GB2204093A - Automatic door closer - Google Patents

Abstract

The closer comprises a straight, elastic strip member 24 stretched upon door opening. The strip may be pivotally secured to the door and to the frame, and may be a laminate of natural rubber and metal. <IMAGE>

Description

AUTOMATIC DOOR CLOSER This invention relates to a door closer, particularly, though not exclusively for use on doors nor exclusively for closing.

There are no lengths to which one could not go to save energy in the home; Intimately associated with which are usual high cost initial outlays, on the one hand, and, on the other, return savings which are too often not achieved for several years - it would seem however, that -the door's potential capacity - as the universal prime 'in built' insulatory barrier, (air rushing from room to room), has been casually overlooked/under-utilised. Cost constraints aside it would appear that 'over design' in this field, has resulted in much complexity of fitment and it is felt that this consideration has been the major inhibitory factor preventing 'Everyone from getting the most from their doors'.

Conventional door closers have been designed to function such that the allow a doors to be opened freely, then automatically close the door if left open.

Previous models encompass a variety of mechanisms that can be broadl classified into three types; counter-weight, hydraulic and spring mechanisms.

Models incorporating springs produce a mechanical tension on the opened door due to the nature of the spring. The spring, in essence, being composed of a'specifically engineered material, which by special design creates a spring with specific elastic properties.

A consideration of the door-closer systems, presently available, will reveal their many drawbacks; too often they are difficult to instal, expensive, bulky, unsightly-, and not maintenance-free; one or more of these facts generally restricts their use to certain types of doors in suitable buildings.

It is an object of the present invention to provide means for the specific adaption of a door closer, fabricated from a suitably resilient elastic material (which uses the elastic properties of a certain material per se) wherein its fixable or removable attachment is necessarily; (1) of a pivotal nature.

(2) - in order that sufficient vo-lume of the material may be suitably positioned in- an arrangement which can be unobtrusive and, depending on attachment, unnoticeable when the door is closed - have specifc adaptions made at the points of attachment.

The tension created on the opened door will be dependent on; the positioning of the door closed, relative to the hinge line, the position of the ends relative to each other, as well as being dependent on the elasticity of the material used.

The material would have to have an appropriate elasticity, which would allow ease of opening and yet sufficiently strong enough to pull the door to, or where suitably adjusted, closed. Equally important, the material would have to maintain its elastic properties over a considerably long period, under constant tension and frequent stretching.

Fixing would have to be such that the material would be held sufficiently secure to allow suitable tension and rotational movement without detachment whilst in use, and in such a way as not to destroy the material under conditions of tension and frequent stretching. The constraints of manufacture require a method offering consistency, wherein suitable end fixtures, incorporated on an elastic strip, have negligible effect upon its width.

Direct fixture of eyelet/hook end fixtures into rubber strips results in a concentrated area of load distribution (when the extensible region is under tension) and a relatively complicated assembly process (during manufacture). The invention describes means for overcoming these associated problems; load distribution may be spread over the width of the door closer strip by the incorporation of laminated in-elastic material in the end sections, with no associated increase in thickness, and further, allows the consistant manufacture of door closers.

According to the present invention there is provided specific means for adaption to suitably resilient elastic material such that it may be functionally incorporated in a novel arrangement, hitherto overlooked because of the problems associated with such an arrangement; (1) That attachment be pivotal, (2) That the fixture region of the resilient material has no increase in width.

A preferred embodiment of the invention may comprise any one of the following advantageous features (with reference to the accompanying diagrams): - (A) A buckle (constructed in a manner such that its fixture compresses the said material and does not add to the overall thickness). Diagram 13 and expanded side sectional view diagram 14.

(B) A means for the specific adaption of the said article, at the turning point (region 23) and the use of of a thin plate (diagram 24) clamping bar/s (constructed in a manner such that its fixture compresses the said material and does not add to the overall thickness.

Fig. 4.

