Condition Responsive Control Patents (Class 49/31)
  • Publication number: 20110314737
    Abstract: An electric window lifter of a vehicle with a vehicle door having a frameless window is actuated according to a novel, low-wear actuation method. An entry signal is acquired that allows a conclusion to be drawn about whether a person has entered through this vehicle door. In this case, the window pane that is associated with the window of this given vehicle door is lowered by a short stroke by way of the window lifter in response to a central exit signal only when the entry signal was first identified. The window lifter or power window assembly includes an associated actuation unit with a query module that is configured for automatically carrying out the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: BROSE FAHRZEUGTEILE GMBH & CO. KOMMANDITGESELLSCHAFT, HALLSTADT
    Inventors: THOMAS SCHINDHELM, CHRISTIAN VETTER
  • Publication number: 20110297787
    Abstract: The invention relates to a door (20) for an aircraft engine nacelle (6), comprising an opening leaf (22), locking means (32, 36) with which the opening leaf may be locked in the closed position, as well as means (28) for setting the opening leaf (22) into motion with which the latter may be displaced from the closed position to the open position. According to the invention, said locking means have a mechanical fuse (50) intended to break under the effect of a force exerted by the opening leaf (22) and resulting from an opening gas pressure being applied on the opening leaf, with a value greater than or equal to a predetermined value and causing displacement of the opening leaf from the closed position to the open position after breakage of the mechanical fuse (50).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicants: Airbus (S.A.S.), Airbus Operations (S.A.S.)
    Inventors: Pierre GUILLAUME, Patrick Lair
  • Publication number: 20110283619
    Abstract: The invention in certain embodiments relates to a control circuit for an electric-motor-operated window lifter (10) of a motor vehicle (1), the control circuit having a first switch (11) for opening a vehicle window (7), a second switch (12) for closing the vehicle window (7), and a control device (15), which, when one of the switches (11, 12) is activated, actuates the window lifter (10) to move the vehicle window (7) in the opening direction or closing direction. The control device (15) monitors the lighting current (ILED) which flows across a lighting element (14) for the switches (11, 12), and generates a control signal (I12), if appropriate, for opening the vehicle window (7) if the lighting current (ILED) exceeds an overcurrent threshold value (IRef) thereby detecting inundation of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co., Kommanditgesellsch aft, Hallstadt
    Inventors: Ralf Daiminger, Andre Eberlein, Sven Baumann
  • Publication number: 20110265382
    Abstract: A system for moving a barrier protecting a restricted area. A stationary linear induction motor moves the barrier by applying a magnetic field from the linear induction motor to a reaction fin attached to the barrier. The reaction fin has a rectangular beam or protrusion forming a groove on each side, which is engaged with guide members to guide the barrier. Holes are evenly spaced along the length of the reaction fin. Magnetic sensors sense the holes during movement of the barrier to determine the speed, position and direction of the barrier. A locking mechanism engages a pin into any one of the holes to lock the barrier in a fixed location. A heater is disposed within the rectangular beams or protrusions of the reaction fin to melt ice in cold weather environments. The system is operated by a main control logic that receives input data from the electronic sensors and controls the linear induction motor, heater and locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Applicant: VMag Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Russell W. Timmermann
  • Publication number: 20110253058
    Abstract: A safety bypass gate is provided for use with a livestock management system having a sorting scale arranged between watering and feeding areas. The safety bypass gate changes from a closed position to an open position to provide an emergency exit from the watering area when a condition exists that prevents animals from passing over the sorting scale. The safety bypass gate includes a pair of pivoting gate members and a channel member that fits over the top edges of the gate members to secure them closed. The channel member is attached to a pneumatic actuator that uses air pressure to hold the channel member in its locked position, and a spring return that moves the channel member to its unlocked position upon a drop in air pressure. Springs bias the gate members from their closed positions to their open positions when the channel member moves to its unlocked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald M. Thibault
  • Publication number: 20110225886
