Mechanism for swing gates: types and features of automation

Modern inventions make human life much easier. Now you no longer have to wash it by hand, tighten screws with a screwdriver, and even get out of the car to drive into a closed garage - the mechanism for swing gates will open them, obeying the press of a button. Whether this is good or, on the contrary, bad, as it forces us to move less and be more lazy, everyone decides for themselves. But connoisseurs of comfort will certainly not miss the opportunity to install such a device on their gates. And to do this, you need to understand how it works and what is needed for its trouble-free operation.

In such weather, the presence of automation cannot but please Source tomantosfilms.com

Types of swing mechanisms

On sale you can find 2 types of household swing mechanisms - linear and lever, and each of them has subtypes.

Linear

The linear mechanism of swing gates is more popular among consumers due to its reasonable cost. Externally, it is an oblong box containing an electric motor and drive. It is connected to the electrical network through a control unit.

Linear mechanism Source faac-shop.de

One end of the box is fixed on the gate support by means of a movable connection, and the other on the leaf. When the gear engine rotates, the screw moves the nut along the threaded guides, that is, the rotational energy is transformed into translational energy, acting on the gate leaves.

Linear automation, depending on the type of worm mechanism, is divided into electromechanical and hydraulic. The latter uses a hydraulic reversible pump; it costs more than the electromechanical one, but is also considered more reliable and can withstand a greater weight of the gate.

Lever

A lever gate opening mechanism is more expensive than a linear one. Its operation is similar to the movement of a human arm bending at the elbow joint. The engine transmits force to the vertical shaft through a gear reducer. The lever attached to the shaft is attached at the other end to the sash and acts on it.

Lever mechanism Source pkf-avtomatika.ru

In addition to the more common open lever mechanism, some manufacturers produce a hidden one, the power unit of which is installed underground, under the hinges of the gates. It operates more smoothly and silently, and does not spoil the appearance of the gate, since the “forearm” of the lever is attached to the doors from below, and the box with the motor and the “arm” remains invisible.

Underground linkage Source accesscontrol.co.nz

However, the cost of underground mechanisms is very high, which makes them less popular among buyers.

Which is better

It cannot be said that one automatic gate opening mechanism is better than another; each has its own pros and cons.

Linear is the most affordable and the only one suitable for installation on narrow support poles. But it has several disadvantages:

• slow operation - opening and closing the doors takes quite a long time, since at the end of the movement there is a slowdown;
• the mechanism itself, due to its volume, narrows the free clearance of the gate;
• opening occurs no more than 90 degrees;
• In order for the doors to close tightly and lock at a certain point, the mechanism needs to be modified.

Linear mechanism with gate opening inward Source swanaccesssystems.co.uk
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in the construction of fences and enclosures

Automatic gate opening using a more expensive lever mechanism is smoother and faster, and the opening angle is increased to 120 degrees. It can withstand increased loads and can be installed on doors with a large area and weight, but to install the power unit you need a sufficient support area; it cannot be installed on a pole made of a round or profile pipe.

The underground mechanism with a lever drive is considered the most durable and powerful, but for its reliable operation, high-quality waterproofing of the unit is necessary. It can even be installed on transparent and sectional 3D gates without advertising the presence of automation. But you will have to pay a lot for all these advantages.

Internal unlock

For internal unlocking of a roller shutter or sectional system from inside a room or area, there is usually a special cord. It opens doors manually. As a rule, the cord hangs 50-70 cm from the ceiling, which makes it possible to reach it and pull it smoothly. This action helps activate the release hooks attached to the chain carriages. The canvas is unhooked from the carriages on the rail, so it begins to move freely. In order to then bring the canvas to the closing position, the carriages must be returned to their original position - then they will again be attached to the hooks.

In addition to internal unlocking, there are other methods - but they are external. As a rule, they are implemented in cases where there is no additional entrance to the territory or to the garage. It is worth noting that external unlocking will require the installation of a chain gear, a knob, and a handle with a lock.

Handle, safety key

This mechanism can easily replace the use of a release cable. It is equipped with any electric drive system. The main panel is attached to the wall next to the opening, so in the future, if necessary, unlocking the structure can be done safely and easily.

The device works according to this principle:

1. A hole is made in the gate for a cylinder with a key.
2. When you turn the key, the handle turns on - due to this, the main drive gears are disconnected from the gearbox gear.
3. The working blade begins to rotate freely on the shaft and can be easily lifted by hand.

Chain drive

The chain drive helps to emergency unlock the roller shutter or sectional structure. Opening them manually in conditions where there is no light will not work due to their impressive height.

The drive is mounted to the wall next to the opening and connected to the working blade loop below. The described system is equipped with a long chain - at least 8 meters. This helps to emergencyly open even structures up to 5 m high.

Features of automatic swing gates

Any automation for gates - swinging, sliding or lifting - requires connection to an electrical network. It is carried out with wires in a protective sheath - a corrugated pipe or cable duct. It is best to lay them underground.

Wiring diagram for swing drives Source zakupka.com

The mechanism for opening swing gates has its own characteristics, some of which distinguish them favorably from other types of automation.

