Patent Abstract:
A door panel assembly comprising a double-walled structure for trapping a first insulation; a door frame coupled to the door panel and sized to form an aperture within which the door panel is displaceable between open and closed positions, wherein at least one of the frame edge portions individually cooperate with one of the panel edge portions of the door panel to provide a magnetic coupling when the door panel is in the closed position; a flange disposed between at least one of the panel edge portions of the door panel and at least one of the edge portions of the door frame.

Full Description:
[0001]    This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/993,285, filed Nov. 18, 2004 entitled PET DOOR, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to pet doors. More specifically, the present invention relates to a pet door that provides improved insulation. 
         [0004]    2. Discussion of the Related Art 
         [0005]    The use of pet doors has been widely used for allowing pets to travel in and out of homes on their own free will without the owner having to continually open and close a door for the pet. One such type of door is a frame and door assembly that can be inserted into a sliding glass door. Another such type of door is a frame and door assembly that can be inserted into a hole that has been cut through a standard door. 
         [0006]    Generally, theses doors consist of a plastic, rubber or metal door that is attached to a hinge at the top and open and closed in either direction (in or out of the house). These door generally have very poor insulation, and if used in a windy area can easily blow open, allowing, for example, cold air to enter into the house. This can cause the house to become uncomfortable temperatures and can result in increased energy consumption if, for example, a heater is on for longer periods of time to keep the house at a desired temperature. 
         [0007]    Thus, there is a need for an improved door assembly that will solve these and other problems. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    The present invention advantageously addresses the needs above as well as other needs as will be shown and described below with reference to the detailed description and the figures. 
         [0009]    In one embodiment, the invention can be characterized as an apparatus comprising a door panel comprising a central portion, a first panel edge portion, a second panel edge portion and a bottom panel edge portion, the door panel further comprising a double-walled structure for trapping a first insulation, a door frame coupled to the door panel and sized to form an aperture within which the door panel is displaceable between open and closed positions, the door frame comprising a first, second and bottom frame edge portions wherein at least one of the first, second or bottom frame edge portions individually cooperate with a respective one of the first, second or bottom panel edge portions of the door panel to provide a magnetic coupling when the door panel is in the closed position. The apparatus further comprising, a flange disposed between at least one of the first, second or bottom panel edge portions of the door panel and at least one of the first, second or bottom frame edge portions of the door frame, the flange being connected to at least one of the panel edge portions of the door panel, the flange configured to be co-operable with at least one of the first, second or bottom frame edge portions. 
         [0010]    In another embodiment, the invention can be characterized as an apparatus comprising, a door panel comprising a first and second panel portion, each of the first and second panel portions having a top edge portion, a side edge portion and a bottom edge portion, the door panel further comprising a sealed double-walled structure for trapping a first insulation, a door frame coupled to each of the first and the second door panel portions and sized to form an aperture within which each of the first and the second door panel portions are displaceable between open and closed positions, the door frame comprising a first frame edge and a second frame edge, the door panel further comprising a flange covering at least one of the top edge portion, the side edge portion and the bottom edge portion of each of the first and the second door panel portions such that the flange is disposed between each of the first and the second door panel portions and the first frame edge and the second frame edge of the door frame to fill a gap between the door panel and the door frame. 
         [0011]    In a subsequent embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a door assembly prepared by a process comprising the steps of: A door assembly prepared by a process comprising the steps of: bonding a front wall structure to a rear wall structure to form a door panel comprising a central portion, a first panel edge portion, a second panel edge portion and a bottom panel edge portion; inserting an insulation material into the door panel; coupling the door panel to a door frame comprising a first, second and bottom frame edge portion forming an aperture within which the door panel is displaceable between an open and a closed position; inserting a magnetic element into one of the first, second or bottom panel edge portions or one of the first, second or bottom frame edge portions; disposing a flange on at least one of the first, second or bottom panel edge portions of the door panel such that the flange cooperates with at least one of the first, second or bottom frame edge portions when the door panel is in a closed position. 
         [0012]    In another embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a door panel assembly, comprising: a front wall structure and a rear wall structure wherein the front wall structure and the rear wall structure are cooperated to form a first panel portion for trapping an insulation, the first panel portion further comprising a first side edge and a second side edge; a coupling means for use in coupling the first panel portion to a frame assembly; a flange disposed on at least one of the first side edge or the second side edge and configured to cooperate with a frame when the door panel assembly is disposed in a closed position. 
         [0013]    In another embodiment, the invention can be characterized as an apparatus comprising a door panel assembly including a front side, a back side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side and a right side; a door frame surrounding the door panel assembly at the bottom side, the left side and the right side of the door panel, the door frame including a bottom portion, a left portion and a right portion; means for magnetically coupling the left side of the door panel assembly to the left portion of the door frame; means for magnetically coupling the right side of the door panel assembly to the right portion of the door frame; means for magnetically coupling the bottom side of the door panel assembly to the bottom portion of the door frame. 
