MOTOR-ACTUATED HANDS-FREE DOOR OPENING AND CLOSING SYSTEM

Abstract

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

Claims

1. A foot operable door opener with motor assist comprising: a control module associated with a foot operable pedal, said foot operable door pedal communicating with a motorized unit having gears for moving a door opening and closing drive wheel; said foot operable door opener having a delay mechanism with a wheel idler sensor 106.8, to send information to said controller module 106.7 to control the speed of the door opening, the length of travel for the door, the travel angle to open the door and to determine a delay for the closing by starting and extending or raising a linear motion device to engage the door opening and closing drive wheel for opening and closing the door.

2. The foot operable door opener with motor assist as in claim 1, wherein said controller module 106.7 controls power manipulation by starting a opening/closing cycle when a switch 106.71 associated with a pedal 101.1 is depressed starting said delay for a person to step aside; and wherein said controller module 106.7 does not let the door swing open if the person pressing said switch 106.71 does not move aside, with the aid of a proximity sensor capable of detecting a person or object in the pathway of the door being opened.

3. The foot operable door opener as claim 2 wherein said controller module 106.7 controls the extension of a linear motion device which engages said door opening and closing drive wheel 105 to the ground, wherein further said controller module 106.7 senses the ground and applies a specific pressure by sensing the added current draw on a motor 107.21 when it encounters the resistance of the ground plus the added spring tension of a traction spring controlling said door opening and closing drive wheel 105.1.

4. The foot operable door opener with motor assist as in claim 3 wherein said controller module 106.7 starts a drive motor 102.9 and a main gear 104.1 controlling said door opening and closing drive wheel 105.1, and controls the speed of said drive motor 102.9 to start out slowly and increase speed as it goes through said opening/closing cycle, and slows down at the end of the arc of the opening or closing door, wherein further if a sensor in said controller module 106.7 encounters an obstruction in the path of travel of the door, or if someone pushes on the other side of the door after said linear motion device 107.2 has engaged said drive wheel 105.1 to the ground, said controller module 106.7 senses the increased current draw from said drive motor 102.9 and retracts said linear motion device 107.2 lifting said drive wheel 105.1 or reverses to the closed position and resets the for the next said door opening/closing cycle.

5. The foot operable door opener with motor assist as in claim 4 further comprising a proximity sensing device associated with said controller module 106.7, to detect an obstruction in the pathway of the door and not allow the door to close if the obstruction is in the path of the door.

6. A hands-free door opening and closing system, said system comprising: a chassis, said chassis configured to mount to the door; a first shaft, said first shaft being mounted with respect to said chassis; a second shaft; a drive wheel, said drive wheel being fixedly mounted to said second shaft; at least one coupling link having a first end and a second end, said first end of said at least one coupling link being rotatably mounted to said first shaft, and said second shaft being rotatably mounted proximate to a second end of said at least one coupling link; a first gear, said first gear being fixedly mounted with respect to said first shaft; a second gear, said second gear being fixedly mounted with respect to said second shaft; wherein said first gear is configured to mesh with said second gear; a motor, said motor being configured, when actuated, to cause said first shaft to rotate a first selective amount of angular rotation; wherein said first selective amount of angular rotation of said first shaft is configured to cause rotation of said first gear and thereby cause co-rotation of said second gear and corresponding co-rotation of said second shaft a second selective amount of angular rotation; wherein said second selective amount of angular rotation of said second shaft thereby causes said drive wheel to rotate a third selective amount of rotation; wherein said third selective amount of rotation of said drive wheel is correlated to a radial distance of the mounting location of said chassis on the door from the axis of a hinge of the door, and in combination with contact of said drive wheel with a floor surface or ground surface, causes rotation of the door a desired angular amount from a door closed position into a desired door open position; and means for triggering of said actuation of said motor.

7. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 6, wherein said motor is configured to operate in reverse, to cause counter-rotation of said drive wheel 105.1, and cause counter-rotation of the door said third selective amount angular amount, to pivot the door from said desired door open position into said door closed position.

8. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 7, wherein said first end of said at least one coupling link is rotatably mounted to said first shaft, and said second end of said at least one coupling link is rotatably mounted to said second shaft, said at least one coupling link being thereby configured to rotatably mount said second shaft with respect to said first shaft, and said second shaft thereby being configured to rotate with respect to said chassis between a first position and a second position; and wherein said system further comprises: a linear actuator, a first end of said linear actuator being rotatably secured with respect to said chassis, and a second end of said linear actuator being rotatably coupled to said at least one coupling link; a controller module; wherein said controller module is configured to cause said linear actuator to extend to cause a desired amount of pressure between said drive wheel and the floor surface or ground surface, when said motor is actuated to open the door; and wherein said controller module is configured to retract and thereby raise said drive wheel off of the floor surface or ground surface, permitting automatic closing of the door.

9. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 8, wherein said control module is configured to read and monitor door positioning and orientation information with the use of an idler wheel sensor; and wherein said controller module is configured to monitor door opening with said idler wheel sensor and if the door is not opening sufficiently, causing said linear actuator to extend further to cause an increased amount of pressure between said drive wheel and the ground to adapt to snow, ice, wind, or other variable environmental conditions.

10. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 9, wherein said controller module is configured to create a time delay between said hands-free triggering and initiation of said actuation of said motor to open the door.

11. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 10, wherein said controller module is configured to create a time delay between when the door reaches the desired door open position and said retraction of said linear actuator thereby permitting the automatic closing of the door.

12. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 11, wherein said motor is energized by rechargeable battery powered.

13. A hands-free door opening and closing system comprising: a chassis, said chassis configured to mount to the door; a first shaft; a second shaft; at least one coupling link having a first end and a second end, said first end of said at least one coupling link being mounted with respect to said first shaft; wherein said second shaft is rotatably mounted proximate to said second end of said at least one coupling link; a drive wheel, said drive wheel being fixedly mounted to said second shaft; a motor, said motor being configured, when activated, to cause said drive wheel to rotate a first selective amount of angular rotation; a linear actuator, a first end of said linear actuator being rotatably mounted with respect to said chassis, and a second end of said linear actuator being rotatably mounted with respect to said at least one coupling link or with respect to said second shaft; a controller module, said controller module configured to cause said linear actuator to extend to cause a desired amount of pressure between said drive wheel and the floor surface or ground surface; a switch configured to be toggled to trigger said activation of said motor to cause said drive wheel to rotate said first selective amount of angular rotation, to thereby drive the door to move from a door closed position into a desired door open position.

14. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 13, wherein said controller module is configured to cause said linear actuator to adjust in real time to maintain the desired amount of pressure between said drive wheel and the floor surface or ground surface, throughout said rotation of said drive wheel said first selective amount of angular rotation, to thereby prevent slipping of the drive wheel upon the floor surface or ground surface during movement of the door between the door closed position and the desired door open position.

15. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 14, wherein said controller module is configured to create a time delay between said switch being toggled and initiation of said activation of said motor, to prevent contact between the door and a user that toggles said switch.

16. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 15 wherein said motor is configured to operate in reverse, to cause counter-rotation of said drive wheel to drive the door to move from said desired door open position into said door closed position.

17. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 16, wherein said controller module is configured to cause said linear actuator to retract and thereby raise said drive wheel off of the floor surface or ground surface, permitting automatic self-closing by the door.

18. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 17, wherein said controller module is configured to create a time delay between when the door reaches the desired door open position and said retraction of said linear actuator to raise said drive wheel.

19. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 13, wherein said first shaft is rotatably mounted with respect to said chassis.

20. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 19, wherein said at least one coupling link is rotatably mounted with respect to said first shaft.

21. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 13, wherein said motor is configured, when activated, to directly drive said drive wheel to rotate.

22. The hands-free door opening and closing system according to claim 13, further comprising: a first gear, said first gear being fixedly secured to said first shaft; a second gear, said second gear being fixedly secured to said second shaft; and wherein said first gear is configured to mesh with said second gear; and wherein said motor is configured, when activated, to directly drive said first shaft to rotate to thereby drive said first gear to co-rotate, thereby driving said second gear and said second shaft to correspondingly co-rotate the first selective amount of angular rotation.

