Improving Thermal Performance of a Folding Door

Sammanfattning

This thesis, made in collaboration with Reco Port AB, investigates the improvement of thermal performance of an aluminum folding door through digital product development, calculation and simulation. The current door design provides limited insulation, restricting its use in applications where energy efficiency is required. The project aimed to lower the U-value of the door while ensuring structural strength, manufacturability, and compatibility with existing systems. The work was conducted inspired by Ulrich and Eppingers product and design development process, includ- ing customer needs analysis, target specifications, concept generation, and two iterative rounds of evaluation. Concepts were analyzed using flixo for thermal simulations and structural calculations based on relevant standards for mechanical strength. A wide range of potential improvements was considered, including filling profiles with insulation, altering cross-section geometries, integrating thermal breaks, applying internal or external coatings, adding outer insulating layers, improving seals, and modifying window areas. After screening and scoring, the most promising solutions were further developed and compared. The results highlight multiple practical approaches that result in a significant reduction in U-value compared to the existing design, without compromising structural integrity or manufacturability. The study concludes that optimizing the aluminum profiles of the folding door can substantially improve its thermal performance and extend its applicability to energy-sensitive environments. The findings provide a foundation for further development towards industrial implementation.