Solar-Powered Safety Edge for Sliding Gates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sliding gate operators require a constantly-on safety edge, but existing wireless systems rely on replaceable lithium batteries that need constant monitoring and replacement, and attaching a direct power source is complicated by the need for a retractable cord system, which poses maintenance, safety, and failure issues.
Innovation Solution
A solar power system comprising a solar panel, a voltage regulation device, and a high-capacity battery that powers a sliding gate safety edge independently, with the option to use AA batteries as a backup, eliminating the need for a direct power cord and providing a low-maintenance, constant power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a replaceable lithium battery system is used to power the safety edge, then the safety edge can operate wirelessly, but the system requires constant monitoring and battery replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panel automatically charges the battery during daylight hours, and the system self-regulates power distribution between the safety edge and battery charging without user intervention. The capacitor provides automatic backup power when sunlight is insufficient, creating a self-sustaining power system that eliminates the need for user monitoring and battery replacement.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a direct power source is attached to the sliding gate, then continuous power can be provided, but a retractable cord system is required which introduces maintenance and safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical retractable cord system with an electrical power generation system. The solar panel converts sunlight directly into electrical energy, which is stored in a battery and capacitor, eliminating the need for physical cord extension and retraction mechanisms while providing continuous power to the safety edge.
3Ease of manufacture
If a solar power system is used to eliminate cords and batteries, then maintenance is reduced, but the system must reliably provide power during nighttime and low-light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates a high-capacity battery charged during daylight hours and a capacitor as backup power sources before nighttime or low-light conditions occur. This beforehand energy storage ensures the safety edge continues operating without interruption when sunlight is unavailable, maintaining reliability while keeping the system maintenance-free.
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 solar power system provides a reliable and low-maintenance power source for sliding gate safety edges, ensuring continuous operation without the need for battery replacement or retractable cords, with the high-capacity battery supporting nighttime use and the solar panel charging during daylight.
Implementation Method 1
collecting energy from sunlight with a solar panel, converting the energy to a direct current (DC)
Implementation Method 2
charging a high-capacity battery with the DC, operating the sensor of the sliding gate with DC from the high-capacity battery when an adequate amount of sunlight is not available
Data Source
AI summary
A system for powering a sliding gate including a solar power assembly with a solar panel in electronic communication with a device for regulating voltage and a high-capacity battery electronically connected to the device for regulating voltage, and a safety edge with a sensor wherein the safety edge is configured to receive power independently from both the device for regulating voltage and the high-capacity battery.