CC) Tear resistant laminate/s; the addition of which create/s inelastic region/s (region 20 and 21) in the area/s of incorporation, providing a means for pivotal attachment in a minimum of space, without the use of brackets, clamps, fasteners, knots, staples or the like.

(D) Sub-surface (i.e visible in section only) tear resistant laminate/s (region 20).

(E) Appropriate oriface/s in one or more of the in-elastic regions (diagram 15 and 16); for the purpose of ease of attachment and removal.

(F) Suitably shaped oriface/s of Euclidean geometry in one or more of the in-elastic regions.

(G) The oriface is circularly or elliptically shaped. Diagram 15 (H) The oriface is triangularly shaped.

tI) The oriface is keyhole shaped. Diagram 16 (J) Appropriate; externally projecting end fixtures, fixably attached in the laminated in-elastic region/s, for the purpose of attachment.

Diagram 17 and Diagram 18.

(K) One or more of the sub-surface tear resistant laminate/s (region 20) extend(s) further into the extensible section (region 19) of the elastic strip than any functional laminate arranged externally (region 21); Thereby overcoming asociated problems of delamination (when surface laminates abut foremost into the extensible region).

(L) Utilising natural rubber.

(X) Utilising natural rubber wherein curing time (during vulcanisation) is optimised to provide the most desirable inherency of elastic recoil.

(y) Utilising natural rubber, wherein additions of anti-oxidants and anti-ozonants are made to provide a useful period of operation.

(O) One or more of the laminate/s comprise metal.

(P) One or more of the laminate/s comprise brass mesh.

(Q The fitting is of rectangular cross-section in its extensible region.

(R) Manufactured by a moulding process which specifically incorporates inelastic region/s at specific intervals.

(S) Manufactured from the sectioning of sheets specifically laid out with inelasticregion/s (Diagram - 17) at specific intervals.

(T) Manufactured from the sectioning of a hose specifically laid out with inelastic region/s at specific intervals.

(U) The resilient strip. have incorporated in it a rigid end fixture consisting an increased surface area on its top (region 32) and bottom (region 31) surfaces which extend over the end region - the thickness between top and bottom surfaces being traversed by an inter-connecting extension (region 30) of the rigid material, which serves; to hold the the fixture in position and under compression; to provide a bearing surface for a fixture pin, nail or screw.

(V) Substantially as described herein with reference to the embodiments illustrated by wayof example only, as follows: Fig. 1 shows an elastic strip comprising a single sub-surface tear resistant laminate Cregion 2i); the inclusion of which creates an inelastic region in the area of incorporation. Any functional laminate arranged externally which were to extend(s) further into the elastic region of the elastic strip than any functional laminate arranged internally results in delamination after a short period of use and therefore thisarrangment is relatively undesirable.

Diagram 12 shows a trim for the purpose of stiffening the in-elastic region f acting as a bearing surface. Diagram 11 is a specially hardened fixing pin, allowing each end of the fixture diagram l()) to be set in position b hand.

Fig. 2 shows a buckle (diagram 13) constructed in a manner such that its fixture to the resilient strip is by compression of the said material, and does not add to the overall thickness. Expanded side sectional view diagram 14.

Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of the door closer strip, alternative means of fixing by virtue of the end regions - diagrams 15 - 18.

Fig, 4 Fig. 4 is a view of the door closer (diagram 17), attached, showing the end fixture incorporated in in-elastic regions. The fixture is secured to the door (diagram 22) using a screw.

Fig. 5 is a view of a fixture, adapted to provide a turning point (region 23) away from the fixture point - clamped using suitably thin, rigid material (diagram 24).

Fig. 6 is a view of an end fixture (using example 17, figure 4) in position, illustrating a method of removable attachment to the door and france. The exact method of attachment will depend upon requirements.

From the diagram it should be appreciated that the elastic door closer (as described).acts to keep the door open, when opened greater thr 90 .

