MOTOR-ACTUATED HANDS-FREE DOOR OPENING AND CLOSING SYSTEM

A cost-effective, hands-free door opener activated via foot, cane, remote, Bluetooth, security systems, smart home technology, or proximity sensors which promotes hygienic and accessible door operation without physical contact. This device features a linear motion mechanism with a spring-loaded drive wheel, ensuring stable operation across varied surface types, environments, and door orientations. It includes precise control over the angle, distance, and speed of door opening and closing, complemented by user interfaces. Sensors adapt to environmental conditions and user presence, reducing pathogen transmission risks. Programmable delays for door operations cater to different traffic flows and safety requirements. The system supports various motor types and power setups including wireless operation and charging, suitable for retrofitting existing doors in commercial, institutional, and residential areas. Safety features detect obstructions, ensuring seamless operation. This invention integrates robust mechanical design with intelligent sensors integrated by a controller, enhancing door functionality in diverse environments.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to safe, foot operable door openers, to avoid manual hands contact with door handles having unsanitary pathogens thereon. Foot operable implies use of the foot, or use of a cane. The foot operable door opener could also be applied to the hands-free opening of many different types of doors, including, but not limited to, those doors that warehouse workers and food service wait staff may utilize for ingress and egress while carrying packages and/or heavy trays of food. The foot operable door opener also acts as a door assist for people with weak arms. The foot operable door opener is a cost-effective aid for people with disabilities who are in walkers or wheelchairs at home or in commercial environments. The foot operable door opener is a cost-effective application for home use convenience of entering a residence with groceries, letting pets in and outdoors, regulating household temperatures and saving energy by remotely opening and closing doors. The foot operable door opener is a cost-effective application which can be integrated into smart home technology and aid in life safety and egress.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In this era of germs and viruses, including, but not limited to, the Covid-19 virus, other fungal bacterial and viral pathogens, door handles can be a constant source of transmission of germs and viruses, being readily communicable to the hands of subsequent openers of those doors.

Efforts have been made to provide electrically operable door openers, but they are often complex and expensive to install and operate.

For example, U.S. Pat. No. 10,081,977 B2 of Shelley, discloses an automatic electronically and remotely controlled door opening and closing device, using RF frequency remote controls, and a chassis and a slide mechanism with a spring-loaded tensioner for ground contact, in contrast to our retractable variable cam linear motion device to create floor friction and traction. The system taught by Shelley and U.S. 2013/0318878 (Manseder) or US 2012/0304541 (Goodman) does not include a foot-operated switch, and does not have real time door position monitoring and real time regulating and adjusting of the wheel's vertical position using a linear actuator to account for sloped conditions and/or accommodating for application of a variable force with respect to the ground plane and/or for accommodating changing environmental conditions and/or in situ conditions. Shelly's device has drawbacks if used in a residential and/or a commercial application.

Other patents promote a non-motorized cradle for a footwear, such as a shoe or boot, which is attached to a door so that a user has to awkwardly insert the shoe or boot into the door attached, non-moving footwear cradle, where the cradle includes a lower horizontal floor plate and a distal upwardly extending vertical ledge, whereby the user attempts to open the door using only the leverage of the user's leg, as noted in U.S. Pat. No. 9,115,530 of Michael Sewell. This is not practical since most doors, by design, are equipped with standard overhead closers, or floor closers or spring hinges, which have a 5-10 lbs. of resistance. A force too great to comfortably overcome without mechanical advantage while pivoting on one leg.

The openers of the aforementioned patents do not provide simple, cost effective, means of opening a door without using one's hands, and without a footwear cradle, offering no mechanical assistance. They are also not applicable to siding doors.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a simple, cost-effective means of opening a door without using one's hands.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a convenient, safe door opener solely that may be operated using the foot of the user upon a pedal actuator of a door opener.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a door opener with a time delay on both the opening and closing cycle of the door opening/closing processes, to permit safe egress through the door.

It is a further object to provide a foot operable door opener that can be retrofit onto any existing door.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a foot operable door opener, with optional motor assist for persons who have limited mobility, and/or very limited strength.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a simple, cost-effective means of opening a door without using one's hands utilizing the most current: motor, sensor, and interfacing technologies currently available.

Further objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and claims, and from the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In keeping with these objects and others which may become apparent, in one non-motorized embodiment the present invention is directed to a foot operable door opener, without using one's hands, and without an electrical assist.

It is to be known in the trade as the SAFETY MAX™ DOOR OPENER.

In this era of germs and viruses, non-motorized embodiment provides a simple, cost effective, means of opening a door without using of one's hands, and without an electrical assist. The entrance cycle is initiated by stepping on a pedal. This force drives the pedal a ¼ turn, engaging a soft wheel to open the door. The pedal is hard linked to a crank arm which goes into a unidirectional crank shaft hub to turn the wheel. The downward pressure from the pedal pivots a ratcheted hinge connected to a bracketed spring-loaded wheel assembly to keep constant pressure to the ground. A speed increasing gear box or multiple pumps of the pedal turns the wheel system two or more 360 degrees rotations, opening the door sufficiently to allow the entrant to pass. When the foot pedal is dis-engaged by the entrant, this action releases a one way directional mechanical device, such as a ratchet hinge mechanism, or other one way mechanical devices, such as cams, coils, one way threaded devices, slides and ways, or rack and pawl devices, allowing the spring assisted wheel assemble to rotate or slide up, back to its original up position, releasing the wheel from the ground, allowing the door to close with a standard overhead closer or spring-loaded hinge. Now the door is ready for the next entrant.

Models may also include an optional, main spring which can be wound for a further assist to accommodate a delayed action start, where now, a foot switch actuated spring-loaded wheel drops and engages opening cycle as described above. The door which after actuation, will close after a time delay on the retracting spring mechanism, also described above. Both opening and closing are by mechanical advantage, without the use of electric power or motors. This invention is differentiated, unique, novel, and patentable from all prior art, by its' being a simple machine without electric power, electric motors, scanner or traffic readers of any kind, and through mechanical advantage and a spring loaded hinge assembly to keep constant pressure to the floor plane, hygienically opening doors when safety from disease, virus, bacteria, or other hazards are wished to be avoided or hand operation is not possible as with warehouse or food service, where hands free greatly eases the potential for trip and drop hazards, by the use of an economical apparatus that can be added/or retro fit to any door type, swinging or sliding, wood, hollow metal, metal-framed glass, all glass, etc. to facilitate ingress and egress passages of all types, locations and environments.

Other alternate embodiments for the foot operable door opener may include an internal or wired latch release mechanism, enabling the door opener to be used on a standard latching door, such as found in most residences.

In a first embodiment, the foot operable door opener includes a crank assembly including a crank arm, which is rotated from a home position by depression of a foot pedal, with a foot or cane, to rotate a crankshaft1.3. A drive assembly is connected to the crank arm through the crank shaft for winding one or more main springs.

A gear train with a preselected speed increasing ratio transfers power from the main spring to a drive wheel assembly, which preferably includes a main drive wheel with a mechanical soft, durometer contact material, or a pneumatic main drive wheel connected to a main driveshaft. A traction tension assembly is actuated by the main crankshaft to rotate the main shaft for swinging the door open.

Optionally, a delay assembly is provided for delaying release of potential energy of the main spring to the main drive shaft in order to allow safe ergonomic transfer of an entrant's weight to both feet, which allows the entrant to comfortably step aside to clear swinging of the door.

A return spring is mounted on the aforementioned crank shaft and arm, for returning the crank arm to its home position; and, whereby an entrant is able to open the door without use of hands or electrical assist.

A safety feature is included, whereby the gear train of the door opener includes a clutch bearing allowing for one-way travel of the gear train with no backlash or backward movement.

The gear train preferably has a speed increasing ratio of about 1 to 10.

For safety reasons, the delay assembly of the door opener includes a spring-loaded mechanical, dashpot, or pneumatic cylinder, which is compressed by the main crankshaft when the pedal and crank arm are depressed, so that the pneumatic cylinder has an opening, such as an orifice or an adjustable needle valve to allow air to escape from a compressed chamber in the mechanical or pneumatic cylinder, regulating the delay which releases stored potential from the main springs and which starts a cycle of the main drive wheel turning, without losing any potential energy.

Further with respect to the delay assembly, the aforesaid pneumatic cylinder has a piston and a spring-loaded plunger, where the plunger depresses a pawl, which engages a one-way mechanical directional device, such as a ratcheting wheel or socket, which is directly connected to the aforesaid main drive wheel. Other one-way directional devices can be used, such as cams, one-way threaded devices, rack and pawl devices. The release of pressure within the cylinder causes the spring-loaded plunger to release the ratchet, and the delay releasing stored potential from the main spring, starts a cycle of the main drive wheel turning, without losing any potential energy.

