A gate actuator

Abstract

A gate actuator comprises: an elongated housing comprising a frame (12) and a casing (13), wherein the frame is configured to be mounted to a support and wherein the casing is slidable attached to the frame; an electric drive (50, 51) within the housing; and an arm (6) transmitting a rotation of the electric drive to a gate that is hingedly connected to the support. The gate actuator further comprises a lock (64) that is movable between an open position, in which the casing is slidable in a longitudinal direction relative to the frame, and a closed position, in which the casing is fixed to the frame. The use of a multi-part housing conveniently allows access to the internal components of the gate actuator.

Description

[0001] A gate actuator

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to a gate actuator for actuating a gate that is rotatably connected to a support by means of a hinge. The present invention further relates to a closure system comprising the gate actuator. The present invention also relates to a method for configuring a gate actuator.

[0004] Background art

[0005] Different types of gate actuators are known in the art, for example spring-biased gate actuators as disclosed in WO 2012 / 103572 that are intended solely for closing the gate; hydraulically damped spring-biased gate actuators as disclosed in WO 2018 / 228729 that are intended solely for closing the gate; and motorized gate actuators as disclosed in WO 2019 / 048359 that are intended for opening and closing the gate. The present invention generally relates to gate actuators of the latter type, which are operated by an electric drive. Due to the use of an electric drive, which thus serves for both the opening and closing of the gate, this kind of gate actuators is also often referred to by the term “gate opener”.

[0006] The gate actuator disclosed in WO 2019 / 048359 comprises: an elongated housing configured to be mounted to a support, wherein the elongated housing extends in a longitudinal direction between an upper end and a lower end; an electric drive within the housing, said electric drive having an output shaft that is rotatable (i.e. , in a rotational direction around the longitudinal direction) upon activation of the electric drive; and an arm extending between a proximal end and a distal end and configured to actuate (i.e., open or close) the gate upon rotation of the output shaft, wherein the proximal end is coupled to the output shaft and wherein the distal end is configured to be connected to the hinge or the gate. The output shaft is usually rotatable in two opposite rotational directions, i.e., a first rotational direction (e.g., clockwise) for opening the gate and a second rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) for closing the gate.

[0007] WO 2019 / 048359 discloses no details concerning the construction of the housing and only states that it is fixed to the support, either above or under the hinge.

[0008] WO 2019 / 048359 further discloses that the gate actuator is provided with a lock. This lock is used to lock the motor body of the electric motor to the housing of the gate actuator. Unlocking the lock allows the motor body to rotate freely within the housing and thus allows the gate to be opened manually, for example in the event of a power failure.

[0009] Description of the invention

[0010] It is an object of the present invention to provide an electrical gate actuator with an improved housing.

[0011] This aim is achieved according to the present invention in that the elongated housing comprises a frame and a casing, wherein the frame is configured to be mounted to the support and wherein the casing is attached to the frame, and in that the gate actuator further comprises a lock that is movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein, in said open position, the casing is slidable in the longitudinal direction relative to the frame from its attached position to an open position, and wherein, in said closed position, the casing is fixed to the frame.

[0012] The present invention therefore provides a multi-part housing of which a part (i.e. , the frame) is fixed to the support and another part (i.e. , the casing) is slidably mounted to the frame. The use of a multi-part housing conveniently allows access to the internal components of the gate actuator (such as the electric drive). A faulty component can therefore easily be replaced without the need for an entirely new gate actuator. The lock serves to prevent the casing from accidentally sliding relative to the frame and to prevent unauthorized persons from gaining access to the internal components of the gate actuator. An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the gate actuator is further provided with an electronic control within the housing which is configured for controlling the gate actuator.

[0013] In the state of the art, the electronic control of a gate actuator is incorporated into the support to which the gate actuator is mounted. The reason for this is that a large volume is available inside the support for housing components. This comes with the drawback, however, that a sufficiently large opening needs to be made in the hollow support to allow the electronic control to be placed therein, which may lead to damage to its finish (e.g., its paintwork) as well as adversely affecting structural integrity. In order to prevent this, in this embodiment, the electronic control is located inside the housing.

