Segmented Blocking Element for Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access control devices, such as turnstiles, often struggle to accommodate both narrow and wide passages simultaneously, posing challenges for users with disabilities or large items, and they may not provide a safe and secure access due to stiff materials and rotating parts.
Innovation Solution
A blocking element with at least four inflexible sections and three flexible sections, arranged to transition between a blocking state and a non-blocking state through an actuation mechanism, allowing for flexible and secure passage control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If rotating arms with fixed angles (120° or 180°) are used to block the passageway, then the access control device can provide separation between passers and authorization verification, but the entire passageway cannot be released completely, preventing free passage of large objects like luggage, shopping carts, wheelchairs, or vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is divided into multiple sections (at least four substantially inflexible sections and at least three substantially flexible sections) that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the blocking element to transform from a rigid structure into a configurable shape that can accommodate various passage widths while maintaining blocking capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking element transitions from a static rotating arm configuration to a dynamic structure with flexible sections that can change shape. The flexible sections allow the blocking element to adapt its configuration dynamically - forming a complete barrier when blocking is required and dispersing to allow complete passage when needed, thus resolving the contradiction between blocking effectiveness and passage completeness.
2Strength
If substantially stiff materials like metal or hard plastic are used for the blocking arms, then the blocking element can securely block the passageway and provide structural strength, but the movement of the arms may pose safety or health risks to passers, potentially causing injury or damage
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the blocking element have different mechanical properties - the inflexible sections provide structural strength and blocking security, while the flexible sections provide safety by deforming under load to prevent injury. This local differentiation of material properties resolves the contradiction between needing strong blocking capability and minimizing harm to passers.
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking element changes its physical state locally - the flexible sections transition from a rigid blocking configuration to a deformed safety configuration when contact with passers occurs. This parameter change (from rigid to deformable) allows the element to maintain blocking security during normal operation while automatically becoming safer when unexpected contact occurs.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple rigid arm configuration is used, then the device structure can be simple and easy to manufacture, but it may not block the passageway sufficiently secure to prevent unauthorized passing
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking element is segmented into multiple inflexible and flexible sections connected in a specific configuration. This segmentation allows the element to achieve secure blocking through its multi-section structure while maintaining relative manufacturing simplicity compared to complex mechanical barrier systems. The segmented design provides both structural integrity for security and flexibility for safety.
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 provides a flexible and secure access control system that can accommodate various passage widths, ensuring safe passage for all users while minimizing the risk of injury or damage.
Implementation Method 1
at least three substantially flexible sections (114), wherein each substantially flexible section is arranged between and/or connecting two substantially inflexible sections (112), wherein the substantially flexible sections are arranged such that two particular substantially inflexible sections (112), arranged adjacent to a particular flexible section (114), are adapted to be rotatable relative to one another
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to the field of access control. In particular, the present disclosure relates to reversibly blocking and releasing passage through a passageway for people, the vehicle or the like. Further in particular, the present disclosure relates to a blocking element, access control device access control system. Accordingly, there is provided a blocking element (110) for selectively blocking a passageway (712), comprising at least four substantially inflexible sections (112), and at least three substantially flexible sections (114), wherein each substantially flexible section is arranged between and/or connecting two substantially inflexible sections, wherein the substantially flexible sections are arranged such that two particular substantially inflexible sections arranged adjacent to a particular flexible section, are adapted to be rotatable relative to one another, wherein the two outermost substantially inflexible sections are arranged as end sections (116) including a first end section and a second end section, and wherein the end sections are adapted for attaching the blocking element to an actuation mechanism (610).