The traction assembly is also actuated when the crank arm is depressed, which rotates the aforesaid main shaft, causing a depressing arm to pull down a fork assembly, engaging a spring-loaded mechanism held down by a locking pawl, which causes a constant downward pressure for a predetermined length of travel, to accommodate an undercut under said door, threshold, and any slope in front of the door. When an activation pin hits an activation trigger when the aforesaid main springs unwinds at an end of its rotation, the spring-loaded mechanism releases and raises up the locking pawl and the main drive wheel back to a resting position ready for a next cycle.

Afterward, the door closes by itself with the assistance of at least one of standard spring-loaded or gravity hinges, overhead closing mechanisms and floor closing mechanisms, which is standard equipment in all operating entrance doors, or can be added to interior doors not normally equipped therewith.

Optionally, the drive wheel assembly is connected to the crank arm with a set of steel cables wrapped around a drum, whereby when the pedal and crank arm are depressed, the cables turn the drum, winding the main spring. Optionally, the main springs are all left-handed or right-handed.

For stability, a chassis is mounted on the door, which houses substantially all operative elements of the door opener.

The present invention also includes in a preferred first embodiment, a method of constructing and using a foot operable door opener comprising the steps of:a) providing a crank assembly comprising a crank arm rotated from a home position by depression of a foot pedal for rotating a crankshaft;b) providing a cables assembly connected to said crank arm through said transfer shaft for winding one or more main springs;providing a drive assembly connected to said transfer shaft connected to said gear train;c) providing a gear train with a preselected speed increasing ratio for transferring power from the main spring to a drive wheel assembly;whereby the drive wheel assembly comprises a soft, durometer, main drive wheel connected to a main driveshaft;d) or alternately providing a crank assembly and crank shaft which rotate a gear powertrain with a speed increasing ratio of about 1 to 10 which winds one or more main springs and providing main springs to the drive wheel assembly. whereby the drive wheel assembly comprises a soft, durometer, main drive wheel connected to a main driveshaft;e) actuating a traction tension assembly by the crankshaft to rotate the drive shaft for swinging the door open;f) providing a delay assembly for delaying release of potential energy of said main spring to said main drive shaft in order to allow safe ergonomic transfer of an entrant's weight to both feet, allowing said entrant to comfortably step aside to clear swinging of said door;g) providing a return spring mounted on said crank shaft for returning said crank arm, to its home position;h) the step of an entrant using said door opener to open said door without use of hands or electrical assist;i) providing a carriage assembly to house all associated mechanisms and said relationships;j) providing holes in said carriage to facilitate the securing of said door opening to new or existing doors;k) providing clamping sub plate mounting system which wraps around bottom and edge of door to facilitate the installation of said opener on any door without penetrating, drilling holes, or doing any damage to existing glass, metal, wood, or fiberglass doors.l) provide ergonomic cover to protect said door opener from weather, dirt, and environmental conditions; and,providing said cover to protect, guard and deflect pedestrians from being entangled or tripping on said door opener.

The method of opening a foot openable door opener without an electric assist further includes the optional step of providing the gear train including a clutch bearing allowing for one-way travel of the gear train with no backlash or backward movement.

Preferably the gear train has a speed increasing ratio of about 1 to 10.

The method also includes the step of the delay assembly having a spring-loaded mechanical or pneumatic cylinder, which is compressed by the main crankshaft when the pedal and crank arm are depressed, and wherein the mechanical or pneumatic cylinder has an opening, such as a fixed orifice or adjustable needle valve, for allowing air to escape from a compressed chamber in the pneumatic cylinder or dashpot, whereby regulating the delay releases stored potential from the main springs and starts a cycle of the main drive wheel turning without losing any potential energy.

Alternately the method optionally includes a friction clutch to restrain said drive wheel for a fixed or variable length of time, or a dampener, such as a dash pot cylinder to mechanically regulate spring-loaded plunger depresses a pawl which engages a ratcheting wheel, which itself is directly connected to the aforesaid main drive wheel, whereby release of pressure within the cylinder causes the spring-loaded plunger to release the ratchet, and the delay releases stored potential from the main spring and starts a cycle of the main drive wheel turning without losing any potential energy.

The method further includes the mechanical or pneumatic cylinder having a piston and a spring-loaded plunger, where the spring-loaded plunger depresses a pawl which engages a ratcheting wheel, which itself is directly connected to the aforesaid main drive wheel, whereby release of pressure within the cylinder causes the spring-loaded plunger to release the ratchet, and the delay releases stored potential from the main spring and starts a cycle of the main drive wheel turning without losing any potential energy.

Optionally the method further includes the mechanical or dashpot cylinder having a piston and a spring-loaded plunger, where the spring-loaded plunger depresses a pawl which engages a ratcheting wheel, which itself is directly connected to the aforesaid main drive wheel, whereby release of pressure within the cylinder causes the spring-loaded plunger to release the ratchet, and the delay releases stored potential from the main spring and starts a cycle of the main drive wheel turning without losing any potential energy.

Optionally, the method also includes the step in which the traction assembly is also actuated when the crank arm is depressed, rotating the crankshaft, which causes a depressing arm to pull down a bracket arm, engaging a spring-loaded mechanism held down by a locking pawl, causing a constant downward pressure for a predetermined length of travel, to accommodate an undercut under the door, threshold, and any slope in front of the door.

The method of opening the foot operable door opener further includes the step of having an activation pin hit an activation trigger when the main springs unwind at an end of its rotation, thereby releasing the locking pawl closing the spring-loaded mechanism, to raise up the main drive wheel5.1back to a resting position and ready for a next cycle.

Optionally the method also includes a time delay for the raising of the main drive wheel back to its original position for a prescribed length or variable length of time before lifting main drive wheel5.1back, to a resting position, and ready for a next cycle.

The method also includes the step of connecting the drive wheel assembly to the gear train which connects to the transfer shaft where the crank arm with a set of steel cables wrapped around a drum, whereby when the pedal and crank arm depressed, the cables turn the drum and transfer shaft, winding the main spring.

Optionally, the main springs are all left-handed and right-handed.

Furthermore, when a chassis is mounted on the door, it houses substantially all operative elements of the foot operable door opener.

In a second embodiment, a foot operable door opener operates by user exertion of force against a pedal attached to a crank arm and shaft, where a transfer shaft works with a transfer arm and a drive pawl, and with right-handed main springs as a drive assembly, mounted on a main chassis with attachments, such as chassis mounting holes and screws or a clamping sub plate. A gear train of this second embodiment includes a main gear, with a clutch bearing, an idler increasing gear and an idler shaft, as well as with a secondary speed increasing gear, a shaft, a drive gear driving a drive shaft with associated transfer gears, communicating with a drive wheel. A traction/tension carriage assembly regulates adhesive or slippage and coefficient of friction of the various components on surfaces upon which they move, including a bracket arm, an actuating arm, a connecting arm, a carriage depressing arm, a hinge pin, a tension arm with a tension arm roller. A traction spring is provided, along with a trigger actuator pin, to ensure smooth opening and closing of the door, with a delay by way of a friction slip clutch between the drive wheel and the drive shaft.

In a third embodiment, a non-motorized foot operable door opener with a drive train, preferably a planetary gear assembly, is initiated in an entrance cycle by the user stepping on a pedal This force exerted on the pedal drives the crank arm, a sixty to ninety (60-90) degree turn, engaging a soft wheel, to open the door D. A speed increasing planetary gear box, winds one or more springs, (right and left-handed) thereby opening the door, sufficiently to allow the entrant to pass until the foot pedal, is dis-engaged by the entrant. The crank arm is returned to its original position, with the aid of the return arm spring. This action causes the crank arm, to strike the trigger lever release, which in turn releases the ratcheting hinge mechanism and spring, allowing the wheel return lifting springs, to lift the wheel assembly to rotate up, back to its original up position, guided by the guide pin and stop. This disengages the wheel, from the ground, thus allowing the door to close with a standard overhead closer or spring-loaded hinge, which is standard hardware on most doors. At that time after the opening and closing of the door, the door is ready for the next entrant.

In an optional alternate embodiment shown inFIGS.13,14,15,16,17and18, the drawings depict three different versions (V-4 as inFIGS.13and14, V-5 as inFIGS.15and16, and V-6 as inFIGS.17and18) of a motorized door opening and closing system, in which the motor and batteries are shown in different locations.FIGS.19A-19B, as well asFIGS.20-32show other embodiments for opening and closing of either a sliding door or a pivoting door, but which are shown utilizing a column lifter (i.e., a multi-stage linear actuator) as the linear actuation device. It is noted that any suitable linear actuation device now known in the art or later developed that may provide suitable linear actuation may alternatively or additionally be used in any embodiment described herein, and use of the term “linear actuator” herein is intended to broadly encompass any and all such possibilities. Aspects of these other embodiments are further described hereinafter.

