Impingeable gate system and apparatus

Abstract

An example impingeable gate system disclosed herein includes a track coupled to a foundation pillar; a driving belt that is slidable along the rail; a rail comprising a tube, the rail moving together with the drive belt relative to the rail between an open position and a closed position; and a bracket disposed within the rail, the bracket for coupling the rail bar to the drive belt, the bracket being disposed within the base column when the rail bar is in the closed position.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This patent claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 511,124, filed June 29, 2023, entitled "Impactable Gate System and Apparatus". The entire contents of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 511,124 are incorporated herein by reference. Priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 511,124 is claimed. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to gates, and more specifically, to impact-resistant gate systems and devices. Background Technology

[0004] Gates are used in a variety of industrial environments to selectively allow access to specific areas. For example, gates (e.g., vertically retractable gates) can be installed at loading docks where vehicles (e.g., forklifts) load / unload goods from trailers. The gates can open to allow entry as vehicles approach the loading dock. Attached Figure Description

[0005] FIG. 1A This is a front cross-sectional view of an example impact gate in the closed position, based on the teachings disclosed herein.

[0006] FIG. 1B yes FIG. 1A A perspective view of an impact-resistant gate.

[0007] FIG. 1C It is in the open position. FIG. 1A A perspective view of an impact-resistant gate.

[0008] FIG. 1D It is along FIG. 1A The line A–A intercepts FIG. 1A A cross-sectional side view of the track of an impact-resistant gate.

[0009] FIG. 1E It is along FIG. 1A The line C–C intercepted in the middle FIG. 1A A top view of the cross-section of the track of the impact gate.

[0010] FIG. 2A yes FIG. 1A A partial perspective view of an impact-resistant gate.

[0011] FIG. 2B Some components have been omitted. FIG. 2A A partial perspective view of an impact-resistant gate.

[0012] FIG. 3 yes FIG. 2AA front view of a section of an impact-resistant gate.

[0013] FIG. 4 yes FIG. 1A A front view of the rails of an impact gate.

[0014] FIG. 5 yes FIG. 4 A and FIG. 4 Perspective view of the support (brace) of rail B.

[0015] FIG. 6A yes FIG. 1A A perspective view of the cross-section of another rail of the impact gate.

[0016] FIG. 6B yes FIG. 6A A front view of the cross-section of the rail.

[0017] FIG. 7A The track is presented as a phantom. FIG. 1A A perspective view of the bracket of an impact-resistant gate.

[0018] FIG. 7B It is along FIG. 1A The line B–B in the middle is intercepted FIG. 7A A top view of the bracket.

[0019] FIG. 8A Before the impact from the vehicle FIG. 7A A bottom view of the bracket.

[0020] FIG. 8B During the impact from the vehicle FIG. 7A A bottom view of the bracket.

[0021] FIG. 9A The first track has been omitted. FIG. 1A A side view of the trolley of an impact gate.

[0022] FIG. 9B It omits the column rail tube and related tracks. FIG. 9A A perspective view of the carriage.

[0023] FIG. 10A It is in a non-impact state. FIG. 1A A top view of an impact-resistant gate.

[0024] FIG. 10B It is in a state of impact. FIG. 1A A top view of an impact-resistant gate.

[0025] FIG. 11A This is a perspective view of a second example of an impact gate, based on the teachings disclosed herein.

[0026] FIG. 11B yes FIG. 11A The front view of the second impact gate.

[0027] FIG. 12A This is a perspective view of a third example of an impact gate, based on the teachings disclosed herein.

[0028] FIG. 12B yes FIG. 12A The front view of the third impact gate.

[0029] FIG. 13A This is a perspective view of the fourth example of an impact gate, based on the teachings disclosed herein.

[0030] FIG. 13B yes FIG. 13A The front view of the fourth impact gate.

[0031] FIG. 14A It is possible FIG. 11A The second impact gate and / or FIG. 13A A perspective view of another example bracket implemented in the fourth impactable gate.

[0032] FIG. 14B yes FIG. 14A A top view of the bracket.

[0033] FIG. 15A yes FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B The bracket and another example carriage bottom perspective view.

[0034] FIG. 15B yes FIG. 15A Side perspective view of the bracket and carriage.

[0035] FIG. 15C and FIG. 15D yes FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B Other bottom perspective views of the brackets and carriages.

[0036] FIG. 16 These are front views of the fifth and sixth example impactable gates, based on the teachings disclosed herein.

[0037] FIG. 17 yes FIG. 16 Perspective view of the fifth and sixth impact gates.

[0038] FIG. 18 It includes example brush seals. FIG. 16 and / or FIG. 17 A partial perspective view of the sixth impact gate.

[0039] FIG. 19 yes FIG. 16 and / or FIG. 17 A partial front view of the sixth impact gate.

[0040] FIG. 20 This is a perspective view of an example aisle rail configuration based on the teachings disclosed in this article.

[0041] FIG. 21 yes FIG. 20 A side view of an example aisle rail configuration.

[0042] FIG. 22 This is a perspective view of an example straight rail configuration based on the teachings disclosed in this article.

[0043] FIG. 23 yes FIG. 22 The example straight rail configuration is shown in the front view.

[0044] FIG. 24 This is a perspective view of an example corral rail configuration based on the teachings disclosed in this article.

[0045] FIG. 25 yes FIG. 24 A side view of an example circular track configuration.

[0046] FIG. 26 This is a perspective view of an example multi-corral rail configuration based on the teachings disclosed in this article.

[0047] Some examples are illustrated in the accompanying drawings above and are described in detail below. In describing these examples, the same or identical reference numerals are used to identify the same or similar elements. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and for clarity and / or brevity, some features and views in the drawings may be shown at an enlarged scale or as schematic diagrams. Furthermore, several other examples are described in this specification. Any feature in any example may be included in, substituted for, or otherwise combined with other features in other examples.

[0048] As used herein, to describe any component as being located on (e.g., positioned on, disposed on, formed on, attached to, etc.) another component means that the referenced component is in contact with the other component, or that the referenced component is spaced apart from the other component, with one or more intermediate components located between the referenced component and the other component. To describe any component as being in contact with the other component means that there are no intermediate components between the two components. Unless otherwise stated, connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, joining, combining, separating, disconnecting, detaching, separating, etc.) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between a series of elements and relative movement between elements. As used herein, the term "disconnectable" refers to the ability of two components to be attached, joined, and / or otherwise combined, and then separated, disconnected, and / or otherwise separated from each other without damage (e.g., by removing one or more fasteners, removing connecting parts, etc.). Therefore, connection / disconnection references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in a permanently fixed relationship with each other.

[0049] When identifying multiple elements or components that can be individually mentioned, descriptive terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used herein. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on the context of their use, these descriptive terms are not intended to assign any priority, physical order or arrangement in a list, or chronological order, but merely serve as labels to refer to multiple elements or components separately to facilitate understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptive term "first" may be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, while the same element may be referred to by different descriptive terms (such as "second" or "third") in the claims. In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptive terms are used only for convenience in referring to multiple elements or components. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The example impact-resistant gate systems or devices disclosed herein are capable of withstanding impacts from industrial vehicles. Furthermore, the example gates disclosed herein can be electrically powered. For example, the disclosed impact-resistant gates can open and close automatically based on input signals (e.g., remote signals, motion detection, etc.) to an operating system including a motor. Alternatively, the disclosed impact-resistant gates can be opened and / or closed manually. In some examples, the impact-resistant gates disclosed herein are vertically acting gates, wherein the impact-resistant gate moves vertically (e.g., substantially orthogonal to the ground) between an open position and a closed position. In some examples, the magnitude of the force that the impact-resistant gate can withstand can be modified depending on the configuration of the rail and column assemblies.

[0051] The example impact-resistant gates disclosed herein include one or more example rails to selectively block traffic through the impact-resistant gate and / or allow traffic to pass through it. In some examples, the impact-resistant gate includes example supports (e.g., support assemblies) within the rails to enhance the strength of the rails in the vertical direction (e.g., substantially orthogonal to the floor) while allowing the rails to be flexible in the horizontal direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the floor and orthogonal to the vertical direction). In some examples, the supports are constructed from circular tube segments attached to flat material. The circular tubes can be used to facilitate the positioning of the support assembly within the rails, and the flat material can be oriented along the rails in a vertical plane (e.g., substantially orthogonal to the floor) to provide strength in the vertical direction. Due to the relatively small thickness of the flat material in the horizontal direction (e.g., relative to the vertical direction), the flat material is able to flex without breaking and / or permanently deforming. In some examples, the configuration of the support assembly can vary depending on the size and / or length of the rails.

[0052] The example impact-resistant gates disclosed herein include one or more example brackets to provide a connection between the rail and the post. For example, the rail may be coupled (e.g., pinned) to the bracket, and the bracket may be attached to a drive belt and / or another object that moves the rail. In some examples, when the rail is impacted, the bracket is fitted within the post to create a load-bearing support, and the bracket is free to move from the post. In some examples, when the rail is impacted, the bracket contacts the post to inhibit bending of the rail and / or limit forward movement of the impacting vehicle. In some examples, the pinned connection between the rail and the bracket provides flexibility to the rail, which increases the impact force that the example impact-resistant gate can withstand (e.g., before breakage and / or deformation).

[0053] The example impactable gates disclosed herein include example carriages (e.g., spring-loaded carriages) for guiding rails along a track. In some examples, the carriage can hold the rails in position as the impactable gate moves between an raised position (e.g., open position, de-blocking position) and a lowered position (e.g., closed position, blocking position). Furthermore, the carriage enables additional movement of the rails during impact. In some examples, the carriage is located inside the primary channel of the track, and the carriage is located inside a secondary channel of the track, where the secondary track is inside the primary channel. In some examples, the carriage is located outside the track, but is positioned within a column when the rails are in the lowered (e.g., blocking) position.

[0054] FIG. 1A This is a cross-sectional front view of an example impactable gate (e.g., a first impactable gate) 100 according to the teachings disclosed herein. Furthermore, FIG. 1B yesFIG. 1A A perspective view of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B In the example shown, the impact gate 100 is shown in the closed position (e.g., blocking position, lowered position). FIG. 1C Is it like this? FIG. 1B The same perspective view of the impact gate shown, the difference being... FIG. 1C The impactable gate 100 is shown in the open position (e.g., the unblocked position, the raised position). FIG. 1D It is along FIG. 1A The cross-sectional side view of the track of the impact gate 100, taken by line A–A in the figure. FIG. 1E It is along FIG. 1A The line C–C intercepted in the middle FIG. 1A A top view of the cross-section of the track of the impact gate.

[0055] In some examples, FIG. 1A to FIG. 1E The impact-resistant gate 100 can be implemented as an impact-resistant gate system and / or device. In some examples, the impact-resistant gate 100 can be used in factories, hardware stores, aircraft hangars, machine shops, warehouses, material handling facilities, and / or other industrial or commercial environments. For example, the impact-resistant gate 100 can be positioned (e.g., installed, mounted, etc.) at and / or near a fence to securely control access to specific racks and / or equipment. In some examples, the impact-resistant gate 100 can be located at one or more entrances to intersections, loading docks, and / or other areas associated with traffic of industrial vehicles (e.g., forklifts, pallet stackers, tractors, electric lifts, etc.).

[0056] exist FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C In the example shown, the impact gate 100 includes example column rails (e.g., first rails) 102 and example track rails 104 (e.g., second rails) 104 to selectively block traffic passing through the impact gate 100. For example, when the impact gate 100 is in... FIG. 1A and / or FIG. 1B When in the closed position, rails 102 and 104 can block and / or restrict traffic through the impact gate 100, and when the impact gate 100 is in the closed position... FIG. 1C When in the open position, rails 102 and 104 enable traffic to pass through the impact gate 100. In some examples, the column rails 102 and track rails 104 are flexible (e.g., elastically deformable) to reduce damage in the event of an impact. In some examples, the column rails 102 and track rails 104 are capable of withstanding impacts or collisions from vehicles traveling at operating speeds (e.g., 5 mph, 10 mph, 15 mph, etc.) without deforming, shifting, breaking, or otherwise being damaged.

