Barrier Security Mechanism Using Segmented Abutment Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated swing doors and gates are vulnerable to being forced open by external forces, such as human intervention or strong winds, which can damage the motor and compromise security, and are also susceptible to being rammed by vehicles, leading to security concerns.
Innovation Solution
A security mechanism featuring moveable abutment elements mounted in a housing that can be actuated between a blocking state to resist movement and an open state, which can be installed around barriers like gates and doors, using hydraulic or electromechanical actuators to secure the barrier from both pushing and pulling forces, including those from vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If motor resistance is used to hold the barrier in position, then the barrier can be operated automatically, but the barrier becomes vulnerable to being forced open by external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier holding system is segmented into two independent parts: the motor for automated operation and the abutment elements for security. The abutment elements are further segmented into multiple units distributed along the barrier, each capable of providing independent resistance. This segmentation allows the motor to provide automated operation while the distributed abutment elements provide enhanced security against forcing, as an attacker would need to overcome multiple separate resistance points rather than relying solely on motor resistance.
2Reliability
If strong abutment force is provided to prevent forcing, then security is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The abutment elements are designed to be self-activating through the application of force. When an external force is applied to the barrier, the abutment elements automatically engage and provide resistance without requiring external control signals, complex sensors, or additional actuation mechanisms. The elements utilize the applied force itself to activate their blocking function, thereby providing strong abutment force while minimizing mechanism complexity.
3Strength
If multiple abutment elements are distributed along the barrier, then resistance to forcing is enhanced, but the device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple abutment elements are merged into an integrated system that works collectively to provide enhanced resistance. The elements are positioned at different locations along the barrier and are designed to function in coordination, creating a distributed security network. This merging approach allows the system to provide strength equivalent to or greater than a single large abutment mechanism while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized, repeatable units that can be installed at regular intervals.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3(A)~3(B)
AI summary
Broadly speaking, embodiments of the present techniques provide a security mechanism for securing a barrier (such as a gate or door) which uses a first and a second abutment element that respectively abut against first and second sides of the barrier thereby blocking movement of the barrier in either direction. Advantageously, the abutment elements resist pushing and pulling forces exerted on the barrier, thereby securing the barrier against being pushed or pulled open (by a person or even via strong winds).