Patent Publication Number: US-11661786-B2

Title: Powered opening module for a door closer

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/030,680 filed May 27, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present application generally relates to door operators, and more particularly but not exclusively relates to a retrofit module configured for use with conventional hydraulic door closers. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Recently, there has been an increased awareness in public health and discouraging the transmission of pathogens through commonly-touched surfaces, such as doors. While many door installations are provided with hydraulic door closers that aid in closing the door, these door closers are typically not configured to provide for powered opening of the door. As such, these door surfaces are frequently touched by many users, which may facilitate the transmission of pathogens. While certain types of door opening systems exist, these systems are typically provided as replacements for existing door closers, and are often expensive and time-consuming to install. For these reasons among others, there remains a need for further improvements in this technological field. 
     SUMMARY 
     Certain embodiments of the present application relate to a retrofit module configured for use with a door closer comprising a pinion. The retrofit module generally includes a case, an output shaft, a motor, and a control assembly. The output shaft is rotatably mounted in the case, and is configured for rotational coupling with the pinion. The motor is mounted to the case, and is operable to rotate the output shaft in a door-opening direction. The control assembly is mounted to the case, and is configured to operate the motor to drive the output shaft in the door-opening direction in response to an actuating signal. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a closure assembly according to certain embodiments, including a door closer and a powered opening module according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a portion of the powered opening module illustrated in  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  3    is a schematic block diagram of the closure assembly illustrated in  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a closure assembly according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  5    is a perspective view of a portion of the closure assembly illustrated in  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  6    is a schematic block diagram of the closure assembly illustrated in  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  7    is a partially-exploded assembly view of a door operator assembly of the closure assembly illustrated in  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  8    is an exploded assembly view of a powered opening module of the door operator assembly illustrated in  FIG.  7   . 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective partially-exploded view of the powered opening module illustrated in  FIG.  8   . 
         FIG.  10    is a plan view of a portion of the powered opening module illustrated in  FIG.  8   , and illustrates a wired interface of the powered opening module. 
         FIG.  11    is a plan view of a portion of the powered opening module illustrated in  FIG.  8   , and illustrates a user interface of the powered opening module. 
         FIG.  12    is a schematic representation of a product line according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  13    is a schematic representation of a product line according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  14    is a schematic flow diagram of a process according to certain embodiments. 
         FIG.  15    is a schematic block diagram of a computing device that may be utilized in certain embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS 
     Although the concepts of the present disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described herein in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit the concepts of the present disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives consistent with the present disclosure and the appended claims. 
     References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an illustrative embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may or may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. It should further be appreciated that although reference to a “preferred” component or feature may indicate the desirability of a particular component or feature with respect to an embodiment, the disclosure is not so limiting with respect to other embodiments, which may omit such a component or feature. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to implement such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. 
     Additionally, it should be appreciated that items included in a list in the form of “at least one of A, B, and C” can mean (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (B and C); (A and C); or (A, B, and C). Similarly, items listed in the form of “at least one of A, B, or C” can mean (A); (B); (C); (A and B); (B and C); (A and C); or (A, B, and C). Further, with respect to the claims, the use of words and phrases such as “a,” “an,” “at least one,” and/or “at least one portion” should not be interpreted so as to be limiting to only one such element unless specifically stated to the contrary, and the use of phrases such as “at least a portion” and/or “a portion” should be interpreted as encompassing both embodiments including only a portion of such element and embodiments including the entirety of such element unless specifically stated to the contrary. 
     The disclosed embodiments may, in some cases, be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. The disclosed embodiments may also be implemented as instructions carried by or stored on one or more transitory or non-transitory machine-readable (e.g., computer-readable) storage media, which may be read and executed by one or more processors. A machine-readable storage medium may be embodied as any storage device, mechanism, or other physical structure for storing or transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a volatile or non-volatile memory, a media disc, or other media device). 
     In the drawings, some structural or method features may be shown in specific arrangements and/or orderings. However, it should be appreciated that such specific arrangements and/or orderings may not be required. Rather, in some embodiments, such features may be arranged in a different manner and/or order than shown in the illustrative figures unless indicated to the contrary. Additionally, the inclusion of a structural or method feature in a particular figure is not meant to imply that such feature is required in all embodiments and, in some embodiments, need not be included or may be combined with other features. 
     As used herein, the term “about” may be used to modify a quantitative representation, and indicates a margin of +/−10%. For example, a voltage that is described as “about 24 volts” indicates that the voltage in question may fall within the range of 21.6 volts to 26.4 volts. 
     With reference to  FIG.  1   , illustrated therein is a closure assembly  70  according to certain embodiments. The closure assembly  70  generally includes a door frame  72  and a door  74  swingingly mounted to the frame  72 , for example by one or more hinges  73 . The closure assembly  70  further includes a door operator system  80  according to certain embodiments. The door operator system  80  generally includes a traditional door closer  90  and a powered opening module  100  according to certain embodiments. 
     The door closer  90  generally includes a closer body  92 , a pinion  94  rotatably mounted to the body  92 , and an armature  96  connected with the pinion  94 . The body  92  is mounted to one of the frame  72  or the door  74 , and the armature  96  is connected between the pinion  94  and the other of the frame  72  or the door  74 . In the illustrated form, the body  92  is mounted to the door  74 , and the armature  96  is connected between the pinion  94  and the frame  72 . In other embodiments, the body  92  may be mounted to the frame  72 , and the armature  96  may be connected between the pinion  94  and the door  74 . The closer body  92  includes a closer body mounting pattern  98  that includes at least one mounting location  99 , which facilitates mounting of the module  100  to the closer body  92  as described herein. 
     During operation of the door closer  90 , opening of the door  74  is correlated with rotation of the pinion  94  in a door-opening direction, and closing of the door  74  is correlated with rotation of the pinion  94  in a door-closing direction opposite the door-opening direction. Additionally, the closer  90  is configured to generate a biasing force urging the pinion  94  in the door-closing direction such that the closer  90  urges the door  74  toward its closed position. For example, the closer  90  may include a rack gear engaged with the pinion  94  and a spring engaged with the rack gear. In such forms, opening of the door  74  drives the pinion  94  in the door-opening direction, thereby shifting the rack gear in a first direction and compressing the spring. During closing of the door  74 , the spring expands, thereby driving the rack gear in a second direction opposite the first direction and urging the pinion  94  in the door-closing direction, thereby urging the door  74  toward its closed position. The closer  90  may further include one or more hydraulic passages through which a hydraulic fluid flows to modulate the opening and/or closing speed of the door  74 . Door closers of this type are known in the art, and need not be described in detail herein. 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  2   , the powered opening module  100  generally includes a case  110 , a motor  120  mounted in the case  110 , a gear train  130  operably connected with the motor  120 , and a control assembly  140  in communication with the motor  120 . As described herein, the powered opening module  100  is configured to generate a force that urges the pinion  94  in the door-opening direction to at least assist in the opening of the door  74 . In certain embodiments, one or more components of the powered opening module  100  may be substantially similar to corresponding components described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/040,765, filed Jul. 20, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     The module case  110  houses the internal components of the module  100 , and includes an opening operable to receive an end portion of the pinion  94 . The case  110  is configured for mounting to at least one of the closer body  92 , the frame  72 , or the door  74 . In the illustrated form, the module case  110  is configured for mounting to the closer body  92 . Additionally or alternatively, the module case  110  may be configured for mounting to the door  74 . In certain embodiments, such as those in which the closer body  92  is mounted to the frame  72 , the module case  110  may likewise be configured for mounting to the frame  72 . In the illustrated embodiment, the case  110  includes a case mounting pattern  118  that includes at least one mounting aperture  119 , and which corresponds to the closer body mounting pattern  98  such that the mounting aperture(s)  119  are operable to align with the mounting locations  99 . When so aligned, fasteners such as bolts  101  may be utilized to secure the case  110  to the closer body  92 . 
     The motor  120  is mounted in the case  110 , is drivingly connected with the gear train  130 , and is in communication with the control assembly  140  such that the control assembly  140  is operable to control operation of the motor  120 . The motor  120  includes a body portion  122  and a motor shaft  124  that is rotated by the body portion  122  under control of the control assembly  140 . The motor shaft  124  is engaged with the gear train  130  such that rotation of the motor shaft  124  causes a corresponding rotation of the gear train  130 . In certain embodiments, the motor  120  may, for example, be provided as a DC brushless motor. It is also contemplated that the motor  120  may be provided in another form, such as that of a brushed motor or a stepper motor. The motor  120  is operable to rotate the motor shaft  124  in at least a first direction, and may be further operable to rotate the motor shaft  124  in a second direction opposite the first direction. As described herein, rotation of the motor shaft  124  in the first direction is correlated with opening of the door  74 , and rotation of the motor shaft  124  in the second direction is correlated with closing of the door  74 . 