    Abstract: A suicide prevention door kit has a movable upper segment having a top surface and a mechanism. The movable upper segment is supported by the mechanism. The mechanism is configured to transition between a loaded state and a triggered state. The top surface is approximately horizontal in the loaded state and sloped in the triggered state. The suicide prevention door kit further comprises a switch in communication with the mechanism. The switch is configured to cause the mechanism to transition from the loaded state to the triggered state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Inventors: Mike Block, Kip Cunningham, Lowell Kramer
  • Patent number: 8022653
    Abstract: Disclosed is a circuit arrangement for electrically controlling and/or regulating the movement of an electrically driven unit (2), especially a window lifter or sliding roof of a motor vehicle, and to a method for operating said circuit arrangement. According to the invention, a jamming protection System is characterized in that a correlation variable (K) for the adjusting force of the unit (2) is measured and the adjusting movement is stopped or reversed in order to prevent jamming if the correlation variable (K) for the adjusting force exceeds a threshold value that corresponding to a predetermined jamming force. A filter (140) is used for temporally filtering the correlation variable (K) for the adjusting force of the unit. The invention is characterized in that the filter parameters (142, 143), especially the cutoff frequency (fg) and/or the order of the filter (140), can be controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Conti Temic Microelectronic GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Öxle, Wolfgang Schulter
  • Publication number: 20110213500
    Abstract: An arched shutter configured for automated, simultaneous control of a plurality of louvers, the arched shutter comprises the plurality of louvers, a frame, a portion of which forms an arch, a base, wherein the plurality of louvers are installed between the base and the portion of the frame that forms an arch via a plurality of rod arms, a motor configured to drive one of the plurality of rod arms and therefore one of the plurality of louvers, and a plurality of linking apparatus connecting the plurality of louvers such that all of the plurality of louvers operate when the one louver is driven by the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: ENERGY EYE, INC.
    Inventors: Richard Scharf, Roger Heald
  • Publication number: 20110209408
    Abstract: An arched shutter configured for automated, simultaneous control of a plurality of louvers, the arched shutter comprises the plurality of louvers, a frame, a portion of which forms an arch, a base, wherein the plurality of louvers are installed between the base and the portion of the frame that forms an arch via a plurality of rod arms, a motor configured to drive one of the plurality of rod arms and therefore one of the plurality of louvers, and a plurality of linking apparatus connecting the plurality of louvers such that all of the plurality of louvers operate when the one louver is driven by the motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: HARMONIC DESIGN, INC.
    Inventors: Richard Scharf, Roger Heald
  • Patent number: 8002328
    Abstract: A door assist system for use in a motor vehicle, to aid the user in opening doors by providing a power assist and operative controls. The door assist system can be retrofitted to existing vehicles such as armored motor vehicles used in military operations, to aid the user in opening heavy armored doors. The door assist system includes a programmable central controller coupled to internal and external open and close switches and sensors for activating door movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Control Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Michael McKee, Nick Scholtes, John Hayden
  • Publication number: 20110198975
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuation device for pull-outs, shelf boards, flaps, or other such elements to be opened, particularly front elements of particularly kitchen and office furniture, kitchen appliances and flush-mounted appliances, product dispensing devices, and the like, having components comprising a corpus, wherein the element to be opened can be transferred into an open position relative to the corpus 2 by way of a drive unit 5, the drive unit 5 can be activated by way of control means, and the control means comprise a front body sound sensor 6 that is associated with the front element 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: HEINRICH J. KESSEBOHMER
    Inventors: Rene Barkau, Heiko Schnier
  • Publication number: 20110192356
    Abstract: The invention includes an assembly to provide an animal access to a space. The assembly includes an entrance gate which, in a first position provides access to the space and, in a second position, blocks the access to the space. The assembly further incldues a measuring device configured to measure a walking speed of the animal, and to transmit a signal indicative of the measured walking speed. The assembly also includes a control device configured to receive the signal from the measuring device, and to control the entrance gate depending on the received signal. By using the measured walking speed of the animal, the control device can, for example, close the entrance gate sooner or close it more quickly if there is a threat of an animal being crushed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: LELY PATENT N.V.
