Motor-operable and vertically movable gate

Abstract

The present invention relates to a gate with a gate panel, comprising several gate panel sections which are hingedly coupled to each other by way of hinges, where a hinge comprises two hinge panels of adjacent gate panel sections, at least one elongate drive means which is connected to at least one gate panel section, and at least one guide means which is suitable to guide the gate panel during its motion. In order to optimize the gate with regard to its installation space, in particular in the width and depth direction, and to ensure simple and inexpensive yet at the same time still reliable operation of the gate, it is proposed to arrange the elongated drive means at least in sections received in the gate panel section.

Claims

1. A gate with a gate panel comprising: several gate panel sections which are coupled to each other by way of hinges, where each of said hinges comprises two hinge panels of adjacent gate panel sections of the several gate panel sections, at least one elongated drive means which is connected to at least one of the several gate panel sections, at least one guide means which is configured to guide said gate panel during its motion, wherein each of the several gate panel sections are individually connected with the at least one elongated drive means, wherein said at least one elongated drive means is received at least in sections in said several gate panel sections, wherein each of the several gate panel sections includes a recess for receiving said at least one elongated drive means, where each recess of said the several gate panel sections is arranged in approximate alignment with each other recess of the several gate panel sections, wherein at least one of the several gate panel sections comprises a gate panel segment and one hinge panel of one of the hinges, and said at least one elongated drive means is embodied at least in sections between the gate panel segment and the at least one guide means, wherein further a connection mechanism is provided which connects at least one of the several gate panel sections to said at least one elongated drive means and to one of the at least one guide means, wherein said connection mechanism extends through two hinge panels of the hinges and is a hinge pin, and wherein a sliding element comprises a sliding disk arranged between at least one surface of a gate frame profile and at least one hinge panel, where said sliding disk is configured to be mounted on said connection mechanism.

2. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one said elongated drive means is at least one of a finite drive means and a chain.

3. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one guide means comprises a guide roller which is rotatably mounted on said connection mechanism.

4. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that two hinge panels of any of the hinges are formed in combination with said at least one elongated drive means.

5. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that said at least one elongated drive means bears against at least one surface of one recess of the several gate panel sections, where movability of said at least one elongated drive means is limited by said recess approximately transversely to a direction of motion of said gate panel.

6. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that a damper is provided between said at least one elongated drive means and at least one surface of one of the several gate panel sections and is suitable for damping a relative motion between said drive means and said hinge panel.

7. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one hinge panel of the two hinge panels comprises at least one lateral guide element which is adapted to regulate the movement of said hinge panels in the direction approximately transverse to an opening or closing motion of said gate panel.

8. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one hinge panel of the hinges includes the recess of one of the several gate panel sections and is arranged at least in part in a cavity of one gate panel segment forming one of the several gate panel sections and is connected substantially within said cavity to said one gate panel segment, where said at least one hinge panel and said one gate panel segment are connected to one another by adhesive bonding.

9. The gate according to claim 1, characterized in that one hinge panel of the two hinge panels includes the recess of one of the several gate panel sections and the other hinge panel of the two hinge panels is connected to a gate panel segment by way of a screw connection, where said gate panel segment comprises at least one bore with a thread and the one hinge panel comprises at least one through bore through which a screw extends.

10. The gate according to claim 1, further comprising a drive element forming a sprocket, the sprocket engaging with said at least one elongate drive means, and in that a guide is provided which holds said at least one elongated drive means in engagement with said drive element.

11. The gate according to claim 10, characterized in that said drive element extends at least in part into the recess included in one of the several gate panel sections.

12. The gate according to claim 10, characterized in that said guide comprises at least one counter bearing which forces said at least one elongated drive means in the direction of said drive element and is suitable for engaging with at least one of the two hinge panels.

13. The gate according to claim 10, characterized in that said guide comprises at least one retaining roller which is configured for rolling engagement with at least one of the two hinge panels.