     The gear train  130  is movably mounted in the case  110  and is engaged with the motor  120  such that the motor  120  is operable to drive the gear train  130 . The gear train  130  includes an input gear  132  engaged with the motor shaft  124  and an output shaft  134  engaged with the input gear  132  such that rotation of the motor shaft  124  is correlated with rotation of the output shaft  134 . For example, the input gear  132  may be operably connected with the output shaft  134  via one or more additional gears  136 . In the illustrated form, the gear train  130  is provided as a reduction gear set that provides the output shaft  134  with a greater torque and a lower speed than is provided to the motor shaft  124  by the motor  120 . It is also contemplated that the gear train  130  may be provided in another form, or may be omitted (e.g., in embodiments in which the motor  120  directly rotates the output shaft  134 ). 
     The output shaft  134  includes a pinion interface  135  sized and shaped to receive an exposed end portion  95  of the pinion  94  for rotational coupling of the output shaft  134  with the pinion  94 . For example, in embodiments in which the end portion  95  of the pinion  94  has a generally hexagonal outer geometry, the pinion interface  135  may have a corresponding hexagonal inner geometry sized and shaped to matingly receive the exposed end portion  95  of the pinion  94 . When the module  100  is mounted to the closer  90 , the pinion  94  and the output shaft  134  are coupled for joint rotation such that rotation of the motor shaft  124  is correlated with rotation of the pinion  94 . More particularly, rotation of the motor shaft  124  in the first direction is correlated with rotation of the pinion  94  in the door-opening direction, and rotation of the motor shaft  124  in the second direction is correlated with rotation of the pinion  94  in the door-closing direction. As such, the first direction for the motor shaft  124  may alternatively be referred to as the opening direction, and the second direction for the motor shaft  124  may alternatively be referred to as the closing direction. 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  3   , the control assembly  140  is in communication with the motor  120  and an actuator  84 , and is operable to control operation of the motor  120  based upon information received from the actuator  84  using power drawn from an electrical power supply  76 . In certain embodiments, the power supply  76  may be provided as an onboard power supply, such as one or more batteries. In other embodiments, the power supply  76  may be an external power supply, such as line power. For example, the module  100  may be provided with a cord  102  including a plug  104  that is plugged into a standard power outlet  77  in the vicinity of the door  74 , where the power outlet  77  serves the function of the power supply  76 . The cord  102  may include an adapter  103  that converts the line power to a power suitable for use by the module  100 , such as about 24 volts (e.g., 24 volts+/−10%). As described herein, the module  100  may be configured to operate under such reduced voltages, which may obviate the need for a skilled electrician installer by enabling the cord  102  to be plugged into a standard electrical outlet. In certain embodiments, the module  100  may be configured to receive electrical power and/or command signals via a Power-over-Ethernet connection. 
     As noted above, the control assembly  140  is in communication with the actuator  84 , and is configured to control operation of the motor  120  based upon information received from the actuator  84 . More particularly, the actuator  84  is operable to transmit to the control assembly  140  an actuating signal in response to an actuating input provided by a user, and the control assembly  140  is configured to power the motor  120  to open the door  74  in response to receiving the actuating signal. In certain embodiments, the actuator  84  may be in wired communication with the control assembly  140 . Additionally or alternatively, the actuator  84  may be in wireless communication with the control assembly  140 . In certain forms, the actuator  84  may be mounted to the door  74  or in the vicinity of the door  74  (e.g., within 12 to 60 inches of the door  74 ) such as on a wall  71  adjacent the door  74 . As described herein, in certain embodiments, the actuator  84  may be provided with the powered opening module  100  in a retrofit kit  100 ′ for an existing closure assembly. In certain forms, the actuator  84  may be provided in the form of a credential reader. In certain forms, the actuator  84  may be provided as a non-credentialed actuator. 
     In certain forms, the actuator  84  may be activated by touch. For example, the actuator  84  may be provided in the form of a pushbutton that transmits the actuating signal when depressed, or a touchpad that transmits the actuating signal when touched. In certain forms, the actuator  84  may be mounted at a height that facilitates touching by the hands of a user, such as between 34 and 48 inches above floor level. It is also contemplated that the actuator  84  may be mounted at a height that facilitates actuation by foot, such as less than 24 inches above floor level. 
     It is also contemplated that the actuator  84  may be provided as a touchless actuator, such as a motion sensor or passive infrared sensor. In certain embodiments, a touchless form of the actuator  84  may be mounted to the case  110  and configured to transmit the actuating signal in response to the approach of a user. In certain embodiments, a touchless form of the actuator  84  may be mounted to the door  74  or in the vicinity of the door  74  (e.g., within 12 to 60 inches of the door  74 ) and configured to generate the actuating signal when a user waves an appendage (e.g., a hand or foot) in front of the actuator  84 . 
     The control assembly  140  generally includes control circuitry such as a controller  142 , and may further include a position sensor  144  configured to sense a rotational position of the output shaft  134 . As should be appreciated, the control assembly  140  may further include additional components, such as power conditioning circuitry configured to convert the power received from the power supply  76  to a form usable by the motor  120 . As described herein, the controller  142  is configured to control operation of the motor  120  such that the powered opening module  100  generates a doo-opening torque urging the pinion  94  in the door-opening direction to at least assist in opening the door  74  when a user actuates the actuator  84 . 
     In embodiments that include the position sensor  144 , the position sensor  144  may be configured to sense the rotational position of the output shaft  134 , and thus the rotational position of the pinion  94 . In certain embodiments, the position sensor  144  may, for example, be provided in the form of a rotary encoder. It is also contemplated that the position sensor  144  may be provided in another form, such as that of an absolute position sensor or a switch. In certain forms, the controller  142  may be operable to determine when the door  74  has reached a desired position (e.g., a fully open position) based upon information received from the position sensor  144 , and may control operation of the motor  120  based at least in part upon the information received from the position sensor  144 . 
     During operation of the closure assembly  70 , the door  74  is biased toward its closed position by the conventional door closer  90 . When a user approaches the closure assembly  70 , the presence of the user may be detected by the actuator  84 . Depending on the form of the actuator  84 , the actuator  84  may detect the user in a touchless fashion (e.g., by detecting the presence of the user or the waving of a hand or foot), or may detect the presence of the user in response to being physically acted upon by the user (e.g., by the user depressing a button of the actuator  84 ). Regardless of the manner in which the actuator  84  detects the presence of the user, the actuator  84  may transmit the actuating signal in response to detecting the user and/or the user&#39;s intent to open the door  74 . 
     Upon receiving the actuating signal from the actuator  84  (e.g., via a wired or wireless communication connection), the control assembly  140  powers the motor  120  with power received from the power supply  76  such that the motor  120  drives the motor shaft  124  in the first or opening direction. As a result, the gear train  130  urges the output shaft  134  and the pinion  94  in the door-opening direction, thereby urging the door  74  toward its open position. In certain embodiments, the torque supplied by the powered opening module  100  is sufficient to drive the door  74  toward its open position against the closing force supplied by the closer  90 . In other embodiments, the module  100  may merely provide a powered assist that aids the user in manually opening the door  74 . In certain embodiments, the control assembly  140  may operate the motor  120  for a predetermined period of time after receiving the actuating signal. Additionally or alternatively, the control assembly  140  may operate the motor  120  until information generated by the position sensor  144  indicates that the door  74  has reached a desired position (e.g., the open position). When operation of the motor  120  ceases, the door  74  may return to its closed position under the urging of the conventional door closer  90 . 
     In the illustrated form, the actuator  84  is external to the powered opening module  100 . In such forms, the actuator  84  may sense the user and/or the user&#39;s intent to open the door  74  directly, for example by detecting the user, the user&#39;s gestures, or the user&#39;s activation of a pushbutton. It is also contemplated that the actuator  84  may sense the user&#39;s intent to open the door  74  in another manner. For example, the actuator  84  may be provided within the powered opening module, and may infer the user&#39;s intent to open the door  74  in response to an initial movement of the door  74  toward its open position. In response to detecting such initial movement of the door  74  (e.g., via the position sensor  144 ), the control assembly  140  may operate the motor  120  to provide the user with a powered opening assist. 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  4   , illustrated therein is a closure assembly  200  according to certain embodiments. The closure assembly  200  is somewhat similar to the above-described closure assembly  70 , and generally includes the door frame  72  and the door  74 , which is swingingly mounted to the frame  72  by one or more hinges  73 . The closure assembly  200  further includes a power transfer assembly  210 , an actuator  220 , and a door operator assembly  300  according to certain embodiments. As described herein, the door operator assembly  300  is operable to open the door  74  using line power transmitted via the power transfer assembly  210  in response to receiving an actuating signal from the actuator  220 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  5   , the illustrated door operator assembly  300  generally includes the conventional door closer  90 , a wireless communication module  310 , an override mechanism  320 , an adapter plate  330 , and a powered opening module  400  according to certain embodiments. As described herein, the powered opening module  400  is operable to at least assist in opening of the door  74  in a manner similar to that described above with reference to the powered opening module  100 . The illustrated door operator assembly  300  further includes a hood  340  that encases at least some of the other components of the door operator assembly  300  to discourage tampering with the door operator assembly  300  and/or provide a more pleasing aesthetic to the closure assembly  200 . In certain embodiments, such as those in which the door  74  is provided as a glass door, the door operator assembly  300  may further include a back plate that covers the internal components of the door operator assembly  300  so as to obscure such internal components from view from the opposite side of the door  74 . 