[0014] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the electronic control comprises a control module, an input-output, IO, module, and a memory, wherein the memory is configured for storing a set of parameters describing a closing movement and / or opening movement of the gate relative to the support, such as a rotation speed, a duration, an end stroke, etc., wherein the IO module is configured for receiving an (external) activation signal for opening or closing the gate, wherein the control module is configured for, upon receiving the external activation signal, generating control signals for the electric drive based on the stored set of parameters, and wherein the IO module is further configured for transmitting the control signals to the electric drive.

[0015] These modules (i.e., a control module, such as a processor; an IO module, such as a transceiver, a code keypad, etc.; and a memory, such as a static memory) provide the basic functions needed for operating the gate actuator.

[0016] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the IO module is further configured for receiving setup signals generated by a user, and wherein the control module is further configured for modifying one or more parameters in said set based on the setup signals received. In this embodiment, an end user (e.g., an installer installing the gate actuator, a resident of the building where the gate actuator is used, etc.) can configure the closing movement of the gate and the opening movement of the gate according to their own wishes (e.g., modify the time needed for opening or closing the gate). To this end, the end user generates the required setup signals, for example using an application on an end terminal (such as a smartphone, tablet, etc.). These setup signals are then sent from the end terminal to the IO module, whereupon the control module makes the necessary adjustments in the parameters stored in the memory.

[0017] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the electronic control further comprises a detection module configured for: detecting a position of the casing relative to the frame; and generating a detection signal upon detection of the casing being in its open position, wherein the control module can only perform said modifying of one or more parameters during and / or within a certain period after receipt of the detection signal.

[0018] This embodiment prevents the situation where any user who is able to generate setup signals would simply be able to change the setup of any gate actuator. (Re)setting the (stored) parameters is only possible if a signal is received indicating that the casing is in its open position. And placing the casing in the open position requires the use of the key by which the casing is locked to the frame. In other words, (re)programming the gate actuator can only be done by a user who also possesses a physical key for removing the casing.

[0019] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the IO module is further configured for receiving an identification signal generated by a user, wherein the control module can only perform said modifying of one or more parameters during and / or within a certain period after receipt of the identification signal.

[0020] This embodiment provides additional security in that (re)programming the gate actuator can only be done after receipt of an identification signal generated by the end user. Generating the identification signal may for example require an identification by password, facial recognition, access code, and the like. This makes it possible to only allow (re)programming by certified installers or by the person who has purchased the gate actuator (e.g., through a mandatory registration after purchasing the gate closer).

[0021] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the detection module comprises a reed sensor and a permanent magnet, said reed sensor being mounted to the frame and said permanent magnet being mounted to the casing.

[0022] Many methods are known for detecting a change of position between two objects, e.g., an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, a contact switch, etc. A reed sensor having a permanent magnet is a known system that is robust and durable for outside use, and hence highly suitable for application in a gate actuator. The system is further also easily replaceable (if needed) and has a low cost, which is advantageous for mass production. Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide the reed sensor on the frame, as it needs to be physically connected to the other electronic components in the gate actuator (e.g., as part of a circuit board, through a wired connection, etc.), while the permanent magnet does not require any such physical connections and can therefore easily be arranged on a slidable element.

[0023] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the reed sensor is configured to be activated upon removal of the permanent magnet.

[0024] Since the casing is usually in the closed position relative to the frame, this embodiment is advantageous for limiting power consumption in the gate actuator. In the closed position of the casing, the circuit comprising the reed sensor is open, thus requiring no current to be present.

[0025] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the casing is provided on its inside with a holder for holding the permanent magnet. This simplifies assembling the gate actuator, as the permanent magnet can easily be attached at the right location on the casing. Note that for a correct functioning of the reed sensor, it is important for the permanent magnet to be located at a suitable distance.

[0026] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the gate actuator further comprises a cover provided on the lower end of the housing for covering the latter, wherein the lock is mounted to the cover and is provided with a lock barrel extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0027] A cover is advantageous for closing the housing at its bottom. This is done to reduce the risk of soiling, e.g., by moisture, insects, etc. Furthermore, placing the lock on this cover with a lock barrel extending in the longitudinal direction is advantageous for preventing water infiltration in the lock and / or the gate actuator. As the lock is located at the bottom of the gate actuator, the risk of water infiltration is drastically reduced due to gravity (particularly when compared to a lock located on the side of the gate actuator). The lock is also typically hidden from view form the end user, which is a desired aesthetic side effect.