         [0014]    In yet another embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a method comprising rotating a door panel assembly from an open position to closed position; coupling a bottom side of the door panel assembly to a bottom portion of a frame using a magnetic force when the door panel assembly is in the closed position; coupling a first side of the door panel assembly to a first side portion of the frame using a magnetic force; and coupling a second side of the door panel assembly to a second side portion of the frame using a magnetic force. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0015]    The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following more particular description thereof, presented in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein: 
           [0016]      FIG. 1  is an isometric diagram illustrating a door assembly including a door panel and door frame in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0017]      FIG. 2  is an isometric diagram illustrating half of the door assembly shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with an embodiment; 
           [0018]      FIG. 3  is an isometric diagram illustrating a bottom of the frame shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0019]      FIG. 4  is an isometric diagram illustrating a bottom of the door panel and the door frame shown in  FIG. 2  in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0020]      FIG. 5  is an isometric diagram illustrating a bottom of a door panel and a door frame in accordance with an alternative embodiment; 
           [0021]      FIG. 6  is an isometric diagram illustrating part of a door panel and a door frame in accordance with another embodiment; 
           [0022]      FIG. 7  is an isometric diagram illustrating a bottom portion of a door panel and door frame in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0023]      FIG. 8  is an isometric diagram illustrating a top view of a convolution and door frame shown in  FIG. 7  in accordance with an embodiment; 
           [0024]      FIG. 9  is an isometric diagram illustrating a door panel assembly in a first open position in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0025]      FIG. 10  is an isometric diagram illustrating the door panel assembly of  FIG. 9  in a second open position in accordance one embodiment; 
           [0026]      FIG. 11  is an isometric diagram illustrating a door panel in accordance with yet another embodiment; 
           [0027]      FIG. 12  is an isometric diagram illustrating a door panel in accordance with an alternative embodiment; 
           [0028]      FIG. 13  is an isometric diagram illustrating half of a door panel in accordance with yet another alternative embodiment; 
           [0029]      FIG. 14  is a top cross sectional view of the a separated door panel in accordance with one embodiment of either of the door panels illustrated in  FIGS. 11 and 12 ; 
           [0030]      FIG. 15  is an isometric diagram illustrating part of the door panel shown in either of  FIGS. 11 and 12  in accordance with one embodiment; 
           [0031]      FIG. 16  is an isometric diagram illustrating part of a door and door frame in accordance with a preferred embodiment; 
           [0032]      FIG. 17  is an isometric diagram illustrating part of a door and door frame in accordance with another embodiment; 
           [0033]      FIG. 18  is a diagram illustrating a door panel in accordance with yet another embodiment; 
           [0034]      FIG. 19  is an isometric diagram illustrating part of the door panel of  FIG. 18 ; 
           [0035]      FIG. 20  is an isometric diagram illustrating a fastener of  FIG. 19 ; and 
           [0036]      FIG. 21  is an isometric diagram illustrating a bottom view of a door panel in accordance with a preferred embodiment. 
       
    
    
       [0037]    Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several views of the drawings. Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions, sizing, and/or relative placement of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present invention. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0038]    The following description is not to be taken in the limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principals of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the claims. 
         [0039]    The door assembly described herein generally is for use with existing sliding doors in a building, e.g., a home or office. The door assembly, will be place within the existing frame of a sliding door and will generally extend from the bottom of the frame of the sliding door to the top of the frame of the sliding door. The current application is focused on the door panel and frame assembly used by the animal and located proximate the bottom of the sliding door frame and thus, the remainder of the door assembly will not be shown in order to more clearly and completely describe the present invention. It is understood by those skilled in the art that many different designs of the top portion of the door frame can be utilized with the present embodiments described herein. Additionally, features of the present embodiments can be utilized, for example, in pet doors installed into regular swinging type doors and into walls. 
         [0040]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a door assembly including a door panel and door frame in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is a door panel  100 , a top frame  102 , a first side frame  104 , a second side frame  106 , a bottom frame  108 , a first side strike  110 , a second side strike  112 , a bottom strike  114 , a plurality of side retainers  116 , a bottom retainer  118 . 
         [0041]    The door panel  100  is located between the top frame  102 , the bottom frame  108 , the first side frame  104  and the second side frame  106 . The top frame  102  is coupled to both the first side frame  104  and the second side frame  106 , by using, for example, a fastener (e.g., a screw or bolt) such as is shown in  FIG. 17 . At the top of the door panel is a rod (shown more clearly in  FIGS. 11 ,  12 ,  15  and  16 ). The rod is rotatably coupled to both the first side frame  104  and the second side frame  106 . 
         [0042]    Coupled to sides of the door panel  100  are the plurality of side retainers  116 . Coupled to a bottom of the door panel  100  is a bottom retainer. Located between the first side frame  104  and a left side of the door panel  100  is the first side strike  110 . Located between the second side frame  106  and the door panel  100  is the second side strike  112 . Located between the bottom frame  108  and the bottom of the door panel  100  is the bottom strike. In the embodiment shown, the first side strike  110  and the second side strike  112  both extend substantially the entire length between the top frame  102  and the bottom frame  108 . The bottom strike  114  extends substantially the entire length of the bottom of the door panel, and optionally extends substantially the entire length between the first side frame  104  and the second side frame  106 . 
