Latched Gate Assembly With Orthogonal Motion for Compact Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Common gate assemblies require a long stroke for smooth operation, leading to increased size and a risk of accidental opening due to the absence of a latch on the operating button.
Innovation Solution
The gate assembly design includes a movable portion and gate portions that move in orthogonal directions, utilizing a latch mechanism to restrict accidental opening, and incorporates a soft rubber member for enhanced airtightness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operating button and gate valve move in the same direction (vertical direction), then the gate valve can operate smoothly, but a long stroke is required which leads to an increase in the size of the gate assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the movement direction of the gate valve from vertical (parallel to operating button) to horizontal (orthogonal to operating button). The operating button moves vertically while the gate valve moves horizontally, achieved through a cam mechanism that converts vertical button movement into horizontal valve movement. This dimensional change reduces the required stroke length in any single direction, thereby reducing the overall size of the gate assembly while maintaining smooth operation.
2Device complexity
If the operating button is not provided with a latch, then the structure is simple, but a user may accidentally touch the operating button and open the gate assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a latch mechanism that proactively prevents accidental opening by requiring a specific two-step operation sequence. The latch member must first be disengaged from the blocking position before the gate valve can move, ensuring that accidental touches during normal use cannot open the valve. This preliminary action of engaging the latch before operation provides reliability while maintaining relatively simple structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A gate assembly includes a base member, a door cover member, and an operating member. The door cover member is arranged on the base member, and includes a body, a movable portion, and two gate portions. The body is provided with a through slot and two protruding posts. The movable portion is arranged on the body and is movable relative to the body along a first axis. The movable portion is provided with two limiting posts and an accommodating portion. Two gate portions are movably arranged on the body and the movable portion. Each of the gate portions is provided with a limiting hole formed in an inclined direction and a positioning hole formed along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. Each of the limiting posts extends through the limiting hole, and each of the protruding posts extends through the positioning hole.