[0028] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the cover is fixed to the casing.

[0029] Thus, when opening the casing, the cover (carrying the lock) moves along with the casing. This allows the cover to extend beyond the outer contour of the housing, which is advantageous for achieving its desired sealing function. This would be difficult or impossible to achieve if the cover carrying the lock were fixed to the frame, as the cover would then interfere with the sliding motion of the casing.

[0030] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the frame has a rear wall configured to face the support and two opposing upright side walls extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the casing is attached to the frame by means of the side walls.

[0031] The use of side walls for mounting the casing to the frame maximizes the available inner volume within the housing when compared to a casing engaging the frame in a more central position. Furthermore, the rear wall can easily be provided with a design adapted to the support to which the gate actuator is to be mounted. For example, the rear wall may conform to a partly cylindrical design so as to correspond to a support having a circular cross section.

[0032] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that each of said side walls is provided with a groove extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the casing is provided on its inside with two opposing upright ribs that fit in a corresponding groove for mounting the casing to the frame.

[0033] A groove with a corresponding rib (or tooth) is a simple way to slidably connect the casing to the frame without requiring complex mechanical couplings.

[0034] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that each groove is a dovetail groove. Such a groove with a corresponding rib ensures that the casing cannot be forced out of the groove sideways (i.e. , perpendicular to the groove), for example by means of excessive force.

[0035] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the gate actuator is further provided with lighting, particularly LED lighting, mounted to the frame, wherein an at least partially transparent cover is provided on a casing at the lower end.

[0036] Providing lighting at the bottom of the gate actuator offers an additional light seamlessly integrated into the gate actuator. This light can serve as a warning for indicating a movement (i.e., opening or closing) of the gate. This lighting can also serve as mood lighting. Lighting that can generate different colors is therefore desirable.

[0037] A cover is, as already described above, advantageous for closing the housing at its bottom. This is done to reduce the risk of soiling, e.g., by moisture, insects, etc..

[0038] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that said lock is mounted to the cover.

[0039] As already described above, placing the lock on this cover is advantageous for preventing water infiltration in the lock and / or the gate actuator. As the lock is located at the bottom of the gate actuator, the risk of water infiltration is drastically reduced due to gravity (particularly when compared to a lock located on the side of the gate actuator). The lock is also typically hidden from view form the end user, which is a desired aesthetic side effect. The lighting further enhances this effect by making the lock practically invisible, even for a gate actuator mounted high above the ground, due to the active lighting.

[0040] The advantages described above are also achieved by means of a method for configuring a gate actuator as described above, said method comprising the following steps: a user operating the lock so as to move the latch to its open position; the user sliding the casing in the longitudinal direction relative to the frame, causing the detection module to generate said detection signal; the user generating one or more setup signals and optionally an identification signal, for example by means of an application on the user terminal; transmitting the setup signals and optionally the identification signal, particularly from the user terminal, to the IO module; and the control module modifying one or more parameters in said set of parameters based on the setup signals received.

[0041] As described above, this method allows an end user (e.g., an installer installing the gate actuator, a resident of the building where the gate actuator is used, etc.) to configure the closing movement of the gate and the opening movement of the gate according to their own wishes (e.g., modifying the time needed for opening or closing the gate). The detection signal (which requires access to the key to the lock) and optionally the identification signal thereby prevent the situation where any user who is able to generate setup signals would simply be able to change the setup of any gate actuator.

[0042] The advantages described above are also achieved by means of a closure system comprising a support, a gate that is hingedly connected to the support, and a gate actuator as described above.

[0043] An embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the elongated housing is attached to the support and in that the closure system further comprises a rail mounted to the gate, wherein the distal end of the arm is engaged in said rail.

[0044] The use of a rail on the gate allows the gate actuator, contrary to the one disclosed in WO 2019 / 048359, to act directly on the gate without intervention of the hinge. The gate actuator can therefore be used in closure systems where the hinge is not easily accessible, e.g., a hinge between the support and the gate.

[0045] Brief description of the drawings

[0046] The invention will now be further elucidated by means of the following description and the appended figures.