The arrangement inFIGS.17-18may also incorporate a delay mechanism, and also may include an wheel idler wheel and hall effect sensor arrangement described hereinafter, to send information to the controller module106.7to control the speed of the door opening, the length of travel for the door (angle to open to), to determine the delay for the closing (i.e., the desired time delay before actuating the linear motion device107.2to cause its piston to raise the wheel105.1permitting the door to begin closing).

It is noted that the openable door depicted in drawingFIGS.5A,5B and6, showing a person opening the non-motorized version shown inFIGS.1-12herein, are analogous to where the foot operable door opener of new drawingFIGS.13-18.

For example, an activator button or switch can be physically attached to the door opening pedal101.1, so that pushing on the pedal101.1will activate the electronic control features of the embodiments shown inFIGS.13-18.

It is further noted that while a person can contact a foot pedal with motor assist options controlled by a controller ofFIGS.13-18, it is contemplated that optionally the controller can be operated by a remote switch located elsewhere than on the foot operable foot pedal.

Therefore, it is also intended that the activation of this motor assist can be activated optionally by a person who lacks physical capacity to push down on the pedal101.1, and may instead be activated by pushing a finger operable hardwired or remote activator button/switch, proximity device, facial recognition, a scanned key card, Bluetooth communications, security emergency and environmental systems, or some human or non-human interface (not shown) which communicates with the controller module106.7(or206.7) for controlling the sequence of the door opening and closing.

The door opener device shown inFIGS.13-18can also be a hybrid arrangement, where some of the mechanical springs and other activators shown inFIGS.1-12can be replaced by one or more of the controller module and sensors associated with a motorized door assist so that the door opener can utilize some of the mechanical door opening features ofFIGS.1-12in combination with some of the electronic controls and sensors ofFIGS.13-18.

The controller module106.7may perform many functions, including, but not limited to, doing power manipulation, as follows:For example, the controller module106.7may start the cycle when the pedal101.1is depressed to actuate the switch106.71, with the controller starting the delay in actuation of the motor102.9and movement of the door D, permitting the person to step aside and not be stuck by the door.The controller module106.7may also be configured to not let the door swing open, if the person pressing on the pedal101.1to toggle the switch106.71did not move aside, with the aid of a proximity sensor configured to detect a person or even other objects that may be in the pathway of the door being opened.The controller module106.7may control the extension of the linear motion device107.2which may cause the driving wheel105.1to drop downward and make contact with the floor/ground G. The controller module106.7may be able to sense the ground (directly or indirectly) and also apply a specific pressure by sensing the added current draw on the motor when it encounters the resistance of the ground plus the added spring tension of the traction spring107.6.The controller module106.7may start the drive motor102.9thereby causing the main gear104.1to rotate, and may also control the speed of the motor102.9to start out slowly and to subsequently increase in speed as it goes through its cycle to move the door more quickly, and may also slow down at the end of the arc of the opening or closing of the door D.If a sensor in the controller module106.7determines that an obstruction in the path of travel has been encountered, or if someone pushes on the other side of the door after the linear motion device107.2has engaged the wheel105.1to the ground, the controller module106.7will sense the increased current draw from the drive motor102.9and cause retraction of the linear motion device107.2and lifting of the drive wheel105.1, and may also reset for the next cycle.The distance of travel may be measured using an wheel idler and Hall Effect sensor arrangement.The controller module106.7may be electronically coupled to a hall effect sensor106.82that is configured to co-act with a plurality of magnets106.83(e.g., eight magnets) that may be radially mounted and evenly spaced on the side of an idler wheel106.84, configured to roll freely on the ground G, which wheel may be support by a bracket106.81that may be mounted to the shaft104.31and/or to the chassis103.1.The number of magnets106.83on the idler wheel106.84may be counted as the idler wheel rotates on the ground G during movement of the door D, so that if there are eight magnets, there may be approximately 1½ inches of travel between each of the eight magnets, i.e., the distance of travel may be determined according to the diameter of the idler wheel106.84used, the number of magnets106.83used, and the radial placement of the magnets on the idler wheel, which distance may be calculated by the controller module106.7using an algorithm associated with the use of these components.This determination of travel of the door made by the controller module106.7allows for the adjustment and programming of the door opening to not hit walls or other permanent obstructions for a swing door (and with respect to the width of the opening when used on a sliding door arrangement), within each specific application to 1½″ of arc, of the door movement depending on whether there are eight magnets or possibly more magnets.The controller module106.7may also sense if the drive wheel105.1is slipping on ice or due to other field conditions it may encounter, allowing the motor to turn the drive wheel added rotations until the door has reached its designated opening distance to occupy a desired door open position (and in reverse to occupy the door closed position).If the drive wheel105.1does not have sufficient traction and is spinning, after a designated amount of time the linear motion device107.2may lift the drive wheel and the system may reset.If the drive wheel105.1is slipping due to slippery environmental conditions, the controller module106.7may cause the linear actuation device107.2to extend to increase the pressure between the wheel and the ground surface to adjust for the slippery environment.When the door has reached the designated distance of travel to the desired door open position, the controller module106.7will stop the drive motor102.9.Once the door D has been moved into the desired door open position, and after a programed designated amount of time, the controller module106.7may cause the linear motion device107.2to cause lifting of the drive wheel105.1off of the ground G, allowing the door to close, or alternatively the controller module106.7may cause the motor to operate in reverse and drive the door back into the closed door position, and may thereafter lift the drive wheel105.1once the door is back into the closed position.This closing sequence could also be interfaced with a proximity sensing device associated with the controller module106.7, to detect obstructions in the pathway of the door D and not allow the door to close if some obstruction (e.g., a person or boxes) was blocking free movement of the door.In environmental or security applications, the door might automatically open due to a command from the controller module106.7as a sensor may have detected an excessively elevated temperature (i.e., being above a threshold temperature setting) and/or another emergency situation (e.g., excessive moisture or humidity detected).The drive wheel might be programmed to keep the door open in some situation of heavy traffic or other environmental concerns.For a handicapped person the pushing of an ADA button or a personal remote control, key card, facial recognition, or motion sensor could start the cycle allowing this to be used within a public place, or institution, or someone's home.A speaker/microphone can also be employed for voice commands from the entrant, or warning alarm or instructions from the door closer to stand clear of the swinging or sliding door travel or status updates such as for service requirements for equipment performance and wear or battery life remaining, etc.An optical sensor, similar to a garage door sensor, may be added to confirm the door has closed fully and is back in its fully closed position, ready for the next cycle. This may be used to account for packages, people or other obstructions which might stop or otherwise prevent the door from closing fully. It can also be used to orient the door in the specific space so it does not hit walls or frame while swinging or sliding.All of the delay and timing functions may be adjusted with a user interface cable, Bluetooth or wireless connection, with a phone, computer, or app.

The motors on the system may be powered by hardwired line voltage with a battery backup, or may be battery powered. Batteries can be charged by being removed like in a power drill, or with induction charging contact which proximity may be engaged and sufficient when the door is closed. This may be powered by a low Volt DC power supply (i.e., “low” volt being less than 50 volts), like a small charging cube for a cell phone, which may reduce the risk of shock from higher voltage DC and AC chargers.