         [0043]    When the door panel is in a closed position (as shown), the left side of the door panel  100  is magnetically coupled to the first side strike  110 , the right side of the door panel  100  is magnetically coupled to the second side strike  112 , and the bottom of the door panel  100  is magnetically coupled to the bottom strike  114 . Various embodiments for the magnetic coupling will be described throughout this document (e.g., at least with reference to  FIGS. 2-10 ,  13  and  18 - 20 ). 
         [0044]    In operation, the door panel and rod rotate within a bushing in the frame to provide an opening for a pet, e.g., a dog or cat. The door panel  100  can open in either direction (forward or backward) such that the pet can pass through the door in either direction. One embodiment of an open door panel will be shown and described in greater detail herein with reference to  FIGS. 9 and 10 . Optionally, in one embodiment, the door panel  100  is only able to open in one direction, however, preferable, as described above, the door opens in both directions. As a force (e.g., from a pet pushing on the door) is exerted against either a front side or back side (not shown) of the door panel  100 , the door panel will start to move, for example, forward, causing the magnetically coupling of the door panel to the strikes (i.e., the first side strike  110 , the second side strike  112 , and the bottom strike  114 ) to disengage. After the disengagement, the bottom strike  114  will move downward toward the bottom frame  108  and each of the side strikes  110 ,  112  will move toward respective side frames  104 ,  106 . In one embodiment, long thin flat leaf-type springs are used to gently urge the side strikes  110 ,  112  into a retracted position (i.e., toward respective side frames  104 ,  106 . Alternatively, the side strikes  110 ,  112  loosely stay wherever they end up upon opening of the door panel  100  and no springs are needed. 
         [0045]    When a force is no longer being applied to the door panel  100 , for example, the pet has passed through the door assembly, the door panel  100  will move back to the closed position. When the door panel  100  is substantially back to the closed position, the magnetic coupling will reengage. At this time, the bottom strike will move upward until contacting the bottom of the door panel  100  (or the bottom retainer  118  if present). Similarly, the first side strike  110  and the second side strike  112  will move inward until contacting the left side and right side of the door panel, respectively. Advantageously, the strikes provide insulation and a wind barrier when the door panel  100  is in the closed position. 
         [0046]    Generally, the present invention is not limited by the specific types of materials used for any parts in the construction of the door assembly. However, as will be described herein some parts will have a preferable type of construction material. Preferably a frame assembly (i.e., the top frame  102 , the first side frame  104 , the second side frame  106 , and the bottom frame  108 , in the present embodiment) is made from aluminum. In this embodiment, the frame is a lightweight and durable. Many other materials or combinations of materials are used for the frame in different embodiments, e.g., metals, metal alloys, steel, stainless steel, composites, or plastics are used in different embodiments to construct the frame assembly. As referred to herein, the first side strike  110 , the second side strike  112 , and the bottom strike  114  are also part of the frame assembly. The frame assembly, can be constructed with or without the strikes (i.e., the first side strike  110 , the second side strike  112 , and the bottom strike  114 ). Furthermore, as described in different embodiments herein, the strikes can optionally be fixed to the frame such that they are not movable. 
         [0047]    The door panel is preferably made from a flexible plastic or flexible elastomer. A flexible door panel advantageously provides safety features for an animal using the door assembly. A flexible door panel will reduce the likelihood of a pet&#39;s paw or head betting pinched between the door panel and a portion of the frame assembly when the pet reverses direction midway through the pet door. Thus, the use of a flexible material reduces the likelihood of injury to the pet. Alternatively, however, is some embodiments, the door panel is constructed from a rigid plastic, stamped metal, or other rigid or flexible material. 
         [0048]    In one embodiment, the door panel is made from two molded pieces of flexible plastic or flexible elastomer. Optionally, the two molded pieces of plastic can be identical, such that manufacturing efficiency can be improved by only having one plastic mold instead of two. The different embodiments of the door panel will be described in greater detail herein at least with reference to  FIGS. 2 ,  4 ,  5 ,  11 - 12 ,  14 - 16  and  18 - 19 . 
         [0049]    The first side strike  110 , the second side strike  112  and the bottom strike  114  (collectively referred to herein as the strikes) are preferably made from steel, iron or other magnetic material. In this embodiment, the sides of the door panel will preferably have magnets inside of the door panel, such that the side strikes  110  and  112  will be magnetically coupled to the door panel  100  when the door panel  100  is in the closed position (as shown). This embodiment is shown and described in further detail herein at least with reference to  FIG. 13 . Alternatively, the strike can be made from aluminum, plastic or other rigid material and have magnets attached to the strike. This embodiment will be further described herein at least with reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8 . 
         [0050]    Referring to  FIG. 2  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a cross section of half of the door assembly shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with an embodiment. Shown is the door panel  100 , the top frame  102 , the first side frame  104 , the bottom frame  108 , the first side strike  110 , the bottom strike  114 , the plurality of side retainers  116 , the bottom retainer  118 , a bottom magnet  120 , and a plurality of door panel dividers  124 . 
