Cam Sled Gate Locking Mechanism for Theme Parks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gate systems for theme park attractions face inefficiencies in force requirements for maintaining gate positions and actuating gates, leading to inefficient power usage and potential interference with guest pathways.
Innovation Solution
A cam sled system with a cam plate and cam follower that slides along a rail, rotating the gate assembly between open and closed positions, allowing for mechanical locking and efficient force adjustment, and can be configured for ambidextrous and adjustable orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If hydraulic actuators are used to open and close gates, then gate actuation is automated, but the device size and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hydraulic actuators with a cam-based mechanical system. The cam mechanism converts rotational motion of the gate into linear motion of the cam follower, which then actuates the gate. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for complex hydraulic systems while maintaining automated operation through the cam's inherent mechanical advantage and locking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the gate's own motion. As the gate opens or closes, the cam follower naturally follows the cam profile, converting the gate's movement into the actuating force needed. The system uses the gate's own operational motion to drive the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for external power sources.
2Stability of the object's composition
If high force is used to hold gates in position, then gate stability improves, but power consumption and mechanical stress increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism utilizes curved surfaces and profiles to create mechanical advantage. The cam's curved profile allows the follower to naturally settle into stable positions during gate operation, providing inherent stability through geometric constraints rather than requiring high holding forces. The curved geometry distributes forces more efficiently across the mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate system divides the holding function into multiple cam lobes or profiles along the cam's circumference. Each cam segment provides a specific locking position, distributing the stability requirement across multiple geometric features rather than relying on a single high-force mechanism. This segmentation allows the gate to be held securely at various positions with reduced overall force requirements.
3Device complexity
If manual gate operation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but labor requirements and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cam-based mechanical automation system that replaces manual gate operation. The cam mechanism automatically actuates the gate and maintains it in the desired position, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention while keeping the overall system mechanically simple and reliable.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The cam sled system efficiently manages gate positions with reduced power usage, allows for compact installation, and adjusts forces dynamically, ensuring smooth operation and minimal interference with guest pathways.
Implementation Method 1
a cam sled having a cam plate configured to slide along a rail... Actuation of a power source to move the cam sled along the rail causes the gate assembly to rotate about an axis
Data Source
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AI summary
A gate system (10) includes a cam sled (12) having a cam plate (20) configured to slide along a rail (14). The gate system (10) also includes a cam follower (16) engaged with the cam plate (20) and coupled to a gate assembly (54). Actuation of a power source (29) to move the cam sled (12) along the rail (14) causes the gate assembly (54) to rotate about an axis and mechanically lock into position in open or closed orientations of the gate assembly (54).