Without limitation, the following are some of the terms to be incorporated into the language to cover different iterations of the parts of the motorized door opener:Various motor types usable with any of the herein disclosed door opening/closing systems may include, but are not limited to, the following types of motors:servobrushedbrushlessDC motorsgeared DC motorsstep motorsVariable speedAC motorsHub motorsVarious linear motion devices include, but are not limited to:dashpotsspring assistedhydraulicpneumaticLinear actuatorsLinear column lifting or column liftmechanicalwith rack and pinionwith lead screwVarious controllers and feedback systems can be used for internal communications, to added sensors, or environmental inputs and interfaces including, but is not limited to the following:Variable delaysspeed controlling devicesdirection controlling devicessequence and timing devicespulse width modulation (PWM) devicesmicro controllersOver Drive devices for release of linear motion (lifting the drive wheel)EncodersControl timing devicesStopped or stuck door sensorsCycle length if a wheel is not engaging the door to be opened.Linear motion—traction release devices, to stop the door opening, if someone pushes the door from an opposite sideThe controller can be programmed with a cell phone or computer with plug in interfaceThe controller can be programmed with a cell phone or computer with App interfaceThe controller has preferably a remote control device for communicationsThe controller has preferably a motion sensor to be used with the door openingRF (radio frequency) communicationBluetooth communicationMicrowave communicationWireless communicationWired communication.Various sensors and switches associated with the controller may include, but are not limited to, the following:OK Over Drive release of linear motionMovement sensors and switchesfoot actuator sensors and switchesOverdrive releases sensors and switchesHall sensors and switchesReid switches and sensorsProximity movement sensors and switchesIdler sensors and switchesAngle sensing sensors and switchesArtificial Intelligence (AI) sensors and switchesMicro switches and sensorsProximity sensors and switchesMomentary sensors and switchesPower switch and sensorsPush button sensors and switchesOptoelectronic sensors and switchesOptical sensors and switchesFacial recognitionInfra-red sensors and switchesWheel idler sensor and switchesRF (radio frequency) sensors.Battery types and power interfaces may include, but are not limited to, the following:nickel cadmium batterylead acid batterylithium ion batteryother new battery technologyTesla batteryHydrogen batteryDriversTransformersVoltage regulatorsWireless inductive charging devices for batteriesLine voltage with battery backup

Other terms may also be utilized hereinafter, and which may be defined where

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used throughout this specification, the word “may” is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to, or being optional), rather than a mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must), as more than one embodiment of the invention may be disclosed herein. Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to.

The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” may be open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, and “A, B, and/or C” herein means all of the following possible combinations: A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B together; or A and C together; or B and C together; or A, B and C together.

Also, the disclosures of all patents, published patent applications, and non-patent literature cited within this document are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. However, it is noted that the citing of any reference within this disclosure, i.e., any patents, published patent applications, and non-patent literature, is not an admission regarding a determination as to its availability as prior art with respect to the herein disclosed and claimed apparatus/method.

Furthermore, any reference made throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection therewith is included in at least that one particular embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Therefore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of any particular aspect of an embodiment disclosed herein may be combined in any suitable manner with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

Additionally, any approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative or qualitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value or recitation modified by a term such as “about” is not to be limited to the precise theoretical characteristic or value specified, and may include values that differ from the specified value in accordance with design variations that may be described in the specification, as well as applicable case law. Also, in at least some instances, a numerical difference provided by the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument that may be used for measuring the value or characteristic (e.g., a recitation of being “substantially straight”). A numerical difference provided by the approximating language may also correspond to a manufacturing tolerance associated with production of the aspect/feature being quantified/described (see e.g.,Ex Parte Ollmar, Appeal No. 2014-006128 (PTAB 2016)). Furthermore, a numerical difference provided by the approximating language may also correspond to an overall tolerance for the aspect/feature that may be derived from variations resulting from a stack up (i.e., the sum) of a multiplicity of such individual tolerances.

Any use of a friction fit (i.e., an interface fit) between two mating parts described herein indicates that the opening (e.g., a hole) is smaller than the part received therein (e.g., a shaft), which may be a slight interference in one embodiment in the range of 0.0001 inches to 0.0003 inches, or an interference of 0.0003 inches to 0.0007 inches in another embodiment, or an interference of 0.0007 inches to 0.0010 inches in yet another embodiment, or a combination of such ranges. Other values for the interference may also be used in different configurations (see e.g., “Press Fit Engineering and Design Calculator,” available at: www.engineersedge.com/calculators/machine-design/press-fit/press-fit-calculator.htm).

Any described use of a clearance fit indicates that the opening (e.g., a hole/recess) is larger than the part received therein (e.g., a shaft/protrusion), enabling the two parts to move (e.g. to slide and/or rotate) when assembled, where the gap between the opening and the part may depend upon the size of the part and the type of clearance fit—i.e., loose running, free running, easy running, close running, and sliding (e.g., for a 0.1250 inch shaft diameter the opening may be 0.1285 inches for a close running fit, and may be 0.1360 inches for a free running fit; for a 0.5000 inch diameter shaft the opening may be 0.5156 inches for a close running fit and may be 0.5312 inches for a free running fit). Other clearance amounts are used for other clearance types. See “Engineering Fit” at: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering_fit; and “Three General Types of Fit,” available at mmto.org/˜dclark/Reports/Encoder%20Upgrade/fittolerences %20%5BRead-Only%5D.pdf.

Any structures or methods described herein with respect to two elements being fixedly secured together means that any suitable joining technique known in the art may be used, including, but not limited to, using mechanical fasteners (e.g., rivets, screws, bolts & nuts, threaded inserts, etc.), adhesive, welding techniques (arc welding, friction welding, etc.), etc.

The present invention has broad applications to many technical fields for a variety of articles. For illustrative purposes only, a preferred mode for carrying out the invention is described herein, wherein a foot operable door opener is provided without an electrical assist.

In a first embodiment, shown in drawingFIGS.1-6, the foot operable door opener of this invention has a pedal that is convenient for the user. Exposure to hand operable unsanitary hand operable door handles is minimized and for hands free door operation when moving through door portals when hands are occupied.

The current configuration of the first embodiment of the door opener is divided into seven distinct operational segments. The first segment is the crank assembly,1.0. The cycle is initiated when the pedal1.1is depressed which moves the crank arm,1.2, down transferring the torque to the crankshaft,1.3. The crank arm returns back to the home position with the assistance of the return spring,1.33.

The next segment is the drive assembly,2.0. The drive assembly is connected to the crank arm with a set of steel cables,2.2. The cables are wrapped around the drum,2.3, when the pedal and crank arm are depressed, the cables, turn the drum, winding up the main springs,2.6,2.7. In the current configuration, the springs are both left-handed and right-handed, ganged up on the main shaft,2.5, to generate the torque required to turn the wheel,5.1via gear train4.0.

The chassis,3.1, houses all the different mechanisms and bushings within the chassis. It also accommodates the means of securing the chassis with fasteners, such as screws or clamps, to the door.

The gear train,4.0. has a speed increasing ratio of 1 to 10. The 60 degree turn on the crank arm,1.2, will translate to 4.5 revolutions of the 4-inch wheel,5.1. This is enough to open the door 25 to 30 inches. The main springs,2.6,2.7, drive the primary gear,4.1, which has a one-way clutch bearing,4.11, centered around the shaft,2.5. This allows for the one-way travel of the gear with no backlash or backward movement. The large main gear is meshed with the small idler gear,4.2, which is connected with gear,4.3via axle4.31. The gear4.3is meshed with drive gear,4.4. The drive gear4.4is mounted on the same shaft,4.5, as the drive wheel,5.1. The drive train transmits rotation of the transfer shaft2.5to driveshaft4.5with ratio 1:10 in the same rotational direction.

The drive wheel assembly,5.0, consists of a drive wheel, such as, for example, a soft durometer wheel connected to the main driveshaft,4.5, or a pneumatic main drive wheel, through a hub,5.2. The energy stored in wound-up torsion springs2.6and2.7is transmitted via gear train to drive wheel5.1. The drive wheel5.1is temporarily locked by delay system to allow a safe time delay, such as about 3 to 5 seconds, for the wheel5.1to start rotating.

The delay system,6.0, holds and delays the release of the energy of the wound springs2.6and2.7. This allows safe ergonomic transfer of one's weight to both feet. This unique feature enables one's weight to be planted back on the ground. This allows the entrant to comfortably step aside to clear the swinging door.

The delay assembly6.0consists of a double-acting pneumatic cylinder, with spring return,6.2. The cylinder6.2is compressed by means of the main crankshaft,1.3, when the pedal,1.1and crank arm,1.2, are depressed. Cylinder,6.2, through plastic tubes,6.24and check valves,6.251, pressurizing the system to a single acting pin cylinder,6.3, extending a plunger,6.32. This plunger depresses a pawl,6.4, which engages and locks a ratchet wheel,6.5, which is directly connected to the main drive wheel5.1. Air escapes from the compressed chamber of the single-acting pin cylinder,6.2, through fixed orifice restrictor,6.252, or needle valve, regulating the delay. As the pressure is released through the orifice, the spring-loaded plunger,6.32, retracts releasing the pawl,6.4, with the aid of a tension spring,6.6, allowing the pawl6.4, to release the ratchet,6.5, on the main wheel,5.1. This delay releases the stored energy of the wound-up torsion springs without losing any energy and frees rotation of the drive wheel5.1.

