DoorButler® Current Stat
Dedicated OEM Now Positioning For Exclusiveness
February 18, 2006
Having taken a bit longer than expected, a most progressive OEM (Original Equipment Mfg.) has proposed investing their resources to exclusively develop our new DoorButler® storm & screen door hardware line.
Currently, their market share for closers consists of approx. 3,000,000 units/year mostly for US consumption. However, their clearest vision is to challenge the entire 8,000,000 unit global market ASAP. Ok distributors... please consider this to be your first call.
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Tooling Ready for Initial MagCheck™ Units
December 01, 2004
Hot off the presses comes now the first molded samples of MagChek™ new from DoorButler®. This simple component easily snaps onto the end of most door closers.
In order to quickly launch the market, these preliminary units should fit aftermarket and also produce a complete door closer.... for now we report that several choices are available (no longer applicable).
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Exclusive Contract Being Considered
September 02, 2004
And yes, the time is nearing that we get down to doing some serious business! The previously mentioned hardware firm which comprises expanding markets along many retail chains, has now presented a formal offer for exclusiveness.
Based on terms of the first draft, they certainly are demonstrating an aggressive approach towards worldwide distribution. The offer is based on rapid deployment of the initial +/- 2,000,000 units, projected for consumption within only a first few years! Here's some of their language.
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Custom Door Closer Now Under Development
August 02, 2004
An innovative firm certain to become (if not already) one of the largest mfg of hardware, has taken the initiative to provide first closer samples for our new proposed line. Several other mfgs have also expressed interest but for some reason they haven't responded.
We are currently testing the device, which at first glance appears similar to most every other closer. The only difference is that once installed with our patented components, the new industry standard is born!
Unfortunately, it can't be shown now because they asked me to keep it a surprise. But here's a pic of what the proposed $.95 poly bag kit might look like should there be a demand to retrofit others.
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Closer Modifications No Longer Mandatory
June 09, 2004
Realizing how difficult is for most OEM's to modify their existing processes, we have reinstated a simpler design which permits the P12, P15, & U15 to fixate onto most any quality OEM closer.
For now, this change omits the previously suggested center hole punch change & rod modification. For permanence, an 1/8" pilot hole can be drilled aftermarket.
As we finalize these changes to create initial prototype tooling, your continued patience for requested samples is appreciated. Thank you....
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Proposed DoorButler® Product Identity
May 17, 2004
Yesterday, I was urgently contacted by one of the largest building material producers in Asia. Their numerous plants can provide metal products such as door hardware, locks, tools, etc.
After he welcomed me to China, I realized that I had not yet designed an identity for the new DoorButler® brand. Several hours later, I created a prelim retail product identity.
"Attention Shoppers.... There's a DoorButler® loose in isle 5!"
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Third US Hardware Mfg Confirms Potential
May 07, 2004
During a confidential discussion with yet another US mfg of door and related hardware, they too now admit the "probability" of what I have been elaborating since 1996.
When I started RA Products Co, I wrote a specific plan towards redefining, perhaps even capturing the competitive closer market by first improving the device to create a new standard.
Out of frustration, I began the project committed to never again purchase another closer just to replace the failing check tab. I've always knew the problem was unnecessary and fixable.
Obviously, my job wasn't finished because I now understand that the RedThing™ needed MagChek™ to finally get the industry's attention, which I do gratefully appreciate.
"I never imagined.... I just realized".
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Secret: A Check For External Trigger Sources
May 01, 2004
My original check invention from 1996, describes a mechanism that applies more than two friction points to a rod for controlling objects such as doors.
Now other devices such as clamps, tools, buckles, and caulk guns can be improved by utilizing a non-variable trigger which controls with external sources such as cams, levers, and springs.
Due to great interest recently expressed by many industries, I must present this disclosure now despite that no Pat. Pend. has been specified, perhaps not at all required.
I confidently state that I am the sole inventor, as no other devices have been determined to comprise my concepts!
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Caulking Gun Coming Soon?
April 22, 2004
Caulking guns are devices which operate similar to door closers. They use a simple rod & friction check to dispense the caulk when the trigger is drawn.
Our check invention creates a caulk gun which could maintain immediate and continual pressure even after the trigger is released for the next stroke. Thus, the bead could remain a constant throughout the entire draw.
Recent inquires from the industry has been positive, as requests for samples from several companies include a leading US manufacturer.
The "Bead" Goes On™!
R. Alonso/RAPCO
Overwhelming Response to MagChek™!
April 18,2004
MagChek™ was initially mass-introduced to many door and hardware companies beginning on March 18, 2004. I am grateful to report that the immediate response from numerous industry leading companies has been stunning!
Requests have been mostly from door & hardware companies located in the US, Canada, UK, Central Europe, India, Australia, and China.
Concerning prototypes, CAD drawings are under development for a "retrofit" MagChek™ Premier12 (d1.25"), and Premier15 (d1.50"). Hopefully samples soon thereafter. Admittedly, I would prefer that a superior DoorButler® closer be manufactured into any existing line.
Please note that I am establishing legal counsel to assist with this venture, perhaps to expedite its direction.
Storm and screen doors have one thing which has captivated my interest since 1996: the need for an improved door closer!
Thank you, and good fortune to all.
R. Alonso/RAPCO
US Pats & Pats Pend.: US.D395,995; US.D425,776; US.D425,399; US.5,829,098; US.5,953,789; US.6,032,331; US.6,397,431; US.6,640,387 . Door Butler®; The RedThing™; Charlie™; MagChek™; Premier™; Ultra™; Retro™; the reddish colored hold-open tab; and others are trademarks of R.A. Products Co. Inc., Denver, CO USA. Copyright © 1996-2005 RAPCO™ & Ricardo Alonso. Website by RAPCO