[0047] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a gate actuator according to the present invention mounted to a closure system.

[0048] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a gate actuator according to the present invention.

[0049] Figure 3 shows the gate actuator of figure 2 with the casing removed from the frame.

[0050] Figures 4A and 4B each show a horizontal cross section through the bottom of the gate actuator of figure 2 and illustrate the lock in its open and closed position, respectively.

[0051] Figure 5 shows a schematic view of the bottom of the housing.

[0052] Figure 6 shows a detail of the part circled in figure 5.

[0053] Figure 7 shows a schematic view of the electronic control in a gate actuator according to the present invention.

[0054] Modes for carrying out the invention

[0055] The present invention will now be described with respect to particular embodiments and in reference to certain drawings, but the invention is not limited thereto and is defined only by the claims. The drawings presented here are merely schematic depictions and are nonlimiting. In the drawings, the sizes of some of the elements may be exaggerated, meaning that the elements in question are not drawn to scale and are only intended for illustrative purposes. The dimensions and relative dimensions do not necessarily correspond to actual reductions to practice of the invention.

[0056] Furthermore, terms such as “first”, “second”, “third”, and the like are used in the description and in the claims for distinguishing between similar elements, and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. The terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and the embodiments of the invention can operate in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0057] Moreover, terms such as “top”, “bottom”, “over”, “under”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear”, and the like are used in the description and in the claims for descriptive purposes. The terms so used, in particular “top”, “bottom”, “over”, “under”, “front” and “rear”, are to be understood and read in the context of the normal positioning of the gate actuator, with its longitudinal direction substantially coinciding with the vertical direction.

[0058] The term “comprising” and terms derived therefrom, as used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being restricted to the means listed thereafter; the term does not exclude other elements or steps. The term should be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components as referred to, without however precluding the presence or addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps or components, or groups thereof. Thus, the scope of an expression such as “a device comprising means A and B” is not limited solely to devices consisting only of components A and B. What is meant, on the contrary, is that with respect to the present invention, the only relevant components are A and B. The term “substantially” includes variations departing + / - 10% or less, preferably + / - 5% or less, more preferably + / - 1 % or less, and more preferably + / - 0, 1 % or less, from the specified condition, to the extent that these variations are applicable to the functioning in the disclosed invention. It will be understood that the term “mainly A” is intended to also include “A” itself.

[0059] The invention generally relates to an electrically driven gate actuator 3 for actuating (i.e. , closing and opening) a closure system, more specifically a closure system for outside use (i.e., as part of a fence, a barrier, a gate, etc.). The closure system (shown in figure 1 ) comprises a post 1 (more generally a support, such as a wall, a pole, a hollow tube, etc.) and a gate 2 (more generally a rotatable closing member, such as a gate, a door, a window, etc.). In the context of a closure system for outside use, the support 1 is often constituted by a hollow tube. This hollow tube typically has a square or rectangular cross section with outer dimensions of 4 cm, 5 cm or 6 cm (e.g., a rectangular cross section of 4x6 cm or a square cross section of 4x4 cm). The hollow tube may also have a circular cross section, with a typical outer diameter being 4 cm, 5 cm or 6 cm.

[0060] The gate 2 is mounted to the support 1 by means of hinges 4, particularly eyebolt hinges, for example as disclosed in EP 1528202, EP 2778331 or EP 3162997, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. At the other side of the gate 2, an extra support 5 is provided, which may be provided with a lock and holder assembly, for example using a lock disclosed in EP 1118559, EP 2915939, EP 2186974, EP 3153645, EP 4191007 or EP 4245951 , the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, and a holder disclosed in EP 1600584, EP 1680567, EP 3 153 645, EP 4159958 or EP 4245951 , the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0061] The gate actuator 3 shown in figure 1 has an arm 6 that directly engages the upper hinge 4. The arm 6 therefore extends between a proximal end 6a (in the embodiment shown, this proximal end is disc- shaped) and a distal end 6b provided with a protruding pin 9 engaging the hinge 4 to urge the gate 2 to its closed position. More specifically, the arm 6 engages a coupling mechanism provided on the eyebolt hinge 4, as disclosed in WO 2019 / 048359, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm 6 is made of aluminum, though other materials are also possible.

