circuit measures the motor torque (by measuring motor current) and the motor shaft speed (by measuring motor back EMF). The torque and motor speed are compared to “signatures” of these values in the case of the window closing normally against the top of the door frame, or against an obstacle, and either stopping or reversing the motor rotation accordingly.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a sintered compact is disclosed herein. The method comprises the steps of: (1A) producing a green body containing metal powder, for example, by means of metal injection molding (MIM); (2A) compacting the green body by pressing it preferably by means of an isostatic pressing (2A); (3A) debinding the compacted green body; and (4A) sintering the debinded green body to obtain a sintered compact. The green body compacting step may be carried out during or after the debinding step or during the debinding step. Further, a step for performing machine working on the green body may be included.

Abstract: An automatic gate operator includes an electric drive motor coupled by a drive train to a movable gate, and includes provisions for sensing an actual or impending obstruction or blockage of the movement of the gate by a human, object, or animal, for example. In response to such an actual or impending blocking of the gate's movement, the drive motor is shut off and the gate is braked to a stop. Then the gate is reversed to move a short distance away from the actual or impending blockage or obstruction, and is braked again to a stop. Next, the gate is freed from its connection with the drive motor, allowing manual movement of the gate to allow clearance of the actual or impending blockage or obstruction from the path of the gate. This stop-reverse-stop-release sequence of movements for the gate may release any entrapped person or object which may have been contacted by the moving gate. Also, after the gate is released for free movement it can be moved manually.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retrofitting a manually operated commercial garage door opener to function automatically.

Abstract: A window pane is slidably driven in two guides by an electric motor. A piezoelectric vibrator vibrates the window pane to facilitate sliding movement of the window pane relative to the guides and a delay relay enables the vibrator to start operation before the motor is actuated.

Abstract: A time delay release mechanism has a brake actuator including an actuation member movable between engaged and released positions. The actuation member, when in the engaged position, operatively engages a fire barrier for preventing closure thereof. The actuation member, when in the released position, is operatively disengaged from the fire barrier such that the release mechanism does not prevent closure thereof. A timer includes a magnet which is powered by voltage applied to a capacitor. The magnet is, in turn, connected to the actuator member. When power is interrupted, the capacitor disengages for a predetermined time period. At the conclusion of the time period the magnet releases the actuator which, in turn, releases the brake and causes the fire barrier to close.

Abstract: A remotely controllable door operator system permitting active and passive use of a door includes a transmitter, a receiver, a master timing sequencing mechanism, a clutch-regulated prime mover that can actively move the door, and a mechanism that senses whether the door is fully closed. The door operator is controllable by depressing a single button on the transmitter, which sends a signal to the receiver. If the sense mechanism determines the door is fully closed, the receiver causes the timing mechanism to cause the prime mover to disengage the door latch and to commence actively opening the door for a first time period. The timing mechanism may be user adjusted to control the extent of the door opening by adjusting the length of the first time period.

Abstract: A time delay release mechanism has a brake actuator including an actuation member movable between engaged and released positions. The actuation member, when in the engaged position, operatively engages a fire barrier for preventing closure thereof. The actuation member, when in the released position, is operatively disengaged from the fire barrier such that the release mechanism does not prevent closure thereof. The brake actuator includes an actuation driver which, when receiving electrical power, moves the actuation member to the released position. A timer, when receiving electrical power or when power thereto is interrupted for a duration less than a predetermined time period, disengages from the actuation member allowing the actuation driver, when power thereto is initially interrupted, to move the actuation member to the engaged position.

Abstract: A door closure delay system produces a first signal when a person approaches a doorway housing the door. The first signal is applied to a timing system and a voltage comparator so that a second signal is produced to limit closure of an open door. The second signal is maintained for a predetermined and adjustable time period after the first signal has been removed. More patricularly, a voltage regulator provides a base or reference voltage to the comparator. A sensor, monitoring the doorway or portal, provides a signal voltage to the comparator when a physical presence is in, or in proximity to the doorway. The comparator passes on an output voltage which is stretched (i.e., has its time line extended) to circuitry coupled to a door closer, to delay the closure of the door by the closer.

Abstract: A control device for garage door opener to provide automatic reclose and safety reverse if obstruction occurs is disclosed. Photoelectric sensors are positioned across the door opening to detect the passage of a vehicle through the door and signal the device to reclose the door. The sensors also detect obstruction and reverse closing movement of the door or, otherwise, disable activation of movement. An oscillator causes the door to reclose if the door remained open for a predetermined time interval. Safety warning signal is generated shortly before the oscillator controlled reclosure.

