The discussion revolves around designing a mechanism for a tri-folding gate that operates in a specific sequence. Participants explore various mechanical principles, potential sources of inspiration, and the unique constraints of the gate's operation, including safety considerations and the environment in which it will be used.
Participants generally agree on the need for a complex mechanism due to the gate's specific operational requirements. However, there are multiple competing views on the best approach to design the mechanism, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal solution.
Participants express uncertainty about the exact sequence of operations and the implications of the gate's design on safety. There are also unresolved questions about the timing of the gate's opening and closing.
Yes. The title is 507 Mechanical Movements, and it was first published in 1869 according to the title page of my copy. There are several different editions for sale on Amazon. It may not have the exact linkage you need, but you certainly will find some ideas. This is an excellent book for somebody interested in mechanical gadgets. If you are not careful, it will suck you in to the very end.fanofakirakurosawa said:
Sadly I can't get that book since I'm not from US and I can't buy some items from Amazon. Anyway I borrowed a book from my local University's library, it's called Design of Machinery by Robert L. Norton. I'll start from there. Thank you anyway.jrmichler said:
Sorry, I forgot to attach some sketch. Here's a video of how the gate should move. Just a quick representation of the sequence.Baluncore said:
If it is a gate for people or animals, it will be very dangerous.fanofakirakurosawa said:
It's for a very specific furnace. The sequence it's peculiar due the limited space.jedishrfu said:
It's not for living beings. Specific application. And it can't operate if there are persons close to the gate. Also it will operate at a low velocity.Baluncore said:
Source power: electric motor.Baluncore said:
Could the floor and the ceiling be used?fanofakirakurosawa said:
Only the floor, the ceiling is too high. But it's possible to build some high structure. The door is 5 meters tallLnewqban said:
It's a video uploaded to Google Drive. Here's the link:jrmichler said:
fanofakirakurosawa said:
Do you mean it has to open/close in that sequence? It's not just a simple two-hinge tri-fold mechanism?fanofakirakurosawa said:
Yeah, that is the sequence due a limited space. Sadly there are no other options.DaveC426913 said:
Tom.G said:That greater-than-90° motion for pivot #1 makes this somewhat involved. If you can get the pivots points on a straight line, it is trivial.
I realize the gray lines show the travel paths, however I am assuming that the two horizontal lines would comprise a physical track for the traveling gate joints, and also enclose a chain and a cable (or 2 chains).
Anyhow, here goes.
Referencing your video,
View attachment 357798
Starting at top left, label the fixed pivot #1,
the middle pivot #2
then #3
Motive power at the right end of the track.
Two roller chains needed for unfolding (or cable + roller chain):
Rotate links #1 & #2:
A cable/chain inside the track, with an idler pulley in the track where pivot #3 enters the straight track. End of rope/chain attached to gate near pivot #3 and to motive power at right end. Pull until pivot #3 enters track
Rotate all links, straightening gate:
Continuous Roller Chain inside track with idler to left of where point #3 enters track.
Pivot #3 has a sprocket that engages roller chain. Sprocket turns drive axle that straightens pivot #3 (unfolds last segment of gate).
When last gate segment hits rotation stop, the entire gate starts extending to Closed position.
Refolding is left as an exercise for the reader.
Interesting problem.
Have Fun,
Tom