23. A hands-free door opening and closing system comprising: a drive wheel; a mounting bracket; an axle, wherein said axle is configured to rotatably mount said drive wheel with respect to said bracket; a motor, said motor being configured, when activated, to cause said drive wheel to rotate; a chassis, said chassis configured to mount to the door; means for linear actuating of said bracket-mounted drive wheel relative to said chassis between a retracted position and one or more extended positions; a controller module, said controller module configured to cause said means for linear actuating to extend into any of said one or more extended positions to cause a desired amount of pressure between said drive wheel and the floor surface or ground surface; a switch, said switch configured to trigger said activation of said motor to cause said drive wheel to rotate said a selective amount of angular rotation, to thereby drive the door to move from a door closed position into a desired door open position, when said motor is actuated to open the door.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0172] The present invention can best be understood in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is noted that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown in the following drawings.

[0173] FIG. 1 is a top left front isometric view, shown with the foot pedal down.

[0174] FIG. 2 is a bottom right rear isometric view, with the door and floor removed, and the pedal shown in an up position.

[0175] FIG. 3 is a top right front isometric view, shown with the foot pedal up and down.

[0176] FIG. 4 is a bottom left, rear isometric view, shown with the door and floor removed, and the foot pedal in an up position.

[0177] FIG. 4A is a detail section view of the main drive wheel, 5.1, delay system.

[0178] FIG. 4B is a detail section view of the traction carriage assembly.

[0179] FIG. 4C is a diagrammatic block drawing of the pneumatic delay system.

[0180] FIG. 4D is a diagrammatic block drawing of the dashpot delay system.

[0181] FIG. 4E is a diagrammatic block drawing of the slip clutch delay system.

[0182] FIG. 5A, FIG. 5B and FIG. 6 show details of the environment in which the foot operable door opener is utilized, wherein:

[0183] FIG. 5A shows a pedestrian approaching a door having a foot operable door opener, including a foot contactable pedal attached to a crank arm, whereby a housing encloses the internal components of the foot operable door opener;

[0184] FIG. 5B is a close-up detail view of the pedestrian's foot approaching the pedal 1.1 mounted upon crank arm, and the housing mounted on the ground G in the vicinity of door D; and

[0185] FIG. 6 is a close-up detail view of the wordless instructional logo.

[0186] FIG. 7 is a top, right front isometric view of a second embodiment of the door opener, shown with the foot operable pedal in a down position.

[0187] FIG. 8 is a top right front isometric view of the second embodiment of with the pedal up position.

[0188] FIG. 9 is a top left front isometric view of the second embodiment of FIG. 7, shown with the pedal down, but with a delay slip clutch assembly to allow a user time to step away from an opening door.

[0189] FIG. 10 is a left side isometric view of a third embodiment for a foot operable door opener, shown with the pedal in an up position.

[0190] FIG. 11 is a right-side isometric view of the third embodiment for a foot operable door opener, shown with the pedal in an up position.

[0191] FIG. 12 is an exploded detail view of a planetary gear associated with the third embodiment.

[0192] FIG. 13 is a top left isometric view of a fourth embodiment of a door opening and closing system, which uses a motor, along with a speed decreasing, power increasing gear ratio allowing for a low torque higher speed motor, and in which the positions of the external battery and activation switch can be reversed, making this door opening/closing system right-handed or left-handed in orientation.

[0193] FIG. 14 is a top right isometric view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 13.

[0194] FIG. 14A is another perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 13.

[0195] FIG. 15 is a top right isometric view of a fifth embodiment of a door opening and closing system, which uses a motor and a direct drive, such as a hub motor, which may require a higher torque, lower speed motor, but requires the least number of moving parts.

[0196] FIG. 16 is a top left isometric view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 15.

[0197] FIG. 17 is a top left isometric view of a sixth embodiment of a door opening and closing system, which uses a moderate torque and moderate speed motor, and a moderate power increasing, speed decreasing gear ratio, along with a wheel idler sensor assembly that uses hall sensors and magnets.

[0198] FIG. 18 is a top right isometric view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 17.

[0199] FIG. 18A is a side view showing the embodiment of FIG. 18, but showing the piston of the linear actuation device transparent to expose the spring therein.

[0200] FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B are front views showing another embodiment that is usable for opening and closing of either a sliding door arrangement (FIG. 19B) or a pivoting door (FIG. 19A), where the embodiment utilizes a column lifter (i.e., a multi-stage linear actuator) as the linear actuation device.

[0201] FIG. 20 is a transparent perspective view of the arrangement of FIG. 19A, where the embodiment is being used to open and close a pivoting door.

[0202] FIG. 21 is a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 20.

[0203] FIG. 22 is a transparent perspective view of the door opening and closing embodiment shown in FIG. 20.

[0204] FIG. 23 is an enlarged perspective view showing the drive wheel, the drive wheel bracket, the idler wheel, and the hall sensor arrangement with magnets for the embodiment of FIG. 20.

[0205] FIG. 24 is an enlarged side view of the drive wheel, the drive wheel bracket, the idler wheel, and the hall sensor arrangement with magnets shown in FIG. 23.

[0206] FIG. 25 is an enlarged cross-sectional view through the drive wheel, the drive wheel bracket, the idler wheel, the idler wheel spring assembly, and the hall sensor arrangement with magnets shown in FIG. 23.

[0207] FIG. 26 is a transparent side view showing the traction spring, controller, and battery of the embodiment shown in FIG. 20.

[0208] FIG. 27 is a perspective view showing the embodiment of FIG. 20 mounted to a door configured to pivot upon door hinges.

[0209] FIG. 28 is a perspective view showing the embodiment of FIG. 20 mounted to a door configured to slide relative to a master door frame.

[0210] FIG. 29 is an enlarged front view of the switch, wireless charging contact, and speakers/microphone used in the embodiment of FIG. 20.

[0211] FIG. 30 is a side view showing the embodiment of FIG. 28, being shown with the drive wheel lowered into contact with the ground or floor.

[0212] FIG. 31 is the side view of the arrangement shown in FIG. 30, being shown with the drive wheel raised up into a retracted position.

[0213] FIG. 32 is a reverse perspective view of the arrangement shown in FIG. 28.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED

FIGS. 1-6

[0214] 1.0 CRANK ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0215] 1.0 Foot Activation [0216] 1.1 Pedal [0217] 1.11 Pedal spring [0218] 1.2 Crank arm [0219] 1.3 Crank shaft [0220] 1.31 Crank pin [0221] 1.32 Bushing [0222] 1.33 Arm return spring [0223] 1.331 Retaining screw [0224] 1.4 Arm guide bracket and stop [0225] 1.41 Guide pin [0226] 2.0 DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0227] 2.1 Cable termination pin [0228] 2.11 e clip ring [0229] 2.2 Transfer cable [0230] 2.3 Cable drum [0231] 2.4 Termination/tensioning hub [0232] 2.41 Tensioner locking screw [0233] 2.5 Transfer shaft [0234] 2.6 Main springs, right-handed [0235] 2.7 Main springs, left-handed [0236] 2.8 Tension locking screw [0237] 3.0 CHASSIS

Numeral Description

[0238] 3.1 Main chassis [0239] 3.2 Chassis mounting holes and screws [0240] 4.0 GEAR TRAIN

Numeral Description

[0241] 4.1 Main gear with clutch bearing [0242] 4.11 clutch bearing [0243] 4.2 Idler increasing gear [0244] 4.21 Idler shaft [0245] 4.3 Secondary speed increasing gear [0246] 4.31 Shaft [0247] 4.4 Drive gear [0248] 4.5 Drive shaft [0249] 4.51 Bushing [0250] 4.52 E clip [0251] 5.0 DRIVE WHEEL ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0252] 5.1 Drive wheel [0253] 5.11 Drive wheel bearing [0254] 5.2 Wheel hub [0255] 6.0 DELAY ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0256] 6.1 Spring-loaded Pneumatic cylinder compressing arm [0257] 6.11 Locking pin [0258] 6.2 Pneumatic double acting cylinder with spring return [0259] 6.21 Cylinder shaft and clevis [0260] 6.22 Clevis pin [0261] 6.23 E clip [0262] 6.24 Air line [0263] 6.25 Valve assembly [0264] 6.251 Check valve [0265] 6.252 Orifice restrictor [0266] 6.3 Single acting pin cylinder [0267] 6.31 Block [0268] 6.32 Plunger [0269] 6.4 Pawl [0270] 6.41 Hinge pin [0271] 6.5 Rachet wheel [0272] 6.6 Return spring [0273] 7.0 TRACTION/TENSION CARRIAGE ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0274] 7.1 Fork assembly [0275] 7.11 Guide [0276] 7.12 Guide pin and stop [0277] 7.13 Fork assembly lifting spring [0278] 7.2 Actuating arm [0279] 7.21 Connecting link [0280] 7.3 Carriage depressing arm [0281] 7.31 Hinge pin [0282] 7.4 Tension arm [0283] 7.41 Tension arm roller [0284] 7.5 Traction locking pawl [0285] 7.51 Traction pawl spring [0286] 7.52 Pawl actuator shaft [0287] 7.6 Traction spring [0288] 7.7 Trigger lever [0289] 7.8 Trigger actuator pin [0290] 10 Safety Max door opener [0291] 12 Unit cover [0292] 13 Instructional signage graphic [0293] D Door [0294] G Ground