Abstract: The gate of this invention comprises a gate panel 10, a gate hinge mounting means 12 for mounting the gate panel to a hinge post 14 or the like, a gate latching closure means 16 mounted by the gate panel 10 for latching the gate in a closed condition to a latch post 18 or the like, a vehicle-actuatable unlatching means 20 mounted by the gate panel 10 for contact by a vehicle 22 whereby closure means 16 may be unlatched to enable the gate to be swung open by bumping contact from the vehicle 22 from a closed condition 24 to one of two open conditions 26, 28, and a gate latching retaining means 30 mounted by the gate panel 10 for securing the gate to a retaining post 32 or the like in an open condition for a predetermined length of time whereby vehicle 22 may pass through the gate area before the gate is released and allowed to self-close.

Abstract: A symmetrical cell door and operating system comprises a vertically shiftable locking bar mounted in a center column of a cell opening. A cell door is movable in either direction relative to the central column and has upwardly facing locking notches in a lower horizontal frame element to receive the lower end of the locking bar to lock the cell door when moved either to the extreme right or to the extreme left of the center column. An elongated rack is secured to the top of the cell door by a lost motion connection and defines a cam slot engagable with a horizontally projecting actuator on the locking rod to cam the locking bar into and out of the respective locking notch. The rack is reciprocated by a pinion driven by a DC motor.

Abstract: The present invention is a powered sliding door system for a vehicle including a semi-rigid cable adapted to be affixed to the sliding door of a vehicle and a powered electromagnetic clutch for driving the cable longitudinally for opening and closing the sliding door.

Abstract: A semi-automatic gate may be opened from a vehicle by pulling on a line attached to a counterbalance control mechanism. The counterbalance control mechanism comprises a cylinder having a damper-controlled flow of water arrangement which allows an enclosed quantity of water to shift when the gate is opened and to then slowly return past the damper to effect a subsequent gate closing. Water is also used within the gate support structure to provide an additional shifting of weight when the gate is opened or closed.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic remote controlled opening device which may be used to open and close doors, windows or similar closure systems. The opening device includes a receiver to detect control signals generated at a remote location from the device. The control signals are then utilized to effect selective operation of a mechanical system coupled with the closure system for opening and closing thereof. The mechanical system enables smooth and efficient automatic opening and closing, but does not inhibit manual operation of the door or the like. Control circuitry associated with the device enables various functions to be performed for selective operation of the device. The device may also be provided with a stored energy source of power such that it can be retrofit for use with an existing closure system. Auxiliary control of the device enables opening or closing in response to an emergency situation or other circumstances.

Abstract: An add-on device for a motorized garage door opener for automatically closing the door after a delay following the opening of the garage door by a driver and movement of a vehicle out of the garage. The device automatically prevents the door being inadvertently left open, as when a driver forgets to operate a remote controller to close the door.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic remote controlled opening device which may be used to open and close doors, windows or similar closure systems. The opening device includes a receiver to detect control signals generated at a remote location from the device. The control signals are then utilized to effect selective operation of a mechanical system coupled with the closure system for opening and closing thereof. The mechanical system enables smooth and efficient automatic opening and closing, but does not inhibit manual operation of the door or the like. Control circuitry associated with the device enables various functions to be performed for selective operation of the device. The device may also be provided with a stored energy source of power such that it can be retrofit for use with an existing closure system. Auxiliary control of the device enables opening or closing in response to an emergency situation or other circumstances.

Abstract: A system for controlling a gate includes a microprocessor which normally automatically recloses a gate after it has been opened in response to a radio or sensor loop signal, and which normally locks the gate against movement when the gate motor is stopped. When an obstruction is sensed in the path of the gate, the automatic reclosing feature and the sensor loops are disabled, the gate drive remains unlocked even though the motor is stopped, and the response of the system to a radio signal is changed to produce alternating opening and closing of the gate on successive radio signals. At all times, the gate drive lock is released before the motor is started and is not engaged until after the gate has come to rest.

Abstract: A drive apparatus for an opening and closing mechanism includes an electric motor, a clutch, a reduction gear unit and a timer mechanism. The clutch includes a coupling having first and second halves engageable with each other, and an actuator mechanism for connecting and disconnecting the first and second halves. The first half of the coupling is operatively connected to a rotor of the motor. The reduction gear unit is operatively connected to the second half of the clutch. The reduction gear unit has an output shaft for being operably connected to the opening and closing mechanism. The timer mechanism is provided for regulating the operating period of time of the motor in response to the operation of the reduction gear unit.

