Pivoting Barrier Bracket Geometry for Predictable Actuator Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Movable pivoting barriers experience unpredictable speed and force variations due to dynamic physical dimensions during installation, leading to user dissatisfaction and operational difficulties.
Innovation Solution
The use of a post-mountable and pivoting barrier-mountable bracket system that stabilizes the relative angle between the barrier and the linear actuator arm, ensuring consistent dimensions and predictable movement speeds by employing a frame with affixment members and pivot points, allowing for reliable operation without requiring extensive installer training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a linear actuator is coupled to control the automatic movement of a pivoting barrier, then the barrier can be automatically opened and closed, but the speed and force of the barrier become unpredictable due to dynamic physical dimensions during installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing pre-configured posts with predetermined dimensions and geometries that establish fixed physical relationships between the linear actuator and the barrier. The posts are pre-manufactured with specific dimensions (e.g., length, angle, position) that ensure consistent barrier speeds and forces during operation, eliminating the need for on-site adjustments and ensuring predictable performance from installation onwards.
2Ease of operation
If the linear actuator is not parallel to the barrier to exert desired influence, then the actuator can effectively control the barrier, but significant uncertainty exists with respect to the actual resultant speeds the barrier will experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by establishing fixed geometric parameters through the pre-configured post design. The post defines specific angles, lengths, and positions that determine the relationship between the actuator and barrier. By controlling these physical parameters in advance, the system achieves both effective actuator operation (non-parallel configuration) and predictable barrier speeds, as the geometry is predetermined rather than variable.
3Reliability
If pre-configured posts with predetermined dimensions are used, then consistent barrier speeds and forces are achieved, but the device complexity increases due to the bracket system and frame configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating multiple functions into the pre-configured post structure. The post combines the support function, the positioning function, and the geometric definition function into a single pre-manufactured component. This consolidation reduces the overall system complexity despite the added reliability, as the pre-configured post eliminates the need for separate adjustment mechanisms and simplifies installation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for use with a post (602) and a corresponding pivoting barrier (601) comprises a post-mountable bracket (300) and a pivoting barrier-mountable bracket (500). The former comprises a frame (301) configured to be affixed to the post, a barrier pivot (305) that is affixed to the frame, and a linear actuator arm mounting bracket (307) that is also affixed to the frame. The pivoting barrier-mountable bracket can comprise a frame (501) configured to be affixed to the pivoting barrier, a post pivot (505) that is affixed to the frame and that is configured to pivotally mate with the barrier pivot, and a linear actuator arm mounting bracket (507).