         [0051]      FIG. 2  additionally shows the bottom magnet  120 , inside of the door panel and located proximate the bottom of the door panel. The bottom magnet  120  provides for the magnetic coupling between the bottom strike  114  and a bottom of the door panel  100 . The bottom magnet can be rigid or flexible. Additionally, as mentioned above, the bottom strike  114  is made from steel, iron, alloy, or other magnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the bottom magnet  120 . Thus, when the door is in the closed position, the bottom strike  114  will move in an upward direction until contacted the bottom of the door panel  100 . Alternatively, in embodiment of the door panel utilizing the bottom retainer  118 , the bottom strike  114  will move in an upward direction until contacting the bottom retainer  118 . The bottom retainer will be described herein in greater detail at least with reference to  FIG. 4 . 
         [0052]    In a preferred embodiment, the door panel  100  is hollow such that the hollow area provides for a layer of insulation. Similarly, the frame assembly is generally designed such that there space for air in between a front of the frame (e.g., outside of a home) and a back of the frame (e.g., inside of a home) such that the air provides for a layer of insulation for the house. 
         [0053]    The door panel  100 , in the embodiment shown, also includes the plurality of door panel dividers  124 . The plurality of door panel dividers  124  are preferably horizontal, however, can for example, be at different angles or in some embodiments can be vertical. Additionally, the door panel dividers  124  generally extent from the left side of the door to the right side of the door and isolate air from one area inside of the hollow portion of the door panel  100  to a second area inside the hollow portion of the door panel  100 . However, the door panel dividers  124  need not extend the full width of the door as long as they limit air flow within the hollow portion of the door panel  100 . The door panel dividers  124  reduce the circulation of air within the hollow portion of the door panel  100 , thus providing more insulation as compared to a similar door panel without the door panel dividers  124 . 
         [0054]    In another embodiment, the hollow portion of the door can be completely or partially filled with an insulating material (e.g., fiberglass or foam, such as is used for insulation of homes and other buildings). The insulating material can be used with or without the door panel dividers  124 . 
         [0055]    Referring to  FIG. 3  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a cross section of a bottom of the door assembly shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is part of the door panel  100 , the second side frame  106 , the second side strike  112 , a first u-shaped portion  113  of the second strike  112 , a second u-shaped portion  115  of the second strike  112 , the bottom frame  108 , the bottom strike  114 , the bottom retainer  118 , a space  126  for a side magnet (not shown), and a space  128  for the bottom magnet  120  (not shown). 
         [0056]    The second side frame  106  is moveably coupled to the second side strike  112 . In a preferred embodiment, the second side strike  112  includes the first u-shaped portion  113  and the second u-shaped portion  115 . The first u-shaped portion  113  and the second u-shaped portion  115  are interleaved with two portions of the second side frame  106 . The door panel  100  is shown in the closed position such that the second side strike  112  and the bottom strike  114  are magnetically coupled to the door panel  100 . In accordance with the present invention, many different means of fastening the side frames to the top frame  102  and the bottom frame  108  may be utilized. Additionally, the frame assembly need not be constructed from the top frame  102 , the side frames  104 ,  106 , and the bottom frame  108 , but can be constructed from any number of separate or continuous parts (e.g., the frame assembly can be one continuous frame all the way around the door panel). 
         [0057]    The bottom retainer  118  is coupled to the bottom of the door panel. The door panel  100  includes the space  128  for the bottom magnet  120  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) and the space  126  for the side magnet (shown in  FIG. 13 ). In an alternative embodiment, the bottom retainer  120  and/or the plurality of side retainers (or optionally part or all of the door panel  100 ) can be made from a magnetic material (e.g., steel, iron, or an alloy) and the first side strike  110 , the second side strike  112 , and/or the bottom strike  120  can include magnets, or can be coupled to magnets (such as is shown at least in  FIGS. 5 ,  6  and  8 ), thus providing the magnetic coupling between the door panel  100  and the strikes  110 ,  112 , and  114 . 
         [0058]    As described above, the first u-shaped portion  113  and the second u-shaped portion  115  of the side strike are interleaved with the second side frame  106 . Advantageously, this configuration provides a side strike that is easily moveable. Additionally, the configuration provides stability for the side strike  112  as the lateral movement is limited by the contact between the second side frame  106  and the second side strike  112 . The same configuration can be utilized for both the first side strike  110  and the bottom strike  114 . The shape and mechanical integration of the frame to all of the strikes is but one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. It is with the scope of the present invention that many alternative mechanical designs for the frame and the strikes may be utilized in accordance with alternative embodiments. 
         [0059]    Referring to  FIG. 4  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a bottom of the door and the door frame shown in  FIG. 2  in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is a first portion of a door panel  130 , a second portion of a door panel  132 , the bottom frame  108 , the bottom strike  114 , the bottom extension  134 , the bottom retainer  118 , the bottom magnet  120 , a first u-shaped  140  portion of the bottom strike  114 , a second u-shaped portion  142  of the bottom strike  114 , a first hook  146 , a second hook  148 , and a retainer tab  144 . 