[0062] A variant gate actuator 3 is shown in figure 2. This gate actuator 3 is not intended to directly act on the hinge 4, but is intended to act on the gate 2. To this end, a rail 7 is provided, which is intended to be fixed to the gate 2. The rail 7 is therefore attached to the gate 2 by means of fasteners 8. Preferably, mounting sets are used as disclosed in EP 1907712 or EP 3575617, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The arm 6 extends between a proximal end 6a (in the embodiment shown, this proximal end is disc-shaped) and a distal end 6b provided with a protruding pin 9 engaging the rail 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the arm 6 is made of aluminum, though other materials are also possible.

[0063] The gate actuator 3 in general comprises an elongated housing 10 extending in a longitudinal direction 11 between an upper end 10a and a lower end 10b. During normal use, the longitudinal direction 11 substantially coincides with the vertical direction. The elongated housing 10 is mounted to the support 1 by means of one or more fasteners 16. Preferably, mounting sets are used as disclosed in EP 1907712 or EP 3575617, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other ways to mount the gate actuator 3 to the closure system are also possible, and the details are known to the person skilled in the art.

[0064] The elongated housing 10 can be made from different materials and using different production methods. In the embodiment shown (as can be seen in figure 3), the elongated housing 10 is made up of a frame 12 (particularly a plastic frame) attached to the support 1. Mounted thereto is a casing 13 that is preferably made by means of extrusion of aluminum, though other materials, particularly metals, may also be used. The top 10a of the housing 10 is sealed by an upper seal 14 and the bottom 10b of the housing 10 is sealed by a lower seal 15. These seals 14, 15 may be made from metals or plastic, wherein plastic is preferred as it is easier to use in an injection molding process.

[0065] The mounting of the casing 13 to the frame 12 is shown in more detail in figure s. In the embodiment shown, the frame 12 comprises a substantially planar rear wall 60 having two opposing upright side walls 61 at its outer sides. The substantially planar rear wall 60 is intended to be mounted with its outer side 60a against the support 1. In the embodiment shown, the outer side 60a is substantially planar, but, as already described above, it may also follow a curved, particularly cylindrical surface to be mounted against a round support 1 . In the upright side walls 61 , a groove 62 is provided, extending in the longitudinal direction 11. In the embodiment shown, these grooves 62 are a dovetail groove. The casing 13 is provided on its inside with ribs 20 sliding in corresponding dovetail grooves 62 so that the casing 13 can be slid in the longitudinal direction 11 onto the frame 12.

[0066] Figures 5 and 6 further illustrate that the casing 13 is provided at its inside with a holder 52 in which a permanent magnet 53 is arranged. On the frame 12, a support element 46 (e.g., a circuit board) is provided, on which a reed sensor 49 is arranged that cooperates with the permanent magnet 53. The reed sensor 49 and the permanent magnet 53 together form a detection module, the operation of which will be further described with reference to figure 7.

[0067] In figure 3, the casing is removed from the frame 12, exposing the internal components of the gate actuator 3.

[0068] Figure 3 shows a mounting body 22 mounted to the arm 6 at its proximal end 6a. This is for example done by means of a bolt (or a fastener in general) fixing the mounting body 22 to the arm 6. The mounting body 22 is inserted at the upper end 10a of the housing 10. For this reason, in the embodiment shown, the mounting body 22 is substantially cylindrical, so that it can rotate within the housing 10.

[0069] Figure 3 further illustrates a mounting ring 30 arranged for mounting the gate actuator 3 to the support 1 by means of two mounting sets 16. For this purpose, the mounting ring 30 is provided with two through openings 31 with part of a fastener 16 extending through each, respectively. The mounting ring 30 is arranged within the housing 10 and is hidden from view by the casing 13. The mounting ring 30 is therefore a static element that does not rotate along with an output shaft (not shown). The electric drive is located below (seen in the longitudinal direction 11 ) the mounting ring 30 with the output shaft (i.e. , that of the electric motor 50 or of the reducer 51 , if present) extending through the mounting ring 30. Placing the mounting ring 30 around the output shaft is advantageous for preventing or reducing torsional forces. Indeed, the force transfer between the gate actuator 3 and the gate 2 is concentrated at the location of the output shaft and the mounting body 22, while the force transfer between the gate actuator 3 and the support 1 is concentrated at the location of the mounting ring 30. Creating a large distance between these elements may give rise to torsional forces, which is undesirable.