Description

(1) A possible embodiment of the invention is explained with reference to the drawing, where

(2) FIG. 1 shows a gate according to the invention in a front view with partially exposed elements,

(3) FIG. 2 shows the gate according to the invention from FIG. 1 in a schematic side view from the left,

(4) FIG. 3 shows a gate according to the invention in a front view, in which the undefined length of the gate panel segments is illustrated by dividing lines,

(5) FIG. 4 shows a detail of a gate according to the invention in a perspective view,

(6) FIG. 5 shows a detail of the gate according to the invention in a front view, in which the undefined length of the gate panel segments is illustrated by dividing lines,

(7) FIG. 6 shows a sectional view along the horizontal sectional line VI-VI in FIG. 5,

(8) FIG. 7 shows a sectional view along the horizontal sectional line VII-VII in FIG. 5,

(9) FIG. 8 shows a detail of a hinge of a gate according to the invention in a side view,

(10) FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an individual hinge panel together with a detail of a gate panel segment of a gate according to the invention,

(11) FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of a portion of the hinge panel of FIG. 9, shown in a side view,

(12) FIG. 11 shows a schematic overview of a gate panel segment together with hinge panels in a front view, where the undefined length of the gate panel segment is illustrated by dividing lines,

(13) FIG. 12 shows a gate frame profile in a cross-sectional view with a gate panel segment arranged therein,

(14) FIG. 13 shows the schematic configuration of a lifting gate according to one embodiment of the present invention,

(15) FIG. 14 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13,

(16) FIG. 15 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 in the event of power failure,

(17) FIG. 16 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 in the event of an emergency opening of the gate,

(18) FIG. 17 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 for monitoring the residual accumulator charge, and

(19) FIG. 18 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 for continuously monitoring the position and/or speed of the drive motor or of the gate panel, respectively,

(20) FIG. 19 shows a gate frame profile in a cross-sectional view with a gate panel segment arranged therein according to an alternative embodiment of the invention,

(21) FIG. 20 shows an exploded perspective view of a connection of a gate panel segment with a hinge panel according to a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

(22) Identical or corresponding features are marked with identical reference symbols.

(23) FIG. 1 shows a lifting gate according to the invention with a gate panel 1, which comprises several gate panel sections 40. Two adjacent gate panel sections 40 are each hingedly connected to one another by way of at least one hinge 3 (see FIG. 4).

(24) The lifting gate also comprises a motor drive 100 for lifting and lowering gate panel 1 as well as a drive means in the form of a finite drive chain 4.

(25) Motor drive 100 further comprises a drive motor 101 connected to drive chain 4.

(26) Drive chain 4 is driven via a sprocket 104a which serves as a drive element. Sprocket 104a is moved by an output shaft 105a which is connected to motor output shaft 102 via a force transmission device, presently a toothed belt or a V-belt 107a. Belt 107a is further guided over two deflection rollers 106a, 106b. It is there possible to implement a step-up or step-down ratio of the force to be transmitted by way of the size of deflection rollers 106a, 106b.

(27) Sprocket 104a is in engagement with chain 4 and can open and close the gate with its rotation. Provided in the vicinity of sprocket 104a and approximately opposite thereto is retaining roller 44, so that regions of gate panel sections 40 with the drive means 4 pass through between sprocket 104a and the retaining roller when the gate is opened and closed.

(28) Motor output shaft 102 additionally drives an optional weight compensation device 200. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, motor output shaft 102 extends through weight compensation device 200 and again exits on an opposite side of the gate.

(29) A second drive chain 4, which is driven via a second sprocket 104b, is located on this opposite side of the gate. Second sprocket 104b is moved by an output shaft 105b which is connected to motor output shaft 102 via a force transmission device, presently a toothed belt or a V-belt 107b. Belt 107b is further guided over two deflection rollers 106c, 106d. It is there possible to implement a step-up or step-down ratio of the force to be transmitted by way of the size of deflection rollers 106c, 106d.

(30) Although not explicitly shown in FIG. 1, a drive motor can be provided also on this opposite side of the gate. It can be provided in addition to drive motor 101 or in place of drive motor 101. Motor output shaft 102 of illustrated drive motor 101 does not necessarily have to extend through weight compensation device 200.

(31) The lifting gate comprises gate frames 16 on both sides. Gate frames 16 have a width B.sub.Z and co-determine the installation width of the gate. Drive chain 4 is disposed within this gate frame 16. Gate frame 16 forms the connecting point between the opening provided in a wall and the lifting gate. Gate frame 16 is shown in a cross-sectional view in FIG. 12 and has an opening 110 on the side facing gate panel 1 through which individual gate panel sections 40 are guided. Opening 110 can be sealed with sealing lips 112a, 112b.

