MODULAR AND MULTI-PURPOSE PLATFORM FOR MOVING DOORS AND SLIDING DOORS

Abstract

 A modular platform (10) for an actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) for moving a door (20, 30), which platform comprises:
- a supporting plate (3) comprising a first portion (31) and a second portion (32), wherein the first portion (31) implements a guide for sliding of the second portion (32) along a longitudinal axis (A);
- means for the reversible adjustment of the position (7) of the second portion (32), configured to maintain the second portion (32) in a determined position with respect to the first portion (31);
- a fastening collar (99) configured to be connected to the first portion (31);
- means for connecting the first portion (31) to the collar (99), configured to be able to adjust the positioning of the plate (3) with respect to the collar (99) by rotating the plate 3 around a transverse axis (Z) orthogonal to the collar (99) and to the plate (3); and
- means for the reversible fastening of the first portion (31) to the collar (99).

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a multifunctional modular platform which can be adopted for moving hinge doors and sliding doors of gates, doors and the like.

[0002] In particular, said multifunctional platform in the various configurations thereof can assume different functions, such as anchoring/hinging of hinge door (rotary motion) or upper guide of the sliding door (translation motion); furthermore, it can house actuators for the motor-operated actuation of hinge and sliding doors.

Background

[0003] The systems dedicated to the motion of gate doors known to the state of art have several technological solutions, different therebetween, respectively suitable for moving doors of sliding type or of hinge type.

[0004] Generally, the gates can be divided into two categories, depending upon the different door motion type, which can be of translation type for sliding doors and rotatory type for hinge doors. Still, such categories in turn can be divided according to two types of manual or motor-operated opening/closing.

[0005] At the current state of art, the motion of the doors of a gate of hinge type and of sliding type, both in manual and motor-operated mode, is supported by devices which, depending upon the different type of motion, are planned, developed, engineered and industrialized in a completely different way therebetween, without any possibility of integrating and unifying components and accessories.

[0006] By way of example, in case of gates with hinge doors, there are moving systems based upon devices of electromechanical or hydraulic actuation, which can be buried below the trampling plane of the gate, or based upon outer linear actuators.

[0007] Still by way of example, in case of sliding gates, the motion usually is assigned to geared motors coupled to the door by means of a pinion and a rack fastened to the door, in combination with a necessary upper guide fastened to a supporting column.

[0008] Often, such moving systems are open-installed, generally positioned down, near the floor plane. In both cases these two types of moving doors are based upon devices which have no common construction base. In fact, in both cases, each one of the two mentioned installations requires a structure and a supply of electromechanical components different therebetween. Therefore, such moving systems, both for hinge and sliding doors, manual or motor-operated ones, have not one single structural base capable of fulfilling several functions.

[0009] From another point of view, the systems intended for moving gates' doors can be differently divided into two macro-categories, respectively comprising systems configured for moving hinge doors and systems for moving sliding doors. As it is known, the gates with hinge doors have at least a connection hinge between the gate frame and a supporting column or a wall. The door motion consists indeed in a rotation around such hinge.

[0010] Differently, the gates with sliding doors generally have a door apt to move in translation with respect to a frame bearing a lower sliding guide and upper guiding rollers fastened on a supporting column made of iron or masonry.

[0011] Thanks to the different (rotary and translation, respectively) configurations and types of motion characterizing the two types of gates, it is necessary to select an ad hoc moving system.

[0012] In particular, the moving systems intended for the installation on gates with hinge doors are apt to put in rotation the door around the hinge, according to two opposite opening/closing directions, whereas the moving systems intended for the installation of gates with sliding doors are apt to put in translation the door, even in this case according to two different opposite opening/closing directions.

[0013] When a gate is installed, it is then necessary to select the particular type of moving system suitable to the implementation thereof, first of all depending upon the architectural context and based upon the configuration of the gate itself (with hinge doors or sliding doors).

[0014] It follows that when a gate is replaced by another one of different type, it is necessary to replace the associated moving system too.

[0015] Furthermore, by considering the above-mentioned double actuation of the moving systems, of manual or motor-operated type, it is evident that even the possible passage from an actuation type to another one would involve the total replacement of the specific actuation devices with respect to the door moving mode.

[0016] In fact, the configuration of the systems for opening and closing doors of known type does not allow an easy passage from the manual actuation mode to the motor-operated actuation mode.

[0017] Therefore, the procedures for replacing a pre-existing moving system and for installing a new automation system may require long periods of time and the involvement of specialized technicians. Furthermore, the costs to be born for purchasing the new system have to be considered, whereas the replaced old system would remain unused.

[0018] Not least, the aspect linked to the supply and standardization of the components is to be considered. At the current state of art, for each type of system for moving a gate door it is necessary a supply of ad hoc components, with low standardization and consequent increase in planning, production and storage costs.

[0019] For sake of completeness, it is underlined that the systems intended to move the gates' doors fall under the machine directive 2006/42 EC, whereas those with manual actuation fall under the directive EC89/106 on the construction products, then both types require the compulsory issue of a certificate during the installation and testing phase.

Summary of the invention

[0020] The technical problem placed and solved by the present invention is then to provide one single, modular and multifunctional platform suitable for moving doors of gates, doors or the like, allowing to obviate the drawbacks mentioned above with reference to the known art.

[0021] In the present document, the term "moving" is meant to be related indifferently to open/close a door. By way of example, but not as a limitative example, the door of a gate will be referred to.

[0022] Such problem is solved by a platform according to the independent claim 1.

[0023] There are also an independent claim of device 5 and one of system 16.

[0024] Preferred features of the present invention are set forth in the depending claims.

[0025] The invention, through a base configuration which can be expanded depending upon the selected (manual or motor-operated) actuation type, provides a versatile modular and multifunctional device, suitable to move hinge doors and sliding doors of gates, doors and the like.

[0026] The multifunctional core of the device, which represents the base structural and constructive element for assembling all sets intended to open sliding and hinge doors, is constituted by a modular platform common to all embodiments.