     The power transfer assembly  210  generally includes an adapter  212  configured to convert line power to power suitable for use by the door operator assembly  300 . For example, the adapter  212  may be configured to convert 120V line power to power of about 24V or less. In the illustrated form, the power transfer assembly  210  includes a standard plug  211  operable to engage a standard electrical outlet  77  in a manner similar to that described above with reference to the plug  104  and the standard outlet  77 . For purposes of illustration, the adapter  212  is depicted as including the plug  211 , and the outlet  202  is depicted as being provided to the door frame  72 . It should be appreciated, however, that the adapter  212  may instead by connected with the plug  211  by a length of wire, and that the outlet  202  may be provided in another location in the vicinity of the door  74 . Moreover, it is also contemplated that the power transfer assembly  210  may not necessarily include a plug  211 , and that the power transfer assembly  210  may instead be directly wired to line power. However, the provision of a plug-in power transfer assembly  210  operable to plug into a standard power outlet  77  may provide the closure assembly  200  with one or more benefits described herein. 
     The power transfer assembly  210  further includes a set of power transfer wires  213  and an armored sheath  214  that protects the wires  213 . One end of the sheath  214  is coupled with an anchor  215  that is mounted to the frame  72 , and the sheath  214  runs into the interior of the hood  340 , where the second end of the sheath  214  is anchored. The wires  213  transmit the lower-voltage power from the adapter  212  to the powered opening module  400  and optionally to the wireless communication module  310 . While an example form of the power transfer assembly  210  is illustrated, it should be appreciated that other forms of power transfer assembly may be utilized to transmit power to the electronic components of the door operator assembly  300 . For example, one of the hinges  73  may be provided in the form of an electrical power transfer (“EPT”) hinge. 
     The actuator  220  is operable to transmit an actuating signal to the powered opening module  400  to cause the door operator assembly  300  to urge the door  74  toward its open position. In the illustrated form, the actuator  220  is configured to transmit a wireless actuating signal, which is transmitted to the powered opening module  400  via the wireless communication module  310 . While the illustrated actuator  220  is depicted as being mounted adjacent the door frame  72 , it is also contemplated that the actuator  220  may be mounted elsewhere. The actuator  220  may, for example, be provided in any of the locations and in any of the forms described herein with reference to the actuator  84 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  6   , the wireless communication module  310  may be utilized to facilitate communication between the powered opening module  400  and one or more external devices  290 , such as the actuator  220 , an access control system  292 , a mobile device  294 , or another device external to the door operator assembly  300 . In the illustrated form, the wireless communication module  310  is an add-on device configured for use with the powered opening module  400 . It is also contemplated that the wireless communication module  310  may be integrated into or otherwise provided with the powered opening module  400 . 
     The override mechanism  320  is operable to selectively deactivate the powered opening module  400 , and in the illustrated form generally includes a mounting bracket  322  and an override switch  324 . The mounting bracket  322  is configured for mounting to the door closer  90 , and in the illustrated form includes a C-shaped clip  323  configured for mounting to the tube portion  93  of the closer body  92 . It is also contemplated that the bracket  322  may take another form, and may not necessarily include the clip  323 . For example, the bracket  322  may instead be configured for mounting to another portion of the closer body  92 , or may include an annular ring configured for mounting to the tube portion  93 . The override switch  324  is accessible from outside the hood  340 , and is configured to selectively prevent operation of the powered opening module  400 . While other forms are contemplated, the illustrated override switch  324  is provided in the form of a rocker toggle. 
     The override switch  324  has an on state and an off state, and is operable to be transitioned between the on state and the off state by a user, such as maintenance personnel and/or an installer. In certain embodiments, the override switch  324  may be manually movable between the on state and the off state, while in other embodiments, the override switch  324  may require the use of a tool to transition between the on state and the off state. When the override switch  324  is in the on state, the powered opening module  400  is operable to exert forces on the door  74  via the closer  90  as described herein. When the override switch  324  is in the off state, the powered opening module  400  is disabled. 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  7   , the adapter plate  330  facilitates mounting of the powered opening module  400  to the closer  90 , and includes a plurality of mounting apertures that further facilitate such mounting. More particularly, the adapter plate  330  includes a first mounting pattern  331  including at least one first mounting aperture  332 , and a second mounting pattern  333  including at least one second mounting aperture  334 . The first mounting pattern  331  corresponds to the closer body mounting pattern  98 , and facilitates coupling of the adapter plate  330  with the closer body  92  (e.g., via one or more first fasteners  302 ). The second mounting pattern  333  corresponds to a mounting pattern  418  of a case  410  of the powered opening module  400 , and facilitates coupling of the adapter plate  330  with the case  410 . The adapter plate  330  is operable to be positioned between the module  400  and the closer body  92  such that each adapter plate first aperture  332  is aligned with a corresponding mounting location  99  while each adapter plate second aperture  334  is aligned with a corresponding case mounting aperture  419  and an opening  336  of the adapter plate  330  is aligned with the pinion  94 . 
     The illustrated adapter plate  330  further includes an opening  336  through which extends one or both of the exposed end portion  95  of the pinion  94  and/or a pinion adapter  450  of the powered opening module  400  such that the exposed end portion  95  is engaged with the pinion adapter  450 . In the illustrated form, the adapter plate  330  is mounted to the closer body  92 , and the powered opening module  400  is mounted to the adapter plate  330 . In other embodiments, the powered opening module  400  may be mounted directly to the closer body  92 . However, it has been found that indirectly mounting the powered opening module  400  to the closer body  92  via an adapter plate  330  may provide one or more advantages discussed in further detail below. 
     The hood  340  is mounted to the door  74  and at least partially encases one or more other components of the door operator assembly  300 . The hood  340  includes a first opening  342  through which the override switch  324  is accessible and a second opening  344  through which the armature  96  extends. The hood  340  may be formed of a radio-frequency (RF) passive material, such as plastic, such that the hood  340  does not block the wireless communications between the wireless communication module  310  and the external device  290 . It is also contemplated that the hood  340  may be formed of metal, for example in embodiments in which the powered opening module  400  is in wired communication with the external device  290 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  8   , the powered opening module  400  is somewhat similar to the above-described powered opening module  100 , and similar reference characters are used to denote similar elements and features. For example, the powered opening module  400  generally includes a case  410 , a motor  420 , a gear train  430 , and a control assembly  440 , which respectively correspond to the case  110 , motor  120 , gear train  130 , and control assembly  140  of the powered opening module  100 . In the interest of conciseness, the following description of the powered opening module  400  primarily focuses on elements, features, and functions of the module  400  that are different from those described above with reference to the powered opening module  100  illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 3   . As described herein, the illustrated powered opening module  400  further includes a pinion adapter  450  coupled with an output gear of the gear train  430 , a wired interface  460  connected with the control assembly  440 , and a user interface  470  in communication with the control assembly  440 . 
     The illustrated case  410  generally includes a first case portion  411  and a second case portion  412  coupled to the first case portion  411  such that the gear train  430  is enclosed by first case portion  411  and the second case portion  412 . The first case portion  411  includes a receptacle  413  in which the motor  420  is seated, and may further include a motor cover  414  operable to enclose the receptacle  413 . The case  410  also includes a user interface cover  416  operable to enclose a receiving space  417  that is defined by the second case portion  412 , and which houses the user interface  470 . The case  410  also includes a case mounting pattern  418  including at least one case aperture  419  that facilitates coupling of the case  410  to the adapter plate  330 , for example via fasteners  304 . 
     The motor  420  is in communication with the control assembly  440  such that the control assembly  440  is operable to control operation of the motor  420 . The motor  420  includes a body portion  422  and a shaft  424  that is rotated by the body portion  422  under control of the control assembly  440 . The motor shaft  424  is coupled to an input gear  432  of the gear train  430  such that the motor  420  is operable to drive the gear train  430 . 
     The gear train  430  operably connects the motor shaft  424  with the pinion adapter  450 . The gear train  430  generally includes an input gear  432  rotationally coupled with the motor shaft  424 , and an output gear  434  rotationally coupled with the pinion adapter  450 . The gear train  430  may further include one or more intermediate gears  436  through which the input gear  432  is operably connected with the output gear  434 . The output gear  434  includes a stem  435  sized and shaped for rotational coupling with an output gear interface  454  of the pinion adapter  450 . In certain forms, the output gear  434  may be considered to be included in a shaft portion  403  of an output shaft  402  that further includes the pinion adapter  450 . 
     In the illustrated form, the gear train  430  connects the motor shaft  424  with the pinion adapter  450  such that rotation of either of the motor shaft  424  or the pinion adapter  450  in either direction causes a corresponding rotation of the other of the motor shaft  424  or the pinion adapter  450 . As a result, in the illustrated form, closing of the door  74  under the force of the closer  90  back-drives the motor  420 . It is also contemplated that the powered opening module  400  may include a clutch mechanism connected at a point between the motor shaft  424  and the pinion  94  such that the closer  90  does not back-drive the motor  420  during closing of the door  74 . 