    Inventors: Serge Louis LOOSVELD, Wilhelmus Johannes Adrianus VAN LIER
  • Publication number: 20110190940
    Abstract: The invention relates to linear drives (1), which are based on linear motors, for panels, in particular sliding doors, movable along a respective travel path. An inventive linear drive (1) for at least one panel, in particular a sliding door leaf (4), movable along a travel path, has at least one linear motor for this at least one panel. The linear motor is to provided with a stator member (3) and a carriage (2). Furthermore, the linear drive (2) has a control circuit. The control circuit is adapted to stop the linear motor in the event of failure of power supply to the linear motor, by means of switching-off the linear motor and operating it as a generator. Thereupon, in terms of its displaceability, this movable panel is enabled by the control circuit. In addition, the inventive linear drive (1) has switching means for switching-off the energy supply to the at least one linear motor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: Dorma GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Sven Busch
  • Patent number: 7984590
    Abstract: At both sides of a pair of doors 10L, 10R, a pair of television cameras (two-dimensional image sensors) 18A, 18B for detecting a moving object, and a pair of spare infrared ray sensors 20A, 20B are provided. A central control unit 16 calculates the position and moving direction of moving object by image processing of outputs of television cameras 18A, 18B, and predicts the passing position of moving object on the vertical plane P when the moving object approaches, thereby calculating the target opening degree of a pair of doors 10L, 10R individually, and determines the target opening degree of doors in full closing when the moving object leaves away, and thus outputs move command signals to motor controllers 14L, 14R so that the pair of doors 10L, 10R may be set at the target opening degree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: THK Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kaoru Hoshide, Miki Tobita, Akira Sato
  • Publication number: 20110146157
    Abstract: In a method for activating a motor vehicle closure and in a closure device for motor vehicles a sensor device is activated by switching on an activation device and comprises a proximity sensor arranged in the vicinity of the closure part. The activated sensor device transmits an opening signal to the drive device to open the closure part when an approaching person and/or an approaching object comes within a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor, whereupon the drive device opens the motor vehicle closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Inventor: Angelika Barbara Maria BAUER
  • Publication number: 20110146580
    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 wearing an ID tag are allowed access to various locations and/or objects, such as food contained within a feeder dish for example, while a sensor system, responding to the presence of other animals or people, causes the device to close preventing unauthorized access thereto. The feeder further includes one or more sensors using ultrasonic, infrared technology or both in combination for the identification of both tagged and non-tagged animals or children. 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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: VET INNOVATIONS, LLC
    Inventors: David B. Jalbert, Michael D. Morrissey, Troy A. Hexter
  • Publication number: 20110120015
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (1) for processing documents of value, in particular bank notes, and a method for operating such an apparatus (1). The apparatus (1) includes several processing zones (2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 13), such as for example an input module (2), an operating module (3) and an output module (4). The apparatus (1) is further set up to detect events in the processing zones (2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 13), which require an intervention of an operator. The processing zones (2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 12, 13) each have at least one cover (6), which, dependent on such a detected event, is automatically opened without intervention of the operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Giesecke & Devrient GmbH
    Inventors: Alfred Schmidt, Peter Dopfer, Erwin Demmeler
  • Publication number: 20110113689
    Abstract: A voltage is supplied at an output of a switched mode power supply to a component of the movable barrier operator system. A change in a current being supplied to the component of the movable barrier operator system is sensed by the current sensing circuit. A change in the voltage being supplied at the output of the switched mode power supply is responsively effectuated based at least in part upon the change in the current sensed by the current sensing circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Keith R. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20110094160
    Abstract: A door operator for selectively opening and closing a side hinge door. The door operator may include a motor with a drive shaft, an operator arm assembly, a door position sensor, and a controller. The operator arm assembly may include an output shaft operatively coupled to the drive shaft, an operator arm, and a clutch assembly mounted to the output shaft. The door position sensor, which may be electro-magnetic, signals the controller when the door is not closed. If the door has been manually pushed open, the controller signals the motor to rotate the drive shaft in the closing direction. In automatic mode, the output shaft and the operator arm are operatively engaged, but manual force to open the door overcomes static friction between the operator arm and friction discs in the clutch assembly, operatively disengaging the operator arm and output shaft until the manual force is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: YALE SECURITY INC.