[0027] The platform of the invention provides a variable configuration, expandable according to use destination.

[0028] Advantageously, it is possible to perform the change from the manual configuration to the motor-operated one in any moment, even subsequent to installation.

[0029] The device can comprise a driving shaft and a driven shaft supported by the adjustable modular platform, on which shafts means for transmitting motion engages. In particular, the above-mentioned adjustment of the configuration consists in several adjustments of various dimensional and functional parameters, thereamong the wheelbase between the two shafts. In particular, it is possible to vary the wheelbase between the shafts thanks to the adjustment of the supporting plate of the driven shaft, as it will be described in details hereinafter.

[0030] The above-mentioned flexibility of the platform mainly consists in the possibility of adapting to all supporting columns and to the doors anchored thereto, both sliding and hinge ones, independently from the height with respect to the ground of the backing between door and column and from the wheelbase between driving shaft and driven shaft, with the purpose of easily fitting to the gate geometries and to the architectural constraints.

[0031] The platform can be applied to any type of device for installation on the upper portion of supporting columns (always present in the hinge and sliding gates) made of metal or pre-existing masonry, as it will be described in details hereinafter.

[0032] Advantageously, preferred embodiments of the platform and of the moving device allow to implement the double function of moving a hinge door and a sliding door, even by passing from a manual to a motor-operated functionality or viceversa, by adding standardized mechanical components and the integration of dedicated accessories of known type.

[0033] By way of example, if a device of manual actuation type is installed, in any moment there could be provided to insert a dedicated motor and then to pass to an actuation of motor-operated type, by installing all other required electromechanical components. Viceversa, by removing the motor together with the electromechanical components dedicated thereto, the platform can assume the function of hinge and be made again of manual actuation type.

[0034] In conclusion, the configuration and the actuation of such device can be varied according to the user needs and to the door type to be moved.

[0035] Another advantage which can be obtained from the use of the invention device, provided that it is requested by the architectural context, is the passage from the opening mode from hinge door to sliding door and viceversa.

[0036] In particular, when a gate is replaced by another one characterized by a different door opening, the use of the invention device allows to avoid the replacement of the whole moving system together with the gate, and consequently to obtain a considerable saving in terms of time and money.

[0037] Another advantage obtained by means of a particular embodiment of the platform for moving device according to the present invention, in particular for moving a sliding door, lies in the use of a system for transmitting the motion by direct friction, by means of rollers preferably made of rubber, which as a matter of fact avoids the installation of a transportation rack. The use of the system for transmitting the motion by friction allows a greater noiselessness and active safety which can be ascribable to the intrinsic capability of adjustable friction with respect to the known art systems.

[0038] A system for transmitting the motion by friction can be inserted even in the platform for moving hinge doors (rotary motion), by means of transmission shaft configured to produce friction sufficient to drag into rotation the gate door.

[0039] According to other embodiments of the invention, a solution is also provided comprising an actuation device for moving a door of the gate and a supporting column, in the form of pre-assembled system which comprises all features of modularity, flexibility and effectiveness.

[0040] Other advantages, technical features and use modes of the present invention will result evident from the following detailed description of some embodiments, shown by way of example and not for limiting purposes.

Brief description of the figures

[0041] The enclosed figures will be referred to, wherein:

• Figure 1a shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a supporting plate according to the present invention;
• Figure 1b shows an exploded perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an actuation device with manual actuation according to the present invention;

• Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an actuation device for moving a hinge door with manual actuation according to the present invention;
• Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an actuation device for moving a hinge door with motor-operated actuation according to the present invention;
• Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an actuation device for moving a sliding door with manual actuation according to the present invention;
• Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an actuation device for moving a sliding door with motor-operated actuation according to the present invention;
• Figure 6 shows an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 2 in a configuration to be applied to a hinge door with manual actuation;
• Figure 7 shows an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 4 in a configuration to be applied to a sliding door with manual actuation;
• Figure 8 shows an exploded perspective view of a polyvalent carter according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;
• Figures 9 and 10 show a perspective view of a use configuration of an actuation device for moving a sliding door and of an actuation device for moving a hinge door according to the present invention, respectively;
• Figures 11 and 12 show preferred embodiments of a gate system thereto the present invention relates;
• Figures 13 and 14 show an exploded perspective view of two preferred installation modes of a device according to the present invention, on a column made of steel and on a column made of masonry, respectively;
• Figure 15 shows a perspective view in exploded configuration of an additional preferred embodiment of a modular platform according to the present invention;
• Figure 16 shows a plan view of different possible configurations of the platform of Figure 15;
• Figure 17 shows a partially exploded perspective view of a configuration for installing a moving device comprising the platform of Figure 15;
• Figure 18 shows a partially exploded perspective view in configuration for installing an additional preferred embodiment of a moving device according to the present invention;
• Figure 19 shows a partially exploded perspective view in configuration for installing a still additional preferred embodiment of a moving device according to the present invention;
• Figure 20 shows a perspective view in exploded configuration of a still additional preferred embodiment of a moving device according to the present invention;
• Figure 21 shows a perspective view in exploded configuration of a preferred alternative embodiment of a moving device according to the present invention;
• Figure 22 shows a perspective view in exploded configuration of a still additional preferred embodiment of a moving device according to the present invention;
• Figure 23 shows a preferred installing configuration of the device of Figure 19;
• Figure 23a shows an enlargement of a detail of Figure 23;
• Figure 24 shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a gate system thereto the present invention relates, comprising the device of Figure 19;
• Figures 25 and 26 show perspective views of a preferred installing configuration of the device of Figure 21 and a preferred embodiment of a gate system thereto the present invention relates, respectively, comprising the device of Figure 21;
• Figure 27 shows an exploded perspective view of the device of Figure 21 in a configuration for installing in a column made of masonry;
• Figure 28 shows an exploded perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the device of Figure 19 in a configuration for installing within a column made of masonry;
• Figures 29 and 30 show a perspective view in details of a preferred embodiment of a gate system thereto the present invention relates, respectively, comprising the device of Figure 19 and 21; and
• Figures 31 and 32 show the partially exploded perspective views of Figure 29 and 30, respectively.