         [0060]    The first portion of the door panel  130  is coupled to the second portion of the door panel  132 . In one embodiment, the first portion of the door panel  130  and the second portion of the door panel  132  are identically molded pieces of flexible plastic. The first portion of the door panel  130  is coupled to the second portion of the door panel  132  are held together at an upper edge of the door panel  130  (shown and described herein at least with reference to  FIGS. 14-16 ). The second portion of the door panel  132  includes the retainer tab  144  (the first portion of the door panel  130  also includes a retainer tab) that the bottom retainer  118  clips onto. The bottom retainer  118  holds the first portion of the door panel  130  and the second portion of the door panel  132  together at the bottom. Similarly, the first portion of door panel  130  and the second portion of the door panel  132  can include retainer tabs on the sides such that the side retainers (shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) hold the sides of the first portion of the door panel  130  and the second portion of the door panel  132  together. 
         [0061]    In the embodiment shown, the bottom magnet  120  is located between the first portion of the door panel  130  and the second portion of the door panel  132  and is held in place by the bottom retainer  118 . Alternatively, in embodiments where the bottom retainer  118  is not utilized, the bottom magnet  120  can be held in place by the structure of the door panel. It should be understood that many different configurations of securing the bottom magnet  120  proximate the bottom of the door panel may be utilized without deviating from the scope of the present invention. 
         [0062]    The bottom strike  114  is optionally formed with the first u-shaped portion  140  and the second u-shaped portion  142 . Similarly to the side strike described above with reference to  FIG. 3 , the u-shaped configuration provides for the bottom strike  114  to be moveably coupled to the bottom frame  108  while still providing stability for the bottom strike  114 . Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, the bottom strike  114  includes the second hook  146  and the bottom frame  108  includes the first hook  148  such that the bottom strike is not removable when the door panel is in an open position. A similar design can also be incorporated into the side strike  112  and side frame  106  shown in  FIG. 3 . 
         [0063]    The bottom strike  114  additionally includes, in one embodiment, a slightly protruding portion nearest the door panel. Additionally, the bottom retainer  118  includes, in one embodiment, a slightly intruding portion. This helps to return the door panel to center when traveling from an open position to a closed position. Advantageously, when the door panel is aligned in the center position, a better wind barrier is provided as compared to if the door panel were to return to a position that is off center. Additionally, this design helps to provide a smooth release when, for example, a pet puts a force on either side of the door panel to attempt to open or move through the door assembly. Preferably, a similar design can be utilized for the sides of the door panel and the side strikes. 
         [0064]    Referring to  FIG. 5  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a bottom of a door panel and a door frame in accordance with an alternative embodiment. Shown is the first portion of the door panel  130 , the second portion of a door panel  132 , the bottom frame  108 , a bottom strike  115 , the bottom retainer  118 , the bottom magnet  120 , a bottom strike magnet  121 , the first u-shaped  140  portion of the bottom strike  115 , the second u-shaped portion  142  of the bottom strike  115 , a support portion  141  of the bottom strike  115 , a bottom portion  149  of the bottom strike  115 , and the retainer tab  144 . 
         [0065]    The bottom strike  115  shown is an alternative embodiment of the bottom strike shown in  FIG. 4 . The bottom strike includes the first u-shaped portion  140 , the second u-shaped portion  142 , the support portion  141 , and the bottom portion  149 . The support portion  141  provides a cavity for the bottom strike magnet  121 . As is shown in  FIG. 6 , the bottom strike magnet  121  includes, in one embodiment, a spring portion such that the bottom strike magnet  121  is securely held within the cavity of the bottom strike  115 . While only one bottom strike magnet  121  is shown, one or more magnets can be placed inside the cavity of the bottom strike  115 . 
         [0066]    The bottom portion  149  of the bottom strike  115  curves in an outward direction such that the bottom strike  115  is difficult to remove from the bottom frame  108  when the door panel is in an open position. If an attempt to remove the bottom strike  115  is made the bottom portion  149  will catch on the bottom frame  108  and will resist further upward movement of the bottom strike  115 . This is an optional feature of the bottom strike  115 . 
         [0067]    Referring to  FIG. 6  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a partial door and door frame in accordance with another embodiment. Shown is part of a door panel  150 , a side frame  164 , a bottom frame  162 , a first convolution  152 , a first side magnet  154 , a second convolution  166 , a second side magnet  168 , a bottom strike  160 , a bottom retainer  156 , a plurality of bottom magnets  158 , and a plurality of spring clips  159 . 
         [0068]    The door panel  150  is coupled to the first convolution  152  and the second convolution  166 . The first convolution  152  and the second convolution  166  are coupled to the first side magnet  154  and the second side magnet  168 , respectively. The side convolutions and side magnets will be described in greater detail at least with reference to  FIGS. 7 and 8 . The bottom retainer  156  is also coupled to the door panel  150 . The door panel  150  is shown in a closed position and is magnetically coupled to the bottom strike  160 . The bottom strike is movably coupled to the bottom frame  162 , for example, as described above with reference to  FIG. 4 . The bottom frame  162  is coupled to the side frame  164 . In the embodiment shown, there is no side strike (such as shown in  FIGS. 1-3 ) however, in one embodiment, the side strike can be included and used in combination with the side convolutions  154 ,  168 . 
