Adjustable Gate Assembly With Rotatable Sections and Truss Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fencing systems face challenges in accurately determining the precise size of gates required for installation, leading to difficulties in manufacturing, delivery, and installation, with a need for adjustable gates that are cost-effective and provide higher performance.
Innovation Solution
The development of adjustable fence sections and gates with vertical and horizontal frame sections that can be adjusted, incorporating rotatable connections, truss cable connections, and cable storage to facilitate easier handling and installation, along with adjustable hinges and latch brackets for customizable sizing and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If adjustable gates are manufactured with fixed dimensions before installation, then manufacturing and delivery are simplified, but the ability to accommodate precise site measurements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is divided into multiple horizontal frame sections that can be independently adjusted in width. These sections are connected through adjustable mechanisms allowing the gate to be segmented into different configurations to fit various opening sizes while maintaining ease of manufacturing for each standard section.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate incorporates dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the horizontal frame sections to be repositioned and reconfigured after manufacturing. This enables the gate to adapt to different widths and dimensions while the individual components remain manufactured using standardized processes.
2Manufacturing precision
If gates are manufactured with precise custom dimensions, then fit and performance are improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than manufacturing each gate as a single custom-dimensional unit, the gate is segmented into standardized horizontal frame sections that can be manufactured with consistent precision using the same tooling and processes, then assembled to achieve the required overall dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The horizontal frame sections are designed as universal components that can be used across multiple gate configurations. The same standardized sections can be combined in different numbers and arrangements to achieve various precise dimensions, eliminating the need for custom manufacturing for each size.
3Ease of operation
If horizontal frame sections are shipped in their operational position, then installation is simplified, but shipping footprint and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The horizontal frame sections are designed to nest within or alongside each other during shipping, with one section fitting inside or adjacent to another. This reduces the overall shipping footprint and volume while allowing the sections to be easily extracted and assembled into their operational configuration during installation.
4Manufacturing precision
If truss cables are cut to exact length during manufacturing, then gate configuration is optimized, but flexibility for future resizing is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The truss cables are designed with adjustable tensioning mechanisms and detachable connections that allow the cable length and tension to be modified after initial installation. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the gate to be resized or reconfigured in the future without requiring replacement of the entire cable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable system incorporates adjustable parameters such as tension, length, and attachment points that can be changed after manufacturing. Turnbuckles, telescoping sections, or adjustable connectors allow the cable characteristics to be modified to accommodate different gate configurations while maintaining optimal performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Adjustable fence and gate assemblies including at least two hinge brackets and at least two latch brackets. Each hinge bracket including a first horizontal member receiving portion including a first horizontal member receiving surface, a first vertical member receiving portion including a first vertical member receiving surface, a first truss cable connector, and post connector integral with and extending from the first horizontal member receiving portion. Each latch bracket including a second horizontal member receiving portion including a second horizontal member receiving surface, a second vertical member receiving portion including a second vertical member receiving surface, and a second truss cable connector integral with the second vertical member.