Advantages

The mechanisms responsible for the automatic operation of swing doors are characterized by simplicity of design, ease of operation and durability. It easily copes with the loads inherent in private properties. And for industrial facilities with increased traffic intensity, devices with reinforced elements are selected.

The advantages of such systems include:

• possibility of installation in a limited area in areas where it is impossible to install sliding gates;

In such conditions, only swing gates can be installed Source na-dache.pro

• the ability to open gates both into the yard and onto the street;
• ease of installation of both the gates themselves and the mechanisms;
• affordable cost of automation and its installation;
• Possibility of use for sashes made of any materials;
• Possibility of placement in any part of the sash.

Operating principle of a linear drive (actuator)

An actuator is a type of electromechanical automation that is in greatest demand.

Among its advantages:

1. Inexpensive.
2. Easy to install.
3. Opens outwards.

It starts up in the following order:

1. Using a gearbox, the motor rotates the propeller.
2. In this case, the screw and nut move in the same direction as the guide.
3. A rotational to linear conversion is performed.
4. The moving nut ensures the opening of the structure.

The control unit regulates the operation of the motor and slows it down at the right time. This helps extend the life of the linear actuator.

Features of choice

When choosing a mechanism for opening swing gates, you have to take into account many important factors. Without this, you either simply will not be able to install it, or it will fail prematurely. The main selection criteria are as follows:

• sash weight;
• the design of the doors, their windage, depending on the degree of filling (the wind acts on blind gates with maximum force);
• direction of opening of electric swing gates – outward or inward;
• mechanism power, permissible load;
• operating temperature range, frost resistance;
• distance from the pillar to the sash (for linear mechanisms);
• dimensions of the structure, their influence on the size of the open opening;
• the ability to control the gate manually during a power outage;
• Possibility of installation on existing supports.

To install the equipment, it was necessary to cut out part of the brickwork of the pillars Source otkatnie-vorota.com
The cost of the equipment and its brand also matter. It is better to purchase a high-quality linear mechanism than the most inexpensive lever mechanism, despite the fact that the latter is considered more reliable.

Precautionary measures

To ensure smooth operation of the mechanism, the following precautions should be observed:

• The force of the system must be adjusted based on the weight of your gate. Too much force causes significant stress on the components, which leads to rapid wear. The device options include photographic components that are capable of responding to movement and stopping the operation of the shutters so as not to hit passers-by;
• If a protective system is not installed in the structure, when the sash collides with an obstacle, jamming will occur. In the worst case, the drive may fail. With the help of protective sensors, the movement is stopped, but the inertia is maintained. For this reason, the force value should be set correctly;
• Automatic gate equipment is sensitive to distortions. If the valves open unequally, the protective system will perceive this action as an obstacle and stop work. For this reason, it is recommended to choose reinforced hinges;

• For a significant weight of the gate, a simple mechanical type lever latch is used. This solution will guarantee the safety of the structure when the closed gate swings;
• Choose a kit that includes locking of the drive gear during a power outage, failure of the mechanism, and manual mode. The lock will prevent unauthorized persons from opening the gate. The supply line must be insulated with pipes and equipped with backup cables;
• Lubricating the necessary elements will significantly extend the life of the structure.

Brands and manufacturers

If you decide to open your gate automatically, you will not have any problems choosing the appropriate equipment - it is produced by both our and foreign manufacturers. We list the most popular brands and their features.

• DoorHan is the most famous domestic brand of lever and linear mechanisms.

The automation from this company was initially developed taking into account the climatic conditions of Russia, so it copes well even with severe frosts without breakdowns or overheating of the engine. The Doorhan line has models for different loads, the most powerful ones can be installed on doors with an area of ​​up to 5 m² and weighing up to 1000 kg.

Lever type mechanism from Dorhan Source parkvorot.ru

• Fadini is an Italian automatic for any budget.

From this European manufacturer you can find mechanisms in a wide range of price categories and power. The most powerful equipment doubles the capabilities of Russian analogues - it works with a weight of up to 2000 kg with a door area of ​​up to 10 m. But it fails in severe frosts, since it is designed for a maximum of 25 degrees of frost.

• Came is one of the oldest brands with an excellent reputation.

Another Italian brand of gate automation, known throughout Europe. It is valued for its exceptional reliability and large selection of models, including underground mechanisms.

Linear drive from Came Source otkatnyevorota-mo.ru

• Horman - smart automation.

The mechanisms of this German manufacturer are still little known to domestic consumers, as they appeared on our market not so long ago. The range of models is large, represented by all types of drives, and the products are also very modern, with many electronic gadgets. But this is precisely what does not suit many buyers, since it is difficult to repair too “smart” equipment with your own hands, and you have to order spare parts.

Electric motor installation

So, to open the gate you need to either push one leaf or pull the chain towards you. In the future, you can automate the design - for example, install an electric motor and connect it to gearboxes from car wipers. The advantage of this option is that even an old battery can be used as an energy source, so the automation will not depend on electricity. But there is one drawback: the doors may open too slowly due to the low battery power.