     The control assembly  440  is substantially similar to the control assembly  140 , and generally includes a controller  442  and a position sensor  444  in communication with the controller  442 . As described herein, the controller  442  is operable to control operation of the motor  420 . Such operation may be based at least in part upon information from the position sensor  444 , which is configured to sense the rotational position of at least one component driven by the motor  420 . In the illustrated form, the position sensor  444  is provided in the form of a rotary encoder that is associated with the motor shaft  424  such that the position sensor  444  is operable to sense the rotational position of the motor shaft  424 . It is also contemplated that the position sensor  444  may be provided in another form (e.g., an inductive rotary position sensor) and/or may be associated with another component driven by the motor  420  (e.g., the pinion adapter  450  and/or one or more gears of the gear train  430 ). 
     The pinion adapter  450  is configured to provide an interface between the exposed end portion  95  of the pinion  94  and the output shaft  402 . The pinion adapter  450  generally includes a pinion interface  452  configured for rotational coupling with the pinion  94  and an output gear interface  454  configured for rotational coupling with the output gear  434 . In the illustrated form, the exposed end portion  95  of the pinion  94  has a hexagonal male geometry, and the pinion interface  452  has a corresponding hexagonal female geometry configured to matingly receive the exposed end portion  95 . Similarly, the stem  435  of the output gear  434  has a hexagonal male geometry, and the output gear interface  454  has a corresponding hexagonal female geometry configured to matingly receive the stem  435 . It is also contemplated that one or more of the geometries may be different. For example, should the exposed end portion  95  have a D-shaped male geometry, the pinion interface  452  may have a corresponding D-shaped female geometry configured to matingly receive the exposed end portion  95 . 
     In the illustrated form, the pinion adapter  450  and the output gear  434  are separate components that are rotationally coupled with one another. It is also contemplated that the pinion adapter  450  and the output gear  434  may be integrally formed as a single unitary piece. However, it has been found that providing the pinion adapter  450  as a separate component that can be removed from and coupled to the output gear  434  (e.g., at the factory or by an installer) may provide the operator assembly  300  with one or more advantages discussed herein. 
     With additional reference to  FIGS.  9  and  10   , the wired interface  460  is connected with the control assembly  440 , and is operable to provide power and electrical signals to the control assembly  440 . In the illustrated form, the wired interface  460  includes first through ninth ports  461 - 469 , and indicia identifying the functions of the various ports are provided on the case  410  adjacent the wired interface  460 . In the illustrated form, the wired interface  460  is a removable module operable to be inserted into and removed from the case  410 , which may facilitate the act of connecting the control assembly  440  to the devices external to the module  400 . 
     A first port  461  is a 24V in port, a second port  462  is a ground port, and a third port  463  is a 24V out port. The wires  213  of the power transfer assembly  210  may be connected with the first through third ports  461 - 463 . The wired interface  460  includes a plurality of common ports (including the fourth port  464 , the sixth port  466 , and the seventh port  467 ) connected to a common of the control assembly  440 . The fifth port  465  is an actuating port through which the control assembly  440  receives the actuating signal that causes the controller  442  to actuate the motor  420 . In the illustrated form, the actuating port  465  is wired to the wireless communication module  310  such that the control assembly  440  is operable to receive the actuating signal from the actuator  220  via the wireless communication module  310  and the actuating port  465 . It is also contemplated that the actuating port  465  may be in communication with the actuator  220  via a wholly-wired connection. 
     The eighth port  468  is wired to the override switch  434  such that the override switch  434  is operable to prevent the control assembly  440  from actuating the motor  420 , for example by opening a circuit. The ninth port  469  is a fire port that is also operable to prevent the control assembly  440  from actuating the motor  420 , for example in the event of a fire or other emergency that would warrant such prevention. In certain embodiments, a wire from an access control system  292  may be connected with the fire port  469 , and cessation of a signal via the fire port  469  may prevent the control assembly  440  from operating the motor  420 , for example by opening a circuit. It is also contemplated that the fire port  469  may be connected with one of the common ports  464 ,  466 ,  467  via a wire that closes the circuit to enable operation of the motor  420 . In such embodiments, melting of the wire (e.g., during a fire emergency) opens the circuit and prevents the door operator assembly  300  from opening the door  74 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  11   , the user interface  470  is connected with the control assembly  440 , and is disposed in the receiving space  417  such that the user interface cover  416  is operable to enclose the user interface  470  within the receiving space  417 . The user interface  470  is configured to facilitate installation, calibration, maintenance, and/or adjustment of the powered opening module  400 , and generally includes one or more inputs  480 , one or more outputs  490 , and indicia relating to the inputs  480  and/or the outputs  490 . The user interface  470  includes a first side  471  and a second side  472  opposite the first side  471 . In the illustrated form, the first side  471  and the second side  472  are substantially identical, which may provide one or more advantages described herein. It is also contemplated that the first side  471  and the second side  472  may be different from one another. For example, the inputs  480 , outputs  490 , and indicia may be disposed only on one of the sides  471 ,  472 , or the sides  471 ,  472  may include different sets of inputs  480 , outputs  490 , and indicia. 
     In the illustrated form, each of the inputs  480  is provided in the form of a tactile input, and more particularly in the form of a depressible button. It is also contemplated that one or more of the inputs  480  may be provided in another form, such as that of a toggle, a DIP switch, a slider, a keypad, or another form of input. The inputs  480  of the illustrated user interface  470  include a calibration input  481 , an opening speed input  482 , a power boost input  483 , and a hold-open input  484 , the functions of which are described in detail below. 
     The illustrated user interface  470  includes outputs  490 , and more particularly includes at least one visual output  498  and at least one audible output  499 , such as a speaker, beeper, or buzzer. In the illustrated form, each visual output  498  is provided in the form of a visual indicator such as a light. It is also contemplated that one or more visual outputs  498  may be provided in another form, such as a display screen. In the illustrated user interface  470 , the visual outputs  498  include a calibration indicator  491 , one or more opening speed indicators  492 , a power boost indicator  493 , and a hold-open indicator  494 . 
     The visual outputs  498  may include a power indicator  495  configured to provide a visual indication when the powered opening module  400  is connected to a power source  76 , an actuation indicator  496  configured to provide a visual indication when the powered opening module  400  is operating to open the door  74 , a fire indicator  497  configured to provide a visual indication when the powered opening module  400  is inoperable due to presence of a fire condition, and/or an error indicator  497 ′ configured to provide a visual indication when an error has occurred. The user interface  470  may include indicia and/or instructions relating one or more of the visual outputs to the respective functions (e.g., “Pwr” within a box that also encloses the power indicator  495 ). 
     In certain embodiments, one or more components of the closure assembly  200  may be provided in a retrofit kit  200 ′ for an existing closure assembly, such as one including an existing door closer  90  that was previously installed to bias a door  74  toward a closed position relative to a door frame  72 . In the illustrated form, the retrofit kit  200 ′ includes the power transfer assembly  210 , the wireless communication module  310 , the override mechanism  320 , the adapter plate  330 , the hood  340 , and the powered opening module  400 . It is also contemplated that one or more of these components may be omitted. As one example, the wireless communication module  310  may be omitted in embodiments in which the powered opening module  400  is to be placed in wired communication with the actuator  220 , or includes an internal wireless communication device. As another example, the adapter plate  330  may be omitted in certain embodiments, such as those in which the case  410  is configured to be mounted directly to the closer body  92 . Moreover, it is to be appreciated that a retrofit kit  200 ′ may include additional components. As one example, the retrofit kit  200 ′ may include an actuator  220  in the event that an actuator was not previously installed to the closure assembly. As another example, a kit may include the conventional door closer  90 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  12   , illustrated therein is a product line  500  according to certain embodiments. The product line  500  includes a common platform  510 , which in the illustrated form includes all components of the powered opening module  400  but for the pinion adapter  450 . While the illustrated common platform  510  is illustrated as corresponding to the powered opening module  400 , it should be appreciated that the concepts described in connection with the product line  600  may be utilized to produce retrofit modules having more, fewer, or alternative features in comparison to the powered opening module  400 . For example, while the illustrated powered opening module  400  is operable to provide both an opening force and a closing force, the retrofit modules  501 ,  502  produced using the product line  500  may instead be operable to provide only one of a closing force or an opening force. 
     The product line  500  also includes the pinion adapter  450  and a second pinion adapter  550 . The second pinion adapter  550  includes a second pinion interface  552 , which has a different geometry as compared to the first pinion interface  452 . The second pinion interface  552  is configured to mate with a pinion of a second conventional door closer in which the pinion has an exposed end portion with a second pinion geometry different from the geometry of the exposed end portion  95  of the illustrated pinion  94 . While the illustrated second pinion interface  552  is provided with a generally square-shaped geometry, it should be appreciated that the second pinion interface  552  may be provided with another geometry configured to mate with an exposed end portion of the second pinion. The second pinion adapter  550  also includes a second stem interface  554 , which, like the first stem interface  454 , is configured for rotational coupling with the stem  435 . As a result, the second pinion adapter  550  is operable to be rotationally coupled with the output gear  434  to form an output shaft operable to engage the pinion of the second conventional closer. 