         [0069]    The bottom strike  160  includes a hollow area for receiving the plurality of magnets  158 . The plurality of magnets  158  are individually coupled to one of the plurality of string clips  159 . The spring clips  159  and the hollow area of the bottom strike  160  are designed such that the magnets are easily slid into the bottom strike and still are held snug within the bottom strike. This design provides for an easy way to change the number of magnets within the bottom strike  160 . Advantageously, a greater or less number of magnets is desirable for different uses of the door assembly in different conditions. For example, a small dog or a dog being trained on the door assembly may have less magnets such that less force on the door panel  150  will be required to cause the magnetic coupling to release, thus allowing the door panel to swing open. In another example, for a home located in a very windy area, more magnets can be used in order to more securely hold the door panel in place while in the closed position. This prevents the door panel from swinging open due to the wind, instead of a pet attempting to pass through the door assembly. 
         [0070]    Referring to  FIG. 7  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a bottom portion of a door and door frame in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is part of a rear door panel  170 , part of a front door panel  172 , a side frame  184 , a side strike  182 , a bottom frame  188 , a first rear portion of a side convolution  174 , a second rear portion of a side convolution  175 , a first front portion of a side convolution  176 , a second front portion of a side convolution  177 , a panel side magnet  178 , a side strike magnet  180 , a bottom strike  186 , a bottom extension  190 , and a bottom retainer  192 . 
         [0071]    The rear door panel  170  and the front door panel  172  (referred to herein as a door panel assembly) are coupled together make the door panel assembly. The first rear portion of a side convolution  174  and the second rear portion of the side convolution  175  are coupled to the rear door panel  170 . The first front portion of a side convolution  176  and the second front portion of the side convolution  177  are coupled to the front door panel  172 . The first rear portion of the side convolution  174  and the first front portion of the side convolution  176  are coupled together by a magnet clip (shown in  FIG. 8 ). The magnet clip also secures the side magnet  178  to the first rear portion of the side convolution  174  and the first front portion of the side convolution  176  (collectively referred to as a side convolution assembly). This configuration is more clearly described below with reference to  FIG. 8 . 
         [0072]    In the present embodiment, the side strike  182  is integral to the door panel assembly, and is not movable (such as, for example, the side strike shown in  FIG. 3 ). The side frame  184  is part of a larger panel assembly frame that holds the door panel and door panel frame within a wall, sliding glass door, or swinging door. For example, the side frame  184  is part of a frame of the larger panel assembly which holds the glass of a sliding door when the panel assembly in used with a sliding glass door. In this embodiment, the pet door including its frame (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 1 ) is inserted into and held in place by the side frame  184 . As shown, the side strike  182  has a side strike magnet  180  attached an inner surface. Alternatively, the side strike  182  is made from iron, steel, an alloy, or other magnetic material, such that the side convolution assembly is magnetically attracted to the side strike when the door panel assembly is in a closed position. The operation of the side convolution assembly will be further described below with reference to  FIG. 8 . 
         [0073]    The bottom strike  186  is moveably coupled to the bottom frame  188 . This configuration functions the same as any of the bottom strikes described above with reference to  FIGS. 1-6 . 
         [0074]    Referring to  FIG. 8  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a top view of the side convolution and the door frame shown in  FIG. 7  in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is part of the rear door panel  170 , part of the front door panel  172 , the side frame  184 , the side strike  182 , the rear portion of the side convolution  174 , the front portion of the side convolution  176 , the panel side magnet  178 , the side strike magnet  180 , and a magnet clip  188 . 
         [0075]    The rear door panel  170  is coupled to the rear portion of the side convolution  174 . The front door panel  172  is coupled to the front portion of the side convolution  176 . The convolution assembly (i.e., the rear portion of the side convolution  174  and the front portion of the side convolution  176 ) is connected together at the end proximate the side strike  182  with the magnet clip  188 . The magnet clip  188  also secures the side magnet  178  to the convolution assembly. The magnet clip  188  can be made from, for example, plastic, magnetic material, or metal. The side magnet  178  and the side strike magnet  180  can be either a rigid or flexible magnet. 
         [0076]    The rear portion of the side convolution  174  and the front portion of the side convolution  176  are both generally sinusoidal in shape. Alternate shapes may be used that allow for expansion and retraction of the convolution assembly. Additionally, the rear portion of the side convolution  174  and the front portion of the side convolution  176  are made from, for example rubber, flexible plastic or an elastomer. This allows the convolution assembly to expand when the door panel assembly is closed and contract when the door panel assembly is open. When the door panel assembly is closed, the magnetic force between the side magnet  178  and the side strike magnet  180  causes the convolution to expand, thus sealing the side of the door panel assembly to the side strike and substantially preventing air from passing through the door assembly. When the door opens, the convolution assembly retracts, thus allowing for a fluid motion of the door panel assembly, as there is no friction between the side of the door panel assembly and the side strike  182 . 