    Inventor: Blue Houser
  • Patent number: 7914065
    Abstract: An opening and closing device opens and closes a shielding body that partitions space by the operation of an operating unit in a range between a fully opened position and a fully closed position. The opening and closing device includes a limit setting unit, a control unit, and an operating element. The limit setting unit can perform an operation for setting an operational limit position of the shielding body. The control unit sets a range, where the shielding body can be opened and closed by the operation of the operating unit, as a predetermined range between the set operational limit position and a fully closed position or between the set operational limit position and a fully opened position. The operating element operates the control unit so that the range where the shielding body is opened and closed is set to the predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koichi Sugawara
  • Publication number: 20110067308
    Abstract: A door release system including a capacitive circuit that includes a touch bar, a microprocessor within the touch bar programmed with noise-discrimination software to sense touching of the bar, and at least one micro-switch within the bar to function as a back-up that picks up movement of the bar to release the latch should the capacitive circuit fail. Optionally, a sign illuminated by LEDs and an antimicrobial coating/treatment may be applied to the bar. The system is intended for use on magnetically locked doors. The addition of the micro-switches that are actuatable by continued movement on the touch bar after the bar is initially touched provides a redundant access function initiated by other than the capacitive effect of human touch, which is expected to simplify use and ease accessibility for personnel with prosthetics or who may otherwise have their hands occupied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Inventors: Robert C. Hunt, Jonathan King, Larry Gene Corwin, JR., Paul Justus Rodgers
  • Publication number: 20110056134
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting an object 20 in an area adjacent a doorway includes a plurality of transducers US1, US2 mounted proximate the doorway and a processor 40. At least one of the transducers US1 is positioned to repeatedly transmit signals T1 toward an area adjacent the doorway. At least two of the transducers US1, US2 are positioned to repeatedly receive R1, R2 return signals. The processor 40 is operably connected to the plurality of transducers for detecting, in the area adjacent the doorway, an object 20 by determining the object's: position based upon one or more determined distances d1, d2 derived from times between transmission of signals and reception of corresponding return signals; and/or movement based upon transmission of signals and Doppler shift in the reception of corresponding return signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2008
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY
    Inventors: Joseph Zacchio, Bryan Siewert
  • Publication number: 20110060466
    Abstract: A method of controlling the motion of a moveable door includes determining the direction that the door is moving with respect to its anticipated closed position, and based on the direction, regulating an amount of force that is available to the door for its motion. The method may further include monitoring the position of the door as it is moving, and adjusting the motion of the door and regulating the amount of force available to the door for its motion, based on the calculated difference between the door's position as detected during monitoring and its expected position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: HAAS AUTOMATION, INC.
    Inventors: William F. TANDROW, Kurt P. ZIERHUT, Michael A. TEITEL, Symon Man-Yiu TSUI, Michael FECHTNER
  • Patent number: 7900398
    Abstract: A revolving security door includes a drum defining a secure zone between door openings controlled by a revolving door disposed within the drum and wherein light curtain sensors and active infrared sensors may detect an intruder moving from a non-secure side of the doorway to the secure side and detect objects left behind in a secure zone. Methods of operation prevent persons or objects from passing from the non-secure side to the secure side of the doorway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Overhead Door Corporation
    Inventor: William S. Liles, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20110047874
    Abstract: A drive mechanism for door hardware, such as a pushbar exit device, includes a driver for moving a component of the door hardware, a controller for controlling the operation of the driver, a sensor for detecting motion of the moving component and a spring connected between the driver and the door hardware component. The spring allows the driver to move for a period of time after the component has stopped moving. The controller monitors the sensor and moves the component until the sensor indicates that the driven component has stopped moving. The sensor produces an output signal and the controller detects an inflection point in the output signal when the component stops moving while the driver is still operating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: SARGENT MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventors: Scott B. Lowder, Dale D. Martin, Jon Hulse, Robert C. Hunt, Arthur Limoncelli, Wai P. Wong
  • Patent number: 7895791
    Abstract: A passage barrier includes at least one barrier element that can be swivelled around a swivelling axis inside a swivelling area; at least one sensor technology that detects the presence of a person in the swivelling area and that comprises at least one sending unit emitting detection waves, at least one reception unit providing output signals and an electronic evaluation unit for evaluating the output signals of the reception unit. The sending unit and the reception unit are located such that a detection wave of the detection waves extends from the sending unit through the barrier element in the swiveling area to the reception unit and wherein the barrier element is at least partially made of a detection wave transparent material. A method is also provided for operating the passage barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Scheidt & Bachmann GmbH