[0070] The gate actuator 3 comprises an electric drive. This drive comprises at least an electric motor 50 and may, if so desired, also comprise a reducer 51 for lowering the rpm and increasing the torque of the electric motor 50. In the embodiment shown, a reducer 51 is present. An electric motor 50 is advantageous due to its compact size, which allows it to be incorporated into a housing 10 that fits onto a support 1 , particularly a hollow tube, i.e., without protruding relative the outer dimension of the support 1. In an embodiment, the electric drive comprises a reducer 51 with a reduction comprised between 1 :100 and 1 :1000, for example 1 :200 or 1 :400.

[0071] The electric drive, particularly the electric motor 50, comprises a motor body (not shown) having the means required for rotating an output shaft (not shown). This may be the output shaft of the electric motor or, if a reducer 51 is present, that of the reducer 51 . This output shaft extends to the top 10a of the housing 10. Upon activation of the electric motor, the output shaft is rotatable in two opposite rotational directions about the longitudinal direction 11 .

[0072] The electric drive is further provided with an electronic control 55 for controlling the gate actuator 3. In the state of the art, this electronic control is incorporated into the support 1 . The reason for this is that a large volume is available inside the support 1 for housing components. This comes with the drawback, however, that a sufficiently large opening needs to be made in the hollow support 1 which may lead to damage to its finish (e.g., its paintwork) as well as adversely affecting structural integrity. In order to prevent this, in the embodiment shown, the electronic control 55 is located inside the housing 10. The electronic control 55 preferably allows the resting position of the arm 6 to be calibrated as soon as the gate actuator 3 is mounted onto the closure system. To be precise, reference number 55 in figure 3 refers to a housing into which the electronic control is inserted, which contributes to the protection of the electronic control against soiling, e.g., moisture, insects, etc.

[0073] Below (seen in the longitudinal direction 11 ) the electronic control 55, a power supply 56 is provided. It is typically connected to an external power grid by wiring (not shown). This wiring then typically extends through the rear wall 60 of the frame 12 into the hollow support 1 so as to be hidden from view as well as protected against soiling, e.g., moisture, insects, etc.

[0074] Figure 3 further illustrates internally inside the housing 10, a double ring-shaped structure is present at the bottom of the frame 12. This structure comprises a support ring 57 fixed to the frame 12 onto which a lighting ring 58 is mounted, particularly LED lighting. The lighting 58 is preferably able to generate light in different colors, e.g., white light for illumination, red light for warning that the gate 2 is moving or about to move, etc. The support ring 57 has a raised inner wall 59 extending at the inside of the lighting ring 58 in the longitudinal direction 11 beyond the lighting ring 58. Figure 3 further illustrates that the lower seal 15 is provided with a transparent portion 63. The transparent portion 63 is ring-shaped and corresponds to the lighting ring 58 so that the light generated by the lighting is visible at the outer side of the gate actuator 3.

[0075] Figure 3 also illustrates that a lock barrel 64 (lock in general) is provided on the lower seal 15, which is operable by means of a key 65. The operation of this lock barrel 64 is shown in figures 4A and 4B. The lock barrel 64 is provided with a cam 66 (latch in general) which, by operating the lock 64, is rotatable (movable in general) between an open position (shown in figure 4A) and a closed position (shown in figure 4B). In the closed position, the cam 66 engages a support 67 that is fixed to the frame 12, e.g., via the support ring 57. In another embodiment, the support ring 57 may even serve as an abutment for the latch 66. In this way, the lock 64 ensures that the casing 13 is not slidable relative to the frame 12. It should be understood that, although the lock 64 is illustrated as being mounted to the casing 13, in other embodiments the lock can be mounted to the frame using a latch that engages the casing.

