Double Swing Gate Solution for Wind-Exposed Apartment Complex

This Sunshine Coast Residential project was about finding the right set up to replace an already existing, underperforming system and installing a new double swing gate automation system for a high-traffic residential property with up to 500 operations per day or more.

The site posed unique challenges, including structural constraints and issues with high wind pressure that had previously compromised the gate’s operation, reliability and security.

The scope of the brief presented to the installer, Secure Coast Solutions and Rotech was to find a secure, durable and permanent solution that would overcome the site constraints for an intensive gate operation use.

Challenges in replacing the existing Swing Gate opening system

Motor Power and Efficiency: The large yet light double gates were constructed with an open framework to minimise weight and resistance. The old gate motors lacked sufficient power to resist wind forces during operation and tended to blow the gates open when stationary. Additionally, the extra wind force accelerated wear and tear and durability on the gates.

Ground Stop Constraints: A 120mm gap under the gate made it impractical to install a high ground stop without creating a trip hazard or risking damage to low vehicles.

Gate Operator Bracket Installation: The driveway slope reduced clearance near the pillars where the operators were to be mounted, leaving less than 10mm under the gate when in the open position, making it impossible to install conventional brackets below the gate.

Wind Impact on Mag Lock: The wind angle often exceeded the tolerance of the old magnetic lock, causing it to pop open when gusts pushed the gates. 

Solutions for dealing with swing gates in a wind-exposed location

Choice of Gate Operator: Rotech recommended the Roger SMARTY7 Linear Gate Motor for this situation. The  SMARTY7 industrial motor is one the largest electromechanical operators available in the market.

The SMARTY7 features heavy-duty stops on the worm drive mechanism, ensuring the gate stops in the correct closed position, resolving issues associated with wind resistance.  As for strength and durability, the SMARY7’s brushless technology delivers more torque (700n) and is designed for intensive daily use up to 1,000 operations, offering greater efficiency and low maintenance. 

Mag Lock Upgrade: A new mag lock was also recommended to secure the gate leaves in the required closed position. However, given the previous challenges with wind pressure exceeding mag lock tolerance, an additional mechanism was suggested.

Motorised Drop Bolt Installation: On windy days, to prevent significant movement of the gates when in closed position and not to rely solely on the Mag Lock an automated motorised with lithium battery back up drop bolt (both from Locinox) was added to the gates. 

Integrated Safety Features: The “bond sense” output of the mag lock was used to trigger the drop bolt, ensuring the drop bolt would only be engaged when the gates were fully closed. Preventing accidental damage or malfunction when the gates are not completely closed.

Securing the Drop Bolt in Closed Position: To overcome the 120mm gap where both gates meet and to offer a stop to the drop bolt adding further resistance to the wind in the closed position, two standard hard rubber ground stops, spaced 100mm apart, were positioned for the drop bolt to land securely between them. This design avoided risks associated with using a small hole in the ground, such as mud accumulation or potential misalignment issues on windy days.

Successful outcome for installing swing gates in a wind-exposed location

The installation successfully addressed the challenges and provided a reliable, high-performing solution. The combination of Roger SMARTY7 Operator, an upgraded Locinox mag lock integrated solution with motorized drop bolts, now ensures the gates remain secure in all windy conditions and perform durably for high daily use against strong wind forces.

This innovative design swing gate solution included lateral thinking from both Secure Coast Solutions and Rotech, working together to find the right technology and solution to overcome the site constraints and deliver greater functionality and safety for residents and vehicles.

This case study showcases the importance of tailored solutions and innovative thinking in gate automation for challenging settings. At Rotech, we understand that every configuration is different! Contact us if you need any assistance with your projects.