     Due to the fact that each pinion adapter  450 ,  550  includes a corresponding stem interface  454 ,  554  configured for rotational coupling with the stem  435 , the pinion adapters  450 ,  550  are interchangeably capable of being mounted to the common platform  510 . Thus, the first pinion adapter  450  may be installed to the common platform  510  to prepare a first retrofit module  501  configured for use with the illustrated conventional closer  90 , while the second pinion adapter  550  may be installed to the common platform  510  to prepare a second retrofit module  502  configured for use with the second conventional closer. The interchangeability of the pinion adapters  450 ,  550  may aid in reducing inventory requirements and/or facilitating production of retrofit modules for varying configurations of door closers. 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  13   , illustrated therein is a product line  600  according to certain embodiments. The product line  600  includes a retrofit module  610 , which includes a mounting pattern  618  including at least one mounting aperture  619 . The retrofit module  610  may, for example, be provided along the lines of the powered opening module  400 . It is also contemplated that the retrofit module  610  may have more, fewer, or alternative features in comparison to the powered opening module  400 . The product line  600  further includes the adapter plate  330  and a second adapter plate  630 , each of which is operable to facilitate mounting of the retrofit module  610  to a corresponding configuration of door closer. 
     The second adapter plate  630  is configured to facilitate mounting of the retrofit module  610  to a second door closer having a second closer body mounting pattern different from the illustrated closer body mounting pattern  98 . The second adapter plate  630  includes a first mounting pattern  631  that corresponds to the second closer body mounting pattern, and which includes at least one second adapter plate first aperture  632 . The second adapter plate  630  also includes a second mounting pattern  633  that corresponds to the case mounting pattern  418 , and which includes at least one second adapter plate second aperture  634 . The second adapter plate  630  also includes an opening  636  operable to receive the pinion of the second door closer while the first mounting pattern  631  is aligned with the closer body mounting pattern of the second door closer. The second adapter plate  630  is operable to be positioned between the retrofit module  610  and the second door closer such that each second adapter plate first aperture  632  is aligned with a corresponding mounting location of the second door closer while each second adapter plate second aperture  634  is aligned with a corresponding mounting aperture  619  and the opening  636  is aligned with the pinion of the second closer and the pinion adapter  612  of the retrofit module  610 . 
     Due to the fact that the second mounting patterns  333 ,  633  of the adapter plates  330 ,  630  are the same, the adapter plates  330 ,  630  are operable to be interchangeably associated with the retrofit module  610 . Thus, the product line  600  may be utilized to create each of a first retrofit kit  601  including the first adapter plate  330  and the retrofit module  610 , and a second retrofit kit  602  including the second adapter plate  630  and the retrofit module  610 . It should be appreciated that the module  610  of the first retrofit kit  601  and the module  610  of the second retrofit kit  602  may include different configurations of pinion adapter  612 , for example in embodiments in which the pinion of the first door closer and the pinion of the second door closer have different geometries on the exposed end portions thereof. Moreover, it is also contemplated that an adapter plate  330  may include an additional mounting pattern  333 ′ including at least one additional mounting aperture  332 ′. The additional mounting pattern  333 ′ may be configured to match the closer mounting pattern of another type of door closer such that the same adapter plate  330  is configured for use with multiple forms of door closers. 
     With additional reference to  FIG.  14   , an exemplary process  700  that may be performed using the powered opening module  100  is illustrated. Blocks illustrated for the processes in the present application are understood to be examples only, and blocks may be combined or divided, and added or removed, as well as re-ordered in whole or in part, unless explicitly stated to the contrary. While the blocks are illustrated in a relatively serial fashion, it is to be understood that two or more of the blocks may be performed concurrently or in parallel with one another. Moreover, while the process  700  is initially described herein with specific reference to the powered opening module  100  illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 3   , it is to be appreciated that the process  700  may be performed with powered opening modules having additional or alternative features. As described herein, for example, certain embodiments of the process  700  may be performed using the powered opening module  400  and/or the associated retrofit kit  200 ′ illustrated in  FIGS.  4 - 11   . 
     The process  700  may begin with block  702 , which generally involves providing a retrofit kit configured for installation to an existing closure assembly. In certain embodiments, block  702  may involve providing the retrofit kit  100 ′, which includes a retrofit powered opening module  100 , and which may further include an actuator  84 . As noted above, the retrofit powered opening module  100  generally includes a case  110 , an output shaft  134  rotatably mounted in the case  110 , a motor  120  mounted in the case  110  and operable to rotate the output shaft  134 , and a control assembly  140  configured to cause the motor  120  to urge the output shaft  134  in a first rotational direction in response to receiving an actuating signal. 
     The process  700  generally includes an installation procedure  710  and an operation procedure  730 , and may further include a set-up procedure  720  prior to the operation procedure  730 . As described herein, the installation procedure  710  generally involves installing a retrofit kit to an existing closure assembly, the set-up procedure  720  generally involves setting up a powered opening module of the installed retrofit kit, and the operation procedure  730  generally involves operating the retrofitted closure assembly. 
     As noted above, the installation procedure  710  generally involves installing a retrofit kit  100 ′ to an existing closure assembly. The illustrated retrofit kit  100 ′ generally includes the retrofit powered opening module  100 , and may further include the actuator  84 . The existing closure assembly is provided in a static structure, and generally includes a first component, a second component, and a door closer  90  connected between the first component and the second component. The first component may be provided as one of the door frame  72  or the door  74 , and the second component may be provided as the other of the door frame  72  or the door  74 . The door closer  90  generally includes a closer body  92  mounted to the first component, a pinion  94  rotatably mounted to the closer body  92 , and an armature  96  connected between the pinion  94  and the second component such that the pinion  94  rotates in the door-closing direction during movement of the door  74  from the open position toward the closed position and rotates in the door-opening direction during movement of the door  74  from the closed position toward the open position. In the illustrated form, the first component (to which the closer body  92  is mounted) is provided as the door  74 , and the second component (between which and the pinion  94  the armature  96  is connected) is provided as the door frame  72 . It is also contemplated that this arrangement may be reversed such that the closer body  92  is mounted to the door frame  72  and the armature  96  is connected between the pinion  94  and the door  74 . 
     The installation procedure  710  includes block  712 , which generally involves coupling the output shaft  134  with the pinion  94  such that rotation of the output shaft  134  in the first rotational direction is correlated with rotation of the pinion  94  in the door-opening direction. In the illustrated form, block  712  involves inserting the exposed end portion  95  of the pinion  94  into the pinion interface  135  of the output shaft  134  such that the pinion  94  and the output shaft  134  are coupled for joint rotation. It is also contemplated that the output shaft  134  may be engaged with the pinion  94  via one or more intermediate components, such as gears, adapters, or other elements. 
     The installation procedure  710  further includes block  714 , which generally involves coupling the case  110  to at least one of the closer body  92  or the first component. In the illustrated form, block  714  involves coupling the case  110  to the closer body  92  with one or more fasteners  101  such as bolts. Additionally or alternatively, block  714  may involve securing the case  110  to the first component (e.g., the door  74 ). 
     The installation procedure  710  may further include block  716 , which generally involves connecting the retrofit module  100  with an external power supply  76 . In certain embodiments, the retrofit kit  100 ′ may include a cord  102  having a plug  104  configured for connection with an electrical outlet  77  near the closure assembly  70 . In such forms, block  716  may involve engaging the plug  104  with the electrical outlet  77  such that the retrofit module  100  is operable to receive line power. As noted above, the cord  102  may include an adapter  103  that converts the line power to a lower-voltage power having a lower voltage than the line power. 
     In certain embodiments, such as those in which the retrofit kit  100 ′ includes an actuator  84  external to the module  100 , the installation procedure  710  may further include block  718 , which generally involves installing the actuator  84 . More particularly, block  718  may involve mounting the actuator  84  to one of the closure assembly  70  or a wall  71  adjacent the closure assembly  70 . In certain embodiments, block  718  may involve mounting the actuator  84  to the wall  71  such that the actuator  84  is positioned in the vicinity of the door  74  (e.g., less than six feet from the door  74 ). In certain embodiments, block  718  may involve mounting the actuator  84  to the door frame  72 . In certain embodiments, block  718  may involve mounting the actuator  84  to the door  74 . In certain embodiments, block  718  may involve mounting the actuator  84  at a height that facilitates manual actuation, such as between 34 and 48 inches above floor level. It is also contemplated that the actuator  84  may be mounted at a height that facilitates actuation by foot, such as less than 24 inches above floor level. 
     Block  718  may further involve placing the actuator  84  in communication with the control assembly  140 . In certain embodiments, placing the actuator  84  in communication with the control assembly  140  may involve forming a wired connection between the actuator  84  and the control assembly  140 . In certain embodiments, placing the actuator  84  in communication with the control assembly  140  may involve providing the actuator  84  with the ability to wirelessly communicate the actuating signal to the control assembly  140 . 