[0057] In some examples, the column rail 102 is configured to bear most of the force of the impact on the impactable gate 100 and to transfer the impact force to example base columns 122, 124 anchored to the floor or ground (e.g., FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C (As shown). Therefore, the post rail 102 is also referred to herein as an impact support rail. Conversely, in some examples, the rail 104 is not designed to withstand significant impact forces. Instead, the rail 104 is configured to elastically deform in response to an impact in a manner that reduces (e.g., minimizes) the transmission of the impact force to the rails 106, 108 supporting the rail 104. Therefore, in some examples, the rail 104 is positioned at an appropriate height (e.g., approximately 42 inches from the floor, less than or greater than 42 inches from the floor, etc.) to serve as a protective rail rather than to withstand impact forces. Therefore, the rail 104 is also referred to herein as a protective rail.

[0058] The example impact gate 100 shown is vertically actuated to allow traffic (e.g., vehicles and / or operators) to pass through it. The impact gate 100 includes a first example track 106 and a second example track 108, positioned along a longitudinal axis (e.g., a vertical axis) 105A in a blocking position (e.g., a closed position, a lowered position) 110A (e.g., as shown in the image). FIG. 1B (as shown) and the unblocking position (e.g., open position, raised position) 110B (as shown) FIG. 1C The guide rail 102 and track rail 104 are positioned between the guide rails (shown). In other words, the guide rail 102 and track rail 104 can move up or down along the first track 106 and the second track 108. In this example, the first track 106 is similar to the second track 108. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description of the first track 106 also applies to the second track 108. In some examples, the first track 106 may be made of a metallic material (e.g., aluminum, aluminum alloy, steel alloy, etc.).

[0059] In the example shown, based on FIG. 1B and FIG. 1C The rotation of shaft 112 causes column rail 102 and track rail 104 to... FIG. 1A and / or FIG. 1B The blocking position 110A to FIG. 1C The shaft 112 can move between the release position 110B. In some examples, the shaft 112 can be rotated based on a power drive (e.g., motor drive) control system operably coupled to the shaft 112. Therefore, in some examples, the impact gate 100 can be automatically opened and / or closed. In some examples, the column rail 102 and track rail 104 can be raised to [a certain position] based on control signals (e.g., from a remote control and / or other devices). FIG. 1CThe release position 110A. For example, the impact-resistant gate 100 may include one or more motion sensors (not shown) capable of detecting movement and / or objects (e.g., people, vehicles, etc.) at or near the impact-resistant gate 100, and capable of signaling the motor and / or other drive system to rotate the shaft 112 when at least one of the people, objects, or vehicles approaches the rails 102, 104. FIG. 11A to FIG. 13B Further examples of motor-driven impact gates are provided. Alternatively, shaft 112 can be rotated by manual operation, such as via cranks, pulleys, levers, etc.

[0060] In some examples, the impact-resistant gate 100 may include different numbers, combinations, and / or arrangements of post rails 102 and track rails 104. For example, the impact-resistant gate 100 may include two or more rails similar to the post rails 102 positioned below the track rails 104. In some examples, the impact-resistant gate 100 may include two or more post rails 102 and two or more track rails 104. Alternatively, the impact-resistant gate 100 may omit one of the post rails 102 or the track rails 104. (The following is in conjunction with...) FIG. 11A to FIG. 13B Further examples of impact gates are described in accordance with the teachings disclosed herein.

[0061] As in FIG. 1A , FIG. 1D and FIG. 1E As most clearly shown, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes a first example drive belt 114 and a second example drive belt 116 to move rails 102, 104 along a first track 106 and a second track 108. The first drive belt 114 is movable along the first track 106 (e.g., slidable), and the second drive belt 116 is movable along the second track 108 (e.g., slidable). In this example, the first drive belt 114 is similar to the second drive belt 116. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description relating to the first drive belt 114 is equally applicable to the second drive belt 116.

[0062] In some examples, the first drive strip 114 corresponds to a flat strip or edge extending along the example length. In this example, the first drive strip 114 has a width smaller than the width of the first track 106, such that the entire width of the first drive strip 114 can be kept within the first track 106. In some examples, the first drive strip 114 may protrude beyond the first track 106. (As in...) FIG. 1A and FIG. 1DAs most clearly shown in the illustrated example, the impactable gate 100 includes example protrusions 118 distributed along the length of the first drive belt 114 to engage example drive gears (e.g., sprockets) 119 rotatably coupled to the shaft 112. In some examples, the drive gear 119 includes recesses to receive the protrusions 118. In some examples, the drive gear 119 includes teeth and / or grooves to interlock with the protrusions 118 of the first drive belt 114. Thus, rotation of the drive gear 119 via the shaft 112 causes the first drive belt 114 (and therefore the rails 102, 104 coupled thereto) to move along the first track 106. Therefore, the first drive belt 114 can be referred to as a positive band driven based on the shaft 112 and the drive gear 119.

[0063] Furthermore, in some examples, the protrusion 118 can be used to retain the first drive belt 114 within the first track 106. More specifically, the protrusion 118 protrudes from the surface of the drive belt 114 to engage with and / or be retained by an example subtrack 120 (e.g., a relatively smaller track) inside the first track 106 (e.g., a relatively larger track), such as... FIG. 1E The most clearly shown example is the drive belt 114, which guides the rails 102, 104 between the closed position 110A and the open position 110B based on the engagement of the protrusion 118 with the secondary rail 120. In this example, the secondary rail 120 is coupled to the first inner surface 107A and the second inner surface 107B of the first rail 106. In some examples, the secondary rail 120 is formed within the first rail 106 (e.g., by casting). Thus, the rail 106 surrounds the secondary rail 120. In some examples, the rail 106 and the secondary rail 120 are separate structures positioned adjacent to each other.

[0064] In some examples, the first drive belt 114 corresponds to a belt drive mechanism driven based on a shaft 112 and at least two gears (e.g., drive gear 119 and at least one other drive gear). In some examples, the first drive belt 114 may be made of a flexible material such as rubber, leather, nylon, etc. While flexibility allows the drive belt 114 to bend around the drive gear 119, in some examples, the first drive belt 114 is rigid enough to be pulled or pushed through the track 106 based on the direction of rotation of the shaft 112 and / or the gears and / or based on the position of the first drive belt 114 relative to the shaft 112 and the drive gear 119. In some examples, the protrusion 118 may be made of a plastic material such as polymers, acrylics, composites, etc.

[0065] In the example shown, the column rail 102 and track rail 104 are coupled to a first drive belt 114. Therefore, when the first drive belt 114 is driven by the shaft 112, the column rail 102 and track rail 104 move relative to the first track 106 between an unblocked position 110B and a blocking position 110A. In some examples, the first drive belt 114 causes the column rail 102 and track rail 104 to travel together (e.g., synchronously) along the first track 106. In some examples, the first drive belt 114 moves through one or more channels (e.g., secondary tracks 120) within the first track 106, as described below. FIG. 1D and FIG. 1E Further discussion is needed.

[0066] exist FIG. 1B and / or FIG. 1C In the example shown, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes an example rod (e.g., a support rod) 121, which is coupled to a first rail 106 and a second rail 108 to provide support to the impact-resistant gate 100 and / or enhance its stability during operation. For example, rod 121 can transmit movement (e.g., swaying, oscillation, vibration, etc.) from the first rail 106 to the second rail 108 to dampen the overall movement of the impact-resistant gate 100. In some examples, FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C The first track 106 and the second track 108 are spaced apart along an example transverse axis (e.g., a horizontal axis) 105B based on the positions of the first base post 122 and the second base post 124. Therefore, the first base post 122 and the second base post 124 define an example distance 125 along which the rod 121 extends between the first track 106 and the second track 108. In some examples, the rod 121 may be extendable and / or retractable to conform to the distance 125. Thus, the first base post 122 and the second base post 124 can be installed at variable-sized access points (e.g., intersections, doorways, mezzanines, platforms, etc.). Furthermore, in some examples, after the first base post 122 and the second base post 124 are installed, the rod 121 can be coupled to the first track 106 and the second track 108.

[0067] exist FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C In the example shown, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes a first base post 122 and a second base post 124 for mounting and / or securing the position and / or orientation of the impact-resistant gate 100 (e.g., relative to floor 130). A first track 106 is attached to the first base post 122, and a second track 108 is attached to the second base post 124. The first base post 122 is similar to the second base post 124. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description of the first base post 122 also applies to the second base post 124. In some examples, the first base post 122 may be made of a metallic material such as steel or iron, which has a higher strength than the first track 106.

[0068] exist FIG. 1A In the example shown, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes a first example bracket 126 to be disposed within a first track 106 and a second example bracket 128 to be disposed within a second track 108. The first bracket 126 is similar to the second bracket 128. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description of the first bracket 126 also applies to the second bracket 128. In this example, the first bracket 126 is used to connect the column rail 102 to the first drive belt 114. Furthermore, when the column rail 102 is in the blocking position 110A, the first bracket 126 will be disposed within the first base post 122. (As in conjunction with...) FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B Further described, the first bracket 126 presses against (e.g., abuts, interfaces, etc.) the first rail 106 and the first base post 122 in response to an impact force acting on the post rail 102. That is, the first bracket 126 will be pushed against the first base post 122 in response to the impact with the post rail 102.

[0069] In some examples, the first base post 122 may be fastened (e.g., bolted, welded, etc.) to the floor 130 to bear the loads applied to the post rail 102 and the track rail 104. That is, when a vehicle impacts the rails 102, 104, the impact force is transmitted to the first base post 122, and thus to the floor 130 on which the first base post 122 is mounted. More specifically, the force applied to the post rail 102 is transmitted to the first base post 122 via the first bracket 126. Additionally, the force applied to the track rail 104 is transmitted to the first base post 122 via the first track 106. However, in some examples, the track rail 104 is configured to deform and / or adjust its shape in response to impact, such that little or no impact force is transmitted to the first track 106.

[0070] exist FIG. 1D and FIG. 1EIn the example shown, the first track 106 includes a secondary track 120 disposed within the first track 106. For illustrative purposes, the first track 106 is referred to herein as the main track defining an example main channel (e.g., first channel) 132, and the secondary track 120 is referred herein as the secondary track defining an example secondary channel (e.g., second channel) 134. The impactable gate 100 includes a secondary channel 134 to guide a first drive belt 114 along the first track 106. A protrusion 118 such that the first drive belt 114 is held within the secondary channel 134 of the first track 106. In some examples, the track 106 surrounds and / or covers the free edge 135 of the drive belt 114, wherein the free edge 135 of the drive belt 114 protrudes from the secondary channel 134 into the main channel 132. Furthermore, in some examples, a first bracket 126 moves along the first track 106 within the main channel 132 and outside the secondary channel 134. Thus, the first bracket 126 will be held within the main channel 132 of the first track 106.

[0071] exist FIG. 1D and / or FIG. 1E In the example shown, the main channel 132 is oriented substantially orthogonal to the floor 130. In some examples, the secondary channels 134 of the secondary track 120 include a first portion (e.g., an ascending portion, a descending portion, etc.) 134A and a second portion (e.g., a descending portion, an ascending portion, etc.) 134B positioned adjacent to each other and oriented substantially orthogonal to the floor 130. The secondary channels 134 also include a third portion (e.g., a curved portion, a circumferential portion, etc.) 134C (e.g., a curved portion, a circumferential portion, etc.). FIG. 1D As shown), the third portion 134C surrounds a portion of the drive gear 119 of the impact gate 100 and connects the first portion 134A and the second portion 134B to define a continuous path of the drive belt 114, wherein the continuous path extends along the first portion 134A, around the third portion 134C, and along the second portion 134C adjacent to the first portion 134A. In some examples, rotation of the shaft 112 and the drive gear 119 causes the first drive belt 114 to move along a continuous path defined in the secondary channel 134.

