Blog

How flexible is an automated gate?

07 April 2015

It’s worth checking out new automated gate systems for technological developments. There’s a stack of fascinating options for safety-conscious consumers to scrutinize, systems that focus on personalized security. Weigh the advantages of keyless entry kits against proximity detection controllers, enjoying hands-free features that offer incredible convenience. Still, these designs are no substitute for the versatility of an automated mechanism. Let’s see how automated gates pair functionality with elegance.

The aforementioned enhanced remote control features integrated within modern gateways are amazing and safety-centric, but we’re making the conscious effort to place the evaluation spotlight on flexible gate mechanisms. Perhaps you’ve been lucky enough to visit a luxury home or a gated community, places where these configurations are in daily use. Perhaps you’ve been unlucky enough to visit a government facility on a work appointment, a structure that nonetheless offers the attraction of a high-security fence and an attached automated gate. Both cases may use similar opening mechanisms, but it’s just as possible that you’ll see two very different systems. The gated community has an automated gate but the portal functions more as a checkpoint for visitors than anything else. A simple dual gate built from horizontal bars would be adequate for this application, with the high-security installation opting instead for a secure sliding mechanism.

It’s assumed at this point that we’re referring to driveway gates, as pedestrian gates use an alternate mode of operation, mainly because the width of the automated gate is substantially narrower. The operation of a solenoid, an electromagnet operated locking mechanism, and a drive system can still be adapted to fit personal entry systems but the format is typically put into service when the property has a driveway access point. Returning to that application, here are some other versatile opening mechanisms used in automated gateways:

  • The vertical pivot gate
  • Tracks and rails used in sliding gateways
  • Inward Swinging hinged mechanisms
  • Cantilever gate systems

Factors that affect the selection of any of these systems and their various sub-categories include the size and layout of the property, the annual weather conditions, and cost. For example, a cantilever design with associated rails and large panels of separating gates will require enough space to store the opened gates, whereas a pair of gates that adopt a hinged mechanism requires less space. This is the same model of operation utilized within the home. As for weather factors, the selection of a track and rail mechanism could well be hampered by inches of ice and snow.

There are countless gate systems to consider, products that promote electrically controlled locks and security features. Electrical controls integrate safety sensors and various remote opening enhancements. The drive system, opening orientation, and ability to blend the automated gate against the fence, all present tough electro-mechanical issues that can be equitably solved by a professional fence installer.

Optimized by: Netwizard SEO