(32) With further reference to FIG. 12, the lifting gate comprises guide means that are arranged laterally on gate panel sections 40 and are presently designed as guide rollers 12. Guide rollers 12 serve to horizontally and/or vertically guide individual gate panel sections 40 during a motion (opening or closing) of gate panel 1.

(33) FIG. 2 shows a side view, where gate panel 1 is shown schematically in dashed lines. Gate panel 1 is wound up along a spiral path 109. Spiral path 109 is arranged in the region of gate lintel 120. The depth T of gate lintel 120 decisively determines the installation depth of the gate.

(34) FIG. 3 shows a further view of the gate according to the invention. The gate is vertically movable, where the gate is opened in the direction of arrow A and closed in the direction of arrow B.

(35) Two adjacent gate panel sections 40 are each hingedly connected to one another by way of at least one hinge 3. Each gate panel section comprises a gate panel segment 2. As shown in FIG. 4, a hinge 3 comprises two hinge panels, namely a first hinge panel 31 and a second hinge panel 32 connected thereto in an articulated manner. Each gate panel segment 2 at its two opposite ends is respectively connected to a hinge panel (German: Scharniergewerbe) 31, 32. Each gate panel section 40 comprises a gate panel segment 2 as well as the two hinge panels (German: Scharniergewerbe) 31, 32 connected to the ends thereof. Alternatively, the hinge panels can also be arranged at other locations of the gate panel segments, for example, approximately centrally, or two gate panel sections with more than two hinges can be coupled to each other.

(36) The gate according to the invention is moved by motor drive 100 between an open position and a closed position. The force required for lifting and lowering gate panel 1 is transmitted from motor drive 100 to gate panel 1 via at least one drive means, in the present embodiment via chain 4.

(37) Connection mechanisms 5 connect chain 4 to gate panel 1. Several gate panel segments 2 are there each connected individually to chain 4. Connection mechanisms 5 are explained in more detail below with reference to FIG. 6.

(38) FIG. 4 shows chain 4 serving as the drive means. This embodiment of the invention is a hollow pin chain, i.e. the individual links of chain 4 are connected to each other by hollow pins 7 For example, a connection mechanism 5 can extend through such a hollow pin 7.

(39) As can be seen in FIG. 5, a chain 4 serving as a drive means can be located at the outward ends of gate panel 1. The gate can then be operated selectively with one or two drive means. Chain 4 is formed as a finite drive means. In other embodiments, however, an endless drive means can also be provided.

(40) FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view along the sectional line VI-VI depicted in FIG. 5. A hinge panel 32 is shown, which is connected to a gate panel segment 2. Hinge panel 32 comprises a recess 6 in which chain 4 is accommodated. Chain 4 is inserted into recess 6 of the hinge panel 32 and is accommodated therein. In alternative embodiments, the drive means can be in part or completely accommodated in the gate panel segments.

(41) In this embodiment, chain 4 and hinge 3 are connected via connection mechanism 5. A combined configuration can be realized, for example, by an integral formation of chain 4 and hinge 3. For example, hinge 3 can assume the function of chain 4, and chain 4 can also assume the function of hinge 3.

(42) FIG. 6 shows a single chain link 41 with a hollow pin 7. A connection mechanism, presently a hinge pin 5, in its axial direction extends through hinge panel 32 and through hollow pin 7 of chain link 41. Hinge pin 5 is on one end 8, that faces gate panel segment 2, secured with a pin 9 against axially translational and radially rotational motions. Hinge pin 5 is fixed at the opposite end by a suitable device, presently a nut 11.

(43) A guide roller 12 is rotatably mounted on hinge pin 5 by way of commercially available bearings 13. Guide roller 12 is arranged in the axial direction between nut 11 and hinge panel 32. Guide roller 12 comprises a running surface 14 and an externally disposed shoulder 15. Externally disposed shoulder 15 is spaced apart in the radial direction further from the center axis L of hinge pin 5 than running surface 14. Shoulder 15 serves as a horizontal guide for gate panel segments 2 during a vertical motion of gate panel 1.