[0072] In some examples, shaft 112 can cause drive gear 119 to travel in a first direction 136A (e.g., FIG. 1D Rotate clockwise (as in the middle) so that the column rail 102 and the track rail 104 move from the blocking position 110A (e.g., clockwise) to the blocking position 110A. FIG. 1A and / or FIG. 1B (As shown) Move to the unblocking position 110B (as shown) FIG. 1C (As shown). Conversely, shaft 112 can cause drive gear 119 to travel in the second direction 136B (e.g., FIG. 1DRotate counterclockwise (as in the middle) so that the column rail 102 and the track rail 104 move from the disengaged position 110B (as in the middle). FIG. 1C (As shown) Move to the blocking position 110A (as shown) FIG. 1A and / or FIG. 1B (As shown). More specifically, the drive gear 119 along... FIG. 1D The rotation in the first direction 136A FIG. 1D The first drive belt 114 is fed upward in the upward direction (e.g., the first vertical direction) 138A through the first portion 134A, and... FIG. 1D The downward direction (e.g., the second vertical direction) 138B passes through the second part 134B. Conversely, the drive gear 119 along... FIG. 1D The rotation in the second direction 136B FIG. 1D The upward direction 138A feeds the first drive belt 114 through the second part 134B, and in the direction of upward feed. FIG. 1D The first portion 134A passes through the downward direction 138B. The impact gate 100 includes a protrusion 118 to hold the first drive belt 114 within the secondary track 120.

[0073] In some examples, the second portion 134B of the secondary channel 134 is not orthogonal to the floor 130. Instead, the second portion 134B can be accessed from the third portion 134C along... FIG. 1D Forward direction (e.g., first horizontal direction) 138C FIG. 2A The second portion 134B extends in a rearward direction (e.g., a second horizontal direction) 138D and / or any other suitable direction. Thus, in some examples, the second portion 134B may be aligned with and / or substantially parallel to the floor 130. In such examples, the first track 106 and / or another housing may extend horizontally to support the second portion 134B of the secondary channel 134.

[0074] FIG. 1A yes FIG. 2A A partial perspective view of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 2A In the example shown, the column rail 102 includes a first example tube 202, and the track rail 104 includes a second example tube 204. FIG. 2B For clarity, some surfaces of the first base pillar 122 have been omitted. Furthermore, FIG. 2A The first tube 202 and the second tube 204 are omitted. FIG. 2A A partial perspective view of an impact-resistant gate.

[0075] exist FIG. 2BIn the example shown, the first tube 202 and the second tube 204 are made of an elastic plastic material such as a polymer. Therefore, the first tube 202 and the second tube 204 can bend and / or deform based on an impact on the impactable gate 100, and in some examples, can return to their initial shape. For example, the first tube 202 can elastically deform (e.g., without destructive damage) and return to its original shape and / or position. In some examples, the material of the first tube 202 is selected based on the expected mass and / or momentum of the impacting vehicle. For example, the material can be selected such that the bogie 102 is capable of elastically deforming in response to an impact from a vehicle having a critical weight (e.g., 9000 pounds) and traveling at a critical speed (e.g., 15 mph), and is able to return to its pre-impact position after the vehicle reverses.

[0076] exist FIG. 1A In the example shown, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes a first example anchoring sleeve (e.g., a first sleeve) 206 for connecting the post rail 102 to the first drive belt 114 and a second drive belt 116 for connecting the post rail 102 to the second drive belt 116. FIG. 2A A second example anchoring sleeve (e.g., a second sleeve) 208. In some examples, the first anchoring sleeve 206 will be attached at the first end 210 of the post rail 102 to... FIG. 2A The first tube 202, and the second anchoring sleeve 208 will be connected to the second end 212 of the column rail 102 opposite to the first end 210. FIG. 2B The first tube 202. The first anchoring sleeve 206 is similar to the second anchoring sleeve 208. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description of the first anchoring sleeve 206 is equally applicable to the second anchoring sleeve 208.

[0077] exist FIG. 1A In the example shown, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes a rail 104 for connecting to a first drive belt 114. FIG. 1A The first example is the sliding sleeve 214, and the one used to connect the track rail 104 to the second drive belt 116. FIG. 2A The second example is the sliding sleeve 216. In some examples, the first sliding sleeve 214 will be coupled to the first end 218 of the track rail 104. FIG. 2A The second tube 204, and the second sliding sleeve 216 will be connected at the second end 220 of the track rail 104 (e.g., opposite to the first end 218) to FIG. 2B The second tube 204. The first sliding sleeve 214 is similar to the second sliding sleeve 216. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description of the first sliding sleeve 214 can also be applied to the second sliding sleeve 216.

[0078] exist FIG. 2AIn the example shown, the first anchoring sleeve 206 is connected to a plurality of fasteners 224, such as bolts, pins, rivets, etc. FIG. 2A The first tube 202. Therefore, in some examples, FIG. 4 The first tube 202 is fixedly connected or rigidly anchored to the first anchor sleeve 206, such that the first end 210 of the first tube 202 does not move relative to the first anchor sleeve 206. Conversely, the track rail 104 is based on at least one slotted hole (described below in conjunction with...). FIG. 2A (Further description) and connected to the first sliding sleeve 214. Therefore, in some examples, FIG. 3 The second tube 204 is slidably connected to the first sliding sleeve 214, such that the first end 218 of the tube 204 can move or translate relative to the sliding sleeve 214. In some examples, the second tube 204 can rotate relative to the first sliding sleeve 214.

[0079] FIG. 1A to FIG. 1C yes FIG. 3 A front view of a section of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 3 In the example shown, the first tube 202 of the column rail 102 has a first example outer diameter (OD) 306 and a first example inner diameter (ID) 308. Furthermore, the second tube 204 has a second example OD 310 and a second example ID 312. In some examples, the strength and / or ductility of the first tube 202 and the second tube 204 are based on their respective ODs 306, 310 and / or their respective IDs 308, 312. For example, in... FIG. 5 In this configuration, because the first OD 306 is greater than the second OD 310, the first tube 202 has greater material strength relative to the second tube 204. In some examples, the track rail 104 includes an example support (e.g., a support assembly) 314 disposed within the second tube 204 to improve the bending strength of the track rail 104 along the longitudinal axis 105A. In some examples, the column rail 102 may include a similar support. FIG. 3 Further description of the bracket 314 is provided.

[0080] exist FIG. 1DIn the example shown, when the impact-prone gate 100 is in the blocking position 110A, the column rail 102 is located at a first example height 316 relative to the floor 130 (e.g., along the longitudinal axis 105A), and the track rail 104 is located at a second example height 318 relative to the floor 130 (e.g., along the longitudinal axis 105A). In this example, the second height 318 is greater than the first height 316. The track rail 104 is spaced apart from the column rail 102 along the longitudinal axis 105A by a third example height 320. In some examples, the first height 316 corresponds to the height at which the column rail 102 is expected to engage with an object that may impact the column rail 102 (e.g., a forklift and / or other vehicle). In some examples, the second height 318 corresponds to the height of the guard rail (e.g., 42 inches). However, in other examples, the second height 318 may be less than or greater than the height of a typical guard rail (e.g., less than or greater than 42 inches).

[0081] In some examples, the column rail 102 is coupled to a first end (e.g., the bottom end) 322 of the first drive belt 114. Thus, in some examples, the length of the first drive belt 114 and its position relative to the drive gear 119 when in the closed position are... FIG. 4 The position of the track rail 104 defines the first height 316. Alternatively, the track rail 102 may be coupled to another point along the length of the first drive belt 114 to adjust the first height 316 (e.g., based on the expected height of a vehicle expected to pass through the impact gate 100). Similarly, the second height 318 and therefore the third height 320 may be adjusted based on the point where the track rail 104 is coupled to the first drive belt 114. In the example shown, the third height 320 is greater than the first height 316. However, in some examples, the third height 320 may be less than or equal to the first height 316.

[0082] FIG. 1A to FIG. 1E yes FIG. 4 A front view of the first end 218 of the track rail 104 of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 1A In the example shown, the second tube 204, the first sliding sleeve 214, and the first track 106 are shown in silhouette. The sliding sleeve 214 of the track 104 is fixedly connected to the perforated plate 402, and the perforated plate 402 is connected to the first drive belt 114. The impact-resistant gate 100 includes the perforated plate 402 to provide relatively easy assembly. For example, depending on the spacing of the base posts 122, 124, the first base post 122 is installed using different holes in the perforated plate 402. FIG. 1A Afterwards, the track rail 104 can be coupled (e.g., selectively coupled) to the perforated plate 402. Therefore, before the track rail 104 is installed, the impact gate 100 can have a variable total width (e.g., FIG. 4(Distance 125). In some examples, the range of the total width is based on the length of the perforated plate 402.

[0083] exist FIG. 4 In the example shown, the second tube 204 is slidably connected to the sliding sleeve 214 at the first end 218 of the track rail 104. In some examples, the second tube 204 may slide or translate along the sliding sleeve 214 (e.g., away from the first track 106) in response to an impact. For example, when a vehicle collides with the impactable gate 100 in the closed position 110A, the track rail 104 may bend and / or extend in the direction of the moving vehicle. Thus, the track rail 104 may “extend” while the column rail 102 operates to stop the vehicle. As described above, in some examples, the column rail 102 bears most of the load from the impacting vehicle (e.g., compared to the track rail 104). For this purpose, the column rail 102 operates to stop the vehicle while the track rail 104 bends and / or translates along the sliding sleeve 214. In some examples, after full bending or extension and / or after the impact load on the column rail 102 has been reduced, the track rail 104 shares the load with the column rail 102. Therefore, in some examples, the sliding sleeve 214 reduces the load on the track rail 104 and / or reduces the amount of shear stress applied by the track rail 104 to the drive belt 114. In some examples, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes the sliding sleeve 214 so that the track rail 104 can reduce the momentum of the vehicle while reducing the load on the first track 106 and / or reducing the shear stress on the first drive belt 114.

[0084] exist FIG. 10B In the example shown, the sliding sleeve 214 includes a first example slotted hole 406 and a second example slotted hole 408. Furthermore, the second tube 204 includes a first example through hole 410 and a second example through hole 412. In some examples, the track rail 104 includes a first fastener (e.g., bolt, pin, etc.) extending through the first through hole 410 and the second through hole 412, as well as the first slotted hole 406 and the second slotted hole 408, through the second tube 204. Based on this arrangement, the second tube 204 can slide along the length of the first slotted hole 406 to provide slack to the track rail 104 upon impact. In other words, when the second tube 204 bends due to a vehicle collision with the impactable gate 100 or other impacts (e.g., ...), FIG. 4 As shown), the second tube 204 can translate along the sliding sleeve 214 to reduce strain on the first drive band 114. In some examples, besides FIG. 5 In addition to the first slotted hole 406 and the second slotted hole 408, the sliding sleeve 214 also includes one or more additional slotted holes. In some examples, the perforated plate 402 is offset from the slotted holes 406, 408 so as not to interfere with the fasteners of the sliding sleeve 214.

[0085] FIG. 3 yes FIG. 2A A perspective view of an example bracket 314 for the track rail 104. The bracket 314 will be set... FIG. 3 , FIG. 4 and / or FIG. 1A Inside the second tube 204. In this example, the support 314 includes an example central sleeve 502, a first example end sleeve 504, and a second example end sleeve 506, to extend along the track rail 104 ( FIG. 3 The length positioning bracket 314. In some examples, sleeves 502 to 506 orient the bracket 314 to be positioned substantially vertically (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the vertical plane). FIG. 1A The drive belt 114 is aligned and / or parallel to the plane of the drive belt 114. More specifically, the support 314 includes an example length 507A, an example width 507B, and an example thickness 507C. In some examples, the thickness 507C is along the track 106 ( FIG. 1D ) in the transverse direction of drive belt 114 ( FIG. 3 The support 314 extends in the direction of travel of the track rail 104. Furthermore, the support 314 includes a first example plate 508 and a second example plate 510 to provide bending support to the track rail 104. The first plate 508 is coupled between the central sleeve 502 and the first end sleeve 504, and the second plate 510 is coupled between the central sleeve 502 and the second end sleeve 506. In some examples, the first plate 508 and the second plate 510 are a single (e.g., integral, continuous) plate extending between the first end sleeve 504 and the second end sleeve 506. In other examples, the support 314 may include more than two plates and / or a different number of sleeves than shown in the illustrated examples.