[0042] The above-mentioned Figures are to be meant exclusively for exemplifying and not limiting purposes.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0043] By firstly referring to Figure 1b, a first preferred embodiment of an actuation device according to the present invention is designated as a whole with 1000.

[0044] The device 1000 shown exploded in Figure 1b is apt indifferently to move, or it is arranged as helping device to move, a hinge or sliding door of a gate, as it will be explained hereinafter in more details.

[0045] The core of the device is constituted by a modular platform comprising a supporting plate, shown by way of example in Figure 1a, supporting the shafts and the organs for transmitting the motion. The supporting plate 3 comprises a first and a second portion 31, 32 relatively movable therebetween to implement different use configurations of the invention, as it will be explained in details hereinafter.

[0046] By referring again to Figure 1b, the device 1000 comprises a first shaft 1 configured to be coupled to an electric geared motor in turn coupled to a motor, a second shaft 2 configured to be coupled to the door, means for transmitting motion 9 between the two shafts and the supporting plate 3 of the above-mentioned first and second shafts 1, 2. Such shafts 1, 2 preferably are parallel to each other.

[0047] Means for transmitting motion 9 preferably comprises a first toothed wheel 90 keyed on said first shaft 1, a second toothed wheel 91 keyed on said second shaft 2 and a chain 999 apt to engage respectively with said first and second toothed wheels 90, 91 for the transmission of the motion therebetween. The chain 999 preferably can be equipped with a device adjusting the tension or better a chain tensioner 92. According to other embodiment variants, the means for transmitting motion 9 can comprise any series or cascade of gears according to an implementation known to a person skilled in the art.

[0048] Advantageously, the fact that the shaft 1 in substance is arranged to couple with a motor allows the invention device to provide an actuation of motor-operated type in alternative to the actuation of manual type, according to the user preferences. In any moment following installation it is possible to couple/uncouple a motor, or better a geared motor, to the shaft 1.

[0049] The supporting plate 3, as said before, has a first portion 31 embodying a first seat 11 configured to receive the first shaft 1 and a second portion 32 embodying a second seat 22 configured to receive said second shaft 2. Such seats 11, 22 preferably bear mechanical devices apt to reduce the friction between the shafts and the seats thereof during the rotation, that is the organs guiding the rotation, for example of the bearings, in particular the second seat 22 can be equipped with a ball and socked joint bearing.

[0050] Advantageously, the second portion 32 is mobile with respect to the first portion 31. In particular, the second portion 32 is coupled to the first portion 31 so as to maintain a freedom degree in translation and to allow adjusting the distance between the two portions 31, 32, that is the distance between the two shafts 1, 2. In particular, the first portion 31 is configured to implement a guide for the sliding of the second portion 32. Thanks to the shape thereof, the plate 3 can be considered as modular supporting device.

[0051] According to the preferred embodiment of the invention shown in figure, the first portion 31 also bears an elongated slit or better a slot 30, having a prevalent development direction A, coinciding with the prevalent development direction of the first portion 31, as shown in Figure 1b, shaped to allow the insertion and sliding inside thereof of the second shaft 2. In an assembly configuration, the second portion 32 is overlapped to the first portion 31, apt to slide thereon, so as to implement an overlapping of the second seat 22 with a portion of the slot 30.

[0052] The overall configuration of the system is so that the positioning of said second portion 32 with respect to the first portion 31 determines the positioning of the second shaft 2 with respect to the first shaft 1. In other words, the overall configuration is so that it is possible to adjust the distance, that is the wheelbase, between the two shafts 1, 2 along the direction A of relative approaching/moving away between the two portions 32, 31 by means of the sliding of the second portion 32 with respect to the first portion 31.

[0053] Preferably, the device 1000 comprises means for adjusting the position 7 of the second portion 32, apt to maintain the second portion 32 in a determined position, that is at a wished distance, with respect to the first portion 31. For example, such means 7 can comprise fastening screws.

[0054] Moreover, according to preferred embodiments of the invention, the device 1000 can comprise an end stop element 14, configured to limit the door movement according to a predetermined value. The end stop element 14 can be for example of mechanical or magnetic type, or both types of end stops can be present. In this case, advantageously, if the device of the invention is a device with motor-operated actuation, the electromagnetic end stop is connected directly to the systems and the circuits for managing automatism, whereas in case of manual opening or closing of the gate or in absence of power supply, the device of mechanical end stop starts operating.

[0055] Still, the device 1000 can comprise locking means 13 configured to selectively prevent rotation of said first shaft 1, preferably remotely operable means. For example, such means 13 can be implemented by means of an electromagnetic locking device applied to the first shaft 1, with function of electric lock, which can be controlled by means of a remote control. A manual system for locking/releasing the first shaft 1 can also be provided, to be used in case of absence of power supply, which can be actuated with a key.

[0056] Furthermore, any embodiment of the device according to the present invention described sofar and which will be described hereinafter can comprise a collar 99 to be fastened to a column or pole, to ease the installation thereof on pre-existing structures.

[0057] Advantageously, as it will be explained in details with reference to additional preferred embodiments of the invention, the collar can be configured so as to allow the adjustment of the angular positioning of the plate 3 connected thereto, or alternatively the same plate 3 (in particular the first portion 31) can be configured in this way.

[0058] Several preferred embodiments and configurations of the invention for moving a hinge door and a sliding door, with both manual and motor-operated actuation, will be now described.

[0059] The attention is focused on the fact that, as it could be appreciated, the device of the invention as a matter of fact can implement an integrated system in combination alternatively with a hinge (in case of hinge door) or with one or more guiding rollers (in case of gate with sliding door).

[0060] It is to be noted that it is possible to pass from a configuration to the other one, then from an application to the other one, substantially by varying the wheelbase between first and second shaft and/or by integrating to the platform accessory devices apt to implement the wished motion type.

[0061] Elements common to several embodiments will be designated with the same numeral references.