Video - Do-it-yourself automatic gates

In addition, you can use a motor from a washing machine. The average power of such motors is 110-115 W, rotation speed is 1500 rpm. The gearbox in this case will be a screw jack for a passenger car. The jack needs to be somewhat modernized - install a pulley from the same washing machine behind the bevel gear. So the jack will turn into a linear gearbox (or actuator, as it is also called).

Video - Automatic swing gates. Installation

The jack is welded parallel to the chain so that when it moves, its slider pulls the chain behind it. To connect the latter to each other, you can use ordinary steel wire.

To connect the motor to the pulley, a regular belt from a washing machine is used. The engine speed will decrease by about 1:4, so it is advisable to make the pulley yourself, and of a minimum diameter.

The gate is now ready for use. For a more detailed introduction to automation, you can watch the thematic video.

Briefly about the main thing

Automation of swing gates greatly simplifies the life of car owners living outside the city in their homes. The gate to the site or to the garage is controlled from a remote control, which allows you not to leave your house or car in the rain and waste time manually opening and locking the doors. Such mechanisms come in linear and lever types and can be installed not only on gates, but also on gates and other outdoor swing doors. They are selected taking into account the weight and dimensions of the door leaf, design features of the gate, opening direction and other factors.

Problems

More than half of the breakdowns involve mechanical parts. If the shutters are jammed due to an obstacle or for other reasons, the mechanism is switched to manual mode, the shutters are placed in their original position, and it is turned on again.

If the gate does not work, check the power supply, cable connections, and try to open it from the local control unit, and not using the key fob.

If the remote control is lost, the structure is opened using a panel with a code keyboard (expensive kits). You can also turn off the control unit, unlock the gear, and open the doors manually. If the reed switches and diodes are burned out (lightning discharge, power surge), the solution is replacement.

How to make an actuator yourself

Having finished installing the sashes, it is important to understand what type of drive to choose. To do this, measure the distance from the inner edge of the post to the loop. For values ​​up to 15 cm, a linear drive is suitable; above 15 cm, it is better to choose a lever drive.

When the gate posts are made of brick or stone, it is recommended to think in advance about the placement of mortgages in the masonry to secure the drive.

Swing gates can be made not only with a factory linear electric drive, but you can also assemble the latter yourself using improvised means.

The following are suitable as the basis of the actuator mechanism:

• screw jacks;
• satellite dish drives;
• electric motors with a force of 120 N;
• window lifters from the car.

It is recommended to choose two actuators from satellite dishes as a basis in cases where the weight of the wings does not exceed 100 kg.

You need to make sure that their rod stroke is at least 35 cm. To install, you just need to fix the mounting brackets for the drives to the doors and pillars.

To assemble an actuator for heavy swing gates, you will need the following materials:

• profile pipes;
• steel sheet 4 mm thick;
• two screw jacks;
• two windshield wipers from a car;
• threaded rods, screws (optional) 10 mm long, 6 mm in diameter.

The tools you will need are:

• grinder with metal discs;
• welding machine, mask, electrodes;
• electric drill.

Assembly sequence:

1. First, the jack is disassembled. Remove the cover, handle, and gears.
2. Next, a clamp is made that will prevent longitudinal play of the screw from occurring. To do this you will need retaining rings and washers.
3. Use a grinder to cut off the base of the lifting mechanism.
4. Windshield wipers are disassembled. An electric motor with a gearbox is removed from them.
5. Take a piece of profile pipe 6-8 cm long, with a cross-section of 20*20 cm. A connecting coupling is made from it. The finished coupling is mounted to the jack screw.
6. In a piece of profile pipe with a square section of 18*18 mm, a thread is made for the gearbox shaft.
7. The mating part of the coupling is attached to the windshield wiper motor.
8. Take a piece of steel sheet measuring 80*80 mm and weld it to the top of the jack. This piece will be needed to secure the electric motor.
9. Using an electric drill, holes are made in the corners of the sheet to fit the dimensions of the gearbox housing.
10. Connect the screw to the electric motor. Fastening elements - long nuts, studs.

You can make a remote radio control with your own hands from a regular car alarm. It is connected via a relay with a voltage of 12 volts. As auxiliary parts, a signal lamp, wires, and limit switches are used.

Tips for use

To ensure that these gates serve for a long time, you need to adhere to the following tips for use:

1. From time to time the mechanisms need to be serviced. The process involves lubricating moving elements. Only anti-freeze lubricants may be used.
2. The guides should be inspected periodically and cleaned of debris. If ice forms, the blade may jam.
3. Automation mechanisms are also subject to inspection. Parts need to be checked at least once a year. If any of the elements fails, it is recommended to entrust the repair to specialists.
4. You need to keep an eye on the canvas. It has an anti-corrosion coating, but it is often damaged. It is recommended to promptly clean the gate from dirt using water and soap solution. If any of the sections is bent or scratched, it should be treated with special anti-corrosion agents or replaced.

It often happens that some of the do-it-yourself parts are easier and cheaper to replace with others.