[0086] In some examples, at least one of sleeves 502, 504, and 506 is secured to the second tube 204. In this example, the central sleeve 502 is secured to the second tube 204. For example, the central sleeve 502 can be fastened to the second tube 204 with one or more threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.). In the illustrated example, the central sleeve 502 can be connected to the second tube 204 based on fasteners (e.g., bolts) positioned at the lower side 512 of the bracket 314. In some examples, the first end sleeve 504 and the second end sleeve 506 will be disposed within the second tube 204 without fasteners. Therefore, the first end sleeve 504 and the second end sleeve 506 are capable of sliding or translating along the track rail 104. Thus, as the track rail 104 bends due to impact, the bracket 314 can also bend unrestricted within the second tube 204.

[0087] During the impact, the track rail 104 of the impact-capable gate 100 bends about a first example axis 515A (e.g., substantially orthogonal to the floor 130). However, the track rail 104 may also bend partially about a second example axis 515B (e.g., orthogonal to the first axis 515A and / or substantially parallel to the floor 130). For example, based on the position of the track rail 104 along the drive belt 114 and FIG. 6A At the second height 318 of B, the vehicle can slightly impact below the track rail 104. Therefore, in some examples, some bending can occur around the second axis 515B, resulting in additional stress on the sliding sleeve 214. The impact-resistant gate 100 includes a bracket 314 to reduce bending of the track rail 104 around the second axis 515B, while still allowing bending of the track rail 104 around the first axis 515A.

[0088] FIG. 1A yes FIG. 6B A perspective view of the cross-section of the first end 210 of the post rail 102 of the impact-resistant gate 100. Furthermore, FIG. 1A yes FIG. 6A A front view of the cross-section of the first end 210 of the column rail 102 of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 6B and FIG. 6A In the example shown, the first anchoring sleeve 206 is disposed inside the first tube 202. In some examples, the first anchoring sleeve 206 surrounds the first end 210 and is disposed outside the first tube 202.

[0089] exist FIG. 6B and / or FIG. 6A In the illustrated example, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes a first example plate 602 and a second example plate 604 located within a first anchoring sleeve 206. In the illustrated example, the first plate 602 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 105A and oriented substantially orthogonal to the floor 130. Furthermore, the second plate 604 is aligned with the transverse axis 105B and oriented substantially parallel to the floor 130. In some examples, the first plate 602 is fastened (e.g., welded, etc.) to the inner surface of the first anchoring sleeve 206. In some examples, the first plate 602 extends radially along the inner diameter of the first sleeve 206 and axially along the length of the first anchoring sleeve 206. In some examples, the second plate 604 is fastened (e.g., welded, etc.) to both the first anchoring sleeve 206 and the inner surface of the first plate 602.

[0090] exist FIG. 6B and / or FIG. 6AIn the example shown, a first plate 602 connects a first anchoring sleeve 206 to an example perforated plate 606, and a second plate 604 connects the first plate 602 to the first anchoring sleeve 206. In some examples, the second plate 604 is used to maintain the position and / or orientation of the first plate 602 within the first sleeve 206, while providing additional strength to the first sleeve 206.

[0091] exist FIG. 6B and / or FIG. 7A In the example shown, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes a perforated plate 606 for attaching the column rail 102 to the first bracket 126. In some examples, the perforated plate 606 includes a plurality of holes 608 that can be aligned with corresponding through holes in the first plate 602. For example, the perforated plate 606 can be attached to the first plate 602 using bolts, pins, rivets, etc. Furthermore, the plurality of holes 608 can provide relatively easy assembly of the impact-resistant gate 100 by allowing adjustment of the perforated plate 606 beyond the end of the first tube 202. In other words, the column rail 102 can be attached to the perforated plate 606 without repositioning the first base column 122.

[0092] FIG. 1A It is the first track 106 presented as a ghost image. FIG. 7B A perspective view of the first bracket 126 of the impact-resistant gate 100. Furthermore, FIG. 1A yes FIG. 7A A top view of the first bracket 126 of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 10A In the example shown, the first bracket 126 includes an example body 702 coupled to the column rail 102. In the example shown, the body 702 includes elements joined together (e.g., welded, etc.). More specifically, the body 702 of the first bracket 126 includes a first example plate 704 spaced apart from the second example plate 706. In this example, plates 704, 706 have a triangular shape. However, in other examples, plates 704, 706 may have any other suitable shape (e.g., rectangular, circular, etc.). Furthermore, the body 702 includes a first example support 708, a second example support 710, and a third example support 712 coupled to the first plate 704 and the second plate 706 (e.g., extending between the first plate 704 and the second plate 706). Alternatively or additionally, the body 702 may be a single integral component based on a manufacturing process such as machining or casting.

[0093] In the example shown, the first bracket 126 is connected to the secondary rail 120 within the first (e.g., main) rail 106. (See the following in conjunction with...) FIG. 10B , FIG. 11A and FIG. 7BAs further described in Figure 11D, the impact-resistant gate 100 includes an example carriage (e.g., a spring-loaded carriage) 720 disposed within the secondary track 120. FIG. 7B In some examples, carriage 720 can travel along secondary channel 134 ( FIG. 7B Sliding and / or rolling. In this example, the carriage 720 is coupled to the first support 708, and when the bracket 126 is guided in the secondary channel 134 via the carriage 720, the bracket 126 is able to slide and / or roll along the main channel 132 of the first track 106. FIG. 7B (Translation or sliding). Furthermore, the first bracket 126 includes an example tab 722 extending from the body 702 (e.g., the first support 708) to secure to the first drive belt 114. Thus, the bracket 126 is coupled to the first drive belt 114 and moves along the first track 106 as the first drive belt 114 moves.

[0094] exist FIG. 7B In the example shown, the first bracket 126 includes an example pin 724 within a body 702, extending between a first plate 704 and a second plate 706. Furthermore, the bracket 126 includes one or more example retaining rings 726 mounted in the first plate 704 and / or the second plate 706 to support and orient the pin 724. The retaining rings 726 allow the pin 724 to rotate relative to the bracket 126. In some examples, the retaining rings 726 include bearings (e.g., journal bearings, rolling element bearings, etc.). FIG. 8A In one example, the perforated plate 606 of the post rail 102 is connected to the pin 724. Therefore, when the first tube 202 bends due to impact, the first end 210 of the post rail 102 is rotatable. Alternatively, in some examples, the perforated plate 606 includes a tube and / or sleeve at the distal end that slides or mates around the pin 724. In such examples, the post rail 102 is rotatable relative to the pin 724 and the body 702 of the bracket 126, regardless of whether the pin 724 is rotatable relative to the body 702.

[0095] FIG. 1A It was before the impact from the vehicle. FIG. 8B A bottom view of the first bracket 126 of the impact-resistant gate 100. Furthermore, FIG. 1A It occurred during the impact from the vehicle. FIG. 8A A bottom view of the first bracket 126 of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 8B and / or FIG. 8AIn the example shown, the impactable gate 100 includes an example spring-loaded fastener 802 to connect the carriage 720 to the bracket 126. The spring-loaded fastener 802 includes an example fastener (e.g., a bolt) 804 and an example spring 806. The fastener 804 is secured to the carriage 720 and slidably connected to the bracket 126. For example, the fastener 804 can slide into and / or out of the first support 708 of the bracket 126. Furthermore, the spring 806 is disposed around a portion of the fastener 804. The spring 806 interfaces the fastener 804 and the carriage 720. In some examples, the spring 806 influences or pushes the bracket 126 toward the carriage 720 and away from the third inner surface 107C of the first track 106. That is, the spring 806 applies a force to the fastener 804 acting in a first direction 808. Therefore, under normal operation (e.g., in situations such as...), the spring 806... FIG. 8B (Before the impact with the column rail 102 shown) the bracket 126 and the third inner surface 107C of the first rail 106 remain separated. Furthermore, when the column rail 102 moves between the open and closed positions based on the spring 806, the bracket 126 will remain spaced apart from the first rail 106.

[0096] exist FIG. 1A In the example shown, the impact gate 100 experiences an impact (e.g., an impact from a vehicle) that causes the column rail 102 to bend or flex. When the column rail 102 is in the blocking position 110A ( FIG. 8B When the first bracket 126 is positioned within the first base post 122, the first bracket 126 is thus able to provide support for the post rail 102 in the event of an impact. When the post rail 102 bends, the perforated plate 606 rotates about the axis of the pin 724 (e.g., in...). FIG. 8A (Outside the page). Furthermore, the column rail 102 in the second direction 810 (e.g., with...) FIG. 8B The first bracket 126 is pulled in the opposite direction (towards the first direction 808). Therefore, the first bracket 126 is pressed against (e.g., abutted, connected, engaged, etc.) the first base post 122 based on the impact force acting on the post rail 102. That is, the bracket 126 will be pushed against the first base post 122 in response to the impact with the post rail 102. FIG. 8B The bracket 126 transfers the load from the impact to the first base column 122. For example... FIG. 9A As shown, during the impact, the spring 806 is compressed, causing the bracket 126 to move laterally (in the second direction 810) relative to the carriage 720. Therefore, the impact force can be transmitted to the base column 122 without displacing the carriage 720 from the secondary track 120.

[0097] FIG. 1A The first track 106 is omitted. FIG. 9BA side view of the carriage 720 of the impact-resistant gate 100. Furthermore, FIG. 1A For clarity, the first tube 202 of the column rail 102 and the associated main rail 106 and secondary rail 120 are omitted. FIG. 9A A perspective view of the carriage 720 of the impact-resistant gate 100. FIG. 9B and / or FIG. 9A In the example shown, the carriage 720 will be positioned within the first track 106 and connected to the bracket 126. FIG. 9B and / or FIG. 9A In the example, carriage 720 includes a secondary track 120 ( FIG. 9A The example chassis 902, first example wheel 904, and second example wheel 906 are shown within the carriage 720. In some examples, the first wheel 904 and second wheel 906 may be connected to the chassis 902 via an axle. The wheels 904 and 906 of the carriage 720 travel along the secondary channel 134. The spring-loaded fastener 802 influences the carriage 720 toward the column rail 102, causing the wheels 904 and 906 to contact the inner surface of the secondary rail 120. Therefore, the spring-loaded fastener 802 pulls the bracket 126 and the carriage 720 toward each other.

[0098] exist FIG. 9B and / or FIG. 10A In the example shown, carriage 720 includes an example platform 908 connected to chassis 902. Furthermore, carriage 720 includes a first example tab 910 and a second example tab 912 extending from chassis 902 and connected to platform 908. In some examples, a spring-loaded fastener 802 is connected to platform 908 of carriage 720. In some examples, a spring 806 is connected to platform 908 and head 914 of fastener 804. In some examples, when column rail 102 is in a non-impact position, first bracket 708 of bracket 126 contacts platform 908.

[0099] FIG. 1A It is in a non-impact state. FIG. 10B A top view of the impact-resistant gate 100. Furthermore, FIG. 1A It is in a state of impact. FIG. 10A A top view of the impact-resistant gate 100. Before the impact from a vehicle, the column rails 102 and track rails 104 are in position... FIG. 1B The unimpacted position 1002 is shown. In response to the impact from the vehicle, the column rail 102 and the track rail 104 bend to... FIG. 10B The impact location 1004 is shown. More specifically, in... FIG. 10BIn the example shown, a vehicle and / or other object (e.g., a forklift reversing into the impact gate 100) can apply an impact force 1006 to the post rails 102 and track rails 104 of the impact gate 100. In some examples, the impact force 1006 causes the post rails 102 and track rails 104 to bend. FIG. 10B In the middle, the impact force 1006 is in the first direction (e.g., in...). FIG. 10B It acts in the forward direction. In some examples, the impact gate 100 is able to withstand an impact force 1006 acting in a second direction that is different from (e.g., opposite to) the first direction. FIG. 11A As shown, since the track rail 104 slides relative to the sliding sleeves 214 and 216 used to connect the track rail 104 to the tracks 106 and 108 as described above, the end of the track rail 104 is embedded relative to the end of the column rail 102.

