How to add magnets to hold a screen door with self-closer?

[Noyade]

We had an OT (Occupational Therapist) assess our house and address issues where my wife, Julie, is struggling.

One area which we examined was screen doors with pneumatic closers - they tend to 'catch' her when she is entering/exiting.

The OT proposed magnetic devices (Maybe These? ) from the ceiling. On the ground they would be tripping hazards.

Would these magnets hold a screen door with a self-closer?

Any thoughts/suggestions welcome.

Cheers.

Hopefully off to Bunnings today to look.

[EricL]

Hello @AlanM52 

How about adding a pivot arm to the door? This will offset the swinging action and save you from having to build anything complicated.

Eric

[Noyade]

Well, I appreciate all the thoughts and ideas.

Thank you.

But at tools down time - 1800 hrs - I have made some progress with the OT's original idea.

Hopefully weld tomorrow.

The excessively long steel plate holding the steel ball - is just in case the magnetic 'grip' is too strong (I suspect not) and then I can move it to the left.

Trial and error.

Cheers.

[AlanM52]

Thanks... I will look into that.

[Noyade]

Glass of wine.

Another doodle.

And what I'm working with...

New magnet position...

[AlanM52]

Glad to see you are making progress...

This year via family and friends I am becoming more involved in the old age thing and developed a interest in disability tech solutions.

@Noyade gave me the idea for the one below to reduce the physical effort for a elderly lady to let her dog out for toilet business.

Hopefully it will work out and she can monitor the back door via a wi-fi camera with Amazon Echo Show in lounge and bedroom.

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Tomorrow I will replace the plywood arm with a steel rod and eye screw.

Cheers

[Noyade]

Hello @Noyade 

"I have made some progress with the OT's original idea.

Actually, you didn't. Today has proven to be a semi-disaster or sorts.

The magnet I purchased is of 'amazing' magnetic strength. In the location I had it, seen above - you almost have to rip/distort the door to free it.

I tried the magnet at mid-door width - same problem.

One thing is certain - it will definitely overcome the tension of the pneumatic door closer - and I have the jumbo version.

Different magnet maybe?