F4 S 5 illustrates a door closer fixture in position, each end is suitably positioned using a thumb tack, screws or nails to the door and frame on a conventional household door; showing the door closed.

Fig. 8 shows a resilient strip having incorporated in it a rigid end fixtures each consisting an increased surface area on its top (region 32) and bottom (region 31) surfaces which extend over the end region the thickness between top and bottom surfaces being traversed by-an inter-connecting extension (region 30) of the rigid material, which serves; to hold the the fixture in position and under compression (creating a relatively inextensible region); to provide a bearing surface for a fixture pin, nail or screw.

Referring to region 27, an extended oriface is cut in the strip to allow the said fixture to be set in position. Similarly in region 28, in this instance the-oriface extends the length of the strip to allow fixtures at both ends.

Referring to region -29, the rigid fixture extends forwardly to prevent the resilient material twisting (and thereby adding to the width in this region).

Fig. 9 shows an isolated profile of the rigid end fixture.

Fig. 10 shows an in situ side view of the fixture.

Keyhole shaped eyelets and hooked end fixtures allow ease of removabie attachment over the screw/nail head. Under constant tension the fitting will remain secure with no possibility of slipping off. This arrangement also enables the door closer to be fitted and detatched very easily, if not required on specific occasions.

On opening the door, the fitting is subject to an increase in tension.

The elasticity of the material allowing ease of door opening. If the door is now left open, the elastic nature of the material pulls the door closed. Rotational movement of the fitting about the screws/nails being possible, due to the nature of the end fixtures.

In the closed position, Figure 7, the door closer fitting remains unseen and still under slight tension.

It is not intended to limit the invention to the above example only.

Equally well the invention could be applied to function as a 'door opener'; by attaching end 27 of the fitting 17, to a suitable hook at position 26 on the door-frame/wall, the door will be kept open unless physically closed.

It will be appreciated that a fitting made in accordance with the invention provides an efficient means of automatic door closing/opening without the necessity for relatively permanent, complex, mechanical fixtures.

The advantages of the convenient, performance orientated door closer, herein described, which can usefully be fitted to all internal doors, of homes, offices and shops; fitted with ultimate ease, and neatly concealed, are numerous; Elderly people who clearly require a convenient, cost effective control of life sustaining heat, and indeed all who appreciate a need for energy savings; Everyone with pets, young children, busy doorways, those born in f-ields or the just plan forgetful, will realise many of; the benefits of 'working doors' that keep out: Draughts; noise; smells, smoke and vapour from bathrooms and kitchens; will also help two maintain privacy, lower the risks of fires spreading, prevent doors jarring open, and is an invaluable aid to setting alarm systems requiring closed doors.

It is an object of this specification to describe a uniquely-styled combination of novel ideas as a means of producing an extremely user friendly; elegantly positioned and hence; visually appealing in situ automatic door closer - which functions with the utmost simplicity in the 'height' of efficiency.

The elasticity-of the material per se, being exploited. Appropriate design enables positioning at the specific location, figure 5, which allows maximum efficiency as well as satisfying aesthetic requirements of the general household with positioning where least noticeable.

Its simplicity in fitting and economical use of space therefore allows versatility in its application. Many other applications also being possible without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, use on; doors of refrigerators and cupboards; drawers windows and other similar items.

Claims (1)

1. CLAIMS.

   1. A fitting constructed from any suitably resilient elastic material, comprising a means of specific adaption for its fixable or removable, pivotal, surface attachment, in a minimum of space. When so attached, in a specific manner to a door, drawer, etc., closes, fixes or returns the member, depending onopurpose and attachment.

