Electromagnetic Gate Arrangement for Programmable Maze Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gate systems with mechanical hinges are inflexible and lack programmability, making it difficult to create a detachable and motorless gate arrangement that can form a large, programmable maze for educational or entertainment purposes.
Innovation Solution
An electromagnetic gate system with magnetic and electromagnetic means allows for detachable connection to gate posts, enabling 360-degree rotation and programmable movement, using a combination of primary and secondary rotating cylinders and a static cylinder for stability and control, along with a drive arrangement for automatic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical hinges are used for gate connection, then the gate structure is simple and reliable, but the gate becomes inflexible and fixed to frames, lacking programmability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical hinges with electromagnetic connectors comprising electromagnets and magnetic elements. This substitution enables programmable control of gate movement while maintaining detachable connection functionality, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic connector serves multiple functions: it provides detachable connection like a hinge, enables programmable movement control, and allows for flexible gate configurations. This multi-functionality achieves programmability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electromagnetic means are used for detachable connection, then the gate becomes flexible and programmable, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs relatively simple electromagnetic connectors that can be manufactured at reasonable costs, making it economically feasible to deploy large numbers of gates for maze construction. The connectors are designed to be functional rather than overly robust, suitable for the intended application scale.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic gate system enables creation of multiple identical or varied gate units that can be replicated and arranged in different configurations. This replicability reduces per-unit cost when producing large arrays of gates for programmable mazes.
3Extent of automation
If motorized hinges are used for automatic operation, then the gate can rotate automatically, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motorized rotation mechanisms with electromagnetic attraction/repulsion between electromagnets and magnetic elements. This substitution achieves automatic gate movement and positioning without requiring complex motors, gearboxes, or drive shafts embedded in each gate post.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic connector system enables the gate to move and position itself through electromagnetic attraction and repulsion forces. The magnetic elements on the gate are passively attracted to or repelled from electromagnets on gate posts, eliminating the need for active motorized drive mechanisms at each location.
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 system provides a flexible, motorless gate arrangement that can form complex maze layouts inexpensively, allowing for programmable paths and obstacles, enhancing educational and entertainment value while ensuring safety with emergency stops and lightweight door blades.
Implementation Method 1
The electromagnetic means are active by electromagnetic flux provided via an electric current for enabling detachable engagement between the gate posts and the door blade edge
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnetic means are active by electromagnetic flux provided via an electric current for enabling detachable engagement between the gate posts and the door blade edge
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is an electromagnetic gate arrangement (1) comprising a door blade (10) having a first edge (11) and a second edge (12), at least a first gate post (20a) and a second gate post (20b). The door blade (10), at the first and 5 second edge (11, 12) respectively, comprises at least one connecting arrangement (100) comprising magnetic means (101, 102, 103, 104) and the first and second gate post (20) comprises a respective first and second receiving arrangement (200a, 200b) comprising electromagnetic means (201, 202, 203, 204), wherein the electromagnetic means (201, 202, 203, 204) are active by electromagnetic flux provided via an electric current for enabling detachable engagement between the gate posts (20) and the door blade edge (10). The first receiving arrangement (200a) is arranged for enabling rotational movement of the door blade (10) around the first gate post (20) when disengaged from the second receiving arrangement (210). There is also provided a maze using an electromagnetic gate arrangement.