FIGS. 7-9

[0295] 31.0 CRANK ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0296] 31.0 Foot activation [0297] 31.1 Pedal [0298] 31.2 Crank arm [0299] 31.3 Crank shaft [0300] 32.0 DRIVE ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0301] 32.2 Transfer arm [0302] 32.3 Drive pawl [0303] 32.5 Transfer shaft [0304] 32.6 Main springs, right-handed [0305] 33.0 CHASSIS

Numeral Description

[0306] 33.1 Main chassis [0307] 33.2 Chaise mounting holes and screws [0308] 34.0 GEAR TRAIN

Numeral Description

[0309] 34.1 Main Gear [0310] 34.11 Clutch bearing [0311] 34.2 Idler increasing gear [0312] 34.21 Idler shaft [0313] 34.3 Secondary speed increasing gear [0314] 34.31 Shaft [0315] 34.4 Drive gear [0316] 34.5 Drive shaft [0317] 34.6 Transfer gears [0318] 35.0 DRIVE WHEEL ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0319] 35.1 Drive wheel [0320] 36.0 DELAY ASSEMBLY [0321] 36.1 Friction plate and clutch assembly [0322] 37.0 TRACTION/TENSION CARRIAGE ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0323] 37.1 Bracket arm [0324] 37.2 Actuating arm [0325] 37.21 Connecting arm [0326] 37.3 Carriage depressing arm [0327] 37.31 Hinge pin [0328] 37.4 Tension arm [0329] 37.41 Tension arm roller [0330] 37.6 Traction spring [0331] 37.8 Trigger actuator pin [0332] 310 Safety Max? door opener

FIGS. 10-12

[0333] 51.0 CRANK ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0334] 51.0 Foot activation [0335] 51.1 Pedal [0336] 51.2 Crank arm [0337] 51.3 Crank shaft [0338] 51.32 Bushing [0339] 51.33 Arm return spring [0340] 52.0 DRIVE ASSEMBLY [0341] (Spring-loaded)

Numeral Description

[0342] 52.6 Main springs, right-handed [0343] 52.7 Main springs, left-handed [0344] 53.0 CHASSIS

Numeral Description

[0345] 53.1 Main chaise [0346] 53.2 Chassis mounting holes and screws [0347] 54.0 GEAR TRAIN

Numeral Description

[0348] 54.1 Planetary gear assembly [0349] 54.11 Clutching bearing [0350] 54.5 Drive shaft [0351] 54.51 Bushing [0352] 55.0 DRIVE WHEEL ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0353] 55.1 Drive wheel [0354] 56.0 DELAY ASSEMBLY [0355] 57.0 TRACTION/TENSION CARRIAGE ASSEMBLY

Numeral Description

[0356] 57.1 Bracket arm [0357] 57.11 Guide [0358] 57.12 Guide pin and stop [0359] 57.31 Hinge pin [0360] 57.5 Traction locking ratchet and hinge [0361] 57.6 Traction spring [0362] 57.7 Trigger lever [0363] 57.8 Wheel return lifting springs [0364] 100 Motor-Actuated Hands-Free Door Opening System [0365] 101.1 Pedal [0366] 101.2 Pedal Arm [0367] 102.9 Motor [0368] 102.91 Motor Bracket [0369] 102.93 Battery [0370] 103.1 Chassis [0371] 104.1 Main Gear [0372] 104.3 Speed Decreasing Gear [0373] 104.31 First Shaft [0374] 104.32 Second Shaft [0375] 104.4 Drive Gear [0376] 104.5 Speed Decreasing Gear 105.1 Drive Wheel [0377] 106.7 Controller Module [0378] 106.71 Switch [0379] 106.81 Bracket Supporting the Idler Wheel [0380] 106.82 Hall Sensor [0381] 106.83 Magnets on the Idler Wheel [0382] 106.84 Idler Wheel [0383] 106.85 Rubber O-Ring on Periphery of Idler Wheel [0384] 107.1 Bracket Arm (coupling link) [0385] 107.2 Linear Actuation Device [0386] 107.21 Motor [0387] 107.22 Linear Motion Bracket [0388] 107.6 Piston [0389] 107.7 Traction Spring [0390] 200 Motor-Actuated Hands-Free Door Opening System Using a Column Lifter for a Sliding Door [0391] 200 Motor Actuated Hands-Free Door Opening System Using a Column Lifter for a Pivoting Door [0392] 202.6 Wireless Charger [0393] 202.9 Drive Wheel and Hub Motor [0394] 202.91 Motor Bracket [0395] 202.93 Battery [0396] 203.1 Chassis Cover [0397] 203.2 Mounting Plate [0398] 203.2w Wireless Mounting Plate [0399] 205.1 Swivel Mechanism [0400] 206.7 Controller Module [0401] 206.71 Switch [0402] 206.71W Switch on Opposite Side of Door [0403] 206.8 Idler Wheel Sensor Assembly [0404] 206.82 Hall Sensor [0405] 206.83 Wheel with Magnets [0406] 206.831 Magnets [0407] 206.84 Spring Assembly [0408] 206.85 Sensors [0409] 206.85W Sensor on Opposite Side of Door [0410] 206.86 Speaker/Microphone [0411] 206.86W Speaker/Microphone on Opposite Side of Door [0412] 207.2 Lift Column [0413] 207.6 Traction Spring

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0414] As used throughout this specification, the word may is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to, or being optional), rather than a mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must), as more than one embodiment of the invention may be disclosed herein. Similarly, the words include, including, and includes mean including but not limited to.

[0415] The phrases at least one, one or more, and and/or may be open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions at least one of A, B and C, one or more of A, B, and C, and A, B, and/or C herein means all of the following possible combinations: A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B together; or A and C together; or B and C together; or A, B and C together.

[0416] Also, the disclosures of all patents, published patent applications, and non-patent literature cited within this document are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. However, it is noted that the citing of any reference within this disclosure, i.e., any patents, published patent applications, and non-patent literature, is not an admission regarding a determination as to its availability as prior art with respect to the herein disclosed and claimed apparatus/method.

[0417] Furthermore, any reference made throughout this specification to one embodiment or an embodiment means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection therewith is included in at least that one particular embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases in one embodiment or in an embodiment in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Therefore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of any particular aspect of an embodiment disclosed herein may be combined in any suitable manner with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0418] Additionally, any approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative or qualitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value or recitation modified by a term such as about is not to be limited to the precise theoretical characteristic or value specified, and may include values that differ from the specified value in accordance with design variations that may be described in the specification, as well as applicable case law. Also, in at least some instances, a numerical difference provided by the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument that may be used for measuring the value or characteristic (e.g., a recitation of being substantially straight). A numerical difference provided by the approximating language may also correspond to a manufacturing tolerance associated with production of the aspect/feature being quantified/described (see e.g., Ex Parte Ollmar, Appeal No. 2014-006128 (PTAB 2016)). Furthermore, a numerical difference provided by the approximating language may also correspond to an overall tolerance for the aspect/feature that may be derived from variations resulting from a stack up (i.e., the sum) of a multiplicity of such individual tolerances.

[0419] Similarly, the term substantially means that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to those of skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic was intended to provide.

[0420] Any use of a friction fit (i.e., an interface fit) between two mating parts described herein indicates that the opening (e.g., a hole) is smaller than the part received therein (e.g., a shaft), which may be a slight interference in one embodiment in the range of 0.0001 inches to 0.0003 inches, or an interference of 0.0003 inches to 0.0007 inches in another embodiment, or an interference of 0.0007 inches to 0.0010 inches in yet another embodiment, or a combination of such ranges. Other values for the interference may also be used in different configurations (see e.g., Press Fit Engineering and Design Calculator, available at: www.engineersedge.com/calculators/machine-design/press-fit/press-fit-calculator.htm).