(44) FIG. 6 shows that the lifting gate further comprises at least one connection mechanism 5 for connecting drive chain 4 to at least one gate panel segment 2. It can also be seen in FIG. 6 that the laterally revolving drive means, i.e. chain 4, is disposed at least in sections between a gate panel segment 2 and a guide means, i.e. roller 12.

(45) This arrangement of chain 4 between a gate panel segment 2 and a guide roller 12 within the present disclosure relates to a cross-sectional view, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, where positioning chain 4 is described relative to a horizontal direction of extension E.sub.H. Chain 4 is therefore disposed along this horizontal direction of extension E.sub.H between a gate panel segment 2 and a guide roller 12.

(46) FIG. 12 shows the arrangement according to the invention which is at least in part disposed in a gate frame profile 16. Gate frame profile 16 is shown in a cross-sectional view. It is a segmented hollow profile, in the interior of which at least two profile members 17 are located approximately symmetrically opposite to each other. The clear width W of the two profile members 17 is somewhat larger than the diameter D.sub.L at running surfaces 14 of guide roller 12. Guide roller 12 is arranged between the two profile members 17.

(47) Profile members 17 comprise oppositely disposed running surfaces 18 which can bear against running surfaces 14 of guide roller 12. Due to this arrangement of guide roller 12 between two oppositely disposed profile members 17, guide roller 12, including gate panel segment 2 fastened thereto, is guided in its vertical direction of motion during a vertical motion of gate panel 1.

(48) Shoulder 15 of guide roller 12 has a diameter D.sub.B which is greater than the diameter D.sub.L at running surfaces 14 of guide roller 12. The diameter D.sub.B of shoulder 15 is also greater than the clear width W of the two profile members 17. This results in a contact surface 20 on the inner side of shoulder 15 which can bear against an oppositely disposed contact surface 19 of profile members 17.

(49) If, for example, a force F acts upon a gate panel segment 2, then this leads to flexing of gate panel segment 2 and therefore to a translational motion of gate panel segment 2 in the direction of motion arrow V. In such a case, shoulder 15 of guide roller 12 prevents guide roller 12 as well as gate panel segment 2 arranged thereon from slipping out from profile members 17 of gate frame profile 16. Gate panel segment 2 is thus guided approximately horizontally during a vertical motion of the gate.

(50) A light barrier 45 is disposed on a side opposite to the opening of gate frame profile 16, by use of which it is possible to monitor whether the gate is in the open or closed state or whether an obstacle is blocking the path of open gate panel 2.

(51) Disposed on the side of hinge panel 31 opposite to drive means 4 is a retaining roller 44 which is rotatably mounted on gate frame profile 16 and assumes the function of a guide. When gate panel 2 is opened and closed, retaining roller 44 rolls over the surface of hinge panel 31 which is disposed opposite to drive means 4 and with which retaining roller 44 is in contact.

(52) Retaining roller 44 is located in the upper region of the closed gate panel in the region of the gate lintel in order to improve engagement of the sprocket with the drive means. It is also possible to provide several retaining rollers 44 on gate frame profile 16, for example, in the lower region of the closed gate or distributed over the height of the gate.

(53) Provided in recess 6, in which chain links 41 of drive means 4 are received, between drive means 4 and a rear surface in recess 6, is a damper 43 with which both recess 6 as well as drive means 4 are in contact. Damper 43 can be fabricated from soft and/or elastic material, for example, from an elastomer.

(54) FIG. 8 shows a hinge 3. Hinge 3 comprises a first hinge panel 31 and a second hinge panel 32. Both hinge panels 31, 32 each comprise an aligned bore 21 through which connection mechanism 5 extends. Connection mechanism 5 serves as a hinge pin 5 and forms an articulation axis about which hinge 3 can be pivoted in a known manner.

(55) FIG. 9 shows a single hinge panel 31 by way of example. Hinge panel 31 comprises a guide section 22 on an outer lateral end side. Guide section 22 is composed of two vertical walls 22a, 22b and a horizontal wall 22c disposed therebetween which connects the two vertical walls 22a, 22b. The resulting U-shape forms a recess 6.