    Inventors: Norbert Miller, Michael Sauermann
  • Publication number: 20100325960
    Abstract: A first door corresponds to a first section of a vehicle and can open/close a first access to the first section. At least one barrier corresponds to a second door of the vehicle, where the second door corresponds to a second section and the at least one barrier can open/close a second access to the second section. The first section is connected to the second section to allow air to pass therebetween. A coupling between the first door and the at least one barrier operates the at least one barrier to open the corresponding second access in response to the first door being opened and operates the at least one barrier to close the corresponding second access in response to the first door being closed. The corresponding second access allows air to exit the first section and the second section as the first door is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: John Arthur McEwan
  • Patent number: 7859204
    Abstract: A controller prestores average moving speed data, which corresponds to respective corresponding positions of a window glass of a door driven by a motor at the time of the closing movement of the window glass, as learning data. The controller senses pinching of an object by the window glass based on the learning data and the speed measurement signal obtained at the time of the closing movement of the window glass. The controller senses a disturbance when the speed measurement signal obtained at the time of the closing movement of the window glass exceeds a predetermined value. The controller updates the learning data based on the average moving speed data at the time of the closing movement of the window glass. The controller controls execution and non-execution of updating of the learning data in response to a close state and an open state of the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Asmo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shin Sakai, Takahiro Sumiya
  • Publication number: 20100319257
    Abstract: The present invention is a system for high torque operation of a movable barrier utilizing a compact hub motor device, which may be directly coupled to a movable barrier without the use of additional gearing systems. The flat geometry provides high dynamic acceleration with short electrical and mechanical time constants, and its planetary gearing system implemented within the device allows for compact, more efficient access systems. Eliminating a gear system in accordance with the present invention lowers maintenance requirements, increases efficiency, and streamlines operation of movable barriers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: HASSAN TAHERI, Jonathan Becerra
  • Publication number: 20100319256
    Abstract: A presence detector for a door assembly which includes a door closing a door entrance is described herein. The detector includes a transducer assembly mounted to the door assembly for emitting at least one ultrasound detecting beam adjacent the door entrance and for triggering a detecting signal indicative of a body located adjacent the door entrance when the body intersects the at least one ultrasound detecting beam and a controller for receiving information indicative of a position of the door and for controlling the emission of the at least one detecting beam accordingly with the position of the door. The detector assembly operates in crossing, ranging or dual modes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: Uri Agam, Pino Marcovecchio
  • Publication number: 20100313476
    Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for selectively allowing light to pass through a substantially transparent substrate or blocking the light, at least to some degree. Some embodiments provide a plurality of reflective vanes that can be positioned in at least two positions. According to some such implementations, when the vanes are in an open position, incident light is allowed to pass through the window. The light may reflect from two or more vanes before passing through the window. When a sufficient voltage is applied between vane electrodes and other electrodes, the vanes are pulled down, reflecting back at least some of the incident light. The voltage may be controlled according to detected temperature, ambient light intensity, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Srinivasan Sethuraman, Clayton Ka Tsun Chan
  • Publication number: 20100315229
    Abstract: A multi doorlock includes a doorlock unit (200) installed to a hinged door (100), a non-powered DC motor (300) installed to the doorlock unit, and links (400) (410) having one ends connected to the DC motor and the other ends installed to a doorframe, the links being folded or unfolded with each other when the hinged door is closed or opened. The doorlock unit (200) frequently changes a braking resistance of the DC motor (300) while the hinged door (100) is opened or closed, thereby controlling an opening/closing speed of the hinged door. A relay switch (700) is connected to both ends of a power line (330) of the DC motor (300) to short the DC motor on occasions. When it is intended to fix the hinged door (100), the relay switch (700) is operated to short the DC motor (300) such that the hinged door is not moved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Jeong-Hun Shin
  • Publication number: 20100307058
    Abstract: A light barrier housing is provided in a light barrier for monitoring an automatically driven architectural closure. In order to reduce mounting work, a cable connection having at least one clamped connection is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Applicant: HORMANN KG ANTRIEBSTECHNIK
    Inventors: Michael Sanke, Franz Ziesché, Patrick Euteneuer
  • Publication number: 20100293855
    Abstract: A controlled gate system is comprised of a barrier arm which is pivotally connected to a first fixed support. A motion detector is secured to a second fixed support spaced a predetermined distance from the first fixed support and in alignment therewith to create a restricted passageway with the barrier arm normally resting in an obstructing position within the passageway. The barrier arm is arrested at the obstructing position by a solenoid actuated latch which is disengaged by the motion detector. The arc of displacement of the barrier arm is also restricted to permit passage through the passageway in a single direction. Under certain conditions a controller will permit the barrier arm to be disengaged to permit passage in the passageway in opposed directions. The motion detector of the preferred embodiment is constituted by a further barrier arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: Rene BOLDUC, Yvan MERCIER