Abstract: An advance warning system for an automatic electric door operator in which a command signal originating from a remotely located hand held radio transmitter or a wall switch located within the garage is received and processed by a signal receiver and transmitted to a signal delay unit. Upon receipt of the command signal, the delay unit activates a warning light and warning horn to alert persons in the vicinity of the door or operator mechanism that the operator is about to be activated. After a predetermined delay period, the delay unit also generates an operating signal which activates the operator.

Abstract: In the system, exits are provided with opening bars and locks. The system has a central post and control boxes. Each control box is associated with an exit and is connected to the central post. Activation of an opening bar initiates the sending of information to the central post by the associated control box. This triggers a first delay To. During this delay, the opening of the exit can be stopped for a further delay Tc. The opening is allowed at the end of the first delay or at the end of the second delay. A third delay Tp can be triggered during the second delay Tc to allow the opening of the exit under question during the third delay Tp and to relock the exit under question at the end of the third delay Tp, by cancelling the effect of the second delay Tc. The system can also operate in the anti-intrusion mode. In particular, it can be used in stores or public establishments of medium area.

Abstract: A building has at least one security guard post to control the secured building exits, each of which has an unlocking instrumentality, without forbidding their emergency use. When activating the unlocking instrument to open a secured exit, there is a transmission of information to the security guard post and an initiation of a delay during which the security guard can forbid the opening of the exit. The unlocking instrument can also visually indicate events at the exit. The apparatus has an electro-mechanical lock, a sensor which is sensitive to motion of the unlocking instrument, a control line linking each door to be controlled to the security guard post, and a central electronic processing unit. A surveillance circuit responds to the sensor. A security circuit frees the unlocking instrument when a fault is detected.

Abstract: A solid state integrated regulating circuitry for incorporation in the conventional control circuitry of automatic sliding door systems includes timing and processing circuits operative through plural inverters to deliver enabling and disenabling electrical signals to the control circuitry when the elapsed time between cycles of door opening and closing actuations are greater or less than a predetermined time respectively either to prematurely terminate or to have no altering effect upon door opening actuation, thereby to open the doors to a reduced width during low traffic conditions and to open the doors to a full width during high traffic conditions.

Abstract: The fireplace screen comprises a frame defining a central opening and including first and second pairs of vertical guide tracks along opposite lateral sides of the opening. A housing is mounted above the frame and a first flexible covering element is mounted for movement in the first pair of guide tracks. The first flexible covering element comprises a perforate mesh formed of heat resistant material. A second flexible covering element is mounted for movement in the second pair of guide tracks. The second covering element comprises an imperforate heat resistant material. A mechanism is mounted in the housing for individually raising and lowering the first and second covering elements in the guide tracks thereby covering and uncovering the central opening.

Abstract: An arrangement for the lowering and lifting of a window of a motor vehicle door which includes a window lifter mechanism with a driving motor and an operating switch; for improving the closing operation of the vehicle door, particularly with regard to noise, the driving motor is adapted to be influenced by a control installation in such a manner that preferably during the opening of the door the window is displaced into a lowered position and after completion of the closing of the door is again raised into its upper end position.

Abstract: A control apparatus for a pivotal/sliding roof panel powered by a reversible electric drive motor operative to move a roof panel from a closed position in a roof opening in a vehicle to either of a venting or an open position. The control apparatus includes a first, operable switch which connects electrical power in one of two opposite polarities to the electric drive motor. A sensor detects when the roof panel is in the closed position. A control device, energizable by the activation of the first switch and the output of the sensor when the roof panel reaches the closed position from either of the venting or open positions, switches its output to disconnect the drive motor from the source of electric power.

Abstract: A security door and system for installation as the entrance and exit to a building or office to automatically control the passage of persons therethrough and to trap certain persons therein comprising a vestibule having side walls and oppositely disposed doors which open and close automatically under the control of photocell detectors and time delay relays. The photocells energize motors which open a respective door through which the person may enter the unit. After a predetermined time delay the opposite door opens. An emergency switch is provided to override the automatic control so that a person can be trapped and detained within the vestibule if desired or necessary.

Abstract: An apparatus responsive to electric power failure for opening curtains or doors normally covering ventilation openings in a confinement house of the type used for raising poultry and livestock is disclosed. An electromagnet (59) is provided which is energized by the electric power supply (41) to the house (10) and is de-energized upon failure of the electric power supply (41). A pivoted metal strip (61) is normally in contact with the magnet (59) and is interconnected by means of a cord (66) with the winch (25) which is used to raise and lower the curtains (16). When the electric power (41) fails and the electromagnet (59) is de-energized, the cord (66) releases, and allows the curtains (16) to fall under their own weight. A capacitor (78) prevents de-energization of the magnet (59) when momentary power failures occur.