[0076] Figure 7 shows a schematic view of the electronic control 55 in the gate actuator 3. The electronic control 55 is, generally speaking, a computer system comprising a bus, a processor 34, a local memory 54, one or more input / output (I / O) interfaces 69, and a detection module 68. The bus comprises one or more conductors and allows communication between the different components of the computer system. Processor 34 (also referred to as control module) comprises any type of conventional processor or microprocessor that reads and executes computer programming instructions. Local memory 54 is intended to include any form of computer readable medium for information storage, such as a working memory (e.g., Random Access Memory - RAM), a static memory (e.g., a Read-Only Memory - ROM), a hard drive, or removable storage media (e.g., a DVD, CD, USB storage, SSD, etc.), etc. The local memory 54 is typically used for storing information and instructions to be processed by the processor 34. The I / O interface 69 (also referred to as IO module) may comprise one or more conventional systems enabling communication between the electronic control 55 and a user. Examples of this are a keyboard, a mouse, speech recognition, biometric means, a (touch) screen, a printer, a speaker, a code keypad, etc. The IO module 69 also comprises a communication interface, such as a transceiver system, allowing communication with external systems, such as the electric motor 50 and an end terminal 70 (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, computer, etc. optionally supporting a specific application). Examples of this are a Wide Area Network (WAN), such as the Internet, a Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) such as Sigfox, LoRa, NarrowBand loT, etc., a Personal Area Network (PAN), such as Bluetooth, or a Local Area Network (LAN).

[0077] Stored in the memory 54 are at least a set of parameters stored describing the closing movement and the opening movement of the gate 2. Examples of such parameters are: a rotation speed of the gate, a duration indicating how long the closing movement or the opening movement is allowed to take, an end stroke (i.e. , when closing, should the gate speed up at the end of the movement to provide sufficient speed to push in the daybolt of a lock by means of a sloping surface on a lock keep), an angle over which the arm should rotate, etc.

[0078] The IO module 69 is intended for receiving signals, e.g., an activation signal for opening or closing the gate 2, a setup signal for (re)programming the stored parameters (e.g., generated by an application on the end terminal 70), an identification signal identifying a user (e.g., generated by a password check on the end terminal 70), etc. The IO module 69 is further intended for transmitting signals, e.g., control signals generated by the control module 34 to the electric motor 50, or confirmation signals generated by the control module 34 to confirm that the (re)programming was successful, etc. In the embodiment shown, the detection module 68 comprises the reed sensor 49 and the permanent magnet 53. The reed sensor 49 and the permanent magnet 53 allow a position of the casing 13 relative to the frame 12 to be detected. More specifically, a sufficiently large displacement of the permanent magnet 53 (which is fixed about the casing 13) causes activation of the reed sensor 49 (which is fixed to the frame 12). The detection module 68 is therefore able to detect whether the casing 13 is in its closed position (as shown in figure 2) or in its open position (as shown in figure 3). In the open position, an activation of the reed sensor 49 takes place, which as a result transmits a signal to the processor 34, said signal indicating that (re)programming the stored parameters is allowed.

[0079] It should be understood that the detection module 68 is not limited to a reed sensor 49 and permanent magnet 53. Many other methods are known for detecting a change of position between two objects (i.e., the frame 12 and the casing 13), e.g., an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, a sliding contact, etc.

[0080] A method for (re)setting or (re)programming the gate actuator 3 comprises the following steps: a user operating the lock 64 so as to move the latch 66 to its open position; the user sliding the casing 13 in the longitudinal direction 11 relative to the frame 12, causing the detection module 68 to generate a detection signal (e.g., the reed sensor 49 closes a circuit as a result of the removal of the permanent magnet 53); the user generating one or more setup signals on the user terminal 70 and optionally an identification signal, for example by means of an application on the user terminal; the user terminal 70 transmitting the setup signals and optionally the identification signal from the user terminal to the IO module 69; and the control module 34 modifying one or more parameters stored in the memory 54 based on the setup signals received. Alternatively, the setup signals and optionally the identification signal can be generated using physical input means present on the gate actuator 3, e.g., a touch screen within the housing 10. Although certain aspects of the present invention have been described in relation to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these aspects may be implemented in other forms within the scope as determined by the claims.

