Telescoping Barrier Arm Operator for Constrained Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing barrier operator systems are bulky and require an open arc of space for operation, making them unsuitable for enclosed areas, and the need for extensive secondary safety devices to protect the arm from obstructions increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A barrier operator system utilizing a telescoping arm that does not require an open arc of space for operation, with a motor and controller to extend and retract the arm, and simpler secondary safety devices to protect only the tip from obstructions, allowing for various operational modes and integration with detectors and manual override mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid single-piece extendable arm is used, then the barrier can be positioned parallel to the ground to prevent entry, but the barrier requires an open arc of space for operation and is bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier arm is divided into multiple telescoping sections that can extend and retract. This segmentation allows the arm to achieve the necessary length for barrier operation without requiring a large fixed space, as the sections can be collapsed when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier arm transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic telescoping mechanism. The arm can change its effective length and reconfigure its position, allowing it to operate in confined spaces while maintaining its barrier function when extended.
2Reliability
If a rigid single-piece extendable arm is used, then the barrier can be positioned parallel to the ground, but extensive secondary safety devices are needed to protect the arm from obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of protecting the entire barrier arm with extensive safety devices, the patent applies safety measures only to the tip area where obstructions are most likely to occur. This localized approach reduces device complexity while maintaining necessary protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the safety protection function from the entire arm and concentrates it only at the tip area. By removing the requirement for comprehensive arm protection, the system reduces complexity and cost while maintaining adequate safety.
3Reliability
If arcuate movement of the arm is required, then the barrier can be positioned parallel to the ground, but the bottom of the barrier arm needs protection from impacting obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier arm movement transitions from required arcuate motion to linear telescoping motion. This dynamic change in movement type eliminates the need for comprehensive arcuate path protection while maintaining the ability to position the barrier parallel to the ground when extended.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies obstruction protection only to the tip area of the telescoping arm where impacts are most likely to occur during linear extension and retraction, rather than protecting the entire arm along its arcuate path, thereby reducing device complexity.
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 telescoping arm design saves space, reduces the need for complex safety devices, and provides cost-effective operation with flexible modes of operation, such as failsafe and fail-secure modes, enhancing usability in constrained environments.
Implementation Method 1
A motor is coupled to the telescoping barrier arm for extending the telescoping barrier arm from a retracted position to an extended position and retracting the arm from the extended position to the retracted position
Data Source
AI summary
A moveable barrier operator system includes a telescoping barrier arm. A motor is coupled to the telescoping barrier arm for extending the telescoping barrier arm from a retracted position to an extended position and retracting the arm from the extended position to the retracted position. A controller is coupled to the motor for selectively activating the motor to extend and retract the arm.