Flap-Based Access Control Gate for Ski Lifts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Access control gates at ski lift entrances face challenges in high throughput due to difficulties for inexperienced patrons to navigate and potential issues with baggage or clothing getting caught in turnstile barriers, leading to slowed passenger flow and hassle.
Innovation Solution
A contactless access control gate with flaps that slow down approaching patrons just before the gate threshold, allowing RFID verification and then swinging open to facilitate smooth passage, combined with photoelectric barriers for secure and hassle-free passage, and a gear box with low torque for easy opening and high torque for security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If turnstile barriers are used to control access, then unauthorized passage is prevented, but patrons with baggage or clothing may get caught in the barrier causing delays and hassle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic turnstile barrier mechanism entirely and replaces it with a flap-based system. The flap can be opened wide to allow patrons with baggage or clothing to pass through without getting caught, while still maintaining access control functionality through the flap's ability to close and block the lane when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The flap is designed to be dynamically controllable, able to swing open wide for easy passage when access is granted, and close securely to prevent unauthorized access. This dynamic movement allows the system to adapt to different situations - accommodating patrons with baggage when opening, and providing security when closing.
2Reliability
If multiple arms are used in conventional turnstiles to prevent unauthorized passage, then security is improved, but the complexity and hassle for patrons increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential security function from the complex multi-arm turnstile structure and implements it with a single flap. The flap performs the core function of blocking and allowing passage without the need for multiple rotating arms, significantly simplifying the device structure while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The access control function is segmented into distinct components: the flap for physical barrier control, the RFID reader for access verification, and the control system for coordination. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without the complexity of integrated multi-arm mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If flaps are used to allow free passage, then ease of operation is improved, but unauthorized passage may occur if not properly controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback through photoelectric barriers that detect when a patron has passed through the gate. This feedback triggers the flap to close automatically after passage, ensuring that the open state is temporary and controlled. The system continuously monitors and adjusts the flap position based on detected events, maintaining security while allowing free passage.
Solution Approach 2:
The flap system operates autonomously based on RFID verification and photoelectric detection. After a patron with valid access passes through, the system automatically closes the flap without requiring manual intervention. The photoelectric barriers and control system work together to self-regulate the flap's opening and closing cycles.
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
Ensures seamless passage for all patrons, including those with baggage, while preventing unauthorized access and allowing easy maintenance and adjustment of the gate system.
Implementation Method 1
The means to verify the access right comprise a magnetic stripe reader and / or a reader for contactless RFID cards
Implementation Method 2
The photoelectric barriers detect the patrons passage through the threshold
Data Source
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AI summary
An access control gate with a mechanical guidance forms one or more access lanes for patrons. First electronic means include a contactless access reader which is connected to a software controlled verification system to identify the access right of patrons, second means comprise two motor driven flaps which protrude from left and right of the lateral lane boundaries into the access lane thereby forming the closed gate threshold 4. The contactless access reader is arranged to capture the access right of the approaching patron short before he approaches the gate threshold 4. The verification system 13 activates the flaps 7 and 7' when an access right has been approved to swing out of the lane A to indicate to the approaching patron the granted access right. Third means to detect the passage of patrons through the gate threshold comprising two or more photoelectric barriers 10 and 10', whose detecting beams are distant from each other preferably between 1 and 10 inch, and whose beams are directed to the lane zone behind the gate threshold 4, thereby initiating the flaps 7 and 7' to close the lane A.