The traction tension assembly,7.0, is actuated when the main pedal crank arm,1.2, is depressed. This rotates the crankshaft,1.3, which is connected to the actuating arm,7.2, which pulls down the carriage depressing arm,7.3. through the connecting link,7.21, The depressing arm,7.3, pulls down the tension arm,7.4, through tension arm roller,7.41, which falls into a notch and is locked into place with the traction locking pawl,7.5, assisted with traction pawl spring,7.51, which maintains continuous light torque that keeps traction locking pawl in contact with round part of the tension arm7.4. The depressing arm,7.3, pulls down and engages the pre-loaded fork assembly,7.1, through guide pin and stop7.12. moving the drive wheel,5.1towards the ground. The traction spring,7.6, keeps constant downward pressure and develops positive force to the ground to maintain traction throughout the one- and one-half inches of travel,7.11. This is to accommodate: the undercut under a door, threshold, and any slope in the travel path of the opening door.

As the main springs,2.6,2.7, unwinds at the end of the cycle, an actuating pin7.8hits the trigger lever7.7and lifts the locking pawl7.5through pawl actuator shaft7.52, releasing the fork assembly with the assistance of the fork assembly lifting spring,7.13. This raises up the main drive wheel,5.1, back to the resting position where it is ready for the next cycle.

FIGS.4A,4B, show section details of the mechanisms which are difficult to see in the isometric views.FIGS.4C,4D and4Eshow optional systems with diagrammatic drawings.

FIG.4Ais a section close-up detail view of a wheel delay assembly. For example, as noted above, the delay assembly6.0consists of a double-acting pneumatic cylinder, with spring return,6.2. The cylinder6.2is compressed by means of the main crankshaft,1.3, when the pedal,1.1and crank arm,1.2, are depressed. Cylinder,6.2, through plastic tubes,6.24and check valves,6.251, pressurizing the system to a single acting pin cylinder,6.3, extending a plunger,6.32. This plunger depresses a pawl,6.4, which engages and locks a ratchet wheel,6.5, which is directly connected to the main drive wheel5.1. Air escapes from the compressed chamber of the single-acting pin cylinder,6.2, through fixed orifice restrictor,6.252, or needle valve, regulating the delay. As the pressure is released through the orifice, the spring-loaded plunger,6.32, retracts releasing the pawl,6.4, with the aid of a tension spring,6.6, allowing the pawl6.4, to release the ratchet,6.5, on the main wheel,5.1. This delay releases the stored energy of the wound-up torsion springs without losing any energy and frees rotation of the drive wheel5.1.

FIG.4Bis a section close-up detail view of traction/tension carriage assembly. For example, as noted above, the traction tension assembly,7.0, is actuated when the main pedal crank arm,1.2, is depressed. This rotates the crankshaft,1.3, which is connected to the actuating arm,7.2, which pulls down the carriage depressing arm,7.3. through the connecting link,7.21, The depressing arm,7.3, pulls down the tension arm,7.4, through tension arm roller,7.41, which falls into a notch and is locked into place with the traction locking pawl,7.5, assisted with traction pawl spring,7.51, which maintains continuous light torque that keeps traction locking pawl in contact with round part of the tension arm7.4. The depressing arm,7.3, pulls down and engages the pre-loaded fork assembly,7.1, through guide pin and stop7.12. moving the drive wheel,5.1towards the ground. The Traction spring,7.6, keeps constant downward pressure and develops positive force to the ground to maintain traction throughout the one- and one-half inches of travel,7.11. This is to accommodate: the undercut under a door, threshold, and any slope in the travel path of the opening door.

As the main springs,2.6,2.7, unwinds at the end of the cycle, an actuating pin7.8hits the trigger lever7.7and lifts the locking pawl7.5through pawl actuator shaft7.52, releasing the fork assembly with the assistance of the fork assembly lifting spring,7.13. This raises up the main drive wheel,5.1, back to the resting position where it is ready for the next cycle.

FIG.4Cis a diagrammatic drawing of the optional pneumatic delay system. When the double acting cylinder is activated by the crank shaft1.3, to pressurizes the system, with the aid of the check valves. The valves allow the pressure to build up in single acting pin cylinder, engaging the plunger. The second check valve in line from the primary cylinder maintains the seal and pressure at the pin cylinder. The orifice restrictor or needle valve relieves the pressure at a controlled rate which delays the release of the drive wheel. The first check valve in line relieves the pressure in the primary cylinder, so it has an unimpeded backstroke, so it is ready to charge the system with the next depression of the pedal.

This could also serve as a delay for the engagement of the traction release mechanism,7.0, providing another delay option for holding the door open delaying the closing cycle with a fixed or variable time interval.

FIG.4Dis a diagrammatic drawing of an optional dashpot delay system. This mechanism can be used in conjunction with the pneumatic system in4C or as a standalone system which is physically activated by mechanical means. The spring-loaded dashpot cylinder in conjunction with the restrictor or needle valve allows for the controlled release of the plunger equating into the time delay for the start of the drive wheel engagement.

This could also serve as a delay for the engagement of the traction release mechanism,7.0, providing another delay option for holding the door open delaying the closing cycle with a fixed or variable time interval.

FIG.4Eis a diagrammatic drawing of a optional friction slip clutch delay system. A stationary fixed to the axle disc, engages a rotating disc, which is attached to the drive wheel. The two discs are allowed to slip a prescribed number of degrees until they mechanically engage and lock into each other. The time delay is adjusted by varying the tension applied to the load spring with a tensioning nut. This varies the duration of the slippage until the two surfaces mechanically engage.

This could also serve as a delay for the engagement of the traction release mechanism, providing another delay option for when the closing cycle would begin.

FIGS.5A,5B and6show details of the environment in which the foot operable door opener is utilized.

For example,FIG.5Ashows a pedestrian approaching a door “D” having a foot operable door opener10, including s foot contactable pedal1.1attached to a crank arm1.2, whereby a housing12encloses the internal components of the foot operable door opener10.FIG.5Aalso shows a wordless instructional logo13displayed upon the surface of the door or any suitable visually perceptible surface in the vicinity of the door. The logo preferably has a triptych of three images, including the diagonal “NO” sign through a picture of a user's hand holding a door handle, a close-up detail view of the pedestrian's foot contacting the pedal1.1, and an image of the door shown being opened in the direction of the curved arrow depicted, noting caution to be exercised in the path of the swinging door.

FIG.5Bis a close-up detail view of the pedestrian's foot approaching the pedal1.1mounted upon crank arm1.2, and the housing12mounted on the ground “G” in the vicinity of door “D”.

FIG.6, is a close-up detail view of the wordless instructional logo13.

In the foregoing description, certain terms and visual depictions are used to illustrate the preferred embodiment. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be construed by the terms used or illustrations depicted, beyond what is shown in the prior art, since the terms and illustrations are exemplary only, and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention.

In a second embodiment, as shown inFIGS.7-9the current configuration of the door opener is divided into seven distinct operations. The first operation is the crank assembly,31.0. The cycle is initiated when the pedal,31.1is depressed which moves the crank arm,31.2, down transferring the force to the crankshaft,31.3. The crank arm returns back to the home position over the course of the opening cycle, with the assistance of the main spring,32.6, through the trigger actuator pin,37.8. The crank arm,31.2, is connected to the driver arm,32.7, through the connecting link,32.2.

The next operation is the drive assembly,32.0. The drive assembly is connected to the main spring,32.6, when the pedal and crank arm are depressed, the main spring winds up and turns the main gear,34.1, through the transfer shaft,32.5, which has a clutch bearing,34.11, centered around the shaft,32.5. This allows for the one-way travel of the gear with no backlash or backward movement. The main gear is held in place and not allowed to unwind the main spring by the drive pawl,32.3, which is depressed and set by the connecting link,32.2. Winding the main spring,32.6,

The chassis,33.1, houses all the different mechanisms and bushings within the chassis. It also accommodates the means of securing the mechanize with screws or clamps to the door.

The gear train,34.0. has a speed increasing ratio of 1 to 10. This is so a 60-90 degree turn on the crank arm,31.2, will net 2½ to 3 full revolutions of the 04-inch wheel,35.1. This is enough to open the door 25 to 30 inches. The main Spring,32.6, drive the main gear,34.1, and meshes with the transfer gears,34.6. The large transfer gears steps down to the small idler gear,34.2, which again steps up to the secondary speed increasing gear,34.3, and eventually to the drive gear,34.4. The drive gear is mounted on the same shaft,34.5, as the drive wheel,35.1.

The drive wheel assembly,35.0, consists of a soft durometer wheel connected to the main driveshaft,34.5, connected to the drive shaft. The potential energy of the springs,32.6, are wound with the depression of the pedal,31.1and the crank arm,31.2, connected to the driver arm,32.7through the connecting link,32.2, which winds the spring,32.6. The potential energy is held back, momentarily, not allowed to release.