[0100] FIG. 11B This is a perspective view of a second example impactable gate 1100 based on the teachings disclosed herein. Furthermore, FIG. 11A yes FIG. 11A A front view of the second impactable gate 1100. In some examples, the second impactable gate 1100 can be implemented as an impactable gate system or device. FIG. 11B and / or FIG. 1A In the example shown, the second impactable gate 1100 includes FIG. 1A The impact-resistant gate 100 has column rails 102 and track rails 104. In some examples, the first base column 1102 and the second base column 1104 of the second impact-resistant gate 1100 are larger than... FIG. 1A The first base pillar 122 and the second base pillar 124. In some examples, the second impact-resistant gate 1100 can block relative to... FIG. 11A It can withstand an impact of similar strength to that of a gate with an impact force of 100.

[0101] exist FIG. 11B and / or FIG. 11A In the example shown, the second impactable gate 1100 includes a first track 1106 and a second track 1108. FIG. 11B and FIG. 1D First orbit 1106 and second orbit 1108 and FIG. 1E and FIG. 1A to FIG. 1E The secondary track 120 is similar. However, the second impactable gate 1100 does not include... FIG. 11A The first (e.g., main) orbital 106 also does not include the main channel 132. Instead, FIG. 11B and / or FIG. 11AThe first track 1106 defines a first example channel 1110, and the second track 1108 defines a second example channel 1112. The first track 1106 and the second track 1108 are similar. Therefore, the description of the first track 1106 can also be applied to the second track 1108.

[0102] exist FIG. 11B and / or FIG. 1D In the example shown, the first track 1106 and FIG. 1E and FIG. 11A It is similar to suborbital 120. However, unlike suborbital 120, FIG. 11B and / or FIG. 11A The first track 1106 is exposed to the external environment. Furthermore, a first example portion (e.g., the ascending portion) 1106A of the first track 1106 will be disposed within the first base post 1102, and a second example portion (e.g., the descending portion) 1106B (… FIG. 11A This will be placed outside (e.g., alongside) the first base pillar 1102. Therefore, FIG. 11B and FIG. 1B The second impact gate 1100 is located within the first base column 1102 relative to FIG. 14A The larger, stronger, and / or more supportive bracket 126 for the column rail 102 provides more space. (The following text is in conjunction with...) FIG. 14B , FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D and FIG. 12A A description of an example bracket that can be implemented in the second impactable gate 1100 is provided.

[0103] FIG. 12B This is a perspective view of the third example of an impact gate 1200 based on the teachings disclosed herein. Furthermore, FIG. 12A yes FIG. 1A A front view of the third impact-resistant gate 1200. In some examples, the third impact-resistant gate 1200 is capable of withstanding relative to... FIG. 11A Impactable gate 100 and / or FIG. 1A The impact is smaller than that of the second impactable gate 1100. For example, the third impactable gate 1200 does not include... FIG. 1A The column rail 102. Conversely, the third impact gate 1200 includes a... FIG. 12A The first example track rail 104A and the second example track rail 104B are similar to track rail 104. In some examples, the third impact-capable gate 1200 includes more or fewer rails similar to track rail 104, depending on the expected vehicle and / or impact force.

[0104] exist FIG. 12B and / or FIG. 1BIn the example shown, the third impactable gate 1200 includes a first example floor bracket 1202 and a second example floor bracket 1204. In some examples, the first floor bracket 1202 is used to attach a first track 1106 to the surface 1206 (e.g., FIG. 13A The first floor bracket 1202 and the second floor bracket 1204 are similar. Therefore, the description of the first floor bracket 1202 can also be applied to the second floor bracket 1204. The first floor bracket 1202 in the example shown corresponds to a right-angle bracket that connects to both the first portion 1106A and the second portion 1106B of the first track 1106. In some examples, the first floor bracket 1202 includes a first right-angle bracket that connects to the first portion 1106A and a second right-angle bracket that connects to the second portion 1106B.

[0105] FIG. 13B This is a perspective view of the fourth example of an impact gate 1300 based on the teachings disclosed herein. Furthermore, FIG. 13A yes FIG. 1A to FIG. 1E A front view of the fourth impact-resistant gate 1300. In some examples, the fourth impact-resistant gate 1300 is capable of withstanding relative to... ​ Impactable gate 100 Figure 11A and / or Figure 11B The second impact gate 1100, and / or Figure 12A and / or Figure 12B The third impact gate 1200 has a greater impact. Figure 13A and / or Figure 13B In the example shown, the fourth impingable gate 1300 includes a first example column rail 102A and a second example column rail 102B. The first column rail 102A and the second column rail 102B are connected to... Figure 1A Similar to the column rail 102. In some examples, based on the expected vehicle and / or impact force, the fourth impact gate 1300 includes more column rails 102 (e.g., more than two). This differs from impact gates that implement only one column rail 102 (e.g., Figures 1A to 1E Impactable gate 100 Figure 11A and / or Figure 11B The second impact gate 1100, and / or Figure 12A and / or Figure 12B Compared to the third impact gate 1200, the fourth impact gate 1300, by including at least two column rails 102A and 102B, is able to withstand greater impacts.

[0106] Figure 14A It is possible Figure 11A The second impact gate 1100 and / or Figure 13A A perspective view of an example U-shaped bracket 1400 implemented in the fourth impactable gate 1300. In some examples, a U-shaped bracket 1400 can be used. Figure 14A The U-shaped bracket 1400 replaces the bracket 126 of the first impact gate 100. Furthermore, Figure 14B yes Figure 14A A top view of the U-shaped bracket 1400. Figure 14A In the example shown, for clarity, some portions of the first base pillar 1102 have been removed.

[0107] exist Figure 14A and / or Figure 14B In the example shown, the U-shaped bracket 1400 includes a connection to Figure 13A and Figure 13B An example body 1402 of the first post rail 102A and the second post rail 102B of the fourth impactable gate 1300. In the example shown, the body 1402 includes elements joined together (e.g., welded, etc.). More specifically, the body 1402 of the U-shaped bracket 1400 includes a frame 1404 extending along the length of the pin 1406. In this example, the frame 1404 includes a rear panel 1404A and a first side flange 1404B and a second side flange 1404C extending away from the rear panel 1404A. As shown, the rear panel 1404A, the first side flange 1404B, and the second side flange 1404C all extend along the length of the first rail 1106. In this example, the side flanges 1404B and 1404C extend toward the post rail 102A in a direction substantially orthogonal to the rear panel 1404A. In other examples, side flanges 1404B, 1404C may extend away from rear panel 1404A at an angle different from that shown in the illustrated example.

[0108] As in Figure 14B As most clearly shown, side flanges 1404B and 1404C are spaced apart to assemble around and overlap with the first support flanges 1405A and 1405B on the first base post 1102. In this example, support flanges 1405A and 1405B extend away from the post rail 102A (e.g., in the opposite direction to the side flanges 1404B and 1404C of the frame 1404 of the U-shaped bracket 1400). As a result, during impact, support flanges 1405A and 1405B engage and hook with side flanges 1404B and 1404C to transfer the impact force from the post rail 102A to the first base post 1102. Furthermore, in the example shown, the frame 1404 includes at least a first plate 1408A and a second plate 1408B connected to the rear panel 1404A, the first side flange 1404B, and the second side flange 1404C. Figure 14A The first plate 1408A maintains the connection position of the first post rail 102A on the pin 1406, and the second plate 1408B maintains the connection position of the second post rail 102B on the pin 1406.

[0109] exist Figure 14A and / or Figure 14B In the example shown, the U-shaped bracket 1400 is coupled to the first channel 1110 of the first track 1106. In some examples, the fourth impactable gate 1300 includes an example carriage 1420 disposed within the first channel 1110. The carriage 1420 is capable of sliding or gliding along the internal channel 1110. Furthermore, the carriage 1420 is coupled to the frame 1404, and the U-shaped bracket 1400 is translatable along the first track 1106. Additionally, the U-shaped bracket 1400 includes a tab 1422 extending from the body 1402 (e.g., the frame 1404) to secure the U-shaped bracket 1400 to the first drive belt 114. Thus, the U-shaped bracket 1400 is coupled to the first drive belt 114 and moves with the first drive belt 114.

[0110] exist Figure 14B In the example shown, the U-shaped bracket 1400 includes one or more retaining rings 1424 mounted on at least a first plate 1408A to support and orient the pin 1406. In some examples, the retaining rings 1424 include bearings to allow the pin 1406 to rotate relative to the U-shaped bracket 1400. The first post rail 102A and the second post rail 102B are capable of rotating relative to the U-shaped bracket 1400 based on the pin 1406. Although the U-shaped bracket 1400 of the illustrated example is implemented in the fourth impulsive gate 1300, the U-shaped bracket 1400 may also be implemented in the second impulsive gate 1100 and / or the first impulsive gate 100.

[0111] Figure 15A yes Figure 14A and / or Figure 14B Bottom perspective view of the U-shaped bracket 1400 and the carriage 1420. Furthermore, Figure 15B yes Figure 15A The U-shaped bracket 1400 and the carriage 1420 are shown in a side perspective view outside the first channel 1110. Figure 15C and Figure 15D yes Figure 15A and / or Figure 15B Other bottom perspective views of the U-shaped bracket 1400 and carriage 1420. Figure 15A In the example shown, carriage 1420 will be positioned within the first channel 1110 and connected to the U-shaped bracket 1400. More specifically, in Figures 15A to 15BIn the example shown, the carriage 1420 includes a chassis 1502, a first wheel portion 1504, and a second wheel portion 1506 disposed within a first channel 1110. The first wheel portion 1504 is connected to the chassis 1502 via a first axle 1508. The second wheel portion 1506 is connected to the chassis 1502 via a second axle 1510. The first wheel portion 1504 and the second wheel portion 1506 of the carriage 1420 travel along the first channel 1110. The carriage 1420 includes a spring-loaded fastener 1512 to connect the carriage 1420 to a U-shaped bracket 1400. In some examples, the spring-loaded fastener 1512 causes the U-shaped bracket 1400 and the carriage 1420 to influence or push each other.

[0112] In the illustrated example, the spring-loaded fastener 1512 of the carriage 1420 includes a bolt 1516 and a spring 1518. Furthermore, the spring-loaded fastener 1512 includes an end cap 1520 (e.g., a nut and washer) to retain the spring 1518. The spring 1518 is disposed within a counterbored hole 1522 of the U-shaped bracket 1400. Therefore, the spring 1518 contacts the end cap 1520 and the recessed surface within the counterbored hole 1522. In some examples, a spring-loaded fastener 1512 may be used. Figures 8A to 8B Spring bearing fastener 802 replaces Figures 15A to 15D The spring-loaded fastener 1512. Similarly, in some examples, it can be used. Figures 15A to 15D Spring-loaded fastener 1512 replaces Figures 8A to 8B Spring-loaded fastener 802.

[0113] Figure 16 These are front views of the fifth impactable gate 1600A and the sixth example impactable gate 1600B constructed according to the teachings disclosed herein. Figure 16 In the example shown, the fifth impulsive gate 1600A is substantially the same as the sixth impulsive gate 1600B. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the description of the fifth impulsive gate 1600A is also applicable to the sixth impulsive gate 1600B. Furthermore, Figure 16 The fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B are with Figures 1A to 1E Similar to the impact-resistant gate 100. For example, Figure 16 The fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B include column rails 102A and 102B connecting the respective first rails in the first rails 106A and 106B and the respective second rails in the second rails 108A and 108B. However, instead of Figures 1A to 1E The base columns 122 and 124 of the impact-resistant gate 100, Figure 16The fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B each include an example high base 1606, wherein the first high base 1606A is connected to the second track 108A of the fifth impact gate 1600A, and the second high base 1606B is connected to the first track 106B of the sixth impact gate 1600B.