     It is to be appreciated that the installation procedure  710  may include additional or alternative steps or blocks not specifically illustrated in  FIG.  14   . For example, should the existing closer  90  be mounted to the door  74  via screws, it may be desirable to replace the screws with larger bolts to ensure that the closer body  92  does not separate from the door under the opening forces generated by the module  100 . Additionally or alternatively, it may be desirable to adjust the spring size setting of the closer  90  to a size setting conducive for use with the module  100 , and/or adjust the hydraulic regulation valves to settings conducive for use with the module  100 . 
     As noted above, certain embodiments of the process  700  may involve a set-up procedure  720 , which generally involves setting up the installed retrofit module  100 . The set-up procedure  720  may include block  722 , which generally involves calibrating the powered opening module  100 . For example, block  722  may involve causing the module  100  to enter a calibration mode while the door  74  is in the closed position, and then opening the door  74  to a desired open position. During calibration, the controller  142  may note the information provided by the position sensor  144  while the door  74  is in the closed position, and then note the information provided by the position sensor  144  while the door is in the desired open position. This positional information can then be used during subsequent operation of the closure assembly  70  as described herein. Further details regarding an example calibration operation are provided below. 
     In addition or as an alternative to the calibration of block  722 , the set-up procedure  720  may include block  724 , which generally involves selecting one or more options and/or operating characteristics for the operation of the closure assembly  70 . Further details regarding example operations that may be associated with block  724  are provided below. 
     With the installation of the retrofit kit  100 ′ and set-up of the powered opening module  100  complete, the process  700  may continue to the operation procedure  730 , which generally involves operating the retrofitted closure assembly  70 . The operation procedure  730  may involve block  731 , which generally involves converting line power from a higher voltage received from the power supply  76  to a lower voltage for use by the module  100  and/or the actuator  84 . For example, block  731  may be performed by the adapter  103  to convert the line power to power of about 24 volts or less. As should be appreciated, block  731  may be performed throughout the performance of the operation procedure  730  such that the retrofit powered opening module  100  remains constantly powered. 
     The operation procedure  730  may include block  732 , which generally involves transmitting the actuating signal from the actuator  84  to the control assembly  140  in response to detecting a user. Block  732  may be performed at least in part by the actuator  84 . In certain embodiments, the actuator  84  may detect the user without being touched by the user. In certain embodiments, the actuator  84  may detect the user when physically acted upon by the user. In certain embodiments, the actuator  84  may transmit the actuating signal via a wired connection. In certain embodiments, the actuator  84  may transmit the actuating signal wirelessly. 
     The operation procedure  730  further includes block  734 , which generally involves operating the motor  120  in response to receiving the actuating signal. Block  734  may be performed at least in part by the control assembly  140 , and may involve providing the motor  120  with electrical power that causes the motor  120  to rotate the motor shaft  124  in the first direction corresponding to opening of the door  74 . In certain embodiments, block  734  may involve operating the motor  120  for a predetermined period of time. In certain embodiments, block  734  may involve operating the motor  120  until information from the position sensor  144  indicates that the door  74  has reached its desired position (e.g., the open position). 
     The operation procedure  730  further includes block  736 , which generally involves urging the door  74  toward its open position as a result of the torque applied by the motor  120  to the motor shaft  124 . In the illustrated form, the reduction gear set or gear train  130  urges the output shaft  134  to rotate in the door-opening direction as the motor  120  drives the motor shaft  124  in the first direction. As a result, the output shaft  134  urges the pinion  94  to rotate in the door-opening direction, thereby urging the door  74  toward its open position. In the illustrated embodiment, the torque supplied by the motor  120  is sufficient to move the door  74  toward its open position without manual assistance from the user. In other embodiments, the torque supplied by the motor  120  may merely assist the manual opening of the door  74  by the user. 
     In certain embodiments, block  736  involves limiting the force exerted on the door  74  and/or the power drawn by the powered opening module  100  to a corresponding threshold value. As one example, block  736  may involve limiting the torque supplied by the motor  120  to prevent the door  74  from exerting greater than a threshold force (e.g., fifteen pounds of force) on objects (e.g., obstacles and/or users) within the swing path of the door  74 . This may involve limiting the torque supplied by the motor based on information received from the position sensor  144 , as the leverage may change based on door position due to the changing configuration of the armature  96 . Additionally or alternatively, block  736  may involve limiting the current drawn by the motor  736  to ensure that the power requirements for the power supply  76  remain below a threshold value, such as 48 Watts. 
     In certain embodiments, the operation procedure  730  may involve block  737 , which generally involves holding the door  74  in the open position. For example, block  737  may involve operating the motor  120  to hold the output shaft  134  in a particular position, such as one corresponding to a fully-open position of the door  74 . Such a hold-open operation may, for example, be performed for a predetermined period of time after the motor  120  has been operated to urge or drive the door  74  toward its fully open position. 
     In certain embodiments, the operation procedure  730  may include block  738 , which generally involves operating the motor  120  to urge the door  74  toward its closed position. For example, block  738  may involve supplying the motor  120  with an electrical power that causes the motor  120  to rotate the motor shaft  124  in a second direction opposite the first direction. As will be appreciated, such rotation of the motor shaft  124  in the second direction causes the output shaft  134  to drive the pinion  94  in the door-closing direction, thereby urging the door  74  toward its closed position. In certain embodiments, block  738  may be performed when information from the position sensor  144  indicates that the door  74  is traveling toward its closed position and has reached an intermediate position between the open position and the closed position. It is also contemplated that the door  74  may be driven to its closed position by the internal biasing forces of the door closer  90  without assistance from the module  100 . 
     It should be evident from the foregoing that the retrofit module  100  and/or the retrofit kit  100 ′ may present certain advantages over existing devices. As one example, the retrofit module  100  and/or the retrofit kit  100 ′ may be installed to existing closure assemblies in which a door closer  90  has previously been installed to provide the closure assembly  70  with the capability of at least assisting in the opening of the door  74 . Due to the fact that the existing closer  90  is being reused, the cost of upgrading an existing closure assembly to a door-opening closure assembly  70  may be reduced in comparison to replacing the door closer  90  with a new door-opening operator. Moreover, in embodiments in which the module  100  is configured to be plugged into an electrical outlet  77 , the need for a skilled electrician to hardwire the module  100  to line power is obviated, thereby facilitating installation. 
     As noted above, certain embodiments of the process  700  may be performed using a retrofit kit along the lines of the retrofit kit  200 ′ illustrated in  FIGS.  4 - 11   . Further details regarding an example implementation of the process  700  using the retrofit kit  200 ′ will now be provided. In the interest of conciseness, the following description of the process  700  as it relates to the retrofit kit  200 ′ focuses primarily on acts and features not specifically described above with reference to the embodiment of the process  700  involving the retrofit kit  100 ′ illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 3   . It should be understood, however, that certain descriptions relating to one embodiment of the process  700  (e.g., an embodiment involving one of the retrofit kit  100 ′ or the retrofit kit  200 ′) may be equally applicable to another embodiment of the process  700  (e.g., an embodiment involving the other of the retrofit kit  100 ′ or the retrofit kit  200 ′). 
     Block  702  generally involves providing a retrofit kit, and in the current embodiment involves providing the retrofit kit  200 ′, which includes at least a retrofit module configured for installation to an existing closure assembly. In certain forms, the retrofit kit provided in block  702  includes the powered opening module  400  illustrated in  FIGS.  4 - 11   . As noted above, the powered opening module  400  generally includes a case  410 , an output shaft  402  rotatably mounted in the case  410 , a motor  420  mounted in the case  410  and operable to rotate the output shaft  402 , and a control assembly  440  configured to cause the motor  420  to urge the output shaft  402  in a first rotational direction in response to receiving an actuating signal. As described herein, the retrofit kit provided in block  702  may further include one or more additional components configured for use with the existing closure assembly, such as the power transfer assembly  210 , the actuator  220 , the wireless communication module  310 , the override mechanism  320 , the adapter plate  330 , and/or the hood  340 . 
     The installation procedure  710  generally involves installing the retrofit kit  200 ′ to the existing closure assembly. In block  712 , the output shaft  402  is coupled with the pinion  94  by engaging the exposed end portion  95  with the pinion interface  452  of the pinion adapter  450 . As will be appreciated, the configuration of the pinion adapter  450  may be selected based upon the configuration of the door closer  90  to which the module  400  is to be installed, and more particularly upon the geometry of the exposed end portion  95  of the pinion  94  of the door closer  90 . For example, should the exposed end portion  95  have a generally hexagonal geometry, the pinion adapter  450  may be selected with a corresponding hexagonal geometry. Should the exposed end portion  95  have a different geometry, such as a generally square-shaped geometry or a generally D-shaped geometry, the pinion adapter  450  may be selected with a corresponding mating geometry. In certain embodiments, the configuration of the pinion adapter  450  may be selected by the user at the time of purchase, and installed to the module  400  in a factory setting such that the module  400  is provided to the installer with the pinion adapter  450  already installed. In certain embodiments, the retrofit kit  200 ′ may include plural pinion adapters (e.g., the pinion adapter  450  and the pinion adapter  550 ), and the correct pinion adapter may be selected and installed after sale, such as at the time of installation to the closure assembly. 