[0062] By referring to Figure 2, still the preferred embodiment of the device of the invention of Figure 1b, designated as a whole with 1000, is shown. The configuration of the device shown in Figure 2 is suitable to move a hinge door, with manual actuation. It can be noted that, in such embodiment, the second portion 32 is in a position of minimum distance with respect to the first portion 31. In other words, the wheelbase between the first and the second shaft is minimum to allow the application of the device 1000 for moving a hinge door.

[0063] By referring to Figure 3, a preferred embodiment of the device of the invention is designated as a whole with 110. Even the device 110 has a configuration wherein the wheelbase between the first 1 and the second shaft 2 is minimum, and it is suitable to move a hinge door. Such embodiment 110 preferably comprises an engine 6 coupled to the first shaft 1, to implement an actuation of automatized type. Furthermore, preferably even a geared motor coupled to the motor 6 and/or a torque limiter with friction 66, for example with a maximum releasing load at 300Nm, are provided. In addition, the device can comprise other elements integrated to the motor 6, apt to implement a system for controlling and actuating the door which can be remotely controlled by means of a remote control, thereamong an encoder associated to the geared motor. Moreover, the device 101 can comprise a polyvalent carter 19 (shown in Figure 8) equipped with a compartment for housing electronic/mechanical apparatuses, electronic cards for managing the phases of opening/closing and possible locking/releasing the first shaft 1, battery and/or system for the LED light signalling of the operating status of the device. The implementation and the integration of such mechanical/electronical components can take place according to modes well known to a person skilled in the art.

[0064] In particular, in the embodiments of the devices 1000 and 110, the second shaft 2 preferably is shaped to insert in a corresponding seat obtained on the hinge door to be moved, to implement a fixed coupling shaft-door. In particular, the shaft 2 can have a shape according to a geometry suitable to be inserted in the door seat. Furthermore, the second shaft 2 preferably has an adjustable length, indeed to adapt to the seat of the hinge door.

[0065] Still, it can be seen that the preferred embodiments of the devices 1000 and 110 comprise an end stop element 14 in particular configured to limit the maximum opening of the door 20 at an angle of 90° or 180° with respect to the closed gate configuration.

[0066] By way of example, Figure 6 shows a preferred mode for coupling between the device 1000 and the hinge door 20. In particular, the second shaft 2 is realized integral to a flange 222 fastened on the door 20.

[0067] By referring to Figure 4, a preferred embodiment of the device of the invention is designated as a whole with 100. The device 100 has a configuration wherein the wheelbase between the first and the second shaft 1,2 is maximum, and it is suitable for moving a sliding door. As it can be noted, the device 100 is manually actuated.

[0068] With respect to the preceding embodiments apt to move a hinge door, the device 100 further comprises a driving roller 4 keyed on the second shaft 2, at the end intended to implement the coupling with the sliding door. The driving roller 4 is apt to be coupled with the sliding door. Moreover, the device 100 also comprises an opponent roller 5, preferably opposite to the driving roller 4, apt to be coupled to the door too. The two rollers 4, 5 preferably are made of rubber. The overall configuration of the device 100 is so that, in use, the driving and opponent rollers 4, 5 are apt to implement a guide to the translation of the sliding door, preferably at an edge thereof. To this purpose, preferably, the two rollers 4, 5 have parallel axes and the wheelbase thereof can be adjusted to adapt to the particular shape of the door. In such configuration, the rollers 4, 5 also implement an anti-tilting safety system for the same sliding door.

[0069] In other words, the rollers 4, 5 implement with the sliding door a kinematic pair apt to provide:

• to the second shaft 2, a degree of freedom in rotation around the axis thereof and
• to the sliding door, a degree of freedom in translation.

[0070] In particular, the motion of the sliding door takes place by transmitting the motion by friction by means of the transporting roller made of rubber which, practically, avoids the fact of installing a transportation rack typical of the traditional systems, therefrom greater noiselessness and active safety derive, generated by the sliding capability of the transporting roller in case of impact of the sliding door with an obstacle, with respect to the known art.

[0071] Figure 5 shows a preferred embodiment of the device of the invention, designated as a whole with 101, still for moving a sliding door, with motor-operated actuation.

[0072] The device 101 preferably, in addition to the embodiment 100 of Figure 4, comprises a motor 6 coupled to the first shaft 1, to implement an actuation of automatized type. Still, preferably even a geared motor coupled to the motor 6 and/or a torque limiter with friction is provided. Moreover, the device 101 can comprise other elements integrated to the motor 6, apt to implement a system for controlling and actuating the sliding door, which can be even remotely controlled by means of a remote control, such as an encoder associated to the geared motor. The device 101 too can comprise a polyvalent carter 19 equipped with a compartment for housing mechanical/electrical systems and components for the automated management of the sliding door, according to what already described.

[0073] By way of example, Figure 7 shows a mode for installing a device 100 for moving a sliding door 30 according to the present invention. The sliding door 30 has an overturned T-shaped profiled sliding guide G at an upper edge thereof. The guide G is intended to engage with the driving and opponent rollers 4, 5, in particular to slide therebetween.

[0074] Figures 9 and 10 show by way of example the overall configuration, in use, of a device according to the present invention for moving a hinge door 20 and a sliding door 30, respectively. It can be noted that the orientation of the device is so that, upon installing on the hinge door 20, the direction A for adjusting the wheelbase between the shafts is aligned to the door longitudinal development direction, whereas upon installing on the sliding door 30 the orientation is so that the direction A is orthogonal to the door longitudinal development direction, which corresponds to the sliding direction thereof.

[0075] Hereinafter the operation of a device with motor-operated actuation according to the invention will be described, indifferently for moving a hinge door 20 or a sliding door 30, equipped with remote control.

[0076] A user can remotely control the opening/closing of a door coupled to an actuation device according to the present invention, with motor-operated actuation, by sending a signal with a remote control. The remote control transmits a pulse to a receiving antenna integrated in an electronic card installed inside the already-mentioned polyvalent carter 19. The card, in turn, sends the opening/closing signal to the geared motor equipped with encoder, which transmits the motion to the second toothed wheel 91, integrated to the torque limiter, by means of the chain 999. The second wheel puts in rotation the second shaft 2, which in turn drags the door into translation or o rotation.