[0114] In some examples, the high-base pillars 1606A and 1606B have a higher... Figure 1A The second height (e.g., approximately 21 inches) of the base posts 122 and 124 is higher than the first height (e.g., approximately 48 inches). While the height of the high base posts 1606A and 1606B is approximately 48 inches in this example, the height can vary in some examples (e.g., greater than 48 inches, at least 21 inches, and up to 48 inches, less than 21 inches, etc.). In some examples, due to... Figure 16 The relative increase in height of the high base columns 1606A and 1606B (e.g., with) Figure 1A Compared to the base columns 122 and 124, the higher base columns 1606A and 1606B can increase the strength of the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B and / or reduce damage to their respective tracks 108A and 106B (e.g., in the event of a vehicle impacting one or more of tracks 106A, 106B, 108A, 108B and / or one or more of rails 102A, 102B, 104A, 104).

[0115] exist Figure 16In the example shown, an example common member (e.g., a joint member, a common base) 1610 connects the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B. For example, the first track 106A of the fifth impact gate 1600A and the second track 108B of the sixth impact gate 1600B are connected together and / or connected to the floor via the common member 1610. In some examples, the common member 1610 is used at the first track 106A and the second track 108B to allow the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B to be positioned closer together than when some of these high bases 1606 are connected to the first track 106A and the second track 108B (e.g., reducing the gap 1612 between the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B). As a result, the common component 1610 can reduce the footprint of the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B, and / or can restrict the passage of objects (e.g., people, debris, etc.) through the gap 1612 between the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B. Furthermore, in some examples, the use of the common component 1610 can reduce component costs and / or manufacturing costs compared to when the high base post 1606 is used at the respective first track 106A and second track 108B. In this example, the height of the common component 1610 is substantially equal to the height of the high base post 1606 (e.g., approximately 48 inches). In some examples, the height of the common component 1610 can vary (e.g., greater than 48 inches, at least 21 inches, and up to 48 inches, less than 21 inches, etc.). Although in this example two impact gates (e.g., the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B) are connected together by a common member 1610, different numbers (e.g., three or more) of impact gates can also be connected together using an additional one (or more) common member 1610. In other examples, the common member 1610 can be omitted (together with the sixth impact gate 1600B) and replaced by a corresponding high base 1606. That is, in some examples, the impact gate can be implemented using two high bases 1606 for each of the two tracks 106, 108, without the need for the common member 1610 to combine the gate with the individual gates.

[0116] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 The example uses a perspective view of shared component 1610. Figure 17In the example shown, the common member 1610 includes a first example slot 1702A on a first side 1704 of the common member 1610, wherein the first side 1704 faces the first track 106B of the sixth impactable gate 1600B. In some examples, the common member 1610 includes a second example slot 1702B (not shown) on a second side 1706 of the common member 1610 (e.g., opposite to the first side 1704), wherein the second side 1706 faces the second track 108A of the fifth impactable gate 1600A. In some examples, the second slot 1702B on the second side 1706 of the common member 1610 is substantially identical to the first slot 1702A on the first side 1704 of the common member 1610. In this example, slots 1702A and 1702B extend from the top edge 1712 of the common member 1610 to a point between the top edge 1712 and the bottom edge 1714 of the common member 1610. In some examples, the second post rail 102B and the second track rail 104B are located in and / or can slide within a first slot 1702 on a first side 1704 of the common member 1610, and the first post rail 102A and the first track rail 104A are located in and / or can slide within a second slot 1702B on a second side 1706 of the common member 1610. In some examples, an additional one (or more) slots (e.g., a third slot 1702C and / or a fourth slot 1702D) may be included in one (or more) of the high base posts 1606A, 1606B, and one (or more) of the post rails 102A, 102B and / or the track rails 104A, 104B are positioned in and / or can slide within their respective slots 1702C, 1702D. In some examples, when the fifth implosive gate 1600A and the sixth implosive gate 1600B are in Figure 17 When in the closed (e.g., blocking) position, the column rails 102A, 102B and / or track rails 104A, 104B are lower than the top edge 1712 of the common member 1610 (e.g., and / or lower than the top edges 1716A, 1716B of the respective high base columns 1606A, 1606B).

[0117] exist Figure 17In the example shown, the common member 1610 defines the width of the gap 1612 between the first track 106A of the fifth impactable gate 1600A and the second track 108B of the sixth impactable gate 1600B. In this example, the common member 1610 is substantially hollow between the first track 106A and the second track 108B, and the top end 1718 of the common member 1610 is open between the first track 106A and the second track 108B. In some examples, a cover may be positioned across the top edge 1712 of the common member 1610 between the first track 106A and the second track 108B to limit and / or prevent debris from entering the common member 1610 at the top end 1718. In some examples, the common member 1610 may be substantially solid (e.g., filled) between the first track 106A and the second track 108B.

[0118] Figure 18 This includes example brush seals 1802A and 1802B. Figure 16 and / or Figure 17 A partial perspective view of the sixth impact-resistant gate 1600B. Figure 18 In the example shown, brush seals 1802A and 1802B are positioned along the first track 106B of the sixth impactable gate 1600B. In some examples, they can be positioned along... Figure 16 and / or Figure 17 Additional brush seals 1802A, 1802B are implemented in a similar manner along the second track 108B of the sixth impactable gate 1600B and / or along one or more of the tracks 106A, 108B of the fifth impactable gate 1600A. Alternatively, brush seals 1802A, 1802B may also be implemented in one or more of the aforementioned impactable gates 100, 1100, 1200, 1300. Figure 18 In the example shown, Figure 16 and / or Figure 17 The second post rail 102B and the second track rail 104B may be positioned and / or slidably coupled between the brush seals 1802A and 1802B. In some examples, the brush seals 1802A and 1802B may restrict and / or prevent debris from entering the first track 106B of the sixth impactable gate 1600B, and thus may facilitate relatively smooth and / or unrestricted travel of the rails 102B and 104B along the first track 106B. In some examples, the bristles of at least one of the brush seals 1802A and 1802B extend into the path of the post rail 102B and the track rail 104B to contact or brush against the post rail 102B and the track rail 104B as the rail moves along the first track 106B.

[0119] Figure 19 yes Figure 16 and / or Figure 17 A partial transparent front view of an example high base column 1606B of the sixth impactable gate 1600B. Figure 19 In the example shown, the end 1902 of the first track 106B of the sixth impactable gate 1600B extends (e.g., at least partially) into the high base 1606B. In some examples, the height of the sixth impactable gate 1600B can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the first track 106B relative to the high base 1606B (e.g., by adjusting the distance the first track 106B extends into the high base 1606B). For example, the first track 106B can be positioned relative to the high base 1606B in a first direction 1904 (e.g., in...). Figure 19 The first track 106B can be moved upwards to increase the height of the sixth impact gate 1600B, and the first track 106B can be positioned relative to the high base column 1606B in a second direction 1906 (e.g., opposite to the first direction 1904). Figure 19 (Move downwards) to reduce the height of the sixth impact gate 1600B.

[0120] exist Figure 19 In the example shown, the high base 1606B includes first example openings 1908A, 1908B, and the first track 106B includes a second example opening 1910. In some examples, by substantially aligning the first openings 1908A, 1908B with their respective second openings in the second opening 1910 and inserting fasteners (e.g., bolts, pins) 1912 into the first openings 1908A, 1908B and the respective second openings in the second opening 1910, the position of the first track 106B relative to the high base 1606B (and therefore, the height of the sixth impactable gate 1600B) can be maintained (e.g., kept constant). Although in this example the high base 1606B includes two of the first openings 1908A, 1908B, in some examples the high base 1606B may also include a different number (e.g., three or more) of the first openings 1908A, 1908B. In some examples, the common component 1610 includes similar openings to allow adjustment of the height of the corresponding track in the common component 1610.

[0121] In some examples, the range and / or number of available heights of the sixth impactable gate 1600B are based on the number of second openings 1910 and / or the spacing between them. For example, in Figure 19In this configuration, the second opening 1910 is positioned to allow the height of the sixth impact gate 1600B to be adjusted in increments of up to 8 inches and in 1-inch increments. In some examples, the increments and / or total adjustability of the height of the sixth impact gate 1600B may vary. For example, the height may be adjustable in ranges greater than or less than 8 inches, and / or in increments greater than or less than 1 inch. In some examples, the high base post 1606B may include the second opening 1910 (e.g., in place of the first openings 1908A, 1908B), and the first track 106B may include the first openings 1908A, 1908B (e.g., in place of the second opening 1910).

[0122] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of an example aisle rail configuration 2000 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure, and Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The example aisle rail configuration 2000 is shown in the side view. In some examples, Figure 20 and / or Figure 21 The walkway rail configuration 2000 can be used to selectively block and / or allow traffic through the example walkway 2002 defined by example barrier rails (e.g., static rails) 2004. Figure 20 In the example shown, the aisle rail configuration 2000 includes and / or implements Figure 16 and / or Figure 17 The fifth impact gate 1600A. In this example, the second track 108A of the fifth impact gate 1600A is connected to the floor via a first high base 1606A. However, in this example, the first track 106A of the fifth impact gate 1600A is connected to the floor via a second high base 1606B, instead of via a common member 1610 (such as...). Figure 16 and / or Figure 17 (As shown in the diagram) is connected to the sixth impactable gate 1600B.

[0123] exist Figure 20 In the example shown, the aisle rail configuration 2000 includes example rail posts 2006 (e.g., including a first example rail post 2006A, a second example rail post 2006B, a third example rail post 2006C, and a fourth example rail post 2006D), wherein in some examples, the rail posts 2006 may be coupled (e.g., bolted) to the floor. While four of these rail posts 2006 are used in this example, alternatively, a different number of rail posts 2006 may be used (e.g., three or fewer, five or more, etc.). Figure 20In the example shown, rail posts 2006 are used to support the respective barrier rails in the barrier rails 2004. For example, the first rail post 2006A supports the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B extending from the first high base post 1606A along a first direction 2008; the second rail post 2006B supports the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D extending from the first high base post 1606A along a second direction 2010 (e.g., different from and / or opposite to the first direction 2008); the third rail post 2006C supports the fifth barrier rail 2004E and the sixth barrier rail 2004F extending from the second high base post 1606B along the first direction 2008; and the fourth rail post 2006D supports the seventh barrier rail 2004G and the eighth barrier rail 2004H extending from the second high base post 1606B along the second direction 2010. Thus, in Figure 20 In some examples, barrier rails 2004 are arranged to extend in pairs from their respective high base posts 1606A, 1606B along their respective first direction 2008 and second direction 2010. In some examples, a different number of barrier rails 2004 may be used alternatively. For example, one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may be omitted, and / or one or more additional barrier rails may extend from one or more of the high base posts 1606A, 1606B. In some examples, the barrier rails 2004 and associated posts 2006 are implemented according to the example disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 984,952, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0124] In the examples shown, the barrier rails 2004 are similar (e.g., having similar lengths, widths, and / or cross-sectional shapes). In some examples, one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may have different lengths, widths, and / or cross-sectional shapes (e.g., compared to other barrier rails in the barrier rails 2004). Figure 20 In some examples, the second barrier rail 2004B, the fourth barrier rail 2004D, the sixth barrier rail 2004F, and the eighth barrier rail 2004H are located at a first example height from the floor, and the first barrier rail 2004A, the third barrier rail 2004C, the fifth barrier rail 2004E, and the seventh barrier rail 2004G are located at a second example height from the floor (e.g., greater than the first height). In some examples, when the fifth impact gate 1600A is in the closed (e.g., blocked) position, the first height corresponds to the height of the column rail 102, and the second height corresponds to the height of the track rail 104. In some examples, the first height and / or the second height of the barrier rail 2004 may be different.