Claims

Claims1. A gate actuator (3) for actuating a gate (2) that is rotatably connected to a support (1 ) by means of a hinge (4), the gate actuator comprising:- an elongated housing (10) extending in a longitudinal direction (11 ) between an upper end (10a) and a lower end (10b) and configured to be mounted to the support;- an electric drive (50, 51 ) within the elongated housing, said electric drive having an output shaft that is rotatable upon activation of the electric drive; and- an arm (6) positioned at the upper end of the elongated housing, which arm extends between a proximal end (6a) and a distal end (6b) and is configured for actuating the gate upon rotation of the output shaft, wherein the distal end is configured to be connected to the gate or the hinge and wherein the proximal end is coupled to the output shaft, characterized in that the elongated housing comprises a frame (12) and a casing (13), wherein the frame is configured to be mounted to the support and wherein the casing is attached to the frame, and in that the gate actuator further comprises a lock (64) that is movable between an open position and a closed position, wherein, in said open position, the casing is slidable in the longitudinal direction relative to the frame from its attached position to an open position, and wherein, in said closed position, the casing is fixed to the frame.

2. The gate actuator according to claim 1 , characterized in that the gate actuator is further provided with an electronic control (55) within the housing which is configured for controlling the gate actuator.

3. The gate actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that the electronic control comprises a control module (34), an input-output, IO, module (69), and a memory (54),wherein the memory is configured for storing a set of parameters describing a closing movement and / or opening movement of the gate relative to the support, such as a rotation speed, a duration, an end stroke, etc., wherein the IO module is configured for receiving an external activation signal for opening or closing the gate, wherein the control module is configured for, upon receiving the external activation signal, generating control signals for the electric drive based on the stored set of parameters, and wherein the IO module is further configured for transmitting the control signals to the electric drive.

4. The gate actuator according to claim 3, characterized in that the IO module is further configured for receiving setup signals generated by a user, and wherein the control module is further configured for modifying one or more parameters in said set based on the setup signals received.

5. The gate actuator according to claim 4, characterized in that the electronic control further comprises a detection module (68) configured for:- detecting a position of the casing relative to the frame; and- generating a detection signal upon detection of the casing being in its open position, wherein the control module can only perform said modifying of one or more parameters during and / or within a certain period after receipt of the detection signal.

6. The gate actuator according to claim 5, characterized in that the detection module comprises a reed sensor (49) and a permanent magnet (53), said reed sensor being mounted to the frame and said permanent magnet being mounted to the casing.

7. The gate actuator according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the gate actuator further comprises a cover (15) provided on the lower end of the housing for covering the latter, wherein the lock is mounted to the cover and is provided with a lock barrel extending in the longitudinal direction.

8. The gate actuator according to claim 7, characterized in that the cover is fixed to the casing.

9. The gate actuator according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the frame has a rear wall (12) configured to face the support and two opposing upright side walls (61 ) extending in the longitudinal direction, wherein the casing is attached to the frame by means of the side walls.

10. The gate actuator according to claim 9, characterized in that each of said side walls is provided with a groove (62) extending in the longitudinal direction and wherein the casing is provided on its inside with two opposing upright ribs (20) that fit in a corresponding groove for mounting the casing to the frame.

11. The gate actuator according to claim 10, characterized in that each groove is a dovetail groove.

12. The gate actuator according to any of the previous claims, characterized in that the gate actuator is further provided with lighting (58), particularly LED lighting, mounted to the frame, wherein an at least partially transparent cover (63) is provided on the casing at the lower end.

13. The gate actuator according to claim 12, characterized in that saidlock is mounted to the cover.

14. A method for configuring a gate actuator (3) according to claim 5 or any claim directly or indirectly dependent on the latter, said method comprising the following steps:- a user operating the lock (64) so as to move a latch (66) of the lock to an open position;- the user sliding the casing (13) in the longitudinal direction (11 ) relative to the frame (12), causing the detection module (68) to generate said detection signal;- the user generating one or more setup signals on a user terminal (70), for example by means of an application on the user terminal;- the user terminal transmitting the setup signals from the user terminal to the IO module (69); and- the control module (34) modifying one or more parameters in said set of parameters based on the setup signals received.

15. A closure system comprising a support (1 ) and a gate (2) that is hingedly connected to the support, characterized in that the closure system further comprises a gate actuator (3) according to any of the previous claims 1 to 13, wherein, preferably, the elongated housing (10) is attached to the support and the closure system further comprises a rail (7) mounted to the gate, wherein the distal end of the arm is engaged in said rail.

Images