(56) The clear width Z of recess 6 is slightly larger than the width B.sub.K of chain 4 (see FIG. 5). Chain 4 can be accommodated in recess 6 and can be inserted into recess 6. The horizontal movability of chain 4 is limited by the inner surfaces of recess 6, where chain 4 can move only until it contacts one of these surfaces.

(57) Hinge panel 31 comprises a connection portion 23 which is on vertical wall 22b facing gate panel segment 2 and which is preferably formed integrally with guide section 22. Connection portion 23 has an outer shape which corresponds approximately to the inner hollow profile shape 24 of gate panel segment 2. A gate panel segment 2 can thus be pushed onto connection portion 23 in a fitting manner.

(58) Hinge panel 31 is arranged in a cavity 25 of gate panel segment 2. In order to provide a reliable connection between hinge panel 31 and gate panel segment 2, hinge panel 31 is preferably glued to gate panel segment 2 in the region of connection portion 23 However, other forms of connection, such as, for example, screw connections, are not excluded.

(59) As can be seen in FIG. 11, hinge panels 31, 32 can be mounted on both sides on a gate panel segment 2 in the manner described with reference to FIG. 9. Furthermore, FIG. 11 shows that the respective hinge panel 31, 32 is arranged on a face side end side 26 of gate panel segment 2 facing gate frame 16 and extends approximately over the entire height h of gate panel segment 2.

(60) The individual hinge panels 31, 32 of a hinge 3 have the same external shape and are, in particular, approximately identical parts, preferably injection-molded parts. FIGS. 9 and 10 show that a hinge panel 31, 32 comprises a bore 21 at its one axial end 27 for receiving a hinge pin 5.

(61) FIG. 6 shows an arrangement of this kind in a cross-sectional view, where a hinge pin 5 is guided through precisely these bores 21 of hinge panel 31.

(62) The inside diameter of bore 21 is slightly larger than the outside diameter of hinge pin 5. The arrangement of hinge pin 5 in bore 21 realizes a fixed bearing with a rotational degree of freedom, i.e. hinge panel 31, 32 can rotate about hinge pin 5 with bore 21 provided at its one axial end.

(63) In order to secure hinge pin 5 against twisting or displacement, a previously described pin 9 is inserted through a bore provided in hinge pin 5, which bore extends transversely to the longitudinal axis L of hinge pin 5. Pin 9 is further inserted through a transverse bore 29 (FIG. 9), which is produced in hinge panel 31 and preferably provided in connection portion 23.

(64) FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 show that a hinge panel 31, 32 has a long hole 30 on its other axial side 28. Long hole 30 is a bore which is extended approximately in the direction of longitudinal direction of extension Y (FIG. 10). The inner diameter d of long hole 30 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of hinge pin 5. A floating bearing is thus realized, where, due to long hole 30, hinge panel 31, 32 is rotated both rotationally as well as translationally in the Y direction, i.e. along the direction of extension of long hole 30, about hinge pin 5.

(65) As can best be seen in FIGS. 4, 5 and 8, the individual hinge panels 31, 32 can be connected to one another so that they form a hinge chain 300. Ends 27, 28 of a hinge panel 31, 32 are there shaped in such a way that they can be fitted with bores 21, 30 one over the other.

(66) Recesses 34 are provided on the inner sides of bores 21 (FIG. 9) of a hinge panel 31, 32, into which fork ends 33 of an adjacent hinge panel 31, 32 can be fitted. Since hinge panels 31, 32 all have the same shape, the individual hinge panels 31, 32 can be assembled into an arbitrarily long hinge chain 300.

(67) Each hinge panel 31, 32 has a lateral guide element 35 which is suitable to support and guide gate panel segment 2, which is connected to this hinge panel 31, 32, in a direction opposite to the horizontal direction V (FIG. 12) against profile member 17 during a vertical motion of gate panel 1. Lateral guide element 35 is arranged on the lateral outer side of first vertical wall 22a of guide section 22 of a hinge panel 31, 32.

(68) FIG. 19 shows an alternative embodiment of gate panel 1 which comprises a sliding disk 42 serving as a sliding element. The type and perspective of the representation corresponds to the one already selected in FIG. 10, but for a horizontally oppositely disposed side of gate panel 1.

