Collapsible Gate Retracting Into Wall Cavity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional collapsible gates are stand-alone devices that require separate storage when not in use, occupying space and not being integrated into the building structure, which can be aesthetically unappealing and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible gate secured to framing within a wall, allowing vertical retraction and storage within a wall cavity, featuring a rail system, counterbalance, support system, stabilizer plates, adjustable foot, and locking mechanism for secure and space-efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional stand-alone collapsible gates are used, then the gate can be moved to desired locations and expanded to provide temporary barriers, but the gate occupies separate storage space when not in use and is aesthetically unappealing
Solution Approach 1:
The gate system is merged with the wall structure by integrating the rail system into the wall cavity. The support system includes mounting brackets that attach to wall framing, and the rail system translates between extended (barrier) and retracted (storage) positions within the wall cavity. This merging eliminates the need for separate storage space while maintaining gate functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The collapsible gate structure is nested within the wall cavity when not in use. The rail system with top rail, bottom rail, and barrier rails folds into a compact configuration that fits inside the wall cavity, similar to nested dolls. This nesting approach allows the gate to be stored within the building structure rather than requiring external storage space.
2Area of stationary object
If the gate is made vertically retractable to fit within wall cavity, then storage space is saved and aesthetics are improved, but the gate requires complex support and locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
A counterbalance mechanism is incorporated into the gate system to offset the weight of the gate structure during deployment and retraction. The counterbalance assists in lifting the gate into the extended barrier position and maintains the gate in the fully open position when retracted, reducing the force required by the user and simplifying the overall support system requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate system employs dynamic elements including a lock system that can selectively engage to hold the gate in the closed barrier position, and a stop system that engages the rail system during translation to the open configuration. These dynamic components provide controlled movement and secure positioning without requiring permanent complex structural supports.
3Area of stationary object
If the gate is integrated into wall framing during construction or remodeling, then storage within wall cavity is achieved, but installation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The support system includes mounting brackets with alignment tabs that are designed to be installed during original construction or remodeling when wall framing is already in place. The alignment tabs spread apart studs and guide placement of the support system, allowing for preliminary installation actions that simplify subsequent gate assembly. This preliminary preparation of the mounting structure makes the overall installation process more manageable.
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
Provides a temporary barrier that can be easily installed during construction or remodeling, offering a sleek and space-saving solution for homes and commercial buildings by retracting into the wall cavity when not in use, ensuring secure and adjustable operation.
Implementation Method 1
The collapsible gate may include a counterbalance to maintain the gate within the wall cavity when the gate is in the fully open position, and to assist in opening the gate when the gate is lifted from a closed position.
Implementation Method 2
a rail system translatable between an open configuration wherein the collapsible gate is vertically retracted for storage within a wall cavity of the wall and a closed configuration wherein the collapsible gate is extended across a space to provide a temporary barrier
Implementation Method 3
The collapsible gate may include one or more stabilizer plates coupled to the support system to provide structural support and inhibit flexing of the collapsible gate when in the closed position.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible gate may provide a temporary barrier to prevent movement between rooms, or to prevent access to a staircase, in a home or commercial building. The collapsible gate may be secured to framing material within a wall and adapted for storage within a wall cavity, such as a pocket door frame, when not in use. The collapsible gate may be vertically retractable and adapted to fit between two framing studs to stow within a wall cavity and out of sight. The collapsible gate may include a counterbalance to maintain the gate within the wall cavity when the gate is in the fully open position, and to assist in opening the gate when the gate is lifted from a closed position.