[0077] On the contrary, when the actuation of the device is of manual type, the user moves the door and puts in rotation the second shaft 2, which transmits the motion to the first shaft 1 by means of the chain 999.

[0078] In conclusion, the present invention substantially provides an electromechanical device, integrated to the fixture, allowing to make easier, safe and functional the opening and closing of gates with revolving hinge door and sliding door, actuated both in manual and automated mode, thanks to a simple and quick assembly system in the particular wished use configuration. The core of the multifunctionality of the device, allowing to pass from a configuration to another one and from an actuation type to another one, is a modular platform common to all embodiments, comprising the supporting plate, the shafts and the means for transmitting motion.

[0079] Generally, a positioning of the moving device of the invention can be provided at a supporting column of the gate. In particular, a housing for the possible motor could be obtained in the supporting column itself, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, related to the application to a gate with hinge door and to a gate with sliding door, respectively. Advantageously, the polyvalent carter 19 can be shaped so as to implement, apart the above-mentioned seat for the systems and circuits for managing automatisms, a casing for all other above-described elements of the device. In this way, it is possible to conceal from view and to protect from atmospherical agents the mechanism of the device.

[0080] By referring to Figures 11 and 12, the present invention further provides a gate system implementing an integrated and multifunctional solution, comprising the combination of an actuation device according to what already described (in figure the carter 19 is visible) with the door to be moved and/or with a column or pillar for supporting the door to be moved and the device itself.

[0081] By referring to the above-mentioned figures, preferred embodiments of a gate system 2000, 3000 according to the following invention will be described.

[0082] The embodiment of Figure 11 relates to a gate system 2000 comprising a hinge door 20 with manual actuation, a column made of steel 120 and a door actuation device according to the present invention, installed on said column. The supporting column preferably bears a lower hinge 117 thereon the door 20 can rotate during the opening/closing motions.

[0083] The system 2000 can comprise even an anti-tilting device 119, implemented by means of an anti-fall collar, adjustable in width and depth. Such collar is apt to guarantee the correct positioning of the door 20 with respect to the column 120 and to the carter 19. Said collar is implemented by the means for containing or harnessing the door 20 which 'embraces' or encloses an upper portion thereof, having ends fastened to the carter 19 and to the column 120. The means for containing the door 20 allows the rotation thereof with respect to the column around a vertical axis, but it prevents the tilting and the fall thereof. Furthermore, the system 2000 further comprises a fastening bracket 118, at the base of the column 120, equipped with mechanism for adjusting the height of the above-mentioned lower hinge 117. It is to be noted that the anti-tilting device 119 can be included in the gate actuation device.

[0084] The embodiment of Figure 12 relates to a gate system 3000 comprising a sliding door 30 with manual actuation, a column made of steel 120 and a door actuation device according to one of the already described modes.

[0085] Hereinafter, two preferred modes for installing a device according to the present invention are described.

Installation on supporting columns made of metal (Figure 13)

[0086] The installation of any embodiment of a device according to the present invention on a column made of metal, for example with square section, takes place according to the following sequence.

a) Resting of the device on the column upper section, previously cut to measure, at the fastening collar 99. The fastening collar 99 has the function of implementing a drilling template for implementing, on the column, holes for installing the actuation device.

b) Implementation of installation holes on the supporting column, for example, through-holes M6.

c) Fastening of the device to the supporting column by means of bolts (M6).

d) Installation of the gate door.

Installation inside supporting columns made of masonry (Figure 14)

[0087] 

a) Positioning of a hemispheric concave support inside a housing obtained in the column made of masonry.

b) Installation, by means of two studs M8, of a fastening bracket to the rear inner wall of the housing.

c) Insertion of the device and subsequent fastening in position through front anti-tilting collar 97.

[0088] By referring to Figure 15, an additional preferred embodiment of a modular platform 10 according to the present invention will be described.

[0089] In order to avoid redundancies, the whole following description portion relates exclusively to technical features not described with reference to the already described embodiments, and which are subjected to be combined therewith.

[0090] As to what not explicitly described, the embodiments treated previously will be referred to and the elements common to several embodiments will be designated with the same numeral reference.

[0091] The modular platform 10 is configured to be installed at the upper end of columns, for example supporting columns made of metal or other materials, by overlapping a lower portion of such platform 10 with the upper portion of the column itself. As already described, the platform 10 is suitable to support mechanical devices apt to open and close doors and gates with hinge door (rotating door with respect to a hinge) and sliding door (translating door). Such mechanical devices can be configured for the manual or motor-operated actuation, the platform 10 being suitable for housing even a motor.

[0092] The platform comprises the supporting plate 3, in turn comprising a first and a second portion 31, 32 relatively movable therebetween, to implement different use configurations of the invention.

[0093] A first possibility for adjusting the modular platform 10 is inherent in the possibility of adjusting the position of the second portion 32 with respect to the first portion 31 along the direction designated with A in Figure 15, coincident with the development axis of the slot 30, as already previously described.

[0094] An additional aspect of the possibility of adjusting the modular platform 10, allowing to make it particularly versatile in the application to systems for moving sliding and hinge doors, consists in the possibility of modifying the orientation of the first portion 31 (then implicitly even of the second portion 32, that is the orientation of the whole plate 3) with respect to the fastening collar 99.

[0095] The fastening collar 99 is configured to connect to the first portion 31 and to a column or pillar, or in general to a gate supporting element, respectively.

[0096] The modular platform 10 can comprise means for connecting the plate 3 to the collar 99 configured to be able to adjust the positioning of the plate 3 with respect to the collar 99, in particular by rotating the plate 3 around the transverse axis Z (which preferably coincides with the axis of the gate column or pillar, generally it coincides with a vertical direction going out from the ground plane with respect thereto the gate is assembled). Moreover, there is means for the reversible fastening of the first portion 31 to the collar 99, configured to maintain fixed the first portion 31 in a preferred angular position with respect to the collar 99, as it will be described in details hereinafter.