(69) In this embodiment, gate panel 2 has no lateral guide element 35 and no damper 43. For lateral guidance of gate panel 2, a sliding disk 42 is provided between hinge panel 31 and guide roller 12 and is thus disposed opposite to shoulder 15 in the axial direction relative to guide roller 12. In the event of horizontal displacement of gate panel 2, sliding disk 42 can contact one or both of the profile members 17 and slide along them in order to limit the horizontal movability of gate panel 2. In the embodiment shown, sliding disk 42 is approximately round and provided with a center hole, where connection mechanism 5 extends through this hole, thereby fastening sliding disk 42.

(70) Sliding disk 42 can be fabricated from low-friction and/or comparatively soft material in order to minimize frictional forces between sliding disk 42 and profile members 17 as well as the wear of the guide roller and profile members 17. In particular, if a sliding element 42 is provided on each of the two horizontally mutually oppositely disposed connection mechanisms 5 of a gate panel segment 2, horizontal guidance of guide rollers 12 can be effected substantially by sliding element 42.

(71) Gate panel 2 can have several sliding elements 42 distributed over its height. For example, sliding elements 42 can always be arranged in pairs that are disposed horizontally opposite to each other. Such pairs of sliding elements 42 can be evenly distributed over the height of the closed gate panel, for example, with a total of three pairs at the upper end, at the lower end, and approximately at the center.

(72) FIG. 20 shows an alternative embodiment of the connection between a gate panel segment 2 and a hinge panel 31 in an exploded view. In this embodiment, the gate panel segment is composed of two profile elements 49 and a cover 50 received between profile elements 49. Profile elements 49 can be made of metal, preferably aluminum. Numerous materials are also possible for the cover, for example, metals or plastic materials, preferably transparent plastic materials.

(73) Profile elements 49 each comprise a screw hole 47 with an internal thread. In this embodiment, the hinge panel comprises two through bores 48, the spacing of which corresponds to the spacing of screw holes 47 of gate panel segment 2. The connection between hinge panel 31 and gate panel segment 2 can be established by screwing screws 46 through through bores 48 of hinge panel 31 and to screw holes 47 of profile elements 49.

(74) The arrangement described with reference to the figures acts as follows:

(75) Chain 4 is connected to motor 101 shown in FIGS. 1 and 13 via output shaft 102, belt 107, deflection rollers 106a, 106b and countershaft 105 by way of sprocket 104a and serves to drive the entire gate panel 1. Sprocket 104a extends in part into recesses 6 of the hinge panels and engages with chain 4 therein.

(76) Gate panel 1 consists of several gate panel segments 2, where several of these gate panel segments 2, and preferably all gate panel segments 2, are connected to chain 4. Preferably, each gate panel segment 2 is fastened individually with a respective hinge pin 5 to chain 4.

(77) The static weight forces as well as the dynamic forces occurring during operation are thus transmitted approximately uniformly at the respective connecting points formed by chain 4 and hinge pin 5 to the respective gate panel segment 2 connected thereto. The total force therefore no longer needs to be absorbed by the lowermost gate panel segment, but is distributed as uniformly as possible over the entire gate panel 1.

(78) The forces F.sub.1, F.sub.2 (FIG. 11) required for lifting the individual gate panel segment 2 arise at the contact points of connection portion 23 with gate panel segment 2 and are transmitted mainly by chain 4. Hinge panels 31, 32 serve merely to connect individual gate panel segments 2 to one another in an articulated manner. Due to the special suspension of the individual hinge panels 31, 32 on hinge pin 5, only small forces arise at hinge panels 31, 32 themselves, in particular, in the region of their bores 21, 30, which are small to negligible as compared to the forces F.sub.1, F.sub.2 required for lifting gate panel 1.

(79) The common connection between chain 4, hinge pin 5 and the individual hinge panels 31, 32 also causes chain 4 and the individual hinge panels 31, 32 to move substantially together. Long holes 30 serve, in particular, to exclude a static overdetermination of the system and thereby to compensate for tolerances or changes in length between chain 4 and hinge panels 31, 32.

(80) It is there advantageous if hinge pins 5 are arranged in the upper half of a gate panel segment 2, and, in particular, in the region of an upper edge 36 of gate panel segment 2, as shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 9. The individual gate panel segments 2 are then hanging vertically downwardly, following gravity.