[0125] exist Figure 20In the example shown, the barrier rail 2004 extends through the respective rail posts in the rail posts 2006 between the respective high base posts 1606A, 1606B and their respective ends 2012 (e.g., first end 2012A, second end 2012B, third end 2012C, fourth end 2012D, fifth end 2012E, sixth end 2012F, seventh end 2012G, and eighth end 2012H). In other words, in some examples, the barrier rail 2004 extends continuously from the respective high base posts 1606A, 1606B to their respective ends 2012. Alternatively, in some examples, the barrier rail 2004 may be separated at one or more locations between the high base posts 1606A, 1606B and their respective ends 2012. For example, a first portion of the barrier rail 2004 may extend from its respective base posts 1606A, 1606B to its respective rail post 2006, and a second portion of the barrier rail 2004 may extend from its respective rail post 2006 to its respective end post 2012, wherein the first portion and the second portion are separate.

[0126] exist Figure 20 In the example shown, the first barrier rail 2004A, the second barrier rail 2004B, the third barrier rail 2004C, and the fourth barrier rail 2004D are substantially parallel to the fifth barrier rail 2004E, the sixth barrier rail 2004F, the seventh barrier rail 2004G, and the eighth barrier rail 2004H. In some examples, one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may have an angular offset relative to one (or more) of the other barrier rails 2004. For example, although Figure 20 The barrier rails 2004 extend in a first direction 2008 and a second direction 2010 perpendicular to (e.g., orthogonal) to the respective surfaces of the high base pillars 1606A and 1606B, but one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may also extend from the surfaces of the high base pillars 1606A and 1606B at different angles. Furthermore, while the barrier rails 2004 are substantially straight (e.g., not curved) in this example, in some examples, one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may also be curved and / or angled.

[0127] In some examples, the barrier rail 2004 is made of an elastic plastic material such as a polymer (e.g., similar to the first tube 202 and / or the second tube 204 of Figure 2). Therefore, the barrier rail 2004 can bend or deform based on an impact on the impactable gate 100 and then return to its initial shape. For example, the barrier rail 2004 can elastically deform without destructive damage and return to its original shape and / or position. In some examples, the material of the barrier rail 2004 is selected based on the expected mass and / or momentum of the impacting vehicle.

[0128] In some examples, an additional one (or more) rail posts 2006 and / or an additional one (or more) impact gates (e.g., one or more of impact gates 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1600A, 1600B) may be coupled to one or more barrier rails 2004 (e.g., at their respective ends 2012 of the barrier rails 2004). Furthermore, in some examples, (e.g., in addition to or in place of the fifth impact gate 1600A), may be... Figure 20 The passageway rail configuration 2000 uses one (or more) different impact gates (e.g., one or more impact gates 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1600B).

[0129] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of an example straight rail configuration 2200 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure, and Figure 23 yes Figure 22 The example straight rail configuration 2200 is shown in the front view. Figure 22 and / or Figure 23 In the example shown, the straight rail configuration 2200 includes Figure 20 and / or Figure 21 The fifth impact gate 1600A, multiple barrier rails 2004 (e.g., first barrier rail 2004A, second barrier rail 2004B, third barrier rail 2004C, and fourth barrier rail 2004D), and multiple rail posts 2006 (e.g., first rail post 2006A and second rail post 2006B), but with Figure 20 and / or Figure 21The passageway rail configuration 2000 is arranged differently. In this example, the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B are connected to and / or extend from the first high base 1606A of the fifth impact gate 1600A, and the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D are connected to and / or extend from the second high base 1606B of the fifth impact gate 1600A. Specifically, the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B extend from the first outer surface 2202A of the first high base column 1606A (e.g., orthogonally and / or perpendicularly), and the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D extend from the second outer surface 2202B of the second high base column 1606B (e.g., orthogonally and / or perpendicularly), wherein the first outer surface 2202A and the second outer surface 2202B face away from the column rail 102A and the track rail 104A of the fifth impact gate 1600A. In other words, the outer surfaces 2202A and 2202B of each high base column 1606A and 1606B are opposite to the first inner surface 2204A and the second inner surface 2204B of each high base column 1606A and 1606B, wherein the inner surfaces 2204A and 2204B face the column rail 102A and the track rail 104A. Although in this example, barrier rails 2004 extend from and / or connect to their respective outer surfaces 2202A, 2202B, in some examples, one or more barrier rails 2004 may also extend from and / or connect to one or more side surfaces 2208A, 2208B, 2210A, 2210B of their respective high base pillars 1606A, 1606B. Furthermore, in this example, the first rail post 2006A supports the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B, and the second rail post 2006B supports the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D.

[0130] exist Figure 22In the example shown, the first high base post 1606A, the second high base post 1606B, the first rail post 2006A, and the second rail post 2006B are substantially aligned along the example axis 2206. As a result, the barrier rails 2004A, 2004B, 2004C, 2004D, as well as the column rail 102A and track rail 104A, are also aligned along axis 2206. In some examples, the first rail post 2006A and / or the second rail post 2006B may be positioned offset from axis 2206, such that multiple of the barrier rails 2004A, 2004B, 2004C, 2004D may have angular offsets relative to other multiples of the barrier rails 2004A, 2004B, 2004C, 2004D and / or relative to the column rail 102A and track rail 104A. In some examples, one or more additional barrier rails 2004 and / or rail posts 2006 may be connected to Figure 22 The respective ends 2012 of the barrier rails 2004, wherein one (or more) of the barrier rails 2004 may be aligned with and / or offset from axis 2206. In some examples (e.g., in addition to or in place of the fifth impactable gate 1600A), may be Figure 22 and / or Figure 23 The straight rail configuration 2200 uses one (or more) different impact gates (e.g., one or more impact gates 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1600B).

[0131] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of an example fence configuration 2400 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure, and Figure 25 yes Figure 24 The example fence configuration is shown in the side view at 2400. Figure 24 and / or Figure 25 In the example shown, fence configuration 2400 includes Figure 20 and / or Figure 21 The fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B, multiple barrier rails 2004 (e.g., first barrier rail 2004A, second barrier rail 2004B, third barrier rail 2004C, and fourth barrier rail 2004D), and multiple rail posts 2006 (e.g., first rail post 2006A and second rail post 2006B), but with Figure 20 and / or Figure 21 The aisle rails are configured with 2000 and / or Figure 22 and / or Figure 23 The straight rail configuration is arranged differently compared to the 2200.

[0132] exist Figure 24In the example shown, a fifth impact gate 1600A and a sixth impact gate 1600B, barrier rails 2004 and rail posts 2006 define an example fence 2402, wherein the fifth impact gate 1600A and the sixth impact gate 1600B can be used to selectively enable access to and from the fence 2402. Figure 24 In the example shown, the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B are connected between the first high base column 1606A of the fifth impact gate 1600A and the third high base column 1606C of the sixth impact gate 1600B. Furthermore, the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D are connected between the second high base column 1606B of the fifth impact gate 1600A and the fourth high base column 1606D of the sixth impact gate 1600B. In this example, the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B are supported by the first rail column 2006A, and the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D are supported by the second rail column 2006B. In this example, fence 2402 is rectangular, wherein the first high base post 1606A and the third high base post 1606C are substantially aligned with the first track post 2006A along the first line 2404, and the second high base post 1606B and the fourth high base post 1606D are substantially aligned with the second track post 2006B along the second line 2406. In some examples, at least one of the first high base post 1606A, the third high base post 1606C, or the first track post 2006A may be offset from the first line 2404, and / or at least one of the second high base post 1606B, the fourth high base post 1606D, or the second track post 2006B may be offset from the second line 2406 (e.g., such that fence 2402 has a different polygonal shape).

[0133] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of an exemplary multi-fence configuration 2600 constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. Figure 26 In the example shown, the multi-fence configuration 2600 includes a first common member 1610A (e.g., corresponding to...). Figure 16 and / or Figure 17 The system includes a fifth impactable gate 1600A and a sixth example impactable gate 1600B connected together via a second common member 1610B, and also includes a seventh impactable gate 1600C and an eighth example impactable gate 1600D connected together via a second common member 1610B. In this example, the seventh impactable gate 1600C and the eighth impactable gate 1600D are substantially similar to the fifth impactable gate 1600A and the sixth impactable gate 1600B.

[0134] exist Figure 26In the example shown, a multi-fence configuration 2600 defines and / or controls access to a first example fence 2602A and a second example fence 2602B. In this example, a first barrier rail 2004A and a second barrier rail 2004B are connected between a first high base post 1606A of a fifth impact gate 1600A and a third high base post 1606C of a seventh impact gate 1600C, and a third barrier rail 2004C and a fourth barrier rail 2004D are connected between a first common member 1610A and a second common member 1610B. In this example, the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B, the fifth impact gate 1600A, the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D, and the seventh impact gate 1600C define the first fence 2602A. Furthermore, in this example, the fifth barrier rail 2004E and the sixth barrier rail 2004F are connected between the second high base 1606B of the sixth impact gate 1600B and the fourth high base 1606D of the eighth impact gate 1600D. In this example, the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D, the sixth impact gate 1600B, the fifth barrier rail 2004E and the sixth barrier rail 2004F, and the eighth impact gate 1600D define the second fence 2602B. In some examples, the fifth impact gate 1600A and the seventh impact gate 1600C can selectively enable access to the first fence 2602A, and the sixth impact gate 1600B and the eighth impact gate 1600D can selectively enable access to the second fence 2602B. In this example, the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B are supported by the first rail post 2006A, the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D are supported by the second rail post 2006B, and the fifth barrier rail 2004E and the sixth barrier rail 2004F are supported by the third rail post 2006C.

[0135] In some examples, Figure 26 The multi-fence configuration 2600 may include one or more additional fences (e.g., in addition to the first fence 2602A and the second fence 2602B). For example, one (or more) additional one of the impact gate 1600 and / or barrier rails 2004 may be connected to... Figure 26 One or more of the impact-resistant gate 1600 and / or barrier rails 2004 are used to define an additional one (or more) fence in the multi-fence configuration 2600. Figure 26In the example shown, the first barrier rail 2004A and the second barrier rail 2004B are connected to and / or extend from the respective side surfaces 2210A and 2208C of the first high base 1606A and the third high base 1606C, and the fifth barrier rail 2004E and the sixth barrier rail 2004F are connected to and / or extend from the respective side surfaces 2210B and 2208D of the second high base 1606B and the fourth high base 1606D, and the sixth barrier rail 2004F is connected to and / or extends from the respective side surfaces 2210B and 2208D of the second high base 1606B and the fourth high base 1606D. Alternatively, one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may be attached to one or more of the sides 2208A, 2208B, 2210C, 2210D and / or the outer surfaces 2202A, 2202B, 2202C, 2202D of the respective high base pillars 1606A, 1606B, 1606C, 1606D. For example, one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may be attached and / or attached to all three surfaces (e.g., side surfaces 2208, 2210 and outer surface 2202) of one or more of the high base pillars 1606A, 1606B, 1606C, 1606D, and / or may be attached to any combination of these three surfaces. Furthermore, although the third barrier rail 2004C and the fourth barrier rail 2004D are connected to and / or extend from the first inner surfaces 2604A and 2604B of their respective first common members 1610A and 1610B, one or more of the barrier rails 2004 may also be additionally or alternatively connected to the first outer surface 2606A of the first common member 1610A and / or the second outer surface 2606B of the second common member 1610B, wherein the outer surfaces 2606A, 2606B are opposite to their respective inner surfaces 2604A, 2604B.

[0136] The foregoing examples of impact gates 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1600A, 1600B, 1600C, and 1600D teach or suggest different features. Although each example of impact gate 100, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1600A, 1600B, 1600C, and 1600D disclosed above has certain features, it should be understood that a particular feature of an example is not necessarily exclusive to use with that example. Rather, any feature depicted above and / or in the accompanying drawings may be combined with any example as a complement or substitute for any other feature of those examples. Features of one example are not mutually exclusive with features of another example. Rather, the scope of this disclosure covers any combination of any features.