  • Patent number: 7823834
    Abstract: This door includes a device that permits air to flow through the door in one direction but prevents this flow of air in the opposite direction. On the attached illustration, the door includes at least a window (74), that less air pass through as well as an elastic membrane (76) covering window (74). Elastic membrane (76) includes on the one hand an area that is airtight facing window (74) and capable of fully covering it and on the other hand, an area that is pervious to air near the impervious area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignees: Airbus, Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Clive French, Smail Maksen
  • Publication number: 20100263279
    Abstract: A door has a rotatable shell wall that is at least in part cylindrically shaped and is provided with an entrance and an exit. The rotatable shell wall is rotatable to a preselected stationary position at which the rotatable shell wall can be arrested and at which stationary position the door is usable for both ingress and egress.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Henricus Johannes Raymundus Antonius Pessers
  • Patent number: 7814705
    Abstract: An automatic storm shutter. A shutter is hingeadly attached to a wall over a structure opening. An actuator is attached to the shutter, and releasably engaged with a support, which is rigidly attached to the wall. When external atmospheric pressure descends, as would happen at the approach of a wind storm such as a tornado, gas pressure within the actuator automatically releases the actuator from the support, which permits the shutter to quickly close as urged by gravity, to cover the structure opening and protect it from storm winds. An alternate embodiment is disclosed wherein one or more additional shutters are installed below the automatic storm shutter. The shutters are mutually attached with an elongate member. When the automatic storm shutter automatically closes, so also do the shutters below.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Robert S. Reed
  • Publication number: 20100242364
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for driving a roller-shutter door having a drive mechanism. The method comprises the activation of a circuit in response to an external stimuli to a switch. This actuates a timer and raises a timing bar. A cable passes across the timing bar and is connected to the switch on one end and to a solenoid on a second end. The cable passes through a top portion of a rocker arm assembly having a one-way bearing. The solenoid is actuated as a result of the raising of the timing bar; and activates the one-way bearing to cause the door to be raised to a pre-set position for a pre-set period of time. To reverse the door, the timer bar is dropped after the lapse of the pre-set period of time. The solenoid is re-activated and reverses the one-way bearing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: SEBASTIAN MAGRO
  • Patent number: 7770326
    Abstract: A safety door, door lock and door lock release mechanism for preventing a child from opening a door while permitting an adult to do so includes a weight sensor and a height sensor for unlocking a locked door. An alarm is used to indicate a child's attempt to open the door and a sensor for sensing a dangerous condition such as smoke or carbon monoxide is also provided for unlocking the door in the event of a dangerous condition and activating a more discernable alarm at that time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Sadeq Ahmed Al-Qassem
  • Publication number: 20100174401
    Abstract: An apparatus for protecting closed spaces from flooding or contaminations comprising: a moveable closing element (100) for spaces associated to a corresponding fixed element (101) and adapted to engage therewith during the step of closing; an appropriate peripheral seal (10) with an internal section either hollow or formed by porous material and positioned at the gap existing, in closing position, between said moveable element (100) and the corresponding fixed element (101); at least one transducer element (11), associated to said moveable closing element, adapted to measure the value of one or more physical-chemical parameters; inflation means (13) adapted to modulate the pressure of the fluid contained in the cavity or in the porosity of said seal (10); a control module (12), associated to said at least one transducer element (11) and adapted to drive said inflation means (13).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: Sergio Giacosa, Edoardo Pini
  • Patent number: 7750591
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventors: Xin Wang, Jiangqun Chen, ShiPing Wang
  • Publication number: 20100141107
    Abstract: A refrigerator equipped with a door opening device opening doors by driving a motor and a method of controlling the same. In the method of controlling the refrigerator includes a door opening device including a plurality of sliding bars selectively opening first and second doors, a motor opening the first door or the second door by moving back and forth the sliding bars in directions opposite to each other, a plurality of position detectors detecting at least one protrusion provided at one side of the sliding bar, a switch unit inputting door opening signals, and a controller controlling operation of the first door and the second door according to the door opening signals. If door opening signals used to open the first and second doors, the door opening device is controlled so that the first and second doors are easily open/closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Gang Hyun Kim, Jin Ho Kim, Seok Jun Son
  • Patent number: 7723935