[0097] As far as the collar 99 is concerned, this has hollow prismatic configuration, with a preferably plane base portion, generally shaped in order to be able to abut on the first plate portion 31, and side walls extending from such base portion. The collar 99 is open at the terminal ends of the side walls, that is it has not a closing surface opposite to the first base portion, to allow the insertion thereof on the end of a column or pillar bearing the gate door to be moved.

[0098] In particular, the base portion is configured to be connected to the first portion 31 of the plate 3. Preferably, the transverse axis Z is orthogonal to the collar 99 (to the base portion thereof) and to the plate 3.

[0099] The fastening collar 99 can have several geometries and sizes depending upon the specific column thereto the installation is intended, in case of column with squared section it has square-plan geometry, as in the herein considered embodiment example. The fastening collar 99 preferably has adjustable sizes and/or means for adapting its own dimensional parameters to the installation column.

[0100] The first portion 31 comprises a first plurality of slots or elongated openings according to a curve development direction, preferably shaped like a circumference arc, in particular mutually arranged as portions of a same circumference, according to what shown in Figure 15.

[0101] The base portion of the collar 99 comprises a second plurality of holes, preferably arranged at the two diagonals of the square plan.

[0102] The slots of the first portion preferably have a width equal to the size of holes.

[0103] The mutual arrangement of the openings of the first portion 31 and of the holes of the base portion of the collar 99 is so that the collar 99 and the plate 3 can be coupled by means of inserting fastening elements within said openings and holes when they result to be at least partially overlapped. Thanks to the shape of the slots of the plate 3, it is possible to fasten mutually the collar 99 and the plate 3 in different angular configurations, according to the orientation of the plate 3, with the single condition that the slots of the plate 3 have to result to be overlapped to the holes of the collar 99 at least to an extent as to allow the insertion and the locking/releasing of the fastening means.

[0104] The fastening means can be bolts, as shown in Figure 15, or other equivalent mechanical means of reversible connection. Such fastening means is configured to allow a reversible connection between the plate 3 and the collar 99, to allow to vary, upon need, the configuration of the platform, even after the installation onto the column.

[0105] In particular, the collar 99 can be configured so as to allow to adjust the angular positioning of the plate 3 connected thereto even when the first portion 31 has not suitably shaped slots. For example, the collar 99 can have a plurality of holes, in predetermined angular positions, for inserting means for fastening with the plate 3.

[0106] The platform 10 can comprise an additional backplate element 133 which in use can be interposed between the collar 99 and the column. The backplate 133 is configured to allow the mechanical connection to the possible motor/geared motor and to implement the coupling between collar 99 and column. Preferably, the backplate 133 is configured to be housed, in use, at a lower surface of the base portion of the collar 99, and it has holes according to the configuration already described for the collar 99, arranged in positions so that, in use, they coincide with the holes of the collar 99.

[0107] In other words, the backplate 133 is configured to connect mechanically to the collar 99 and to the geared motor at two opposite surfaces thereof, respectively.

[0108] Still, the backplate 133 can have preferably in central position a seat for housing supporting means, for example a bearing, apt to support the axial load of the possible motor/geared motor. The backplate is further equipped with a preferably central opening or hole, to allow the passage of the driving axle 1 connected to the geared motor.

[0109] Of course, even the collar 99 is equipped with a preferably central opening or hole, to allow the passage of the driving axle 1 connected to the geared motor.

[0110] The collar 99 can be further equipped with peripheral slots 166, which in use are developed along the direction Z, which allow to adjust the positioning thereof, even after the assembly, along the axis Z, which coincides in use with the vertical axis of the installation column. Moreover, the collar 99 can comprise centering bushings (for ex. made of copper) for connecting to the first plate portion 31.

[0111] By referring to Figure 17, a preferred embodiment of an actuation device for moving hinge doors is shown.

[0112] The device comprises a bracket element or adapter 177, configured for connecting or engaging with an upper portion of the hinge door and to be fixed to the latter to implement an upper hinge thereof. The bracket element 177 comprises a main portion having a U-like section, shaped so as to insert on the door upper portion at the U bulge, as shown in Figure 17. The bracket 177 further comprises, at a surface opposite to the surface of the U bulge, a seat configured for housing the second shaft 2, in the illustrated example obtained in a projecting element or bush. Correspondently, the second shaft 2 is shaped to insert in such seat, to implement the shaft-door coupling. Preferably, the bracket element 177 has an adjustable width to adapt to doors with different width. Preferably, the second shaft 2 has an adjustable length.

[0113] Furthermore, the preferred embodiment of Figure 17 comprises safety means apt to avoid the fall of the hinge door, which can comprise for example an anti-falling collar 229. In the considered example, the anti-falling collar 229 can be fastened to the fastening collar 99, and it comprises two substantially rectilinear first portions, which indeed can be fastened to the collar 99 at one terminal end from the opposite side with respect to the modular plate 3, which in use are arranged along the column in direction Z, and a second U-like shaped portion, apt to enclose or better embrace at least a hinge door portion, connected at the terminal ends of the U arms at the terminal ends of the two rectilinear portions.

[0114] The positioning of the connection between the two rectilinear portions and the U-like portion can be adjusted, for example by means of the presence on the first and second portion of slots wherein the fastening means is to be inserted, in order to adapt the sizing of the collar to the sizes of the application door.

[0115] By referring to Figure 18, an alternative embodiment of a device for implementing a hinge door, preferably with manual actuation, will be now described, by considering exclusively the differences with respect to the just discussed embodiment.

[0116] Such embodiment provides that the first shaft 1 is idle, keyed on supporting means such as a bearing, which can be installed on the backplate according to what described with reference to the the previously described embodiment. The device can comprise return elastic means 188 at the driving shaft 1, in particular at the lower end of the driving shaft 1, which is the end opposite to the pinion keyed thereon. In the considered example, such return elastic means comprises a spring. Such return spring is engaged on the driving axle 1, preferably preloaded and connected to a shock absorbing device. The preloaded return spring is configured to make the door to remain always closed, therefore the user has to overcome the spring reaction force to rotate the door and open the gate.