         [0077]    The side strike  182  has a slight concavity that allows the side magnet  178  to “snap” into position after overcoming the larger separation due to the raised lip of the side strike  182 . This self-centering “snap” action is also used in the bottom strike  115  (shown in  FIG. 5 ), except that the bottom strike  115  is convex and the bottom clip  118  is concave. The bottom strike  115  is convex in order to prevent water from collecting on the bottom strike  115 . Additionally, the convex/concave shape of the bottom strike  115  and the side strike  182  also eliminate small line-of-sight gaps. In an alternative embodiment, the side strike  182  is convex and the side of the door panel is concave. Additionally, while not preferred, the bottom strike  115  may be concave and the bottom of the door panel convex, for example, for use in environments where water collection on the bottom strike  115  is not a concern. Advantageously, the design of the strikes and sides/bottom of the door panel helps to center the door when in the closed position. 
         [0078]    Alternatively to the embodiment described above, the convolution assembly can be attached to the side strike and expand towards a door panel similar to the door panel shown in  FIG. 1 . In another optional embodiment, the bottom of the door assembly is also attached to a convolution assembly or the bottom strike is attached to the convolution assembly. This provides an alternate means for magnetically coupling the bottom of the door panel to the bottom strike or bottom frame (shown in  FIG. 7 ). 
         [0079]    Referring to  FIG. 9  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a door panel assembly in a first open position in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is the door panel  150 , the first side frame  164 , a second side frame  163 , the bottom frame  162 , a top frame  165 , the first convolution  152 , the second convolution  166  the first side magnet  154 , the bottom strike  160 , and the bottom retainer  156 . 
         [0080]    As shown, the door panel  150  is open in a backward position. When open in the backward position, the bottom strike  160  is in a retracted position as compared to when the door panel  150  is in a closed position. Additionally, the first convolution  152  and the second convolution  166  are in a retracted position as compared to when the door panel  150  is in the closed position. 
         [0081]    Referring to  FIG. 10  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating the door panel assembly of  FIG. 9  in a second open position in accordance one embodiment. Shown is the door panel  150 , the first side frame  164 , the second side frame  163 , the bottom frame  162 , the top frame  165 , the first convolution  152 , the second convolution  166 , the first side magnet  154 , the bottom strike  160 , and the bottom retainer  156 . 
         [0082]    As shown, the door panel  150  is open in a forward position. When open in the forward position, the bottom strike  160  is in a retracted position as compared to when the door panel  150  is in a closed position. Additionally, the first convolution  152  and the second convolution  166  are in a retracted position as compared to when the door panel  150  is in the closed position. 
         [0083]    Referring to  FIG. 11  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a door panel in accordance with yet another embodiment. Shown is a rod  200 , a convolution assembly  202 , a door panel  204 , and an upper edge  208  of the door panel  204 .  FIG. 12  shows an isometric diagram illustrating a door panel in accordance with an alternative embodiment. Shown is the rod  200 , the convolution  202 , the door panel  204 , a plurality of dividers  206 , and an upper edge  208  of the door panel  208 . 
         [0084]    The door panel  204  is coupled to the convolution assembly (such as shown above in  FIG. 8 ). The door panel also includes the upper edge  208  that is coupled to the rod  200 . The rod  200  extends through the frame (such as is show below in  FIG. 17 ). This allows for the door panel  204  to rotate as the rod  200  rotates and thus open and close when a force is placed on either a front or back side of the door panel  204 , for example, by a pet. Preferably, the door panel  204  is made from a flexible plastic or flexible elastomer. This allows the door panel  204  to flex, providing a safety feature for a pet using the door assembly. 
         [0085]    In one embodiment, as is shown in  FIG. 12 , the door panel  204  includes plurality of dividers  206 . The plurality of dividers  206  provide for the door panel  204  to further flex, as the door panel  204  can bend along the dividers  206 . Optionally, the convolutions can also be used with a non flexible material for the areas between the convolutions. The dividers  206  additionally separate the door panel into multiple hollow portions. This feature (i.e., the dividers  206 ) prevent air flow within the door panel, leading to improved insulation. 
         [0086]    Referring to  FIG. 13  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating a rear half of a door panel in accordance with yet another alternative embodiment. Shown is the rod  200 , a rear section of the door panel  204 , and the upper edge  208  of the door panel  204 , a plurality of convolutions  206 , a plurality of clips  201 , a side magnet  203 , and a plurality of bottom magnets  205 . 
         [0087]    The rod  200  is coupled to the upper edge  208  of the door panel  204 . As shown, a front half of the door panel  204  has been removed for illustrative purposes, however, in operation, the plurality of bottom magnets  205  and the side magnet  203  are contained within the rear half of the door panel and the front half of the door panel (for example, such as is shown in  FIG. 4 ). 
         [0088]    Preferably, additional side magnets are located beneath each of the plurality of clips  201 . Additionally, the side magnet  203  is shown with a removed clip for illustrative purposes. In an alternative embodiment, the side magnets are located anywhere along the side of the door panel  204 . Furthermore, one or more side magnets can be located on each side. As is shown, two side magnets are shown on each side of the door panel. 