[0421] Any described use of a clearance fit indicates that the opening (e.g., a hole/recess) is larger than the part received therein (e.g., a shaft/protrusion), enabling the two parts to move (e.g. to slide and/or rotate) when assembled, where the gap between the opening and the part may depend upon the size of the part and the type of clearance fiti.e., loose running, free running, easy running, close running, and sliding (e.g., for a 0.1250 inch shaft diameter the opening may be 0.1285 inches for a close running fit, and may be 0.1360 inches for a free running fit; for a 0.5000 inch diameter shaft the opening may be 0.5156 inches for a close running fit and may be 0.5312 inches for a free running fit). Other clearance amounts are used for other clearance types. See Engineering Fit at: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineering_fit; and Three General Types of Fit, available at mmto.org/?dclark/Reports/Encoder%20Upgrade/fittolerences %20%5BRead-Only%5D.pdf.

[0422] Any structures or methods described herein with respect to two elements being fixedly secured together means that any suitable joining technique known in the art may be used, including, but not limited to, using mechanical fasteners (e.g., rivets, screws, bolts & nuts, threaded inserts, etc.), adhesive, welding techniques (arc welding, friction welding, etc.), etc.

[0423] The present invention has broad applications to many technical fields for a variety of articles. For illustrative purposes only, a preferred mode for carrying out the invention is described herein, wherein a foot operable door opener is provided without an electrical assist.

[0424] In a first embodiment, shown in drawing FIGS. 1-6, the foot operable door opener of this invention has a pedal that is convenient for the user. Exposure to hand operable unsanitary hand operable door handles is minimized and for hands free door operation when moving through door portals when hands are occupied.

[0425] The current configuration of the first embodiment of the door opener is divided into seven distinct operational segments. The first segment is the crank assembly, 1.0. The cycle is initiated when the pedal 1.1 is depressed which moves the crank arm, 1.2, down transferring the torque to the crankshaft, 1.3. The crank arm returns back to the home position with the assistance of the return spring, 1.33.

[0426] The next segment is the drive assembly, 2.0. The drive assembly is connected to the crank arm with a set of steel cables, 2.2. The cables are wrapped around the drum, 2.3, when the pedal and crank arm are depressed, the cables, turn the drum, winding up the main springs, 2.6, 2.7. In the current configuration, the springs are both left-handed and right-handed, ganged up on the main shaft, 2.5, to generate the torque required to turn the wheel, 5.1 via gear train 4.0.

[0427] The chassis, 3.1, houses all the different mechanisms and bushings within the chassis. It also accommodates the means of securing the chassis with fasteners, such as screws or clamps, to the door.

[0428] The gear train, 4.0. has a speed increasing ratio of 1 to 10. The 60 degree turn on the crank arm, 1.2, will translate to 4.5 revolutions of the 4-inch wheel, 5.1. This is enough to open the door 25 to 30 inches. The main springs, 2.6, 2.7, drive the primary gear, 4.1, which has a one-way clutch bearing, 4.11, centered around the shaft, 2.5. This allows for the one-way travel of the gear with no backlash or backward movement. The large main gear is meshed with the small idler gear, 4.2, which is connected with gear, 4.3 via axle 4.31. The gear 4.3 is meshed with drive gear, 4.4. The drive gear 4.4 is mounted on the same shaft, 4.5, as the drive wheel, 5.1. The drive train transmits rotation of the transfer shaft 2.5 to driveshaft 4.5 with ratio 1:10 in the same rotational direction.

[0429] The drive wheel assembly, 5.0, consists of a drive wheel, such as, for example, a soft durometer wheel connected to the main driveshaft, 4.5, or a pneumatic main drive wheel, through a hub, 5.2. The energy stored in wound-up torsion springs 2.6 and 2.7 is transmitted via gear train to drive wheel 5.1. The drive wheel 5.1 is temporarily locked by delay system to allow a safe time delay, such as about 3 to 5 seconds, for the wheel 5.1 to start rotating.

[0430] The delay system, 6.0, holds and delays the release of the energy of the wound springs 2.6 and 2.7. This allows safe ergonomic transfer of one's weight to both feet. This unique feature enables one's weight to be planted back on the ground. This allows the entrant to comfortably step aside to clear the swinging door.

[0431] The delay assembly 6.0 consists of a double-acting pneumatic cylinder, with spring return, 6.2. The cylinder 6.2 is compressed by means of the main crankshaft, 1.3, when the pedal, 1.1 and crank arm, 1.2, are depressed. Cylinder, 6.2, through plastic tubes, 6.24 and check valves, 6.251, pressurizing the system to a single acting pin cylinder, 6.3, extending a plunger, 6.32. This plunger depresses a pawl, 6.4, which engages and locks a ratchet wheel, 6.5, which is directly connected to the main drive wheel 5.1. Air escapes from the compressed chamber of the single-acting pin cylinder, 6.2, through fixed orifice restrictor, 6.252, or needle valve, regulating the delay. As the pressure is released through the orifice, the spring-loaded plunger, 6.32, retracts releasing the pawl, 6.4, with the aid of a tension spring, 6.6, allowing the pawl 6.4, to release the ratchet, 6.5, on the main wheel, 5.1. This delay releases the stored energy of the wound-up torsion springs without losing any energy and frees rotation of the drive wheel 5.1.

[0432] The traction tension assembly, 7.0, is actuated when the main pedal crank arm, 1.2, is depressed. This rotates the crankshaft, 1.3, which is connected to the actuating arm, 7.2, which pulls down the carriage depressing arm, 7.3. through the connecting link, 7.21, The depressing arm, 7.3, pulls down the tension arm, 7.4, through tension arm roller, 7.41, which falls into a notch and is locked into place with the traction locking pawl, 7.5, assisted with traction pawl spring, 7.51, which maintains continuous light torque that keeps traction locking pawl in contact with round part of the tension arm 7.4. The depressing arm, 7.3, pulls down and engages the pre-loaded fork assembly, 7.1, through guide pin and stop 7.12. moving the drive wheel, 5.1 towards the ground. The traction spring, 7.6, keeps constant downward pressure and develops positive force to the ground to maintain traction throughout the one- and one-half inches of travel, 7.11. This is to accommodate: the undercut under a door, threshold, and any slope in the travel path of the opening door.

[0433] As the main springs, 2.6, 2.7, unwinds at the end of the cycle, an actuating pin 7.8 hits the trigger lever 7.7 and lifts the locking pawl 7.5 through pawl actuator shaft 7.52, releasing the fork assembly with the assistance of the fork assembly lifting spring, 7.13. This raises up the main drive wheel, 5.1, back to the resting position where it is ready for the next cycle.

[0434] FIGS. 4A, 4B, show section details of the mechanisms which are difficult to see in the isometric views. FIGS. 4C, 4D and 4E show optional systems with diagrammatic drawings.

[0435] FIG. 4A is a section close-up detail view of a wheel delay assembly. For example, as noted above, the delay assembly 6.0 consists of a double-acting pneumatic cylinder, with spring return, 6.2. The cylinder 6.2 is compressed by means of the main crankshaft, 1.3, when the pedal, 1.1 and crank arm, 1.2, are depressed. Cylinder, 6.2, through plastic tubes, 6.24 and check valves, 6.251, pressurizing the system to a single acting pin cylinder, 6.3, extending a plunger, 6.32. This plunger depresses a pawl, 6.4, which engages and locks a ratchet wheel, 6.5, which is directly connected to the main drive wheel 5.1. Air escapes from the compressed chamber of the single-acting pin cylinder, 6.2, through fixed orifice restrictor, 6.252, or needle valve, regulating the delay. As the pressure is released through the orifice, the spring-loaded plunger, 6.32, retracts releasing the pawl, 6.4, with the aid of a tension spring, 6.6, allowing the pawl 6.4, to release the ratchet, 6.5, on the main wheel, 5.1. This delay releases the stored energy of the wound-up torsion springs without losing any energy and frees rotation of the drive wheel 5.1.

