Patent ID: 6600113
Filing Date: 2003-07-29
Classification: E05F,H01H

Abstract:
A sensing edge for causing a closing door to open by actuating a device upon force being applied to the sensing edge, the door having a leading edge surface, a first lateral side surface, and a second lateral side surface, the first and second lateral side surfaces being oppositely disposed, the door being mounted for movement through a range of motion, the sensing edge comprising:an elongate outer sheath, positioned adjacent to the leading edge surface of the door and compressible upon application of external pressure, the sheath including a first wall including first and second oppositely disposed surfaces and first and second oppositely disposed ends; an inner wall extending proximate the first wall, the inner wall being secured to the first wall, the first wall and the inner wall defining a first cavity, the inner wall having a first aperture extending therethrough; a top wall extending generally parallel to and spaced from the inner wall, the top wall being secured to the inner wall, the top wall and the inner wall defining a second cavity, the top wall having a plurality of top wall apertures extending therethrough; an elongate sensor positioned within the first cavity for detecting an external force applied to the sheath, the sensor extending substantially along the entire length of the sheath between the first and second surfaces and between the first and second ends; and at least one electrical conductor in electrical communication with the sensor, the conductor extending through and being sealingly maintained within the first aperture, the conductor extending into the second cavity and being capable of extending through any one of the top wall apertures for connection with the device for controlling actuation of the door when the sensor detects application of force to the sheath.