Compact Sliding Gate Locking Device with Integrated Motor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sliding gate locking devices are bulky and aesthetically unpleasing due to their complex and protruding designs, which detract from the appearance of sliding gates with narrow uprights.
Innovation Solution
A compact locking device where the bolt moves in translation, allowing the device to be integrated within a vertically elongated, horizontally narrow volume, with an electric cylinder and motor arranged side by side, and optional features including wireless communication and a single power bank for powering motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional locking devices with motors and complex mechanisms are used, then automatic locking function is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the motor from the traditional locking mechanism and integrates it into the gate leaf structure, separating the automatic actuation function from the bulkier conventional motor housing. This allows the locking mechanism to be more compact while maintaining automatic locking capability through the integrated motor that actuates the bolt from within the gate leaf itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is nested within the gate leaf structure, with the bolt housed inside the gate leaf and the motor integrated into the same structure. The bolt can be received in a recess of the gate leaf, and the motor is positioned to actuate the bolt from within this nested arrangement, creating a compact integrated unit that maintains automatic locking while reducing overall device volume.
2Reliability
If conventional locking devices with multiple components mounted on frame and gate are used, then locking function is achieved, but the device becomes complex and unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bolt, motor, and mounting structure into a single integrated locking device assembly. The bolt is housed within the gate leaf, the motor is integrated into the same structure, and both are mounted as one unit on the gate leaf rather than having separate components mounted on both the frame and gate. This consolidation reduces the number of discrete components and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining reliable locking function.
3Volume of moving object
If the bolt moves in translation perpendicular to sliding direction, then the device size in sliding direction is reduced, but the bolt requires precise guidance and control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a guide mechanism as an intermediary element that guides the bolt's translational movement. The guide mechanism ensures precise positioning and control of the bolt as it moves perpendicular to the sliding direction, mediating between the motor's actuation and the bolt's movement to maintain manufacturing precision while achieving the compact horizontal dimension.
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 more aesthetically harmonious and compact locking mechanism for sliding gates, allowing integration into narrow uprights without compromising functionality, and enabling automatic locking with reduced visual impact.
Implementation Method 1
The locking device comprises a bolt (52) and at least one actuator (510) for moving the bolt (52)
Implementation Method 2
The actuator (510) comprises an electric cylinder (51) comprising a motor (51)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a locking device for a sliding gate (1), comprising a bolt (52) forming a hook intended to be engaged in an orifice (42) of a strike plate (4), and having an end part (522) projecting along a first direction (Z), and an actuator (51, 510, 55) configured to move the bolt (52) in translation along the first direction (Z), between a locked position in which the end part (522) is suitable to come into contact with the strike plate (4) to prevent the gate (1) from sliding when the hook is engaged in the orifice (42), and an unlocked position in which the end part (522) is no longer in contact with the strike plate (4) to allow the gate (1) to slide.