Spring-Assisted Barrier Ram Torque Balancing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional anti-terrorist barrier rams with heavy barriers require large hydraulic cylinders for operation, making it difficult to incorporate them in shallow-mounted barrier ram frames that require more precise control and positioning.
Innovation Solution
The use of a balancing system comprising two compression springs, one rotatably coupled to the frame and barrier, providing a first torque and counteracting the torque due to gravity, with the combined torque difference at any position between closed and open positions being no greater than 25% of one of the torques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If large hydraulic cylinders are used to provide sufficient torque to raise and lower heavy barriers, then the barriers can be effectively operated, but the actuators take up space making it difficult to incorporate them in shallow-mounted barrier ram frames
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the counterweight principle by using springs to counterbalance the weight of the barrier. The springs are positioned and tensioned to provide upward force that offsets the gravitational force on the barrier, reducing the net force and torque that actuators must overcome. This allows for smaller, more compact actuators that fit within shallow-mounted frames while still effectively operating heavy barriers.
2Force
If large hydraulic cylinders are used to operate heavy barriers, then sufficient torque is provided, but the mounting depth increases making shallow mounting difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring counterweight system reduces the required actuator torque, enabling the use of more compact actuator designs with reduced stroke lengths and smaller mounting depths. The springs continuously counterbalance the barrier weight throughout its range of motion, allowing actuators to be positioned closer to the surface while maintaining effective operation.
3Volume of moving object
If smaller actuators are used for operation and precise control, then space is reduced and mounting is easier, but sufficient torque may not be provided for heavy barriers
Solution Approach 1:
The spring counterweight mechanism provides continuous upward force to offset the barrier's weight, significantly reducing the net torque that smaller actuators must generate. This enables compact actuators with limited torque capacity to effectively operate heavy barriers when combined with the passive spring support system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces part of the active mechanical actuation system with a passive spring-based counterweight system. The springs handle the continuous force requirement of supporting the barrier weight, while the smaller actuators only need to provide incremental torque for positioning and overcoming friction, rather than the full torque needed to lift the barrier against gravity.
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
This solution allows for the operation of barrier rams with smaller actuators, enabling shallower mounting and more precise control, while maintaining effective torque balance against gravity.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring rotatably coupled to the frame and the barrier, and a second spring rotatably coupled to the frame and the barrier. The first and second springs are compressed when the barrier is in the closed position. Together the first and second springs provide a first torque to the barrier about the pivot axis.
Implementation Method 2
A second torque acts on the barrier about the pivot axis due to gravity in the opposite direction from the first torque
Data Source
AI summary
A barrier ram includes a frame and a barrier pivotably coupled to the frame. Two springs provide a combined torque very close to the torque provided on the barrier gate by gravity at all barrier positions relative to the frame. A method of operating such barrier is also provided.