     Block  714  generally involves coupling the case  410  to the closer body  92  and/or the first component, and in the currently-discussed embodiment involves coupling the case  410  to the closer body  92  via an adapter plate  330  of the retrofit kit  200 ′. More particularly, block  714  involves securing the adapter plate  330  to the closer body  92  and securing the module  400  to the adapter plate  330 . In certain embodiments, block  714  may begin by placing the adapter plate  330  against the closer body  92  in a position in which the exposed end portion  95  extends through the opening  336  and the first mounting pattern  331  aligns with the closer body mounting pattern  98 , and securing the adapter plate  330  to the closer body  92  in such a position using one or more first fasteners  302 . In such forms, block  714  may then involve placing the module  400  in a position in which the exposed end portion  95  engages the pinion adapter  450  and the case mounting pattern  418  aligns with the second mounting pattern  333  (e.g., by performing block  712 ), and securing the module  400  to the adapter plate  330  in such a position using one or more second fasteners  304 . It is also contemplated that the module  400  may first be secured to the adapter plate  330 , and that the adapter plate  330  may then be secured to the closer body  92 . 
     It should be appreciated that the configuration of the adapter plate  330  may be selected based upon the configuration of the door closer  90  to which the module  400  is to be installed, and more particularly upon the configuration of the mounting pattern  98  that will be utilized to secure the adapter plate  330  to the closer body  92 . In certain embodiments, the configuration of the adapter plate  330  may be selected by the user at the time of purchase, and provided with the module  400  in the retrofit kit  200 ′. In certain embodiments, the retrofit kit  200 ′ may include plural adapter plates (e.g., the adapter plate  330  and the adapter plate  630 ), and the correct adapter plate may be selected and installed at the time of installation to the closure assembly. In certain embodiments, the adapter plate provided in the retrofit kit  200 ′ may include an additional mounting pattern  333 ′ such that the same adapter plate  330  is configured for use with plural forms of closers having different closer mounting patterns. 
     In certain forms, such as those in which the retrofit kit  200 ′ includes an override mechanism  320 , the installation procedure  710  may include block  715 , which generally involves installing such an override mechanism  320 . In the illustrated form, block  715  involves mounting the bracket  322  to the closer body  92 , for example by engaging the C-shaped clip  323  with the tubular portion  93  of the closer body  92 . Block  715  further includes placing the override switch  324  in communication with the control assembly  440 , for example by attaching one or more wires of the override mechanism  320  to the corresponding ports of the wired interface  460 . Block  715  may further involve placing the switch  324  in its off state such that the module  400  remains inactive for the remainder of the installation procedure  710 , which may facilitate the installation. 
     Block  716  involves connecting the retrofit module  400  to the power supply  76 . For example, block  716  may involve attaching the power transfer wires  213  to the appropriate ports of the wired interface  460 , and plugging the plug  211  into a standard electrical outlet  77 . Block  716  may further involve securing the anchor  215  to the door frame  72  or the wall  71  adjacent the frame  72 . As will be appreciated, certain portions of block  716 , such as the plugging in of the plug  211  to the outlet  77 , may be reserved for the end of the installation procedure  710  such that the module  400  remains unpowered for the duration of the installation. 
     In certain embodiments, such as those in which the retrofit kit  200 ′ includes a wireless communication module  310  separate from the powered opening module  400 , the installation procedure  710  may include block  717 , which generally involves installing such a wireless communication module  310 . In certain forms, block  717  may involve adhering the wireless communication module  310  to the door  74  in an area that will be covered by the hood  340  to obscure the wireless communication module  310  from view. Block  717  further includes placing the wireless communication module  310  in communication with the control assembly  440 , for example by connecting one or more wires of the module  310  with the appropriate port(s) of the wired interface  460 . 
     In certain embodiments, such as those in which the retrofit kit  200 ′ includes an actuator  220  external to the module  400 , the installation procedure  710  may further include block  718 , which generally involves installing the actuator  220 , for example as described above with reference to the installation of the actuator  84 . 
     In certain embodiments, such as those in which the retrofit kit  200 ′ includes a hood  340 , the installation procedure  710  may include block  719 , which generally involves installing such a hood  340 . More particularly, block  719  involves mounting the hood  340  to the first component (which in the illustrated embodiment is the door  74 ) such that the override switch  324  is accessible via the opening  332  and the armature  96  extends through the opening  334 . 
     It should be appreciated that the installation procedure  710  may include one or more actions not specifically illustrated in  FIG.  14   . For example, in embodiments in which the door  74  is formed of glass, the retrofit kit  200 ′ may include a back plate as noted above, and the installation procedure  710  may include installing such a back plate to hide the components within the hood  340  from being viewed from the opposite side of the door  74 . Installation of such a back plate may, for example, occur prior to the installation of the wireless communication module  310  such that block  717  involves mounting the wireless communication module  310  to the back plate. Additionally or alternatively, the installation procedure  710  may involve placing the override switch  324  in its on state to activate the powered opening module  400  in preparation for the set-up procedure  720  and/or the operation procedure  730 . 
     As noted above, various blocks of the installation procedure  710  may involve placing the control assembly  440  in communication with one or more components external to the module  400 . For example, blocks  715 ,  716 , and  717  involve connecting wires to corresponding ports of the wired interface  460 . In the illustrated form, the wired interface  460  is removably mounted to the module  400  such that the ports  461 - 469  are connected with the circuitry of the control assembly  440  when the wired interface  460  is mounted to the module  400 . Thus, one or more of the wires may be attached to the corresponding port(s) while the modular wired interface  460  is removed from the module  400 , and may be electrically connected with the circuitry of the control assembly  440  by insertion of the wired interface  460  into a corresponding receptacle formed in the housing  410 . 
     In certain forms, the process  700  may involve the set-up procedure  720 , which generally involves setting up the powered opening module  400  for use in the operation procedure  730 . The set-up procedure  720  may include block  722 , which generally involves calibrating the powered opening module  400 . Block  722  may begin with the door  74  in its closed position, and may be initiated by operating the calibration input  481  of the user interface  470 . While other modes of initiation are contemplated, in the illustrated form, block  722  involves pressing the button of the calibration input  481  twice to initiate a calibration procedure. The calibration indicator  791  may be activated to provide feedback to the installer that the calibration procedure has commenced. With the door  74  in the closed position, the controller  442  takes note of the positional information transmitted by the position sensor  444 , and correlates this information with the closed position of the door  74 . 
     Block  722  may further involve the installer manually moving the door  74  to the open position to which it is desired that the module  400  move the door  74  in response to the actuating signal. As will be appreciated, this movement of the door  74  causes a corresponding rotation of the pinion  94  and the pinion adapter  450 , thereby causing rotation of the component with which the position sensor  444  is associated (e.g., the motor shaft  424 ). The controller  442  notes the position indicated by the position sensor  444  when the door  74  is in the open position. The controller  442  may then provide the installer with feedback that calibration has been completed, and that the door  74  can be released. For example, the controller  442  may cause the audible output  499  to generate a tone when the position information associated with the door open position has been noted. 
     In certain embodiments, the set-up procedure  720  may include block  724 , which generally involves selecting one or more settings or operating characteristics for the powered opening module  400 . As one example, block  724  may involve operating the open speed input  482  to select a desired opening speed for the door  74 , and the opening speed indicator(s)  492  may provide feedback relating to the selected opening speed. As another example, block  724  may involve operating the power boost input  483  to activate or deactivate a power boost option described herein, and the power boost indicator  493  may indicate whether the power boost option has been selected. As another example, block  724  may involve operating the hold-open input  484  to adjust the duration of a hold-open option described herein, and the hold-open indicator  494  may indicate the selected duration of the hold-open operation. 
     As noted above, at least some embodiments of the retrofit modules described herein are capable of use with various configurations of door closers. For example, while the illustrated door closer  90  is provided as a door-mounted closer, it is also contemplated that a closer may be mounted to the frame  94  or the wall  71  above the door  74 . In such forms, the armature  96  may extend from a lower side of the closer  90 , and the exposed end portion  95  may be positioned on the upper side of the closer  90 . Thus, while the illustrated embodiment involves installing the module  400  to the lower side of the closer  90 , it may be the case that the module  400  is instead installed to the upper side of the closer  90 . Depending upon one or more factors (e.g., the side of the closer  90  to which the module is installed and/or the eye-level of the installer relative to the user interface  470 ), it may be difficult for the installer to view and/or manipulate one side of the user interface  470 . In the illustrated form, however, such difficulties are averted by the configuration of the user interface  470 , in which the inputs  480  and the outputs  490  are distributed between the first side  471  and the second side  472 . Thus, the installer is able to interface with either set of inputs  480  and outputs  490  based on which is most convenient in the current circumstances. 
     With the retrofit kit  200 ′ installed (e.g., as a result of the installation procedure  710 ) and the powered opening module  400  set up (e.g., as a result of the set-up procedure  720 ), the process  700  may continue to the operation procedure  730 , which generally involves operating the retrofitted closure assembly  200 . It should be appreciated, however, that the operation procedure  730  may be performed in connection with other installation procedures and/or other set-up features, or may be performed as a standalone process. 