[0436] FIG. 4B is a section close-up detail view of traction/tension carriage assembly. For example, as noted above, the traction tension assembly, 7.0, is actuated when the main pedal crank arm, 1.2, is depressed. This rotates the crankshaft, 1.3, which is connected to the actuating arm, 7.2, which pulls down the carriage depressing arm, 7.3. through the connecting link, 7.21, The depressing arm, 7.3, pulls down the tension arm, 7.4, through tension arm roller, 7.41, which falls into a notch and is locked into place with the traction locking pawl, 7.5, assisted with traction pawl spring, 7.51, which maintains continuous light torque that keeps traction locking pawl in contact with round part of the tension arm 7.4. The depressing arm, 7.3, pulls down and engages the pre-loaded fork assembly, 7.1, through guide pin and stop 7.12. moving the drive wheel, 5.1 towards the ground. The Traction spring, 7.6, keeps constant downward pressure and develops positive force to the ground to maintain traction throughout the one- and one-half inches of travel, 7.11. This is to accommodate: the undercut under a door, threshold, and any slope in the travel path of the opening door.

[0437] As the main springs, 2.6, 2.7, unwinds at the end of the cycle, an actuating pin 7.8 hits the trigger lever 7.7 and lifts the locking pawl 7.5 through pawl actuator shaft 7.52, releasing the fork assembly with the assistance of the fork assembly lifting spring, 7.13. This raises up the main drive wheel, 5.1, back to the resting position where it is ready for the next cycle.

[0438] FIG. 4C is a diagrammatic drawing of the optional pneumatic delay system. When the double acting cylinder is activated by the crank shaft 1.3, to pressurizes the system, with the aid of the check valves. The valves allow the pressure to build up in single acting pin cylinder, engaging the plunger. The second check valve in line from the primary cylinder maintains the seal and pressure at the pin cylinder. The orifice restrictor or needle valve relieves the pressure at a controlled rate which delays the release of the drive wheel. The first check valve in line relieves the pressure in the primary cylinder, so it has an unimpeded backstroke, so it is ready to charge the system with the next depression of the pedal.

[0439] This could also serve as a delay for the engagement of the traction release mechanism, 7.0, providing another delay option for holding the door open delaying the closing cycle with a fixed or variable time interval.

[0440] FIG. 4D is a diagrammatic drawing of an optional dashpot delay system. This mechanism can be used in conjunction with the pneumatic system in 4C or as a standalone system which is physically activated by mechanical means. The spring-loaded dashpot cylinder in conjunction with the restrictor or needle valve allows for the controlled release of the plunger equating into the time delay for the start of the drive wheel engagement.

[0441] This could also serve as a delay for the engagement of the traction release mechanism, 7.0, providing another delay option for holding the door open delaying the closing cycle with a fixed or variable time interval.

[0442] FIG. 4E is a diagrammatic drawing of a optional friction slip clutch delay system. A stationary fixed to the axle disc, engages a rotating disc, which is attached to the drive wheel. The two discs are allowed to slip a prescribed number of degrees until they mechanically engage and lock into each other. The time delay is adjusted by varying the tension applied to the load spring with a tensioning nut. This varies the duration of the slippage until the two surfaces mechanically engage.

[0443] This could also serve as a delay for the engagement of the traction release mechanism, providing another delay option for when the closing cycle would begin.

[0444] FIGS. 5A, 5B and 6 show details of the environment in which the foot operable door opener is utilized.

[0445] For example, FIG. 5A shows a pedestrian approaching a door D having a foot operable door opener 10, including s foot contactable pedal 1.1 attached to a crank arm 1.2, whereby a housing 12 encloses the internal components of the foot operable door opener 10. FIG. 5A also shows a wordless instructional logo 13 displayed upon the surface of the door or any suitable visually perceptible surface in the vicinity of the door. The logo preferably has a triptych of three images, including the diagonal NO sign through a picture of a user's hand holding a door handle, a close-up detail view of the pedestrian's foot contacting the pedal 1.1, and an image of the door shown being opened in the direction of the curved arrow depicted, noting caution to be exercised in the path of the swinging door.

[0446] FIG. 5B is a close-up detail view of the pedestrian's foot approaching the pedal 1.1 mounted upon crank arm 1.2, and the housing 12 mounted on the ground G in the vicinity of door D.

[0447] FIG. 6, is a close-up detail view of the wordless instructional logo 13.

[0448] In the foregoing description, certain terms and visual depictions are used to illustrate the preferred embodiment. However, no unnecessary limitations are to be construed by the terms used or illustrations depicted, beyond what is shown in the prior art, since the terms and illustrations are exemplary only, and are not meant to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0449] In a second embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 7-9 the current configuration of the door opener is divided into seven distinct operations. The first operation is the crank assembly, 31.0. The cycle is initiated when the pedal, 31.1 is depressed which moves the crank arm, 31.2, down transferring the force to the crankshaft, 31.3. The crank arm returns back to the home position over the course of the opening cycle, with the assistance of the main spring, 32.6, through the trigger actuator pin, 37.8. The crank arm, 31.2, is connected to the driver arm, 32.7, through the connecting link, 32.2.

[0450] The next operation is the drive assembly, 32.0. The drive assembly is connected to the main spring, 32.6, when the pedal and crank arm are depressed, the main spring winds up and turns the main gear, 34.1, through the transfer shaft, 32.5, which has a clutch bearing, 34.11, centered around the shaft, 32.5. This allows for the one-way travel of the gear with no backlash or backward movement. The main gear is held in place and not allowed to unwind the main spring by the drive pawl, 32.3, which is depressed and set by the connecting link, 32.2. Winding the main spring, 32.6,

[0451] The chassis, 33.1, houses all the different mechanisms and bushings within the chassis. It also accommodates the means of securing the mechanize with screws or clamps to the door.

[0452] The gear train, 34.0. has a speed increasing ratio of 1 to 10. This is so a 60-90 degree turn on the crank arm, 31.2, will net 2? to 3 full revolutions of the 04-inch wheel, 35.1. This is enough to open the door 25 to 30 inches. The main Spring, 32.6, drive the main gear, 34.1, and meshes with the transfer gears, 34.6. The large transfer gears steps down to the small idler gear, 34.2, which again steps up to the secondary speed increasing gear, 34.3, and eventually to the drive gear, 34.4. The drive gear is mounted on the same shaft, 34.5, as the drive wheel, 35.1.

[0453] The drive wheel assembly, 35.0, consists of a soft durometer wheel connected to the main driveshaft, 34.5, connected to the drive shaft. The potential energy of the springs, 32.6, are wound with the depression of the pedal, 31.1 and the crank arm, 31.2, connected to the driver arm, 32.7 through the connecting link, 32.2, which winds the spring, 32.6. The potential energy is held back, momentarily, not allowed to release.

[0454] The delay assembly, 36.0, holds and delays the release of the potential energy of the wound springs. This allows safe ergonomic transfer of one's weight to both feet. This unique feature enables one's weight to be planted back on the ground. This allows the entrant to comfortably step aside to clear the swinging door.

[0455] The delay assembly consists of spring-loaded pneumatic cylinder, (not shown). The cylinder is compressed by means of the main crankshaft, when the pedal and crank arm, is depressed. Cylinder, with the aid of hoses, and check valves, moves air to the piston of a single action pin cylinder, and plunger. This plunger depresses a pawl, which engages a ratcheting wheel, which is directly connected to the main drive wheel. Air escapes from the compressed chamber, adjusted with a needle valve, regulating the delay. As the pressure is released, the plunger, disengages with the aid of a tension spring, allowing the pawl, to release the ratchet, on the main wheel.

[0456] Alternately the method includes the use of a spring-loaded dash pot with plunger to be used in leu of the single acting pin cylinder. This would be mechanically activated. This would eliminate the need for the pneumatic cylinder, hoses, and check valves. This delay releases the stored potential from the main springs and starts the cycle of the wheel turning without losing any potential energy.

[0457] Alternately the method includes a friction clutch plate, 36.1, to restrain said drive wheel, 35.1, or main gear, 34.1, for a fixed or variable length of time, as shown in FIG. 4E.

[0458] The traction tension assembly, 37.0, regulates adhesive, slippage or coefficient of friction of the various components on surfaces upon which they move. It is actuated when the main pedal crank arm, 31.2, is depressed. This rotates and drops the connecting arm, 37.21, which in turn drops the carriage depressing arm, 37.3. The depressing arm actuates bracket arm, 37.1 by engaging the actuating arm, 37.2, it engages the traction spring, 37.6. This keeps constant variable pressure on the bracket arm, 37.1, so there is constant pressure on the sloping floor.

[0459] As the drive pawl, 32.3, rotates along with the main gear, 34.1, the peddle, 31.1, transfer arm, 32.2, and connecting arm, 37.21, all lift the carriage depressing arm, 37.3. This in turn causes the depressing arm to lift the bracket arm, 37.1 by engaging the actuating arm, 37.2, which in turn engages the traction spring, 37.6, lifting the bracket arm, 37.1, and retracting the wheel, 35.1, so door, D, can now swing freely, back to the closed position with aid of the overhead of floor mounted, or spring-loaded hinges. This allows the door to close without human assistance.