         [0089]    In the embodiment shown, there plurality of bottom magnets  205  includes three bottom magnets. Alternatively, one or more side magnets can be located along the bottom of the door panel  204 . 
         [0090]      FIG. 14  is a top cross sectional view of the a separated door panel in accordance with one embodiment of either of the door panels illustrated in  FIGS. 11 and 12 . Shown is a back panel  210 , a front panel  212 , and a peg  216 . 
         [0091]    The front panel  212  and the back panel  210  comprise a door panel assembly. As is shown, the front panel  212  and the back panel  210  are two identically shaped parts that are designed to clip together. The peg  216  snaps into a corresponding hole (not shown) in the opposite panel to help hold the door assembly together. Advantageously, by having two identical panels (i.e., the front panel  212  and the back panel  210 ) only one mold needs to be used during the manufacturing process. This is beneficial when making smaller manufacturing runs. Alternatively, in other embodiments differently shaped panels may be utilized without deviating from the scope of the present invention. 
         [0092]    Referring now to  FIG. 15  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating part of the door panel shown in either of  FIGS. 11 and 12  in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is the back panel  210 , the front panel  212 , and a rod  218 . 
         [0093]    The door panel assembly (i.e., the back panel  210  and the front panel  212 ) is shown separated for illustrative purposes only. In operation, the rod  218  is placed through a portion of both the back panel  210  and the front panel  212 . The rod  218  allows for the door panel to rotate within the frame assembly (not shown). In one embodiment, the rod  218  is rotatably coupled to the frame assembly. When a force is place upon the door panel assembly, the rod  218  will rotate with the door panel allowing the door panel assembly to open. 
         [0094]      FIG. 16  is an isometric diagram illustrating part of a door and door frame in accordance with a preferred embodiment. Shown is the back panel  210 , the front panel  212  the rod  218 , and a top frame  220 . 
         [0095]    As is shown, there is either a very small gap (or alternatively no gap) between the back panel  210 , the front panel  212  and the top frame  220 . This reduces or prevents airflow from traveling through the door assembly, for example, from outside to inside of a home. 
         [0096]      FIG. 17  is an isometric diagram illustrating part of a door and door frame in accordance with another embodiment. Shown is the front panel  212 , the rod  218 , the top frame  220 , a fastener  222 , a side frame  224 , and a bearing  226 . 
         [0097]    The fastener  222  attaches the side frame  224  to the top frame  220 . As is shown, the fastener is a screw, however, many means for fastening the top frame  220  to the side frame  224  are utilized in different embodiments. 
         [0098]    The rod  218  travels through the bearing  226  and the side frame  224 . The bearing provides a smooth rotational movement of the door panel  212  and prevents wear on the rod  218  and frame  224 . Preferably, the bearing  226  is made from a hard plastic, although other materials are used in different embodiments. 
         [0099]    Referring to  FIG. 18  a diagram is shown illustrating a door panel in accordance with yet another embodiment. Shown is a door panel  300 , a plurality of fastener holes  302 , a convolution  304 , and a side convolution  306 . Referring to  FIG. 19  an isometric diagram is shown illustrating part of the door panel of  FIG. 18 . Shown is the door panel  300 , the plurality of fastener holes  302 , the convolution  304 , the side convolution  306 , a magnet  308  and a fastener  310 . 
         [0100]    The plurality of fastener holes  302  are located in the door panel. The fastener  310  is a molded fastener that fits into one of the fastener holes  302  and securely holds the front panel  212  and the back panel  210  (as shown in  FIG. 16 ) together.  FIG. 20  illustrates one exemplary embodiment of the fastener  310 . As described above, the convolutions  304  adds flexibility to the door panel. A fastener, such as is shown in  FIG. 20  will fit into each of the fastener holes  302 , however, only one fastener  310  is shown in  FIG. 19 . Alternatively, both panels are connected together by rivet type fasteners instead of the molded fasteners. It should be understood that many different types of fasteners can be used in accordance with the present embodiments. 
         [0101]      FIG. 21  is an isometric diagram illustrating a bottom view of a door panel in accordance with a preferred embodiment. Shown is the door panel  300 , the convolution  304 , the side convolution  306 , the magnet  308 , a rod  316 , and a bottom retainer  318 . 
         [0102]    The side convolution  306  shown is coupled to the door panel  300 . The side convolution  306  is generally sinusoidal in shape with a substantially square portion located at an end distant from the door panel  300 . The magnet  308  is clipped onto the square portion of the convolution. The side convolution  306  consists of one sinusoidal component as compared to the side convolution described above with reference to  FIG. 8  that has both a front portion  174  and a back portion  176 . The side convolution shown operates similarly to the convolution assembly described above with reference to  FIG. 8 . 
         [0103]    While the invention herein disclosed has been described by means of specific embodiments and applications thereof, other modifications, variations, and arrangements of the present invention may be made in accordance with the above teachings other than as specifically described to practice the invention within the spirit and scope defined by the following claims.

Technology Classification (CPC): 8