The delay assembly,36.0, holds and delays the release of the potential energy of the wound springs. This allows safe ergonomic transfer of one's weight to both feet. This unique feature enables one's weight to be planted back on the ground. This allows the entrant to comfortably step aside to clear the swinging door.

The delay assembly consists of spring-loaded pneumatic cylinder, (not shown). The cylinder is compressed by means of the main crankshaft, when the pedal and crank arm, is depressed. Cylinder, with the aid of hoses, and check valves, moves air to the piston of a single action pin cylinder, and plunger. This plunger depresses a pawl, which engages a ratcheting wheel, which is directly connected to the main drive wheel. Air escapes from the compressed chamber, adjusted with a needle valve, regulating the delay. As the pressure is released, the plunger, disengages with the aid of a tension spring, allowing the pawl, to release the ratchet, on the main wheel.

Alternately the method includes the use of a spring-loaded dash pot with plunger to be used in leu of the single acting pin cylinder. This would be mechanically activated. This would eliminate the need for the pneumatic cylinder, hoses, and check valves. This delay releases the stored potential from the main springs and starts the cycle of the wheel turning without losing any potential energy.

Alternately the method includes a friction clutch plate,36.1, to restrain said drive wheel,35.1, or main gear,34.1, for a fixed or variable length of time, as shown inFIG.4E.

The traction tension assembly,37.0, regulates adhesive, slippage or coefficient of friction of the various components on surfaces upon which they move. It is actuated when the main pedal crank arm,31.2, is depressed. This rotates and drops the connecting arm,37.21, which in turn drops the carriage depressing arm,37.3. The depressing arm actuates bracket arm,37.1by engaging the actuating arm,37.2, it engages the traction spring,37.6. This keeps constant variable pressure on the bracket arm,37.1, so there is constant pressure on the sloping floor.

As the drive pawl,32.3, rotates along with the main gear,34.1, the peddle,31.1, transfer arm,32.2, and connecting arm,37.21, all lift the carriage depressing arm,37.3. This in turn causes the depressing arm to lift the bracket arm,37.1by engaging the actuating arm,37.2, which in turn engages the traction spring,37.6, lifting the bracket arm,37.1, and retracting the wheel,35.1, so door, D, can now swing freely, back to the closed position with aid of the overhead of floor mounted, or spring-loaded hinges. This allows the door to close without human assistance.

In a third embodiment shown inFIGS.10-12, a non-motorized foot operable door opener is initiated in an entrance cycle by the user stepping on a pedal,51.1. This force exerted on the pedal51.1, drives the crank arm,51.2, a sixty to ninety (60-90) degree turn, engaging a soft wheel,55.1, to open the door D. The pedal,51.1, is hard linked to a crank arm,51.2, which goes into a unidirectional clutch bearing,54.11, connected to a planetary gear box,54.1, connected to drive shaft hub,54.5, to turn the soft wheel,55.1. The downward pressure from the pedal,51.1, pivots the bracket arm,57.1, at a traction locking ratchet,57.5, and hinge,57.31, connected to the main chassis,53.1, is a spring-loaded wheel assembly,57.6, to keep constant pressure to the ground, G.

A speed increasing planetary gear box,54.1, winds one or more springs,52.27and52.26, (right and left-handed) which may work optionally if the sequence is reversed and goes from crank arm to gears, to winding springs, or also optionally multiple pumps of the pedal, turns the wheel system, which each are connected to drive shaft,54.5, in turn rotating the wheel,51.1, over multiple 360 degrees rotations, and thereby opening the door, D, sufficiently to allow the entrant to pass until the foot pedal,51.1, is dis-engaged by the entrant. The crank arm,51.2, is returned to its original position, with the aid of the return arm spring,51.33. This action causes the crank arm,51.2, to strike the trigger lever release,57.7, which in turn releases the ratcheting hinge mechanism and spring,57.5, and57.6, allowing the wheel return lifting springs,57.8, to lift the wheel assembly to rotate up, back to its original up position, guided by the guide pin and stop,57.11, and57.12, releasing the wheel,55.1, from the ground, thus allowing the door to close with a standard overhead closer or spring-loaded hinge, which is standard hardware on most doors. At that time after the opening and closing of the door, the door is ready for the next entrant.

The embodiment ofFIGS.10-12may include an optional, main spring, or springs,52.27, and52.26, both right and left-handed, which can be wound for a further assist to accommodate a delayed action,56.0, where, at that point, a foot switch actuated spring-loaded wheel drops and engages an opening cycle as described above. The door which, after actuation, will close after a time delay,56.0, on the retracting spring mechanism, also described above. Both opening and closing are by mechanical advantage, without the use of electric power or motors.

In general, in all three embodiments ofFIGS.1-6,7-9and10-12, the present invention is differentiated, unique, novel, and distinguishable from any motorized prior art door openers, by its' being a simple machine without electric power, electric motors, scanner or traffic readers of any kind, and through mechanical advantage and a rachet, spring loaded hinge assembly, to keep constant pressure to the floor plane, hygienically opening doors when safety from disease, virus, bacteria, or other hazards which are wished to be avoided and hands free operation when ones hands are occupied such as food service and warehouse personnel, by the use of an economical apparatus that can be added/or retro fit to any door type, through brackets or the chassis mounting holes, or clamping plate, to secure to wood, hollow metal, metal framed glass, all glass, etc. doors, to facilitate ingress and egress passages of all types, locations, and environments.

In general, in all three embodiments ofFIGS.1-6,7-9and10-12, the present invention is differentiated, unique, novel, and distinguishable from any non-motorized prior art door openers, by its' being a simple machine that can develop the mechanical advantage necessary to open exterior and other doors safely, hands free with integrated delay, to afford using an ergonomically user friendly and safe interface when paired with doors which have standard resistance due to the presence of overhead, floor closers, and spring hinges.

It is further noted that whileFIGS.4A,4B,4C,5A,5B and6are shown in conjunction with the preferred embodiment ofFIGS.1-4, it is known thatFIGS.4A,4B,4C,5A,5B and6can also be used with the alternate embodiments ofFIGS.7-9and10-12.

A second embodiment shown in drawingFIGS.7,8and9describes a non-preferred embodiment with a friction slip clutch delay assembly and where the gear train includes a main gear, an idler increasing gear and a secondary gear.

A third embodiment shown in drawingFIGS.10,11and12describes another non-preferred embodiment, optionally without a delay assembly, and where the gear train is a planetary gear assembly.

Motorized and/or Motor Assist Embodiments

Other alternate (motorized) embodiments are shown inFIGS.13,14,15,16,17and18, andFIGS.19A-32.FIGS.13-14depict a first motorized embodiment,FIGS.15-16illustrate a second motorized embodiment, andFIGS.17-18illustrate a third motorized embodiment configured to provide motorized actuation of the door for the user. The three embodiments ofFIGS.13-14,FIGS.15-16, andFIGS.17-18may be differentiated by at least the various motor and the battery locations utilized in each arrangement, and where each embodiment is shown using a linear actuator to operate with respect to opening and closing of a pivoting door. These three different embodiments may also be used for opening and closing of a sliding door, merely by using a different wheel orientation (e.g., rotating the orientation of the wheel axle 90 degrees).FIGS.19A-19B, as well asFIGS.20-32show other embodiments for opening and closing of either a sliding door or a pivoting door, but which are shown utilizing a column lifter (i.e., a multi-stage linear actuator) as the linear actuation device. It is noted that any suitable linear actuation device now known in the art or later developed that may provide suitable actuation may alternatively or additionally be used in any embodiment described herein, and use of the term “linear actuator” hereinafter is intended to broadly encompass any and all such types of linear actuation devices. Aspects of these other embodiments are further described hereinafter.

A hands-free door opening/closing system100is shown inFIGS.13-15. The hands-free door opening/closing system100may include a chassis103.1, a first shaft104.31, a second shaft104.32, a drive wheel105.1, at least one coupling link107.1, a main (first) gear104.1, a drive (second) gear104.4, a motor102.9, and an actuation member that is configured to trigger actuation of the motor (i.e., to trigger the motor to start to initiate shaft rotation). As seen inFIGS.13-15, the motor102.9may be a hub motor, where the motor is incorporated into the hub of the wheel.

The chassis103.1, in addition to providing a framework configured to support the mechanical components of system100, may furthermore include mounting holes that are configured for mounting of the door opening/closing system100to the door D.

Note that one single, suitably thick, coupling link may be used to position the second shaft with respect to the first shaft and may create a cantilevered arrangement; however, greater stability may be obtained by using two coupling links. Also note that where two coupling links are used, they may furthermore be joined together as a single integral part, and may form a u-shaped coupling link member107.1having two links that extend from a base flange to form a clevis, and that configuration is illustrated in the figures merely to be illustrative of the various possible different configurations.