     The illustrated operation procedure  730  includes block  731 , which involves converting the line power received from the power supply  76  to lower-voltage power suitable for use by the door operator assembly  300 . Block  731  may, for example, be performed at least in part by the adapter  212 . As will be appreciated, block  731  may be performed throughout the operation procedure  730  to provide the closure assembly  200  with a constant source of electrical power. Further details regarding the conversion of block  731  are provided above. 
     The operation procedure  730  further includes block  732 , which generally involves transmitting an actuating signal. Block  732  may, for example, be performed by the actuator  220  in response to detecting a user and/or a user&#39;s intent to open the door  74 . Further details regarding the transmission of block  732  are provided above. 
     The operation procedure  730  further includes block  734 , which generally involves operating the motor  420  to rotate the motor shaft  424  in a first direction. Block  734  may, for example, be performed by the control assembly  440  in response to receiving the actuating signal (e.g., via the wireless communication module  310 ). As noted above, the operating of block  734  urges the door  74  toward the open position in block  736 . Further details regarding the operation of block  734  and the urging of block  736  are provided above. 
     It should be appreciated that the operating of block  734  may be based at least in part upon one or more criteria provided to the control assembly  440 , such as during the set-up procedure  720 . As one example, the power provided to the motor  420  may be modulated based upon the opening speed selected via the opening speed input  482 . For example, a higher power may be provided to the motor  420  in block  734  when the installer has selected a faster opening speed in block  724 , and a lower power may be provided to the motor  420  in block  734  when the installer has selected a lower opening speed in block  724 . Moreover, the power may be provided in block  734  until the position information provided by the position sensor  444  corresponds to the set-point value noted in the calibration of block  722 . 
     In certain embodiments, the operation procedure  730  may include block  737 , which generally involves holding the door  74  in the open position. Block  737  may, for example, involve providing the motor  420  with a sufficient power to resist the closing force generated by the door closer  90 . The holding of block  737  may also be based in part upon one or more operating characteristics selected by the installer in the set-up procedure  720 . For example, if the installer selected a short duration for the hold-open operation, block  737  may involve holding the door  74  open for a shorter duration, such as about one second. If the installer selected a long duration for the hold-open operation, block  737  may instead involve holding the door  74  open for a longer duration, such as three to five seconds. 
     In certain embodiments, the operation procedure  730  may include block  738 , which generally involves driving the door  74  toward its closed position. Block  738  may, for example, be performed in the event that the installer selected the power boost option in block  724 . In circumstances that involve the power boost option, block  738  generally involves operating the motor  420  to rotate the motor shaft  424  in a second direction opposite the first direction, thereby driving the pinion  94  in the door-closing direction. In certain embodiments, block  738  may be performed for the full duration of the closing of the door  74 . In other embodiments, block  738  may be performed only when the position information generated by the position sensor  444  indicates that the door  74  is approaching the closed position and has reached the intermediate position as described above. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  15   , a simplified block diagram of at least one embodiment of a computing device  800  is shown. The illustrative computing device  800  depicts at least one embodiment of a controller that may be utilized in connection with the control assembly  140  and/or the control assembly  440 . 
     Depending on the particular embodiment, the computing device  800  may be embodied as a server, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, notebook, netbook, Ultrabook™ mobile computing device, cellular phone, smartphone, wearable computing device, personal digital assistant, Internet of Things (IoT) device, reader device, access control device, control panel, processing system, router, gateway, and/or any other computing, processing, and/or communication device capable of performing the functions described herein. 
     The computing device  800  includes a processing device  802  that executes algorithms and/or processes data in accordance with operating logic  808 , an input/output device  804  that enables communication between the computing device  800  and one or more external devices  810 , and memory  806  which stores, for example, data received from the external device  810  via the input/output device  804 . 
     The input/output device  804  allows the computing device  800  to communicate with the external device  810 . For example, the input/output device  804  may include a transceiver, a network adapter, a network card, an interface, one or more communication ports (e.g., a USB port, serial port, parallel port, an analog port, a digital port, VGA, DVI, HDMI, FireWire, CAT 5, or any other type of communication port or interface), and/or other communication circuitry. Communication circuitry may be configured to use any one or more communication technologies (e.g., wireless or wired communications) and associated protocols (e.g., Ethernet, Bluetooth®, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi®, WiMAX, etc.) to effect such communication depending on the particular computing device  800 . The input/output device  804  may include hardware, software, and/or firmware suitable for performing the techniques described herein. 
     The external device  810  may be any type of device that allows data to be inputted or outputted from the computing device  800 . For example, in various embodiments, the external device  810  may be embodied as the actuator  84 / 220 , the motor  120 / 420 , the position sensor  144 / 444 , the access control system  292 , the mobile device  294 , the wireless communication module  310 , or another component in communication with the controller  142 / 442 . Further, in some embodiments, the external device  810  may be embodied as another computing device, switch, diagnostic tool, controller, printer, display, alarm, peripheral device (e.g., keyboard, mouse, touch screen display, etc.), and/or any other computing, processing, and/or communication device capable of performing the functions described herein. Furthermore, in some embodiments, it should be appreciated that the external device  810  may be integrated into the computing device  800 . 
     The processing device  802  may be embodied as any type of processor(s) capable of performing the functions described herein. In particular, the processing device  802  may be embodied as one or more single or multi-core processors, microcontrollers, or other processor or processing/controlling circuits. For example, in some embodiments, the processing device  802  may include or be embodied as an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), central processing unit (CPU), digital signal processor (DSP), and/or another suitable processor(s). The processing device  802  may be a programmable type, a dedicated hardwired state machine, or a combination thereof. Processing devices  802  with multiple processing units may utilize distributed, pipelined, and/or parallel processing in various embodiments. Further, the processing device  802  may be dedicated to performance of just the operations described herein, or may be utilized in one or more additional applications. In the illustrative embodiment, the processing device  802  is of a programmable variety that executes algorithms and/or processes data in accordance with operating logic  808  as defined by programming instructions (such as software or firmware) stored in memory  806 . Additionally or alternatively, the operating logic  808  for processing device  802  may be at least partially defined by hardwired logic or other hardware. Further, the processing device  802  may include one or more components of any type suitable to process the signals received from input/output device  804  or from other components or devices and to provide desired output signals. Such components may include digital circuitry, analog circuitry, or a combination thereof. 
     The memory  806  may be of one or more types of non-transitory computer-readable media, such as a solid-state memory, electromagnetic memory, optical memory, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the memory  806  may be volatile and/or nonvolatile and, in some embodiments, some or all of the memory  806  may be of a portable variety, such as a disk, tape, memory stick, cartridge, and/or other suitable portable memory. In operation, the memory  806  may store various data and software used during operation of the computing device  800  such as operating systems, applications, programs, libraries, and drivers. It should be appreciated that the memory  806  may store data that is manipulated by the operating logic  808  of processing device  802 , such as, for example, data representative of signals received from and/or sent to the input/output device  804  in addition to or in lieu of storing programming instructions defining operating logic  808 . As illustrated, the memory  806  may be included with the processing device  802  and/or coupled to the processing device  802  depending on the particular embodiment. For example, in some embodiments, the processing device  802 , the memory  806 , and/or other components of the computing device  800  may form a portion of a system-on-a-chip (SoC) and be incorporated on a single integrated circuit chip. 
     In some embodiments, various components of the computing device  800  (e.g., the processing device  802  and the memory  806 ) may be communicatively coupled via an input/output subsystem, which may be embodied as circuitry and/or components to facilitate input/output operations with the processing device  802 , the memory  806 , and other components of the computing device  800 . For example, the input/output subsystem may be embodied as, or otherwise include, memory controller hubs, input/output control hubs, firmware devices, communication links (i.e., point-to-point links, bus links, wires, cables, light guides, printed circuit board traces, etc.) and/or other components and subsystems to facilitate the input/output operations. 
     The computing device  800  may include other or additional components, such as those commonly found in a typical computing device (e.g., various input/output devices and/or other components), in other embodiments. It should be further appreciated that one or more of the components of the computing device  800  described herein may be distributed across multiple computing devices. In other words, the techniques described herein may be employed by a computing system that includes one or more computing devices. Additionally, although only a single processing device  802 , I/O device  804 , and memory  806  are illustratively shown in  FIG.  15   , it should be appreciated that a particular computing device  800  may include multiple processing devices  802 , I/O devices  804 , and/or memories  806  in other embodiments. Further, in some embodiments, more than one external device  810  may be in communication with the computing device  800 . 
     While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventions are desired to be protected. 
     It should be understood that while the use of words such as preferable, preferably, preferred or more preferred utilized in the description above indicate that the feature so described may be more desirable, it nonetheless may not be necessary and embodiments lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope of the invention, the scope being defined by the claims that follow. In reading the claims, it is intended that when words such as “a,” “an,” “at least one,” or “at least one portion” are used there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. When the language “at least a portion” and/or “a portion” is used the item can include a portion and/or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.