[0460] In a third embodiment shown in FIGS. 10-12, a non-motorized foot operable door opener is initiated in an entrance cycle by the user stepping on a pedal, 51.1. This force exerted on the pedal 51.1, drives the crank arm, 51.2, a sixty to ninety (60-90) degree turn, engaging a soft wheel, 55.1, to open the door D. The pedal, 51.1, is hard linked to a crank arm, 51.2, which goes into a unidirectional clutch bearing, 54.11, connected to a planetary gear box, 54.1, connected to drive shaft hub, 54.5, to turn the soft wheel, 55.1. The downward pressure from the pedal, 51.1, pivots the bracket arm, 57.1, at a traction locking ratchet, 57.5, and hinge, 57.31, connected to the main chassis, 53.1, is a spring-loaded wheel assembly, 57.6, to keep constant pressure to the ground, G.

[0461] A speed increasing planetary gear box, 54.1, winds one or more springs, 52.27 and 52.26, (right and left-handed) which may work optionally if the sequence is reversed and goes from crank arm to gears, to winding springs, or also optionally multiple pumps of the pedal, turns the wheel system, which each are connected to drive shaft, 54.5, in turn rotating the wheel, 51.1, over multiple 360 degrees rotations, and thereby opening the door, D, sufficiently to allow the entrant to pass until the foot pedal, 51.1, is dis-engaged by the entrant. The crank arm, 51.2, is returned to its original position, with the aid of the return arm spring, 51.33. This action causes the crank arm, 51.2, to strike the trigger lever release, 57.7, which in turn releases the ratcheting hinge mechanism and spring, 57.5, and 57.6, allowing the wheel return lifting springs, 57.8, to lift the wheel assembly to rotate up, back to its original up position, guided by the guide pin and stop, 57.11, and 57.12, releasing the wheel, 55.1, from the ground, thus allowing the door to close with a standard overhead closer or spring-loaded hinge, which is standard hardware on most doors. At that time after the opening and closing of the door, the door is ready for the next entrant.

[0462] The embodiment of FIGS. 10-12 may include an optional, main spring, or springs, 52.27, and 52.26, both right and left-handed, which can be wound for a further assist to accommodate a delayed action, 56.0, where, at that point, a foot switch actuated spring-loaded wheel drops and engages an opening cycle as described above. The door which, after actuation, will close after a time delay, 56.0, on the retracting spring mechanism, also described above. Both opening and closing are by mechanical advantage, without the use of electric power or motors.

[0463] In general, in all three embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, 7-9 and 10-12, the present invention is differentiated, unique, novel, and distinguishable from any motorized prior art door openers, by its' being a simple machine without electric power, electric motors, scanner or traffic readers of any kind, and through mechanical advantage and a rachet, spring loaded hinge assembly, to keep constant pressure to the floor plane, hygienically opening doors when safety from disease, virus, bacteria, or other hazards which are wished to be avoided and hands free operation when ones hands are occupied such as food service and warehouse personnel, by the use of an economical apparatus that can be added/or retro fit to any door type, through brackets or the chassis mounting holes, or clamping plate, to secure to wood, hollow metal, metal framed glass, all glass, etc. doors, to facilitate ingress and egress passages of all types, locations, and environments.

[0464] In general, in all three embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, 7-9 and 10-12, the present invention is differentiated, unique, novel, and distinguishable from any non-motorized prior art door openers, by its' being a simple machine that can develop the mechanical advantage necessary to open exterior and other doors safely, hands free with integrated delay, to afford using an ergonomically user friendly and safe interface when paired with doors which have standard resistance due to the presence of overhead, floor closers, and spring hinges.

[0465] It is further noted that while FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 5A, 5B and 6 are shown in conjunction with the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, it is known that FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 5A, 5B and 6 can also be used with the alternate embodiments of FIGS. 7-9 and 10-12.

[0466] A second embodiment shown in drawing FIGS. 7, 8 and 9 describes a non-preferred embodiment with a friction slip clutch delay assembly and where the gear train includes a main gear, an idler increasing gear and a secondary gear.

[0467] A third embodiment shown in drawing FIGS. 10, 11 and 12 describes another non-preferred embodiment, optionally without a delay assembly, and where the gear train is a planetary gear assembly.

Motorized and/or Motor Assist Embodiments

[0468] Other alternate (motorized) embodiments are shown in FIGS. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18, and FIGS. 19A-32. FIGS. 13-14 depict a first motorized embodiment, FIGS. 15-16 illustrate a second motorized embodiment, and FIGS. 17-18 illustrate a third motorized embodiment configured to provide motorized actuation of the door for the user. The three embodiments of FIGS. 13-14, FIGS. 15-16, and FIGS. 17-18 may be differentiated by at least the various motor and the battery locations utilized in each arrangement, and where each embodiment is shown using a linear actuator to operate with respect to opening and closing of a pivoting door. These three different embodiments may also be used for opening and closing of a sliding door, merely by using a different wheel orientation (e.g., rotating the orientation of the wheel axle 90 degrees). FIGS. 19A-19B, as well as FIGS. 20-32 show other embodiments for opening and closing of either a sliding door or a pivoting door, but which are shown utilizing a column lifter (i.e., a multi-stage linear actuator) as the linear actuation device. It is noted that any suitable linear actuation device now known in the art or later developed that may provide suitable actuation may alternatively or additionally be used in any embodiment described herein, and use of the term linear actuator hereinafter is intended to broadly encompass any and all such types of linear actuation devices. Aspects of these other embodiments are further described hereinafter.

[0469] A hands-free door opening/closing system 100 is shown in FIGS. 13-15. The hands-free door opening/closing system 100 may include a chassis 103.1, a first shaft 104.31, a second shaft 104.32, a drive wheel 105.1, at least one coupling link 107.1, a main (first) gear 104.1, a drive (second) gear 104.4, a motor 102.9, and an actuation member that is configured to trigger actuation of the motor (i.e., to trigger the motor to start to initiate shaft rotation). As seen in FIGS. 13-15, the motor 102.9 may be a hub motor, where the motor is incorporated into the hub of the wheel.

[0470] The chassis 103.1, in addition to providing a framework configured to support the mechanical components of system 100, may furthermore include mounting holes that are configured for mounting of the door opening/closing system 100 to the door D.

[0471] Note that one single, suitably thick, coupling link may be used to position the second shaft with respect to the first shaft and may create a cantilevered arrangement; however, greater stability may be obtained by using two coupling links. Also note that where two coupling links are used, they may furthermore be joined together as a single integral part, and may form a u-shaped coupling link member 107.1 having two links that extend from a base flange to form a clevis, and that configuration is illustrated in the figures merely to be illustrative of the various possible different configurations.

[0472] In what may be the simplest of the motorized embodiments that use gears, as seen in the FIGS. 17-18, the shaft 104.31 may be rotatably mounted to the chassis 103.1 (note that in other embodiments this shaft may be fixedly mounted to the chassis), and the housing of the motor 102.9 may also be fixedly mounted to the chassis 103.1 and the rotor of the motor may be coupled to, and configured to drive, the shaft 104.31 to rotate, when the motor is activated by the controller module 106.7. It is noted that the controller module 106.7 may include, but is not limited to, use of an Arduino? UNO R4 Wi-Fi.

[0473] The shaft 104.31 may be rotatably mounted to the u-shaped coupling link member 107.1 using holes in proximity to its base flange, while holes at the distal ends of the links of the clevis of the coupling link member 107.1 may rotatably support the second shaft 104.32.

[0474] The main gear 104.1 may be fixedly secured to the first shaft 104.31, and each of the drive gear 104.4 and the drive wheel 105.1 may be fixedly secured to the second shaft 104.32. Being so mounted, and with the main gear 104.1 and the drive gear 104.4 being configured to mesh, rotational motion in a first direction imparted to main gear 104.1 via rotation of the first shaft 104.31 by the motor 102.9 will cause the drive gear 104.4 and thus also the second shaft 104.32 to correspondingly co-rotate according to the gear sizes/ratios utilized, with the corresponding co-rotation of the second shaft 104.32 similarly causing the drive wheel 105.1 to co-rotate, and thus move along the floor or ground G to thereby open the door D.