(81) A change in load in chain 4 and gate panel sections 2 arises only above the sprocket, i.e. in the region of gate lintel 120, in which gate panel 2 is supported in the open state, i.e. rolled up, where tensile and compressive forces arising between the gate panel sections when rolling up the gate panel are lower than those when lifting the gate panel 2 in the passage area.

(82) Recess 6 formed in hinge panels 31, 32 serves as stable lateral guidance of chain 4 as well as protection of chain 4 from external influences. The arrangement of chain 4 in recess 6 also leads to a compact design which is further promoted by the fact that chain 4, inserted into hinge panels 31, 32, is arranged between gate panel segments 2 and a guide roller 12, where hinge pin 5 can simultaneously be used as the axis for this guide roller 12.

(83) Damper 43 provided between chain 4 and recess 6 reduces the noise arising during the movement of gate panel 1, which can occur due to slight movements of chain 4 and hinge panels (hinge panel; Scharniergewerbe) 31, 32. Another source of noise that damper 43 counteracts is the engagement of sprocket 53 with chain 4.

(84) This compact design leads to the fact that the frame width B.sub.Z can be reduced as compared to prior art. Due to the frame width being reduced, the passage width of the gate can be increased.

(85) The frame width B.sub.Z is furthermore kept small by the fact that drive 100 is at least in part arranged outside the gate frames. As shown in FIG. 1, at least motor 101, output shaft 102, deflection roller 106a, 106b, belt 107 and, at least in part shaft 105 are arranged outside gate frames 16.

(86) Furthermore, the dimensions of the individual components can be kept small due to the favorable, i.e. approximately uniform, distribution of forces over the entire gate panel 1, as described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12. These small dimensions, in particular, of drive 100, promote a compact design of the lifting gate according to the invention. In such downsizing of the drive, the use of synchronous motors of compact design is particularly advantageous. In addition to the gate frame width B.sub.Z, also the installation space required for gate lintel 120, i.e. the installation depth T of the gate can thereby be kept compact.

(87) The lifting gate according to the invention is shown schematically in FIG. 13, where gate panel 1 is operated by such a synchronous motor 101. Gate panel 1 is moved up and down by way of synchronous motor 101, output shaft 102 and drive means 4. The drive of gate panel 1 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12 is operated by a power regulating unit 50 which makes it possible to perform the energized standstill operation of the motor in the manner described.

(88) A logic and control unit 60 generates the control commands for the regulating unit based on command sensor signals and coordinates the modes of operation of the regulating unit with the other control components.

(89) Instead of the end-to-end output shaft 102 presently illustrated schematically, the gate panel can also be received in separate spiral guide tracks 109 provided on both sides of the gate panel, as illustrated, for example, in FIG. 2.

(90) The present invention is not restricted to the use of a synchronous motor as a drive motor. Instead of the synchronous motor, any motor can be used that can be regulated to zero rotational speed and at zero rotational speed also generates a sufficient amount of torque, like for example, stepping motors, reluctance motors, and the like.

(91) FIG. 13 also shows an accumulator unit 70 which can be charged with recuperated energy. Furthermore, the accumulator unit can additionally be charged via an external power supply 80.

(92) FIG. 13 also shows an electromechanical brake 90 acting upon the gate drive shaft and a position measuring system 91 embodied as an incremental encoder, absolute value transducer, or the like, which is also positioned directly on the shaft, where, ideally, both the brake as well as the position measuring system can be formed integrally with the drive.

(93) The drive is actuated by a control unit such that its rotational speed (and therefore the speed of the gate panel) follows pre-set ramps. All moving parts are subject to approximately uniform accelerations. The mechanical loads on shafts and brakes are therefore reduced both during regular gate movement as well as during reversal and emergency stop operations, but also during power failures.

(94) FIG. 14 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13. In the event of a stop being requested, the motor is regulated quickly, reduced down to zero rotational speed and held at this position.

(95) In step S11, a deceleration, with which the gate panel is to be braked, is predetermined by the control unit. In step S12, the gate panel drive is actuated on the basis of the predetermined deceleration in order to reduce the speed to zero rotational speed. The gate panel is then held at the position reached (step S13). The control unit then in step S14 waits for new commands.

