Compact Electric Chain Actuator for Gate Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric actuators for gate leaves are bulky and cumbersome, making them incompatible with compact mounting configurations, particularly for outdoor use and complex installations like gate operations.
Innovation Solution
An electric chain actuator with a compact design featuring an electric motor, a pinion, a movable carriage, and an open chain articulated on the carriage, guided by an elongated housing formed by a plate with cutouts that cross through the plate, allowing for flexible and adaptable mounting configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a profile with circulation channels for chain sections is used, then the chain can be guided, but the profile becomes bulky and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from using a bulky three-dimensional profile to a thin two-dimensional plate structure. The plate (6) with cutouts defines the circulation channels in its plane, effectively guiding the chain while reducing the actuator's bulk from volumetric to planar dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the chain guidance function from a separate bulky profile component and integrates it directly into the plate structure through cutouts. The plate itself becomes the guiding element, eliminating the need for a distinct profile component.
2Shape
If a curved track with base and concave cover is used to drive the tailgate, then the movement trajectory is achieved, but the structure becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the track structure into simple linear sections defined by cutouts in the plate, rather than using a single complex curved track. The chain follows a segmented path through the plate's cutout geometry, achieving the required trajectory with simpler components.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of forming the track as a solid curved structure (as in the tailgate application), the patent inverts the approach by creating the track as negative space (cutouts) in a flat plate. The chain is guided by the absence of material rather than by solid guiding surfaces.
3Volume of stationary object
If the plate thickness is reduced for compactness, then the actuator becomes more compact, but the rigidity for supporting the motor assembly may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the plate thickness in different regions. The plate has a first thickness in areas requiring rigidity (such as near the motor assembly and pivot points) and a second, smaller thickness in areas where compactness is prioritized, optimizing both structural strength and compactness.
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 actuator achieves minimal bulk and high compactness, enabling multiple installation possibilities, including outdoor use, while maintaining effective chain guidance and supporting the motor assembly with sufficient rigidity and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor driving a pinion
Data Source
AI summary
The actuator (8) has an electrical motor (86) that is utilized for driving a pinion (96). A mobile carriage (82) is movable according to a predetermined trajectory (D1) between one position and another position. An open chain (84) is engaged with the pinion, and is hinged to the carriage. A core (88) is allowed to define a lengthened guidance housing (L1) for guidance of the chain and the carriage. The core is formed by a plate and the housing by a cutting in the thickness of the plate, where the thickness is less than 1.5 times the width of the chain. An independent claim is also included for a method for assembly of a gate.