[0475] In one possible embodiment, the u-shaped coupling link member 107.1 may be fixedly secured to prevent its individual movement (e.g., by being fixed to the chassis 103.1), and thus the mounting location of the chassis on the door D must be carefully set to provide a requisite amount of engagement force between the drive wheel 105.1 and the floor or ground G, because the drive wheel 105.1 is thereby fixedly positioned with respect to the door D (and with respect to the floor/ground surface). In this embodiment, the movement of the door D from the desired (and preset) door open position back towards the door closed position may be accomplished by the controller module 106.7, which may cause the motor 102.9 to operate in reverse, causing counter-rotational motion (i.e., rotation in a second direction) to be imparted to main gear 104.1 via counter-rotation of the first shaft 104.31 by the motor 102.9, thereby causing the drive gear 104.4 and thus also the second shaft 104.32 to correspondingly counter-rotate, with the corresponding counter-rotation of the second shaft 104.32 causing the drive wheel 105.1 to counter-rotate and thus move in the opposite direction with respect to the floor or ground G to thereby close the door D.

[0476] In another possible embodiment, the shaft 104.31 may be rotatably mounted to the u-shaped coupling link member 107.1 and the u-shaped coupling link member 107.1 may be free to pivot about that shaft 104.31 (i.e., it is not fixed to the chassis 103.1), being free to pivot to the extent that it may be driven by its connection with the linear actuation device 107.21, as discussed further hereinbelow, forming a cam pivot for drive wheel 105.1 (i.e., it may have a pivot point with an eccentric movement). The linear actuation device 107.2 may have one end pivotally mounted with respect to the second shaft 104.32 (either pivotally mounted directly to the second shaft 104.32 or pivotally mounted to a portion of the U-shaped coupling link member 107.1 (as illustrated herein), and a second end pivotally mounted with respect to the chassis 103.1, e.g., using bracket 107.22. The linear actuation device 107.2 may be any suitable linear actuator, including, but not limited to, the actuators disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,759,386 to Grouw; U.S. Pat. No. 4,489,248 to Petersen; U.S. Pat. No. 5,491,372 to Erhart; U.S. Pat. No. 5,747,896 to Nagai; U.S. Pat. No. 7,541,707 to Hochhalter; U.S. Pat. No. 3,887,155 to Bertalot; U.S. Pat. No. 6,224,037 to Novick; and U.S. Pat. No. 9,480,333 to Randlov.

[0477] The controller module 106.7 may control extension of the piston 107.6 of the linear actuation device 107.2 to position the drive wheel 105.1 in contact with the ground G when it is desired that the door D be driven into its open position, and the controller module 106.7 may control retraction of the piston 107.6 of the linear actuation device 107.2 to lift the drive wheel 105.1 off of the floor surface, so that the door may close on its own (or the door may close via spring biasingnot shown).

[0478] The motor 102.9 may be triggered to actuate (i.e., may be triggered to begin causing the first shaft 104.31 to rotate) by any suitable apparatus and method known in the art, and may preferably be a hands-free apparatus. For example, a pedal 101.1, and an associated pedal arm 101.2 may be pivotally mounted with respect to the chassis 103.1, and may also be coupled to toggle a switch 106.71 which can be mounted on either side of the chassis to enable the left hand or right hand mounting onto a door, that may control the power supply to the motor 102.9 via the controller module 107.1. So, tapping on the pedal 101.1 may initiate hands-free opening (and closing) of the door D, as discussed hereinafter. Other apparatus that may alternatively or additionally be used to trigger the motor 102.9 to actuate may include, but is not limited to: a push button arrangement that may be positioned on the door, and may be actuated by a portion of the user's arm (e.g., the elbow); facial recognition, a proximity sensor that may be mounted to the chassis 103.1 (or to the door), which may detect the user when he/she is within a threshold distance of the sensor and may then command the switch 106.71 to supply power to the motor 102.9; a voice activated microphone; a remote control; a key card and card reader, a user interface cable, Bluetooth or wireless connections/communications, an API running on a smartphone, computer, an app, a home or office security or media system or service, a home or office Wi-Fi system similar to Alexa, Echo, Siri, Google Assistant, Nest, Android, or similar interface device and smart office and home technologies, etc., which may permit remote opening and closing of the door D by someone located very distant from the door (e.g., across town, and/or out of the country).

[0479] The motor 102.9 may be powered by a fixed or removable rechargeable low volt DC power supply (e.g., one or more batteries 102.93) that may be positioned in a receptable of the chassis 103.1 (see FIG. 17); or the motor may be hardwired to receive ordinary line voltage, and may use a battery as a backup power supply. The recharging may be from a small, charging cable or by a proximity inductive charging which is engaged when the door is in the closed position, solar or photovoltaic cells, or removable for remote charging.

[0480] When the motor 102.9 is triggered to operate, as described above, it may cause the first shaft 104.31 to rotate a first selective amount of angular rotation, which is configured to cause co-rotation of the main gear 104.1 and thereby cause co-rotation of the drive gear 104.4, and thus cause rotation of the second shaft 104.32 a second selective amount of angular rotation, which in turn thereby causes the drive wheel 105.1 to co-rotate a third selective amount of rotation. This third selective amount of rotation of the drive wheel 105.1 is correlated to a radial distance that the drive wheel 105.1 is positioned away from the axis of a hinge of the door D (i.e., from the door hinge line), and in combination with contact of the drive wheel 105.1 (and its particular diameter) with the floor surface, it causes rotation (pivoting) of the door a desired angular amount to thereby pivot from a door closed position into a desired door open position (e.g., 90 degrees of door rotation).

[0481] The controller module 106.7 may be wired (not shown) or may wirelessly communicate with respect to various components of the system, or external systems and inputs, to be configured to control many different aspects of the operation of the system 100.

[0482] The controller module 106.7 may also be configured to control the motor 102.9 to cause a time delay between when the motor is triggered to actuate (by the user using the selected hands-free apparatus, e.g., foot pedal 101.1, arm 101.2, and switch 106.71), and when the motor is activated and actually begins rotating to cause the described shaft rotations. Also, the controller module 106.7 may be configured to further control the motor 102.9, such that when the door D has been rotated open by the system 100 to the desired door open position, the controller module may lock the motor 102.9 and essentially freeze rotation of the drive wheel 105.1, to maintain the door at the desired door open position for another pre-determined or programmable time period. The controller module 106.7 may also be configured to cause the motor 102.9 to operate in reverse, as noted above, after a predetermined time or programmable delay, to effect closing of the door using the drive wheel 105.1. Additionally, the controller module 106.7 may be configured to control the linear actuation device 107.2, to consistently maintain a pre-set and/or variable, and/or programmable amount of pressure between the drive wheel 105.1 and the floor surface, to provide a necessary amount of traction in various different conditions. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller module 106.7 may, after a pre-set amount of time, shut off the motor 102.9, and subsequently trigger the motor 107.21 of the linear actuation device 107.2 to cause the piston 107.6 of the linear actuator to retract, and thereby lift the otherwise static drive wheel 105.1 off of the floor surface, permitting the door to automatically return, on its own, into the closed door position, which door return may be spring biased (e.g., using torsion springs or a clock spring at the door hinge(s) to bias the door towards the closed door position- or hydraulic or spring or other door closing devices, all not shown). Note that the linear actuation device 107.2 may also utilize a helical spring 107.7, whereby the spring 107.7 may be coupled to a portion of the link 107.1 (see e.g., FIG. 18A), such that when the linear actuation device 107.2 is extended, its piston may be extended an amount being sufficient to compress the spring to apply a prescribed amount of pressure between the drive wheel 105.1 and the floor/ground surface (G) to allow for changes in floor pitch and slope without losing traction. When the door D reaches the door closed position (or at some time prior to that), the controller module 106.7 may shut off the motor 107.21 of the linear actuation device 107.2 and freeze the position of the piston 107.6 with respect to the outer tube, and thereby maintain the lowermost portion of the drive wheel 105.1 at a predetermined or programmable height/position above the floor surface. Alternatively, once the door D reaches the door closed position, the controller module 106.7 may subsequently trigger the motor 107.21 of the linear actuation device 107.2 to cause the piston 107.6 of the linear actuator to extend, and thereby lower drive wheel 105.1 into contact with the floor surface, while keeping the motor 102.9 inactive, so that the door cannot be driven open, but is ready to be opened, once it is so commanded by the user utilizing the selected hands-free apparatus (e.g., foot pedal 101.1, arm 101.2, and switch 106.71). The converse can also be achieved with the linear actuator extended and maintained in the open position to keep the door in the open position when programmed for this function.

