A door coupler is a mechanical device designed to link and synchronize the operation of two separate doors, ensuring they open and close together.
Specifically, based on the provided information, a door coupler serves as a mechanism to connect two elements, particularly facilitating the engagement and operation between, for example, a car door and a landing door in systems like elevators.
Core Components and Function
According to the reference, a door coupler is equipped with several key components that enable its function:
- Coupling Elements: These are the parts responsible for creating the physical link.
- Linkage: The coupling elements are actuated by means of a linkage. This system of connected parts allows the movement of one component (likely the car door) to control the engagement of the coupling elements.
- Counter Element: This element is provided on the landing door. The actuated coupling elements are designed to engage a counter element provided on the landing door, establishing the connection between the two doors.
- Locking Hook: The coupler also includes a locking hook that has a closed position and a released position. This hook likely provides a safety or operational lock, ensuring the connection is secure when needed and can be disengaged.
Here's a summary of the key features mentioned:
- Components: Coupling elements, linkage, locking hook.
- Actuation: Coupling elements actuated by a linkage.
- Engagement: Coupling elements engage a counter element on the landing door.
- Locking: Includes a locking hook with closed and released positions.
How it Works (Typical Application Example)
While the reference describes the components, the most common application for such a mechanism is in elevator systems.
Imagine an elevator car stopped at a floor. The car has its own door (the car door), and the floor level has a separate door (the landing door). The door coupler is mounted on the car door.
- As the car door begins to open, the linkage system on the coupler is activated.
- This linkage extends or positions the coupling elements.
- The coupling elements engage with the counter element on the landing door.
- Now that the two doors are mechanically linked by the coupler, the opening motion of the car door pulls the landing door open simultaneously.
- When the doors close, the process works in reverse.
- The locking hook is likely involved in securing the landing door when the car is not at that floor or ensuring the connection is solid during operation.
This mechanism is essential for the safe and synchronized operation of multi-door systems, particularly where one door must initiate the opening of another.