In what may be the simplest of the motorized embodiments that use gears, as seen in theFIGS.17-18, the shaft104.31may be rotatably mounted to the chassis103.1(note that in other embodiments this shaft may be fixedly mounted to the chassis), and the housing of the motor102.9may also be fixedly mounted to the chassis103.1and the rotor of the motor may be coupled to, and configured to drive, the shaft104.31to rotate, when the motor is activated by the controller module106.7. It is noted that the controller module106.7may include, but is not limited to, use of an Arduino® UNO R4 Wi-Fi.

The shaft104.31may be rotatably mounted to the u-shaped coupling link member107.1using holes in proximity to its base flange, while holes at the distal ends of the links of the clevis of the coupling link member107.1may rotatably support the second shaft104.32.

The main gear104.1may be fixedly secured to the first shaft104.31, and each of the drive gear104.4and the drive wheel105.1may be fixedly secured to the second shaft104.32. Being so mounted, and with the main gear104.1and the drive gear104.4being configured to mesh, rotational motion in a first direction imparted to main gear104.1via rotation of the first shaft104.31by the motor102.9will cause the drive gear104.4and thus also the second shaft104.32to correspondingly co-rotate according to the gear sizes/ratios utilized, with the corresponding co-rotation of the second shaft104.32similarly causing the drive wheel105.1to co-rotate, and thus move along the floor or ground G to thereby open the door D.

In one possible embodiment, the u-shaped coupling link member107.1may be fixedly secured to prevent its individual movement (e.g., by being fixed to the chassis103.1), and thus the mounting location of the chassis on the door D must be carefully set to provide a requisite amount of engagement force between the drive wheel105.1and the floor or ground G, because the drive wheel105.1is thereby fixedly positioned with respect to the door D (and with respect to the floor/ground surface). In this embodiment, the movement of the door D from the desired (and preset) door open position back towards the door closed position may be accomplished by the controller module106.7, which may cause the motor102.9to operate in reverse, causing counter-rotational motion (i.e., rotation in a second direction) to be imparted to main gear104.1via counter-rotation of the first shaft104.31by the motor102.9, thereby causing the drive gear104.4and thus also the second shaft104.32to correspondingly counter-rotate, with the corresponding counter-rotation of the second shaft104.32causing the drive wheel105.1to counter-rotate and thus move in the opposite direction with respect to the floor or ground G to thereby close the door D.

In another possible embodiment, the shaft104.31may be rotatably mounted to the u-shaped coupling link member107.1and the u-shaped coupling link member107.1may be free to pivot about that shaft104.31(i.e., it is not fixed to the chassis103.1), being free to pivot to the extent that it may be driven by its connection with the linear actuation device107.21, as discussed further hereinbelow, forming a cam pivot for drive wheel105.1(i.e., it may have a pivot point with an eccentric movement). The linear actuation device107.2may have one end pivotally mounted with respect to the second shaft104.32(either pivotally mounted directly to the second shaft104.32or pivotally mounted to a portion of the U-shaped coupling link member107.1(as illustrated herein), and a second end pivotally mounted with respect to the chassis103.1, e.g., using bracket107.22. The linear actuation device107.2may be any suitable linear actuator, including, but not limited to, the actuators disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,759,386 to Grouw; U.S. Pat. No. 4,489,248 to Petersen; U.S. Pat. No. 5,491,372 to Erhart; U.S. Pat. No. 5,747,896 to Nagai; U.S. Pat. No. 7,541,707 to Hochhalter; U.S. Pat. No. 3,887,155 to Bertalot; U.S. Pat. No. 6,224,037 to Novick; and U.S. Pat. No. 9,480,333 to Randlov.

The controller module106.7may control extension of the piston107.6of the linear actuation device107.2to position the drive wheel105.1in contact with the ground G when it is desired that the door D be driven into its open position, and the controller module106.7may control retraction of the piston107.6of the linear actuation device107.2to lift the drive wheel105.1off of the floor surface, so that the door may close on its own (or the door may close via spring biasing—not shown).

The motor102.9may be triggered to actuate (i.e., may be triggered to begin causing the first shaft104.31to rotate) by any suitable apparatus and method known in the art, and may preferably be a hands-free apparatus. For example, a pedal101.1, and an associated pedal arm101.2may be pivotally mounted with respect to the chassis103.1, and may also be coupled to toggle a switch106.71which can be mounted on either side of the chassis to enable the left hand or right hand mounting onto a door, that may control the power supply to the motor102.9via the controller module107.1. So, tapping on the pedal101.1may initiate hands-free opening (and closing) of the door D, as discussed hereinafter. Other apparatus that may alternatively or additionally be used to trigger the motor102.9to actuate may include, but is not limited to: a push button arrangement that may be positioned on the door, and may be actuated by a portion of the user's arm (e.g., the elbow); facial recognition, a proximity sensor that may be mounted to the chassis103.1(or to the door), which may detect the user when he/she is within a threshold distance of the sensor and may then command the switch106.71to supply power to the motor102.9; a voice activated microphone; a remote control; a key card and card reader, a user interface cable, Bluetooth or wireless connections/communications, an API running on a smartphone, computer, an app, a home or office security or media system or service, a home or office Wi-Fi system similar to Alexa, Echo, Siri, Google Assistant, Nest, Android, or similar interface device and smart office and home technologies, etc., which may permit remote opening and closing of the door D by someone located very distant from the door (e.g., across town, and/or out of the country).

The motor102.9may be powered by a fixed or removable rechargeable low volt DC power supply (e.g., one or more batteries102.93) that may be positioned in a receptable of the chassis103.1(seeFIG.17); or the motor may be hardwired to receive ordinary line voltage, and may use a battery as a backup power supply. The recharging may be from a small, charging cable or by a proximity inductive charging which is engaged when the door is in the closed position, solar or photovoltaic cells, or removable for remote charging.

When the motor102.9is triggered to operate, as described above, it may cause the first shaft104.31to rotate a first selective amount of angular rotation, which is configured to cause co-rotation of the main gear104.1and thereby cause co-rotation of the drive gear104.4, and thus cause rotation of the second shaft104.32a second selective amount of angular rotation, which in turn thereby causes the drive wheel105.1to co-rotate a third selective amount of rotation. This third selective amount of rotation of the drive wheel105.1is correlated to a radial distance that the drive wheel105.1is positioned away from the axis of a hinge of the door D (i.e., from the door hinge line), and in combination with contact of the drive wheel105.1(and its particular diameter) with the floor surface, it causes rotation (pivoting) of the door a desired angular amount to thereby pivot from a door closed position into a desired door open position (e.g., 90 degrees of door rotation).

The controller module106.7may be wired (not shown) or may wirelessly communicate with respect to various components of the system, or external systems and inputs, to be configured to control many different aspects of the operation of the system100.

The controller module106.7may also be configured to control the motor102.9to cause a time delay between when the motor is triggered to actuate (by the user using the selected hands-free apparatus, e.g., foot pedal101.1, arm101.2, and switch106.71), and when the motor is activated and actually begins rotating to cause the described shaft rotations. Also, the controller module106.7may be configured to further control the motor102.9, such that when the door D has been rotated open by the system100to the desired door open position, the controller module may lock the motor102.9and essentially freeze rotation of the drive wheel105.1, to maintain the door at the desired door open position for another pre-determined or programmable time period. The controller module106.7may also be configured to cause the motor102.9to operate in reverse, as noted above, after a predetermined time or programmable delay, to effect closing of the door using the drive wheel105.1. Additionally, the controller module106.7may be configured to control the linear actuation device107.2, to consistently maintain a pre-set and/or variable, and/or programmable amount of pressure between the drive wheel105.1and the floor surface, to provide a necessary amount of traction in various different conditions. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller module106.7may, after a pre-set amount of time, shut off the motor102.9, and subsequently trigger the motor107.21of the linear actuation device107.2to cause the piston107.6of the linear actuator to retract, and thereby lift the otherwise static drive wheel105.1off of the floor surface, permitting the door to automatically return, on its own, into the closed door position, which door return may be spring biased (e.g., using torsion springs or a clock spring at the door hinge(s) to bias the door towards the closed door position- or hydraulic or spring or other door closing devices, all not shown). Note that the linear actuation device107.2may also utilize a helical spring107.7, whereby the spring107.7may be coupled to a portion of the link107.1(see e.g.,FIG.18A), such that when the linear actuation device107.2is extended, its piston may be extended an amount being sufficient to compress the spring to apply a prescribed amount of pressure between the drive wheel105.1and the floor/ground surface (G) to allow for changes in floor pitch and slope without losing traction. When the door D reaches the door closed position (or at some time prior to that), the controller module106.7may shut off the motor107.21of the linear actuation device107.2and freeze the position of the piston107.6with respect to the outer tube, and thereby maintain the lowermost portion of the drive wheel105.1at a predetermined or programmable height/position above the floor surface. Alternatively, once the door D reaches the door closed position, the controller module106.7may subsequently trigger the motor107.21of the linear actuation device107.2to cause the piston107.6of the linear actuator to extend, and thereby lower drive wheel105.1into contact with the floor surface, while keeping the motor102.9inactive, so that the door cannot be driven open, but is ready to be opened, once it is so commanded by the user utilizing the selected hands-free apparatus (e.g., foot pedal101.1, arm101.2, and switch106.71). The converse can also be achieved with the linear actuator extended and maintained in the open position to keep the door in the open position when programmed for this function.

