Parallelogram Linkage Gate Mechanism for Space-Efficient Swing Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gate technologies, such as swing and sliding gates, require significant space for large passages and are not efficient in terms of opening and closing speed, especially when combined with complex motion mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A single or double gate system utilizing a post with a closing part fixed to a swing rod, driven by a parallelogram linkage rod assembly connecting a drive rod to a swing rod part, allowing for efficient pivoting movement and optional sliding or rotational secondary movement, enabled by motors and control systems for customizable operation modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a sliding gate is used to clear large passages, then the passage can be opened completely, but a great deal of space is required for the gate to slide aside
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is divided into two separate closing parts that can operate independently. Each closing part can be swung open to clear the passage, eliminating the need for the entire gate to slide aside. This segmentation allows the passage to be opened completely while reducing the space required for gate movement, as only half the gate needs to move at a time.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of sliding the gate horizontally to clear the passage (conventional approach), the invention uses swinging motion where the closing parts rotate outward from the passage opening. This inversion of the movement direction allows the gate to clear large passages without requiring significant lateral space for sliding.
2Length of moving object
If complex motion mechanisms are used to combine swing and sliding motions, then the gate can open large passages, but the opening and closing speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gate mechanism is segmented into two independent closing parts, each with its own drive system. This allows each half of the gate to be opened or closed independently and simultaneously, doubling the effective opening/closing speed compared to a single complex mechanism. The segmentation eliminates the need for sequential complex motions while still achieving large passage clearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges two simple swing mechanisms into a coordinated system that operates together to clear the passage. By combining two independent but synchronized closing parts, the system achieves the passage-clearing capability of complex mechanisms while maintaining the speed and simplicity of basic swing motion.
3Length of moving object
If two swing motions are combined to open large passages, then the passage can be cleared, but the construction becomes complex and less stable
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is segmented into two identical, independent closing parts, each with its own post, swing rod, and drive mechanism. This modular segmentation simplifies the overall construction by repeating a proven simple swing mechanism design rather than creating a complex integrated system. Each module can be manufactured and installed independently, reducing construction complexity while achieving large passage clearance.
Solution Approach 2:
Both closing parts perform the same function (swinging to clear the passage) and use identical mechanisms. This universality allows for standardized components and simplified construction procedures, making the system easier to build and maintain compared to a complex asymmetric mechanism with multiple different moving parts.
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
Enables quick and space-efficient opening and closing of large gate entrances with customizable operation modes for different user types, improving upon existing swing and sliding gate technologies by reducing space requirements and enhancing operational speed.
Implementation Method 1
The rod assembly comprises a first and second parallel arm, and a first and second parallel rod, which are connected pivotally to each other at their outer ends in order to form a parallelogram linkage. The drive rod is fixed to the first arm. The swing rod part is fixed to the second arm. This arrangement is such that a rotation of the drive rod results in a rotation of the swing rod part for pivoting the closing part for opening or closing the gate.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~3B
AI summary
Single gate comprising a post; a closing part fixed to a swing rod part located outside the post; a drive arranged in the post and configured to rotate a drive rod arranged parallel to the swing rod part; wherein the drive rod is connected to the swing rod part by means of a rod assembly, wherein the rod assembly comprises a first and second parallel arm and a first and second parallel rod, which are connected pivotally to each other at their outer ends in order to form a parallelogram linkage; and wherein the drive rod is fixed to the first arm, and the swing rod part is fixed to the second arm, such that a rotation of the drive rod results in a rotation of the swing rod part for pivoting the closing part for opening or closing the gate.