[0483] As seen in FIGS. 17-18, the controller module 106.7 of the system 100 may also be configured to operate in conjunction with an idler wheel and a hall sensor, or similar devices, to monitor and control the speed of the door opening, the amount of travel of the door D (angle to open for a pivoting door, or distance traveled linearly when used with a sliding door), and to determine the delay for the closing (when to actuate the linear motion device 107.2 to raise the wheel 105.1). It is possible to obtain such information using the drive wheel 105.1 or optical sensor, instead of an idler wheel, but the drive wheel is under pressure with the floor/ground G and being driven to rotate to overcome the inertia of the door D, and as such the drive wheel may slip or otherwise provide information that may not accurately reflect the actual real-time performance with respect to the door's travel, and an optical sensor may be accurate but is also prone to malfunction due to the accumulation of dirt and debris, whereas the idler wheel is not being driven to open the door and may be more accurate as to the information obtained and used.

[0484] The controller module 106.7 may be electronically coupled to a hall effect sensor or similar device 106.82 that is configured to co-act with a single or plurality of magnets 106.83 (e.g., eight magnets) that may be radially mounted and equally spaced on at least one side of an idler wheel 106.84 that is configured to roll freely on the ground G, which idler wheel may be supported by a bracket 106.81 that may be mounted to the shaft 104.31 and/or to the chassis 103.1. The idler wheel 106.84 may be metallic, or not, and may have a circumferential groove at the outer periphery of the wheel that may receive a rubber O-ring 106.85, which may serve to make the idler wheel's movement more reliable like most rubber wheels or other material which have a high coefficient of friction (e.g., having very little tendency to slip or be distorted).

[0485] The number of magnets 106.83 on the idler wheel 106.84 may be counted by the sensor 106.82 as the idler wheel rotates on the ground G during movement of the door D, so that if there are eight magnets, there may be approximately one and a half inches of travel between each of the eight magnets, i.e., the distance of travel may be determined according to the diameter of the idler wheel 106.84 used, the number of magnets 106.83 used, and the radial placement of the magnets on the idler wheel, which distance may be calculated by the controller module 106.7 using an algorithm associated with the use and particular arrangement of these components.

[0486] This determination of the travel of the door D made by the controller module 106.7 allows for the adjustment and programming of the door opening to not hit walls or other permanent obstructions within each specific application to 1? of arc, of the door movement depending on the number of magnets, whether there are eight magnets or possibly more magnets.

[0487] Use of the idler wheel 106.84 and the sensor arrangement may permit the controller module 106.7 to determine if the drive wheel 105.1 is slipping due to ice, sand, an oil/grease covered surface, or due to other field conditions that may be encountered, allowing the motor 102.9 to turn the drive wheel added rotations (or a portion of a rotation) until the door D has reached its designated opening distance to occupy a desired door open position (and to similarly operate in reverse to occupy the door closed position).

[0488] The arrangement shown in FIGS. 13-14A is constructed similar to the arrangement shown in FIGS. 17-18, except that the motor 102.9 may be positioned/mounted differently, and it may utilize four gears. As seen in FIGS. 13-14A, the motor 102.9 may be mounted to the chassis 103.1 either using an integral flange of the chassis, or using a separate bracket 102.91. The rotor of the motor 102.9 may be coupled to a first speed decreasing gear 104.5, which may mesh with, and drive, the second speed decreasing gear 104.3 that is fixedly secured to the first shaft, causing the first shaft to rotate, and also causing the gear 104.1 that is also fixedly secured to the first shaft to similarly rotate. The gear 104.1 meshes with, and drives, the gear 104.4 to cause rotation of the second shaft and thus the drive wheel, in accordance with the combination of gear ratios that are used for the four gears. This may be particularly suitable for high traffic commercial applications.

[0489] The arrangement shown in FIGS. 15-16 may be constructed similar to the arrangement shown in FIGS. 17-18, except that the motor 102.9 may be positioned/mounted differently, and it may not utilize any gears. The motor 102.9 may also be a hub motor. As seen in FIGS. 15-16 the motor 102.9 may be mounted to the link 107.1, and the rotor of the motor may be coupled to the second shaft to thereby cause rotation of the drive wheel 105.1 to thereby cause the drive wheel to rotate relative to the second shaft and open the door.

[0490] Note that for any of these motorized embodiments the controller module 106.7 may determine if an obstruction in the path of travel has been encountered by the door (e.g., a box left on the ground, a person walking nearby, or if someone pushes on the either side of the door), after the linear motion device 107.2 has caused the drive wheel 105.1 to engage with the ground and may have even been actuated to open the door D at least part way. The controller module 106.7 may be able sense the obstruction by being able to sense an increase in the current draw by the drive motor 102.9, being indicative of an added load on the motor (i.e., the obstruction hindering movement of the door D). Upon detecting the obstruction, the controller module 106.7 may cause retraction of the linear motion device 107.2 to cause lifting of the drive wheel 105.1, so the door may close on its own, and the system may also reset for the next door opening cycle.

[0491] The controller module 106.7 coupled with the idler wheel may also be used to determine if the door is moving as a result of the rotation of the drive wheel, and may increase the pressure on the drive wheel by causing further extending of the linear motion device to adjust for variable environmental conditions in real time if the drive wheel is slipping.

[0492] As noted above, FIG. 19A shows a motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system 200, being used for opening and closing of a pivoting door. FIG. 19B shows a motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system 200, being used for opening and closing of a pivoting door. The motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system 200 may be the same as the motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system 200, except that the bracket 205.1 may be configured to alternatively mount the drive wheel with the axle perpendicular to the door, rather than being oriented parallel to the door. The same bracket 205.1 may be configured to simply mount to the lift column/actuator being clocked 90 degrees; additionally, or alternatively, a swivel mechanism 205.1 may be used. As such, only the motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system 200 is described hereinafter, with the understating that the component parts may be common to the motor-actuated hands-free door opening and closing system 200.

[0493] As seen at least in FIG. 19A and FIG. 20, a combination drive wheel and hub motor 202.9 may mounted to a mounting bracket 202.91 via an axle to rotate with respect to said bracket, where the hub motor is configured, when activated, to cause the drive wheel to rotate. As seen in those figures, the door opening and closing system 200 may also include a chassis (e.g., a mounting plate 203.2 and mounting cover 203.1) that may house the component parts, and which is configured to mount to the door.

[0494] The door opening and closing system 200 may use, for the linear actuation device, a column lifter (i.e., a multi-stage linear actuator) 207.2 to drive the bracket-mounted drive wheel relative to the chassis mounting plate between a retracted position and one or more extended positions. A retracted position may be seen in FIG. 31, and an extended position may be seen in FIG. 30. Note that the floor or ground surface shown in FIG. 30 appears level, and where that is not the case, other extended positions would be needed to maintain proper contact and required pressure between the drive wheel and the floor or ground surface. The controller module 206.7 may be configured to sense loads, and may thus be configured to cause the column lifter 207.2 to extend into any necessary extend position to cause the desired amount of pressure between the drive wheel and the floor surface or ground surface. Any suitable type of switch (e.g., switch 206.71 which may permit toggling via a user's foot) may be configured to trigger activation of the hub motor to cause the drive wheel to rotate a selective amount of angular rotation, to thereby drive the door to move (i.e., to slide or pivot) from a door closed position into a desired door open position. Power may be provided by a battery 202.93 that may be recharged in any suitable manner, including, but not limited to, use of a wireless charger 202.6.

[0495] The door opening and closing system 200 may also use an idler wheel sensor assembly 206.8, including an idler wheel 206.83 with magnets 206.831, and a hall sensor 206.82. Speaker and microphone 206.86 may be used for communication of sound, to permit the use of voice control/commands for opening and closing of the door, and to provide for sound alarms or voice directions. A traction spring 207.6 may be used to bias the bracket 202.91 downward, to bias the drive wheel into contact with the floor. While illustrative implementations of one or more embodiments of the disclosed system are provided hereinabove, those skilled in the art and having the benefit of the present disclosure will appreciate that further embodiments may be implemented with various changes within the scope of the disclosed system. Other modifications, substitutions, omissions and changes may be made in the design, size, materials used or proportions, operating conditions, assembly sequence, or arrangement or positioning of elements and members of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of this invention.

[0496] Accordingly, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described example embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.