(96) FIG. 15 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 in the event of power failure. In the event of power failure, this is in step S21 detected by the control unit and interpreted as an (emergency) stop command (step S23). The control unit can for this be equipped with an appropriate monitoring device that continuously monitors the main power supply (e.g. grid voltage) and in the event of failure or interruption of the mains power supply switches to an emergency power supply (e.g. accumulator unit) (step S22).

(97) The electrical energy stored in the accumulator unit is then used by the regulating unit by way of guided speed reduction to make the drive come to a controlled standstill (zero rotational speed) (step S24). Once the gate panel has reached zero speed (step S25), the gate panel is held at the standstill position by the energized drive (step S26). The control unit then in step S27 waits for new commands.

(98) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15, complex mechanical brakes for preventing gate panel crashes can be dispensed with despite power failure. The safety functions are assumed by controlled motor-driven braking of the gate panel by use of the energy stored in the accumulator unit.

(99) Loss of the safety function due to mechanical brakes failing can thereby be ruled out.

(100) FIG. 16 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 for performing an emergency opening of the gate during power failure.

(101) The energy stored in the accumulator unit can be used in the absence of an external power supply to have the regulating unit perform controlled emergency opening of the gate. If the control unit detects that no external power supply is available, then it can switch to a so-called emergency power mode (step S31). Unneeded circuitry is then shut down in order to save energy.

(102) If a command to perform an emergency opening is received in step S32, then the gate is opened in step S33. The control unit and the drive motor are supplied with electrical energy by the accumulator unit for this purpose, where the available power may well be less than with the external power supply.

(103) The emergency mode speed is adjusted accordingly so that the accumulator capacity can be kept low. The emergency power program can be adapted to the existing residual capacity of the accumulator unit, so that preferably complete opening of the gate is achieved.

(104) The emergency opening can be triggered in that a trigger button is manually operated, by a fire alarm system coupled thereto, or automatically during power failure. Other kinds of trigger mechanisms are conceivable.

(105) FIG. 17 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 for monitoring the residual accumulator charge.

(106) As already mentioned, the control device is configured in a favorable manner to monitor the residual accumulator charge and, when it drops below a predetermined lower threshold value, uses the remaining residual energy to move the gate panel to a secure position.

(107) For this, the remaining residual charge in the accumulator unit is detected in step S41 and compared with a predetermined lower threshold value (step S42). As long as the threshold value is not reached, the motor current is maintained and the gate panel is held at the current position (step S44). If, however, the lower threshold value is reached, then the gate panel is taken to a secure position in step S45. Depending on the configuration, this can be a fully open or a fully closed position.

(108) The lifting gate is then maintained unoperational in this position until power is restored (step S46). As a further optional measure to protect from failure of the accumulator unit, a holding brake can be activated (step S47). In addition, the control device can advantageously be configured such that a motion of the gate panel can be detected by the position data detection, while the holding brake is to prevent such motion, and the drive motor, in response to the detection of such a motion, is actuated with zero rotational speed in order to additionally hold the gate panel in a motor-driven manner.

(109) Furthermore, the control unit can be configured to use the position data detection for a comparison of reference and actual speeds and to correct any deviation within a control loop or bring about a standstill. Hazardous motions can thereby be counteracted.

(110) The electrical energy provided by the accumulator unit can also be used for the purpose of keeping the position data detection of the control unit running also during failure of the external power supply. It is thereby also possible in the emergency power mode to detect downwardly hazardous motions and to counteract the motion.

(111) FIG. 18 shows a schematic flow diagram illustrating the operation of the lifting gate according to the invention of FIG. 13 for continuously monitoring the position and/or speed of the drive motor or of the gate panel, respectively.

(112) The speed of the gate panel can be determined in step S51 via the changes in position of the gate panel or the gate panel drive that are detected by the position sensors. It is compared in step S53 with a predetermined desired speed (step S52).

(113) If the actual speed and the desired speed match, then the method is continued in step S51. If the actual speed and the desired speed differ, then the gate panel can be halted in step S54, or an emergency stop can be initiated as described in the context of FIG. 2. By continuously monitoring the position and/or speed of the drive motor or the gate panel, respectively, a hazardous downwardly motion can be thus recognized and counteracted. The security against preventing a crash is thereby increased.