[0117] At the upper end of the driving axle 1, a device 288 to adjust the end stop during the manual opening of the door, which can be adjusted to allow the door a pre-set angular stroke, can be keyed.

[0118] By referring to Figure 19, an additional embodiment of a device for moving a hinge door with motor-operated actuation is shown. With respect to the just discussed embodiment, the device comprises a geared motor in alternative to the return spring, fastened at the backplate and coupled to the driving axle 1. The device can further comprise a double return tensioning element to adjust the mechanical coupling between the driving axle 1 and the driven shaft 2.

[0119] Figure 20 shows still an additional embodiment of a device for moving a hinge door with motor-operated actuation. The shown moving device provides a system for transmitting the rotatory motion from the driven shaft 2 (or second shaft) to the hinge door which comprises a bucket-like element 388, preferably having substantially cylindrical side surface and a substantially flat base surface, configured to be keyed, preferably centrally, on a door hinge, for example on the projecting element of the adjustable bracket element which can be fastened to the upper end of the door. Such bucket-like element 388 is interposed between the second shaft and the door. The configuration is so that the second shaft 2, in use, is inserted within the bucket-like element 388, which is arranged with the opening directed upwards. In particular, the system overall sizing is so that, in use, the lower end of the second shaft is in contact at least with the inner side surface 389 of said bucket-like element integral to the hinge door.

[0120] The inner surface 389 of such element and the lower end of the second shaft intended to come in contact therewith are coated with a material, or have a surface finishing, apt to produce rolling friction when they are in contact therebetween according to a rolling motion. For example, the coating material can be rubber. The rolling friction produced between the two surfaces has to be sufficient to guarantee the transmission of the rotary motion from the second shaft 2 to the bucket-like element integral to the hinge door, by avoiding the relative slipping or sliding between the contact surfaces. The friction extent, and then the means which can be selected to produce it, can be varied by dedicated means, for example an adjustable wrench, preferably positioned on top of the driven shaft 2 so as to increase or decrease the diameter of the contact surface with the inner side surface 389 depending upon the weight of the door to be moved, the rotation speed of the second shaft and additional parameters according to known relationships, and thus it can be calculated by the person skilled in the art depending upon the specific application. Moreover, such adjustable wrench also fulfils the function of anti-crushing and obstacle-detecting mechanical clutch.

[0121] According to such use configuration, the second shaft 2 is offset with respect to the hinge and/or the axis thereabout the gate door can rotate. Even according to such embodiment, the second shaft 2 can be adjusted in length.

[0122] The lower end of the shaft 2 preferably can be coated by a tubular element having a surface finishing or made of a material apt to produce rolling friction - according to what indicated above - when in contact with the inner surface of the bucket-like element, the diameter thereof can be adjusted by means of screw device.

[0123] By referring to Figure 21, an additional embodiment of a preferably manual device for moving device a sliding door will be described.

[0124] The subject embodiment comprises a first roller 488 for transmitting the motion to the translating door of the gate, keyed on the second shaft 2, configured to drug the sliding door by means of the rolling friction. The first roller can be equipped with a locking/releasing device 491 with preferably manual actuation, for example comprising an element apt to insert in a helical guide obtained on said second shaft 2.

[0125] The device further comprises a second inner roller or opponent roller 490, indeed opposite to the first roller 488, or better opposite thereto when the device is installed onto the gate door, so that the two rollers implement a guide to the door translating motion. The opponent roller 490 can be connected to a system for adjusting the transmitted force, for example comprising a cam with eccentric 493 to allow decreasing or increasing the force or torque transmitted by varying the pressure exerted by the opponent roller on the door surface. In particular, the opponent roller is keyed on an idle axis connected to an eccentric element, which allows to vary the axis position and the consequent pressure on the doors by increasing or decreasing the force depending upon the door weight, by fulfilling even the function of anti-crushing and obstacle-detecting mechanical clutch. Such system, in particular the eccentric element, is shaped so as to prevent the roller from rotating beyond a predetermined stroke.

[0126] Moreover, the device can comprise a covering element 492 which can be fastened to the modular platform, including outside the first roller and preventing the door from tilting, by implementing an anti-falling function and protection carter from external agents.

[0127] Figure 22 shows an embodiment of a device for moving a sliding door with motor-operated actuation. Such device, with respect to the already described one of Figure 21, comprises a geared motor keyed on the first shaft 1. The rotation of the geared motor can be controlled by a separating device 577 like absolute encoder, also connected to the driving wheel or pinion keyed on the driving axle 1.

[0128] Figure 23 shows a configuration for installing the device for moving the motor-actuated hinge door of Figure 19 on a column.

[0129] In the detail of Figure 23a, a preferred embodiment of the lower hinge of the hinge door is shown, which comprises a bracket element or adapter 577, configured to connect or engage with a lower portion of the hinge door, and to be fastened to the latter. The bracket element 577 comprises a main portion having a U-like section, shaped to insert on the door lower portion at the U bulge, as shown in Figure 23a.

[0130] The bracket 577 further comprises, at a surface opposite to the surface of the U bulge, a projecting element apt to implement indeed a lower hinge for the door, configured to be inserted, by keeping a degree of freedom in rotation around its own axis, within a seat obtained in a supporting plate, preferably connected at the column base. The supporting plate can be adjusted in height (axis Z) and in depth (axis A), so as to allow alignment and then the perfect axiality with the upper hinge.

[0131] Figure 24 shows a system comprising column, gate and actuation device for moving a door according to the embodiment shown in Figure 19.

[0132] Figures 25 and 26 show a configuration for installing the device for moving a sliding door of Figure 21 on a column and a system comprising column, gate and actuation device of Figure 21, respectively. In Figure 26 the presence, at a lower portion of the translating door, of a plurality of idle rollers can be noted, allowing the door to slide in the rail thereof fastened on an opposite plate adjustable along the axis Z.