   2. A fitting constructed from any suitably resilient elastic material, comprising a means of specific adaption by way of a buckle (constructed in a manner such that its fixture compresses the said material and does not add to the overall thickness)'for its fixable or removable, pivotal attachment in a minimum of space, between the top of the door and the door jam. When so attached, in a specific manner to a door, drawer, etc., closes, fixes or returns the member, depending on purpose and attachment, 3.A fitting constructed from any suitably resilient elastic material, comprising a means for the specific adaption of the said article, at the turning point and the use of of a thin plate clamping bar (constructed in a manner such that its fixture compresses the said material and does not add to the overall thickness),the arrangement providing a means for the pivotal attachment in a minimum of space, between the top of the door and the door jam. When so attached, in a specific manner to a door; closes, fixes or return the member, depending on purpose and attachment.

   4. A resilient strip having incorporated in it a rigid end fixtures each consisting an increased surface area on its top and bottom surfaces which extend over the end region - the thickness between top and bottom surfaces being traversed by an inter-connecting extension of the rigid material, which serves; to hold the the fixture in position and under compression i:creating a relatively inextensible region); to provide a bearing surface jor a fixture pin, nail or screw. The said strip may have an extended oriface, thereby allowing the said fixture to be set in position.

   5. h rigid fixture as claimed in claim 4 wherein the fixture extends forwardly to prevent the resilient material twisting (and thereby adding to the width in this region).

   6. A fitting constructed from any suitably resilient elastic material, comprising, tear resistant laminate/s; the addition of which create/s inelastic region/s in the area/s of incorporation, providing a means for pivotal attachment in a minimum of space, without the use of brackets, clamps, fasteners, knots, staples or the like. When so attached, in a specific manner to a door, drawer, etc, closes, fixes or returns the member, depending on purpose and attachment.

   7. A f ttinb as claimed in claim 6 colrpris.ing a trim for the purpose ci stiffening the in-elastic.region / acting as a bearing surface.

   8. A fitting, as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7 comprising, sub-surface (i.e visible in, section only) tear resistant laminate/s.

   9. A fitting, as claimed in claim 6,7 or claim 8, comprising appropriate oriface/s in one or more of the in-elastic regions; for the purpose of ease of attachment and removal.

   10. A fitting, as claimed in claim 6,7 or claim 8, comprising any suitably shaped oriface/s of Euclidean geometry in one or more of the in-elastic regions; for the purpose of ease of attachment and removal.

   11. A fitting, as claimed in claim 6,7 or claim 8, wherein the oriface is elyptically shaped.

   12. A fitting, as claimed in claim 6,7 or claim 8, wherein the oriface is triangularly shaped.

   13. A fitting, as claimed in claim 6,7 or claim 8, wherein the oriface is keyhole shaped.

   14. A fitting, as claimed in any preceeding claim, comprising appropriate, externally projecting end fixtures, for the purpose of attachment.

   15. A fitting, as described in any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the sub-surface tear resistant laminate/s extend(s) further into the elastic region of the elastic strip than any functional laminate arranged externally.

   16, A fitting, as described in any preceding claim, utilising natural rubber.

   17. A fitting, as described in any preceding claim, utilising natural rubber wherein curing time (during vulcanisation) is optomised to provide the most desireable inherency of elastic recoil, 18, A f-itting, as described in any preceding claim, utilising natural rubber, wherein additions of anti-oxidants and anti-ozonants are made to provide a useful period of operation.

   19. A fitting as described in any preceding claim wherein one or more of the laminate/s comprise metal.

   20. A fitting as described in any preceding claim wherein one or more of the laminate/s comprise brass mesh.

   21. A fitting as described in any preceding claim wherein the fitting is of rectangular cross-section in its extensible region.

   22. A fitting as described in any preceding claim wherein the fitting is manufactured from the moulding of the article, specifically incorporating inelastic region/s at specific intervals; 23. A fitting as described in any preceding claim wherein the fitting is manufactured from the stamping out the article from sheets specifically laic out with inelastic region/s at specific intervals.

   24. A fitting as described in any preceding claim wherein the fitting is manufactured from the sectioning of a hose specifically laid out with inelastic region/s at specific intervals.

   25. A fitting substantially as described herein with reference to Figures 1 - 7 of the accompanying drawing.