Illuminated Threshold Barrier with Integrated Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional U-shaped gate assemblies pose a tripping hazard due to their obtrusive design, especially in low-light environments, as they protrude from the floor and lack effective illumination to enhance visibility.
Innovation Solution
A low-profile barrier assembly with integrated illumination elements in the frame members, controlled by internal electronics, which can direct light outward, upward, or downward to illuminate the surrounding area, reducing the risk of tripping hazards and enhancing safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lower cross member projects upward from the floor to form a barrier, then the barrier provides effective blocking function, but it creates a tripping hazard especially in low-light environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies illumination elements that emit light to change the visual appearance of the lower cross member from invisible/conspicuous in low light to highly visible. The illumination system transforms the visual properties of the barrier, making it detectable by human eyes in dark environments, thereby eliminating the tripping hazard while maintaining the blocking function.
Solution Approach 2:
The illumination elements are activated in advance before a person approaches the barrier, or automatically detect and illuminate upon detection of approaching motion. This preliminary illumination action ensures the barrier is visible before contact occurs, preventing the tripping hazard rather than reacting after the fact.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If illumination elements are added to the barrier structure, then visibility and safety are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the illumination elements directly into the lower cross member structure, merging the lighting function with the barrier structure. The power source and control electronics are also integrated into the same housing, combining multiple functions (structural support, illumination, power supply, control) into a single unified device, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier assembly is made self-sufficient by integrating a power source (batteries) and control circuitry directly into the lower cross member. The system can autonomously detect ambient light levels or motion and activate illumination without requiring external wiring or manual intervention, making the device self-service and reducing installation complexity.
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 solution effectively reduces the risk of tripping by providing visible light around the barrier, especially in dark areas, thereby improving safety and visibility for users navigating through or around the gate.
Implementation Method 1
one or more illumination elements are installed in one of the structural members and activated by internal electronics
Data Source
AI summary
A threshold barrier assembly includes an illumination system to facilitate visibility of the barrier assembly while mounted in a doorway or on a staircase, thereby reducing the risk of a trip hazard. The barrier assembly can include a frame comprising a pair of upright frame members connected to a lower cross member, and a barrier door comprising an upper horizontal cross member pivotally connected to the frame, a lower horizontal cross member, and vertical members connected between the upper and lower horizontal cross members. At least one illumination element is installed in at least one of the lower cross member, the upper horizontal cross member, or one or more of the vertical members. An integrated controller can control illumination of the illumination system based on a predetermined sequence, or detected environmental or operating conditions.