[0133] Figure 27 shows an exploded view of the device of Figure 21 in a configuration for installing within a column made of masonry.

[0134] Figure 28 shows an exploded view of the device of Figure 19 in a configuration for installing within a column made of masonry.

[0135] Figures 29 and 30 show views in details of the devices shown in Figures 19 and 21, respectively, installed on the door of a gate, completed with protective carter.

[0136] Figures 31 and 32 show the embodiments and the installing configuration of the devices of Figures 29 and 30, with the protective carter shown in exploded view.

[0137] The present invention has been sofar described with reference to preferred embodiments. It is to be meant that other embodiments may exist all belonging to the same inventive core, as defined by the protective scope of the herebelow reported claims.

Claims

1. A modular platform (10) for an actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) for moving a gate door (20, 30), which modular platform (10) comprises:

- a supporting plate (3), which supporting plate (3) has:

• a first portion (31) embodying a first seat (11) configured to realize a guide for the rotation of a first shaft (1); and

• a second portion (32) embodying a second seat (22) configured to realize a guide for the rotation of a second shaft (2),

wherein said first portion (31) realizes a guide for sliding of said second portion (32) along a longitudinal axis (A);

- means for the reversible adjustment of the position (7) of said second portion (32), configured to maintain said second portion (32) in a determined position with respect to said first portion (31);

- a fastening collar (99) configured to be connected to said first portion (31);

- means for connecting said first portion (31) to said collar (99), configured to be able to adjust the positioning of said plate (3) with respect to the collar (99) by rotating the plate (3) around a transverse axis (Z), said axis (Z) being orthogonal to said collar (99) and to said plate (3); and

- means for the reversible fastening of said first portion (31) to said collar (99), configured to maintain said first portion (31) in a fixed angular position with respect to said collar (99).

2. The modular platform (10) according to claim 1, wherein said first portion (31) comprises a first plurality of slots shaped like a circumference arc, in particular mutually arranged as portions of a same circumference with centre on said transverse axis (Z), and wherein said collar (99) comprises a second plurality of holes, so that the mutual arrangement of said first and second plurality of slots and holes allows to couple said first portion (31) and said collar (99) by inserting said reversible fastening means in said first and second plurality of slots and holes when they result to be at least partially overlapped.

3. The modular platform (10) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a backplate element (133), configured to connect mechanically to a motor or to a geared motor (6) and to said collar (99) at two opposite surfaces, respectively.

4. The modular platform (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein said backplate element (133) has a seat for housing supporting means preferably in a central position, for example a bearing, apt to support the axial load of a motor or a geared motor (6).

5. An actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) for moving a gate door (20, 30) comprising a modular platform (10) according to any of the preceding claims, which device further comprises:

- a first shaft (1) configured to be coupled to a motor or to a geared motor (6);

- a second shaft (2) configured to be coupled to the door (20, 30); and

- means for transmitting motion (9) between said first and second shaft (1, 2).

6. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to claim 5, wherein said means for transmitting motion (9) comprises a first toothed wheel (90) keyed on said first shaft (1), a second toothed wheel (91) keyed on said second shaft (2) and a chain (999) apt to engage respectively with said first and second toothed wheels (90, 91) for the transmission of motion between them.

7. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to claim 5 or 6, comprising locking means (13) configured to selectively prevent rotation of said first shaft (1), preferably remotely operable means.

8. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 7, comprising an end stop element (14) configured to limit the door movement (20, 30) according to a predetermined value.

9. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 8, comprising a motor or geared motor (6) configured to be coupled to said first shaft (1).

10. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 9, wherein said first and second shafts (1, 2) are parallel to each other.

11. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 10, wherein said second shaft (2) is shaped to fit into a corresponding seat formed on a hinged door (20) to realize a fixed coupling second shaft-door.

12. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 11, wherein said second shaft (2) has an adjustable length.

13. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 12, comprising return elastic means (188) engaged on said driving axle (1), configured to maintain the door in closed configuration.

14. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 13, comprising a bucket-like element (388), wherein the system configuration is so that: said second shaft (2) can be inserted into said bucket-like element (388) so that a lower end thereof is at least in contact with the inner side surface of said bucket-like element (388), and wherein said inner side surface and said lower end of said second shaft (2) are coated with material or have a surface finishing so as to produce rolling friction when in contact therebetween according to a rolling motion, the extent of said rolling friction being sufficient to guarantee the transmission of the rotary motion from said second shaft (2) to said bucket-like element (388).

15. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 14, comprising safety means apt to avoid the falling of the hinge door.

16. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to the preceding claim wherein said safety means comprises an anti-falling collar (229), which can be preferably fastened to the fastening collar (99), and comprising two substantially rectilinear first portions, which can be fastened to the collar (99) and a second U-like shaped portion.

17. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 10, comprising a driving roller (4) configured to be keyed on said second shaft (2), said driving roller being apt to be coupled with a sliding door (30), and an opponent roller (5) which is also apt to be coupled with said sliding door (30), the overall configuration of the device (1) being such that said driving and opponent rollers (4, 5) are apt to provide a guide for a translation motion of said sliding door (30).

18. The actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to claim 17, further comprising a covering element (492) which can be fastened to the modular platform (10), apt to prevent the tilting of the sliding door, by implementing an anti-falling function.

19. A gate system (2000, 3000) comprising an actuation device (1000, 110, 100, 101) according to one of claims 5 to 18, further comprising a column (120) for supporting such device and a gate door (20, 30) actuated by such device (1000, 110, 100, 101), and/or a gate door (20, 30).

20. The system (2000) according to the preceding claim, comprising an anti-tilting device (119) of said door (20).

21. The system (2000) according to claim 19 or 20, further comprising a lower hinge (117) and a fastening bracket (118) for adjusting the height of said lower hinge (117).

22. The system (2000) according to one of claims 19 to 21, comprising a covering carter of said modular platform (10).

Drawing