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling an overhead stowage bin compartment in a mobile platform, such as a commercial aircraft. A motor is operatively coupled to the compartment for moving the compartment between open and closed positions. A remotely located control system is in communication with the motor and supplies a current signal to the motor to drive the motor. The control system monitors operation of the motor and senses when the compartment is obstructed by sensing the current being supplied to the motor. The control system also senses a position of the compartment and, along with the computed required current, uses this information to determine if the weight of the compartment exceeds a predetermined maximum threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Heidi J. Kneller, Dennis C. Lin, Bret L. Lamoree, James L. Tylee
  • Patent number: 7723943
    Abstract: A receiving method is provided comprising the following steps. First, a receiving device is provided, wherein the receiving device comprises a chamber, a plurality of spacers, a spacer moving module, a first cover unit, a second cover unit, a control unit and an input interface. Then, an order is inputted to the input surface, wherein the input surface sends a control signal according to the order, and the control unit controls movements of the first cover unit, the second cover unit and the spacer moving module according to the control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Chung-Yang Fu, Wei-Chen Lee
  • Patent number: 7705722
    Abstract: An active body ventilation system which is dynamically responsive to vehicle status parameters, including for example the door open/closed status and the HVAC system status. An active ventilation unit is attached with a body wall which includes a portal housing defining a portal, a portal cover and a portal cover actuator for selectively adjusting the portal cover to thereby increase or decrease the unobstructed size of the opening of the portal. The active ventilation unit is interfaced electronically to various sensors of the motor vehicle, in which programming of an electronic control module determines optimum positioning of the portal covering via selective actuation of the portal cover actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: James H. Shoemaker, Warren J. Miedinger, Andrew J. Novajovsky, Douglas V. Melonson, Heather A. Cochran
  • Publication number: 20100096092
    Abstract: A garage door assembly including a door for enclosing an opening, and a mechanism for selectively deploying the door in a closed position to cover the opening, and an open position with the door stored leaving the opening open. A position reading assembly monitors a position of the door with respect to the opening. The position reading assembly includes a controller and three switches in communication with the controller. The switches are positioned such that movement of the door actuates the three switches and, in turn, the controller divides the door into eight virtual zones between the closed and open positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: Shanghai Guardian Corp.
    Inventors: Heng Liu, Yi Cheng Hsiung
  • Patent number: 7679301
    Abstract: A movable barrier operator having a motor controller (10) and motor (11) that control selective movement of a movable barrier (12) also has an obstacle detector (14) that utilizes an automatically determined excess force threshold value to permit reliable detection of an obstacle under a wide variety of operational circumstances, including changing physical circumstances, aging components, temperature variations, and motor runtime. In a preferred embodiment, a characteristic force value for the system is frequently updated as a function of actual measured force requirements (and further compensated, pursuant to various embodiments, with respect to other conditions such as temperature and motor runtime). This characteristic force value is then utilized to determine the excess force threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric M. Gregori, James J. Fitzgibbon, Carlos Jurado, Robert R. Keller, Jr., Matthew C. Stephan, Colin Willmott
  • Publication number: 20100050527
    Abstract: An apparatus includes: an opening and closing mechanism that opens or closes an opening section of the apparatus; a first movable body that is moved in accordance with the operation of opening and closing the opening section by the opening and closing mechanism; a movement detector that detects the movement amount of the first movable body; a controller that determines whether or not the opening section is closed, on the basis of the detected movement amount; a second movable body disposed in the apparatus and movable; and a movement transmitting mechanism which moves the first movable body in accordance with the movement of the second movable body in a state in which the opening section is closed, and does not move the first movable body in accordance with the movement of the second movable body in a state in which the opening section is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kosaku Nobuta, Osamu Hanamura, Yoshiaki Shibasaki
  • Publication number: 20100037522
    Abstract: The invention proposes a sliding door for cold stores, in particular deep-freeze stores, which ensures good sealing around the frame, the intention being to avoid damage when a vehicle drives through too quickly when the door is not in a fully open state. This is achieved according to the invention in that at least one door leaf of the cold-store sliding door has at least one rigid region and at least one flexible region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventors: Martin Wirth, Klaus Wirth
  • Publication number: 20100031573
    Abstract: In one embodiment, an electronically controlled hatch system for safe ingress, egress, hazard detection, and methods thereof are provided to reduce or eliminate hazards to personnel, including protection of people above and below a scuttle hatch, access port, skylight or elevated deck. Said hatch system reduces the risk of falls while ascending or descending a ladder through an access port. In certain embodiments, severe weather, hazard, security, and other safety information are detected and transmitted to a central control unit for processing and regulating the opening and closing of a hatch covering the access port and/or raising and lowering a safety railing system based on said information and/or user input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Applicant: SafePro, L.P.
    Inventors: Richard J. Whiting, Timothy Edward Rainey