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Sliding gate operator limit sensor -Spring
A sliding gate operator limit sensor with a spring mechanism (also known as a mechanical limit switch or spring limit switch) is a common type of sensor used in automatic sliding gate systems to define the gate's fully open and fully closed positions.
Here's how it works and what its characteristics are:
Purpose of a Limit Sensor:
For any automatic gate operator, the system needs to know exactly when the gate has reached its desired open and closed positions. This is crucial for:
- Stopping the Motor: Preventing the motor from continuing to run once the gate has reached its limit, which would otherwise cause damage to the gate, the motor, or the track.
- Safety: Ensuring the gate stops precisely where it should, preventing it from hitting obstacles or over-extending.
- Proper Operation: Allowing for features like auto-closing, pedestrian mode, and proper synchronization if it's a dual-gate system.
How the Spring Mechanism Works:
- Components: A spring limit switch typically consists of:
- A microswitch (an electrical switch that requires very little force to operate).
- A spring-loaded lever, arm, or plunger connected to the microswitch.
- A mounting bracket to attach it to the gate operator or gate frame.
- Mounting: The spring limit switch is usually positioned on the gate operator itself, or on a bracket near the motor.
- Interaction with the Gate:
- On the sliding gate itself, usually along the gear rack or a specific part of the gate frame, two small "stop" tabs or flags are installed – one for the open limit and one for the close limit.
- As the gate moves towards its fully open or fully closed position, one of these tabs/flags will physically contact and push against the spring-loaded lever/plunger of the limit switch.
- This physical contact compresses the spring and activates the microswitch.
- Signal to Control Board: When the microswitch is activated, it sends an electrical signal to the gate operator's main control board.
- Motor Stop: Upon receiving this signal, the control board immediately cuts power to the motor, stopping the gate precisely at that determined limit.
Key Characteristics and Considerations:
- Physical Contact: The defining feature is that it relies on direct physical contact and force to activate the switch.
- Reliability: Generally reliable as they are a simple mechanical system.
- Durability: Made to withstand repeated physical contact. However, over time, the spring can wear out, lose tension, or the switch itself can be damaged by repeated impacts or debris.
- Adjustability: The position of the "stop" tabs on the gate can be adjusted to fine-tune the exact open and closed positions of the gate.
- Maintenance: May require periodic checks to ensure the spring is intact, the switch is clean, and the "stop" tabs are securely in place and correctly positioned. They can be susceptible to damage from impacts (e.g., if a child's toy or a pet gets in the way of the stop tab).
- Compared to Magnetic Limit Switches:
- Magnetic Limit Switches: These are more common in newer and higher-end gate operators (like many BFT Deimos "Ultra" models). They use magnets attached to the gate and magnetic sensors (reed switches or Hall effect sensors) on the operator. They offer a "contactless" operation, which generally leads to less wear and tear, greater precision, and less susceptibility to environmental debris or physical impact damage.
- Spring/Mechanical Limit Switches: Are typically more cost-effective and simpler in design. They are still widely used, especially in more budget-friendly or older gate operator models.
Where you'd find them:
You would find spring mechanism limit sensors on many brands and models of sliding gate operators, particularly those that use a gear rack system. When looking for replacement parts or considering a new gate operator in Vancouver, BC, it's important to identify whether the system uses mechanical (spring) or magnetic limit switches, as they are not interchangeable.
Suppliers like Royal Gates (Royal Electronic Technology Center Co.) would carry these as spare parts for compatible gate operators.
