Multiple piece gated pressurized barrier

What is this patent about?

'431 is related to the field of pressurized barriers, specifically those used inside homes, such as baby gates or pet gates. These barriers are designed to be self-supporting between two points, like door jambs, without needing to be fixed to the floor. The background acknowledges the need for such gates to withstand rough handling while remaining stable and secure.

The underlying idea behind '431 is to create a pressurized gate that can be easily assembled and disassembled for storage and transport. The key inventive insight is to construct the frame surrounding the gate from multiple pieces that are not permanently joined. This allows the gate to be collapsed into a smaller form factor when not in use, while still providing a robust and secure barrier when assembled and pressurized.

The claims of '431 focus on a gated pressurized barrier comprising first and second end frames and a gate. The first end frame includes an upper member, a lower member, and a gate confronting standard. The second end frame is similarly constructed. The gate is pivotally engaged to one of the end frames and includes a latch for engaging the other end frame. Crucially, the gate confronting standard of the first end frame is obliquely disposed relative to its lower member, enabling pressurization. The lower members of the end frames connect either via an inverted U-shaped channel or a gate confronting tie, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.

In practice, the gate is assembled by engaging the gate with the end frames and then connecting the lower members of the end frames using either the U-shaped channel or the tie. To install the gate, turnable arms are extended from the end frames to apply pressure against the door jambs. This pressure causes the gate confronting standards to move towards a parallel relationship, creating a stable and secure barrier. The oblique angle between the standard and lower member on at least one end frame is critical for achieving this pressurization.

The design differentiates itself from prior solutions by allowing the gate to be easily disassembled into smaller components for storage. The use of a multi-piece frame, connected by pins or a tie, enables this compact storage configuration. Furthermore, the gate confronting standards are not integral with each other, yet the barrier can withstand a significant amount of internal pressure. This combination of collapsibility and strength provides a practical and user-friendly solution for creating temporary barriers within a home.