[0137] "Comprising" and "including" (and all its forms and tenses) are used herein as open-ended terms. Therefore, whenever a claim uses any form of "comprising" or "including" (e.g., including, comprising, having, etc.) in the preamble or in any type of claim statement, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc., may be present without exceeding the scope of the corresponding claim or statement. As used herein, the phrase "at least" is open-ended when used as a transitional term, for example, in the preamble of a claim, just as the terms "comprising" and "including" are open-ended. For example, when used in forms such as A, B, and / or C, the term "and / or" refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as: (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, or (7) A and B and C. As used herein in the context of describing structures, components, projects, objects, and / or things, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, projects, objects, and / or things, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context of describing the conduct or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the conduct or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to an implementation that includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0138] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a," "an," "first," "second," etc.) do not exclude plural. As used herein, the term "a" or "an" refers to one or more of those objects. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple means, elements, or actions may be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. Additionally, while individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these features may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that the combination of features is unfeasible and / or advantageous.

[0139] As can be understood from the foregoing, example methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed that provide one or more benefits, including improved impact resistance of gates used in industrial environments such as loading docks, intersections, and fences. The example impact-resistant gate systems or gate assemblies disclosed herein can be vertically operated and automatically executed via a control system including motors, sensors, computing systems, etc. The example impact-resistant gates disclosed herein include multiple rails (e.g., flexible rails) that include internal supports to increase vertical strength while allowing horizontal flexibility. The example impact-resistant gates disclosed herein include brackets for connecting the rails to posts, inhibiting rail bending and limiting forward movement of impact vehicles, and increasing the impact force that the example impact-resistant gate can withstand. The example impact-resistant gates disclosed herein include spring-loaded carriages for guiding the rails along the tracks between raised and lowered positions. Furthermore, the carriages include spring-loaded fasteners to allow inward movement of the ends of the rails, which provides additional movement (e.g., bending) to the rails during impact.

[0140] This document discloses example impact-resistant gate systems and devices. Further examples and combinations thereof include the following: Example 1 includes an impactable gate system comprising: a track coupled to a base post; a drive belt slidable along the track; a rail including a tube, the rail moving together with the drive belt relative to the track between an open position and a closed position; and a bracket disposed within the track for coupling the rail to the drive belt, the bracket being disposed within the base post when the rail is in the closed position.

[0141] Example 2 includes the impactable gate system according to Example 1, wherein the rail is a first rail, the tube is a first tube, and the impactable gate system further includes a second rail spaced apart from the first rail along the drive belt, the second rail including: a second tube; a bracket disposed within the second tube, the bracket having a length, a width, and a thickness, the thickness extending along the rail in a direction transverse to the travel direction of the drive belt, the width being greater than the thickness; and a sleeve coupled to the drive belt, the sleeve including a slotted hole, the second tube being slidably coupled to the sleeve via the slotted hole.

[0142] Example 3 includes an impactable gate system according to either Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the track is a first track defining a first channel, and the impactable gate system further includes a second track within the first track, the second track defining a second channel.

[0143] Example 4 includes the impactable gate system according to Example 3, wherein the bracket is disposed within the first channel and, when the impactable gate system is in a non-impact state, the bracket is spaced apart from the inner surface of the first track.

[0144] Example 5 includes an impactable gate system according to Example 4, wherein when the impactable gate system is in an impacted state, the bracket contacts the inner surface of the first track.

[0145] Example 6 includes an impactable gate system according to Example 3, the impactable gate system further including a carriage disposed in the second channel of the second track, the carriage being coupled to the bracket.

[0146] Example 7 includes an impactable gate system according to Example 6, wherein the carriage is connected to the bracket by a spring-loaded fastener that pushes the bracket away from the base column.

[0147] Example 8 includes an impactable gate system according to Example 3, wherein the drive belt extends into the first channel and the drive belt includes a protrusion to retain the drive belt within the second track.

[0148] Example 9 includes an apparatus comprising: a rail extending between a first track and a second track, the movement of the rail between an open position and a closed position being guided by the first track and the second track; a base column supporting the first track; and a bracket coupled to an end of the rail, the bracket being located within the base column when the rail is in the closed position, the bracket being spaced apart from the first track when the rail moves between the open position and the closed position, the bracket being pushed against the base column in response to an impact with the rail.

[0149] Example 10 includes the apparatus according to Example 9, the apparatus further including a drive belt that moves along the first track, the track being coupled to the drive belt, the drive belt including a protrusion for retaining the drive belt within a first channel of the first track, the bracket being retained within a second channel of the first track and outside the first channel of the first track.

[0150] Example 11 includes the apparatus according to Example 10, the apparatus further including a carriage disposed within the first channel of the first track, the carriage being coupled to the bracket by means of a spring-loaded fastener to push the bracket away from the base column.

[0151] Example 12 includes the device according to Example 10, the device further including a pin positioned in the body of the bracket, the rail being rotatable about the pin.

[0152] Example 13 includes the apparatus according to Example 10, wherein the rail is a first rail, the apparatus further includes a second rail extending between the first rail and the second rail, the second rail being coupled to the drive belt, the first rail being positioned at a first height, and the second rail being positioned at a second height greater than the first height.

[0153] Example 14 includes the apparatus according to Example 13, wherein when the first rail is in the closed position, the second rail is below the top edge of the base post.

[0154] Example 15 includes the device according to Example 13, wherein the end is a first end and the bracket is coupled to a second end of the second rail.

[0155] Example 16 includes an apparatus according to any one of Examples 9 to 15, wherein the base column is a first base column, the apparatus further comprising: a second base column for supporting the second track, the second base column being spaced apart from the first base column by a certain distance; and a perforated plate for connecting the rail to at least one of the first track or the second track, the perforated plate including a plurality of holes, the rail being selectively connectable to different holes among the plurality of holes based on the distance.

[0156] Example 17 includes an apparatus according to Example 16, wherein the base post includes a first opening and the first track includes a second opening, and the apparatus further includes fasteners that are selectively inserted into different first openings in the first opening and different second openings in the second opening to adjust the position of the first track relative to the base post.

[0157] Example 18 includes an apparatus according to any one of Examples 9 to 15, the apparatus further comprising: a barrier rail extending from the base post for supporting a first end of the barrier rail; and a rail post spaced apart from the base post for supporting a second end of the barrier rail.

[0158] Example 19 includes the apparatus according to Example 18, wherein the barrier rail is one of a plurality of barrier rails used to define at least one of a passageway or a fence.

[0159] Example 20 includes an apparatus according to any one of Examples 9 to 15, wherein the base post is a first base post, the rail is a first rail, and the apparatus further includes: a second rail extending between a third rail and a fourth rail, the movement of the second rail being guided by the third rail and the fourth rail; and a second base post for supporting both the second rail and the third rail.

[0160] Example 21 includes an apparatus according to any one of Examples 9 to 15, the apparatus further comprising a brush seal positioned along the first track, the track being slidable between the brush seals.

[0161] Example 22 includes an impactable gate system comprising: a base column; a track extending from the base column; a bracket slidably coupled to the track; and a rail rotatably coupled to the bracket and slidable along the track with the bracket, the rail being movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein when the rail is in the closed position the bracket is located within the base column, and when the rail rotates relative to the bracket, the bracket is pushed against the base column.

[0162] Although specific example methods, apparatuses, and articles have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent covers all methods, apparatuses, and articles that fall fully within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. An impact-resistant gate system, the impact-resistant gate system comprising: The track is connected to the base column; A drive belt that can slide along the track; A rail, comprising a tube, which moves together with the drive belt relative to the rail between an open position and a closed position; as well as A bracket disposed within the track for connecting the track to the drive belt, the bracket being disposed within the base column when the track is in the closed position.

2. The impact-resistant gate system according to claim 1, wherein, The rail is a first rail, the tube is a first tube, and the impact-resistant gate system further includes a second rail spaced apart from the first rail along the drive belt, the second rail comprising: Second tube; A bracket, disposed within the second tube, having a length, a width, and a thickness, the thickness extending along the track in a direction transverse to the travel direction of the drive belt, and the width being greater than the thickness; and A sleeve, which is connected to the drive belt, includes a slotted hole, through which the second tube is slidably connected to the sleeve.

3. The impact-resistant gate system according to claim 1, wherein, The track is a first track defining a first channel, and the impactable gate system further includes a second track within the first track, the second track defining a second channel.

4. The impact-resistant gate system according to claim 3, wherein, The bracket is disposed within the first channel, and when the impact-resistant gate system is in a non-impact state, the bracket is spaced apart from the inner surface of the first track.

5. The impact-resistant gate system according to claim 4, wherein, When the impactable gate system is under impact, the bracket contacts the inner surface of the first track.

6. The impactable gate system according to claim 3, the impactable gate system further comprising a carriage disposed in the second channel of the second track, the carriage being connected to the bracket.

7. The impact-resistant gate system according to claim 6, wherein, The carriage is connected to the bracket by a spring-loaded fastener, which pushes the bracket away from the base column.

8. The impact-resistant gate system according to claim 3, wherein, The drive belt extends into the first channel, and the drive belt includes protrusions to retain the drive belt within the second track.

9. An apparatus comprising: A rail extending between a first rail and a second rail, the movement of which between an open position and a closed position is guided by the first rail and the second rail; The base column supports the first track; as well as A bracket is attached to the end of the rail. When the rail is in the closed position, the bracket is located within the base column. When the rail moves between the open and closed positions, the bracket remains spaced apart from the first rail. The bracket is pushed against the base column in response to an impact with the rail.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a drive belt that moves along the first track, the track being coupled to the drive belt, the drive belt including a protrusion for retaining the drive belt within a first channel of the first track, the bracket being retained within a second channel of the first track and outside the first channel of the first track.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a carriage disposed within the first channel of the first track, the carriage being coupled to the bracket by means of a spring-loaded fastener to push the bracket away from the base column.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a pin positioned in the body of the bracket, the rail being rotatable about the pin.

13. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The rail is a first rail, and the device further includes a second rail extending between the first rail and the second rail, the second rail being connected to the drive belt, the first rail being positioned at a first height, and the second rail being positioned at a second height greater than the first height.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, When the first rail is in the closed position, the second rail is below the top edge of the base column.

15. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, The end is the first end, and the bracket is connected to the second end of the second rail.

16. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The base column is a first base column, and the device further includes: A second base column, which supports the second track, is spaced apart from the first base column by a certain distance; and A perforated plate for connecting the rail to at least one of the first rail or the second rail, the perforated plate including a plurality of holes, the rail being selectively connectable to different holes among the plurality of holes based on the distance.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein, The base post includes a first opening and the first track includes a second opening. The device further includes fasteners that are selectively inserted into different first openings in the first opening and different second openings in the second opening to adjust the position of the first track relative to the base post.

18. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising: A barrier rail extending from the base post, the base post being used to support a first end of the barrier rail; as well as A rail post, spaced apart from the base post, is used to support the second end of the barrier rail.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein, The barrier rail is one of a plurality of barrier rails used to define at least one of a passageway or a fence.

20. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The base column is a first base column, the rail is a first rail, and the device further includes: A second track, extending between the third and fourth tracks, is guided by the third and fourth tracks in its movement; and The second base pillar is used to support both the second track and the third track.

21. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a brush seal positioned along the first track, the track being slidable between the brush seals.

22. An impact-resistant gate system, the impact-resistant gate system comprising: Foundation column; A track that extends from the base column; A bracket that is slidably connected to the track; as well as A rail, rotatably connected to the bracket and capable of sliding along the rail with the bracket, the rail moving between an open position and a closed position, wherein when the rail is in the closed position the bracket is located within the base column, and when the rail rotates relative to the bracket the bracket is pushed against the base column.

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