Fence Opening Apparatus for Safe Electric Fence Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric fence systems require cumbersome and expensive gate solutions for access, often being complex, difficult to operate, fragile, and prone to electrical shocks, with prior devices being unsatisfactory in terms of ease of installation, safety, and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A fence opening apparatus comprising a latch member, anchor members, and a base member that connects spaced fence posts, allowing for easy user operation and safe passage through electrified fences by creating a secure and insulated opening mechanism using interlocked handle assemblies with mating components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional rigid hinged fence gates are employed to allow access through the fence, then adequate electrical contacts are provided to preserve electrical continuity, but the gate becomes cumbersome and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The fence gate system is divided into separate modular components: an insulating post section, a latch member with handle, and anchor members. This segmentation allows the electrical fence to be divided into isolated sections that can be safely manipulated without compromising overall electrical continuity, while eliminating the need for complex rigid hinged gates.
Solution Approach 2:
An insulating post section is introduced as an intermediary element between the fence wires and the ground. This mediator allows the gate mechanism to operate without creating electrical contact paths, enabling safe passage while maintaining electrical isolation. The insulating post acts as a buffer that preserves electrical continuity in the main fence line while allowing local disruption for gate operation.
2Reliability
If conventional rigid hinged fence gates with releasable electrical connectors are used for multiple access points, then electrical continuity is maintained, but the cost becomes prohibitively expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating post section serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical isolation, structural support for the fence wires, a mounting point for the latch mechanism, and a means for creating safe passage. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate expensive components like releasable electrical connectors, making the system cost-effective for multiple access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate mechanism uses simple, inexpensive components such as a latch member with handle, insulating post sections, and anchor members that can be easily manufactured and installed. These components are designed to be replaced if needed rather than being part of a permanent expensive infrastructure, reducing overall system cost while maintaining reliability.
3Ease of operation
If prior fence opening devices are used, then passageways are facilitated, but the devices are unduly complex in construction and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The complex electrical connector mechanisms and complicated release systems are extracted and replaced with a simple latch member that operates on basic mechanical principles. The essential function of facilitating passage is retained while removing unnecessary complexity from the construction, resulting in a more affordable and easier-to-manufacture device.
4Ease of operation
If prior fence opening devices are used, then passageways are created, but the devices are difficult to operate requiring both hands or substantial strength
Solution Approach 1:
The latch member is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to be easily engaged and disengaged with minimal force. The anchor members are positioned to leverage natural fence post movement, and the handle provides mechanical advantage, allowing single-handed operation without requiring substantial operator strength.
5Ease of operation
If prior fence opening devices are used, then passageways are provided, but the devices are of fragile construction and frequently require repair or replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The device components are constructed from materials and designs that match the existing fence infrastructure in terms of durability and environmental resistance. The insulating post sections, latch members, and anchor members are made to withstand the same weather conditions and usage patterns as the fence itself, ensuring comparable or improved reliability without requiring specialized maintenance.
6Ease of operation
If prior fence opening devices are used, then passageways are created, but the devices subject the user to electrical shocks due to lack of proper insulation or relationship with electrically conductive portions
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating post section converts the potentially harmful electrical conductivity into a benefit by using insulation to create safe zones. The insulating material that would normally be considered a barrier is instead used to create a safe operating area where users can manipulate the latch mechanism without electrical shock risk, while the conductive fence wires maintain their electrical continuity function.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a fence opening installation apparatus for connecting a pair of spaced fence posts, comprising: a latch member, at least two anchor members, at least one base member, wherein the latch member is releasably connected together between two spaced sections of a first fence post and a second fence post, wherein the first anchor member is disposed at the end of the first fence and the second anchor member is disposed at the end of a second fence post, and wherein the first and second fence post are operatively connected to the corresponding anchor members to disengage from the base member to raise out the corresponding post lower section of the fence post in conjunction with the user manipulation to create an opening for the user.