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In modern times, space is often a luxury. As homes and properties are increasingly built on smaller plots, maximizing available space becomes essential. When it comes to choosing gates for limited spaces, the telescopic gate stands out as a highly efficient, space-saving solution. Unlike traditional automatic sliding gates, a telescopic gate features multiple overlapping panels, allowing it to provide a wide opening while using minimal lateral space.
This article will explore the inner workings of telescopic gates, how they differ from conventional sliding gates, their advantages, and the components and accessories necessary for their operation. We’ll also cover the situations in which it’s most appropriate to install a telescopic gate, and the technology involved in automating them.
What is a Telescopic Gate?
A telescopic gate is essentially a type of automatic sliding gate that is designed to open by sliding multiple leaves, or panels, that overlap each other. While a standard sliding gate uses a single panel to open and close, telescopic gates use two or more panels that move in unison. These panels are stacked neatly together as the gate opens, taking up less lateral space along the track. This makes telescopic gates perfect for properties where space is limited but a wide entryway is needed.
How Does a Telescopic Gate Work?
The primary feature that sets telescopic gates apart from standard sliding gates is their ability to operate with multiple overlapping panels. When the gate opens, these panels slide on parallel tracks, but they don’t move at the same speed. The first panel, which is attached to the motor, moves along the track, while the second and third panels (if present) are pulled along at a faster pace. This synchronization is achieved through a cable-pulling mechanism that connects the panels.
Let’s break down the working mechanism of a telescopic gate:
Multiple Panels (Leaves): A telescopic gate can have two or more leaves. These leaves are stacked parallel to each other when the gate is fully opened.
Parallel Ground Guides: Each panel or leaf slides on a dedicated ground guide or track, allowing for smooth motion.
Cable-Pulling Kit: The key to the telescopic movement is the cable-pulling kit, which ensures that as the first leaf is pulled by the motor, the second (and third, if applicable) leaf is pulled along faster, so they stack together efficiently.
Automation with Gearmotor: To automate a telescopic gate, a gearmotor is applied to the first panel. A rack-and-pinion mechanism is used to drive the movement. The second and third leaves are moved through the cable-pulling system, which means they move faster than the first leaf, ensuring a compact opening.
Low Voltage Gearmotor: Since the second and third leaves move faster than the first, a low-voltage gearmotor equipped with advanced electronics is recommended. This allows for precise speed control, ensuring the gate opens and closes smoothly without sudden jerks. Popular gearmotors for telescopic gates, such as the T-ONE10B sliding gate motor, are low-voltage units with speed adjustment features that can be controlled via mobile applications like TauApp.
Advantages of Telescopic Gates
Telescopic gates offer several advantages over traditional automatic sliding gates, making them a preferred choice in specific situations:
Space Efficiency
The primary advantage of telescopic gates is their ability to save space. They require less lateral clearance compared to single-panel sliding gates because the panels overlap when the gate is opened. This allows for wider gate openings even when space is limited along the fence line.
Faster Operation
Telescopic gates generally open and close faster than single-panel sliding gates. This is because the secondary and tertiary panels move at a faster rate than the primary panel, reducing the total time needed to open or close the gate. For homeowners who need quick access, especially during peak times, this can be a significant benefit.
Wider Access
Even in tight spaces, telescopic gates can provide a wide opening. This makes them suitable for properties with large vehicles or frequent traffic. By utilizing multiple panels, a telescopic gate can provide the same wide access as a traditional sliding gate but in a much more compact space.
Minimal Impact on Internal Spaces
Since telescopic gates do not require the full lateral space that single-panel gates do, they allow homeowners to maximize the use of internal spaces like gardens or driveways. This means you can have a large gate without worrying about it encroaching on your property.
When Should You Install a Telescopic Gate?
Telescopic gates are best suited for properties where space is at a premium, particularly in urban areas with limited driveway or yard space. Here are some situations where installing a telescopic gate is recommended:
Limited Lateral Space
If your property lacks sufficient room for a single sliding gate to open fully, a telescopic gate is the ideal solution. The overlapping panels minimize the amount of space required to open the gate, making it possible to have a wide entrance without taking up much lateral room.
Wide Entrances in Compact Spaces
In many cases, you might have a wide driveway but not enough room along the fence line for a traditional sliding gate. Telescopic gates are perfect for these situations because they allow you to maintain the wide opening without sacrificing lateral space.
Frequent Vehicle Traffic
If your property experiences frequent traffic or requires rapid entry and exit, a telescopic gate is a good option due to its faster operation. Its ability to open quickly while maintaining a wide opening is useful in such scenarios.
Automating a Telescopic Gate
The automation process for telescopic gates requires special attention due to the multiple moving panels. Here’s how you can automate a telescopic gate effectively:
Gearmotor Installation
A gearmotor is installed on the primary leaf (the first panel). The rack is placed on this leaf to ensure it moves smoothly along the track.
Cable-Pulling Kit
The secondary and tertiary leaves are connected to the primary leaf via a cable-pulling kit. This kit ensures that the secondary leaves move faster than the primary one, enabling them to stack neatly when the gate opens.
Low Voltage Gearmotor
It’s advisable to use a low-voltage gearmotor to control the movement of the gate. This helps regulate the speed and ensures the panels do not slam shut or open too quickly, causing wear and tear.
Electronic Control Panel
The entire system is connected to an electronic control panel, which allows you to adjust the speed and timing of the gate's movements. The latest generation of electronics can even include features like slow-stop, preventing the gate from closing too quickly.
Remote Control and Smart Access
Telescopic gates can be operated using traditional remote controls or through smart access systems. For example, the TauOpen application allows users to open and close their gate using a mobile phone, even from a remote location.
Additional Accessories for a Telescopic Gate
To ensure your automatic gate is safe and secure, there are several accessories you can install along with the telescopic gate:
Sensitive Edges
These are safety devices that detect contact with objects or people in the gate’s path. If the gate encounters an obstacle while closing, the sensitive edges stop the motion to prevent injury or damage.
Photocells
Photocells are installed at the entrance to detect motion or obstructions in the gate's path. This feature is particularly useful for preventing accidents and ensuring the safe operation of the gate.
Wireless System
Wireless systems can be integrated with the sensitive edges and photocells, providing seamless communication between safety features and the main control unit.
Rolling Code Radio Receiver
For security, many telescopic gates are equipped with rolling code radio receivers, which ensure that the gate can only be accessed by authorized remote controls, preventing unauthorized entry.
Conclusion
A telescopic gate offers an excellent solution for properties where space is limited but wide access is necessary. Its multiple overlapping panels ensure a smooth, fast, and space-efficient opening and closing process. By automating the gate with a gearmotor, cable-pulling kit, and smart control systems, you can enjoy enhanced convenience and security. Whether for residential, commercial, or industrial properties, a telescopic automatic sliding gate is a reliable and practical choice for modern spaces.
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