As seen inFIGS.17-18, the controller module106.7of the system100may also be configured to operate in conjunction with an idler wheel and a hall sensor, or similar devices, to monitor and control the speed of the door opening, the amount of travel of the door D (angle to open for a pivoting door, or distance traveled linearly when used with a sliding door), and to determine the delay for the closing (when to actuate the linear motion device107.2to raise the wheel105.1). It is possible to obtain such information using the drive wheel105.1or optical sensor, instead of an idler wheel, but the drive wheel is under pressure with the floor/ground G and being driven to rotate to overcome the inertia of the door D, and as such the drive wheel may slip or otherwise provide information that may not accurately reflect the actual real-time performance with respect to the door's travel, and an optical sensor may be accurate but is also prone to malfunction due to the accumulation of dirt and debris, whereas the idler wheel is not being driven to open the door and may be more accurate as to the information obtained and used.

The controller module106.7may be electronically coupled to a hall effect sensor or similar device106.82that is configured to co-act with a single or plurality of magnets106.83(e.g., eight magnets) that may be radially mounted and equally spaced on at least one side of an idler wheel106.84that is configured to roll freely on the ground G, which idler wheel may be supported by a bracket106.81that may be mounted to the shaft104.31and/or to the chassis103.1. The idler wheel106.84may be metallic, or not, and may have a circumferential groove at the outer periphery of the wheel that may receive a rubber O-ring106.85, which may serve to make the idler wheel's movement more reliable like most rubber wheels or other material which have a high coefficient of friction (e.g., having very little tendency to slip or be distorted).

The number of magnets106.83on the idler wheel106.84may be counted by the sensor106.82as the idler wheel rotates on the ground G during movement of the door D, so that if there are eight magnets, there may be approximately one and a half inches of travel between each of the eight magnets, i.e., the distance of travel may be determined according to the diameter of the idler wheel106.84used, the number of magnets106.83used, and the radial placement of the magnets on the idler wheel, which distance may be calculated by the controller module106.7using an algorithm associated with the use and particular arrangement of these components.

This determination of the travel of the door D made by the controller module106.7allows for the adjustment and programming of the door opening to not hit walls or other permanent obstructions within each specific application to 1½″ of arc, of the door movement depending on the number of magnets, whether there are eight magnets or possibly more magnets.

Use of the idler wheel106.84and the sensor arrangement may permit the controller module106.7to determine if the drive wheel105.1is slipping due to ice, sand, an oil/grease covered surface, or due to other field conditions that may be encountered, allowing the motor102.9to turn the drive wheel added rotations (or a portion of a rotation) until the door D has reached its designated opening distance to occupy a desired door open position (and to similarly operate in reverse to occupy the door closed position).

The arrangement shown inFIGS.13-14Ais constructed similar to the arrangement shown inFIGS.17-18, except that the motor102.9may be positioned/mounted differently, and it may utilize four gears. As seen inFIGS.13-14A, the motor102.9may be mounted to the chassis103.1either using an integral flange of the chassis, or using a separate bracket102.91. The rotor of the motor102.9may be coupled to a first speed decreasing gear104.5, which may mesh with, and drive, the second speed decreasing gear104.3that is fixedly secured to the first shaft, causing the first shaft to rotate, and also causing the gear104.1that is also fixedly secured to the first shaft to similarly rotate. The gear104.1meshes with, and drives, the gear104.4to cause rotation of the second shaft and thus the drive wheel, in accordance with the combination of gear ratios that are used for the four gears. This may be particularly suitable for high traffic commercial applications.

The arrangement shown inFIGS.15-16may be constructed similar to the arrangement shown inFIGS.17-18, except that the motor102.9may be positioned/mounted differently, and it may not utilize any gears. The motor102.9may also be a hub motor. As seen inFIGS.15-16the motor102.9may be mounted to the link107.1, and the rotor of the motor may be coupled to the second shaft to thereby cause rotation of the drive wheel105.1to thereby cause the drive wheel to rotate relative to the second shaft and open the door.

Note that for any of these motorized embodiments the controller module106.7may determine if an obstruction in the path of travel has been encountered by the door (e.g., a box left on the ground, a person walking nearby, or if someone pushes on the either side of the door), after the linear motion device107.2has caused the drive wheel105.1to engage with the ground and may have even been actuated to open the door D at least part way. The controller module106.7may be able sense the obstruction by being able to sense an increase in the current draw by the drive motor102.9, being indicative of an added load on the motor (i.e., the obstruction hindering movement of the door D). Upon detecting the obstruction, the controller module106.7may cause retraction of the linear motion device107.2to cause lifting of the drive wheel105.1, so the door may close on its own, and the system may also reset for the next door opening cycle.

The controller module106.7coupled with the idler wheel may also be used to determine if the door is moving as a result of the rotation of the drive wheel, and may increase the pressure on the drive wheel by causing further extending of the linear motion device to adjust for variable environmental conditions in real time if the drive wheel is slipping.

As noted above,FIG.19Ashows a motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system200, being used for opening and closing of a pivoting door.FIG.19Bshows a motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system200′, being used for opening and closing of a pivoting door. The motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system200′ may be the same as the motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system200, except that the bracket205.1may be configured to alternatively mount the drive wheel with the axle perpendicular to the door, rather than being oriented parallel to the door. The same bracket205.1may be configured to simply mount to the lift column/actuator being clocked 90 degrees; additionally, or alternatively, a swivel mechanism205.1may be used. As such, only the motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system200is described hereinafter, with the understating that the component parts may be common to the motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system200′.

As seen at least inFIG.19AandFIG.20, a combination drive wheel and hub motor202.9may mounted to a mounting bracket202.91via an axle to rotate with respect to said bracket, where the hub motor is configured, when activated, to cause the drive wheel to rotate. As seen in those figures, the door opening and closing system200may also include a chassis (e.g., a mounting plate203.2and mounting cover203.1) that may house the component parts, and which is configured to mount to the door.

The door opening and closing system200may use, for the linear actuation device, a column lifter (i.e., a multi-stage linear actuator)207.2to drive the bracket-mounted drive wheel relative to the chassis mounting plate between a retracted position and one or more extended positions. A retracted position may be seen inFIG.31, and an extended position may be seen inFIG.30. Note that the floor or ground surface shown inFIG.30appears level, and where that is not the case, other extended positions would be needed to maintain proper contact and required pressure between the drive wheel and the floor or ground surface. The controller module206.7may be configured to sense loads, and may thus be configured to cause the column lifter207.2to extend into any necessary extend position to cause the desired amount of pressure between the drive wheel and the floor surface or ground surface. Any suitable type of switch (e.g., switch206.71which may permit toggling via a user's foot) may be configured to trigger activation of the hub motor to cause the drive wheel to rotate a selective amount of angular rotation, to thereby drive the door to move (i.e., to slide or pivot) from a door closed position into a desired door open position. Power may be provided by a battery202.93that may be recharged in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, use of a wireless charger202.6.

The door opening and closing system200may also use an idler wheel sensor assembly206.8, including an idler wheel206.83with magnets206.831, and a hall sensor206.82. Speaker and microphone206.86may be used for communication of sound, to permit the use of voice control/commands for opening and closing of the door, and to provide for sound alarms or voice directions. A traction spring207.6may be used to bias the bracket202.91downward, to bias the drive wheel into contact with the floor. While illustrative implementations of one or more embodiments of the disclosed system are provided hereinabove, those skilled in the art and having the benefit of the present disclosure will appreciate that further embodiments may be implemented with various changes within the scope of the disclosed system. Other modifications, substitutions, omissions and changes may be made in the design, size, materials used or proportions, operating conditions, assembly sequence, or arrangement or positioning of elements and members of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of this invention.