Segmented Electronic Gate with Planetary Gear Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic gates that open like a fan face challenges with high moment requirements, leading to security hazards and manual operation difficulties due to the need for excessive force, and often require significant space or counterweights, which are not suitable for narrow openings or provide inadequate privacy.
Innovation Solution
An electronic gate system with multiple gear systems and a safety mechanism, where each gate segment is rotated simultaneously by an electric motor, allowing for manual operation and reduced force requirements through a planetary gear system, and incorporating a counter support and segment-engaging brackets for enhanced stability and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single hinge moves all segments of a fan-shaped gate, then the gate structure is simplified, but the moment required to open the gate becomes excessively high
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is divided into multiple segments (first plurality of gate segments) that can rotate independently or in coordinated groups. This segmentation allows the motor to move only a subset of segments directly, while other segments are passively moved by adjacent segments, thereby reducing the moment required compared to moving all segments through a single hinge.
Solution Approach 2:
Adjacent gate segments act as intermediaries to transfer motion and force. When the motor moves one segment, adjacent segments are passively moved along with it, distributing the force requirement across multiple segments rather than concentrating it on a single motor-driven segment.
2Force
If lightweight wings or delicate frames are used to reduce moment requirements, then the gate becomes easier to open, but the gate loses security and structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the gate into multiple parts that move in a coordinated sequence, the system reduces the force required on any single segment while maintaining the overall strength and security of the complete gate structure when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
The gate transitions from a static, rigid structure to a dynamic system where segments move sequentially. This dynamic operation allows the gate to maintain full structural integrity in the closed position while requiring reduced force during the opening process.
3Force
If a counterweight is used to assist in raising the gate segments, then the force required to open the gate is reduced, but the space required and maintenance needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gate is segmented so that not all segments need to be lifted simultaneously against gravity. The motor moves only a subset of segments directly, while other segments are passively moved by adjacent segments, eliminating the need for a counterweight system and the space it would require.
Solution Approach 2:
The counterweight mechanism is completely removed from the system. Instead of using a counterweight to balance gravitational forces, the invention uses a segmented approach where the motor directly moves only the necessary segments, extracting the problematic counterweight component entirely.
4Productivity
If all gate segments are motorized to move simultaneously, then the gate opening is faster and more controlled, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gate segments are divided into two groups: those directly moved by the motor and those passively moved by adjacent segments. This segmentation reduces the number of motors needed while still achieving coordinated, simultaneous movement of all segments for fast and controlled operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Adjacent gate segments serve multiple functions: they are both structural components of the gate and transmission elements that passively move other segments. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate motorization systems on each segment while maintaining coordinated movement.
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 system enables efficient, safe, and secure operation of electronic gates in narrow spaces with reduced force requirements, enhanced stability, and improved safety features, allowing for easy manual operation and full opening without the need for counterweights.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor functionally associated with each of a second plurality of gate segments, the second plurality of gate segments being a subset of the first plurality of gate segments. During operation thereof, the at least one electric motor causes simultaneous rotational motion of all gate segments
Implementation Method 2
reduced force requirements through a planetary gear system
Data Source
AI summary
An electric gate system adapted to close an open space. The electric gate system includes a support disposed at an edge of the open space, and a first plurality of gate segments. Each of the first plurality of gate segments has a closed operative orientation and an open operative orientation, where the closed operative orientation and the open operative orientation are in a single plane and are rotationally offset from one another. A gate opening assembly is attached to the support. At least one electric motor is functionally associated with each of a second plurality of gate segments, the second plurality of gate segments being a subset of the first plurality of gate segments. During operation thereof, the at least one electric motor causes simultaneous rotational motion of all gate segments in the second plurality of gate segments.