Patent ID: 7234894
Filing Date: 2007-06-26
Classification: E03F

Abstract:
1. A gate system for attachment to a structure that has an opening through which fluid flows, the system comprising: a) a gate assembly designed and constructed to allow fluid flow therethrough while preventing the passage of particulate matter of a predetermined size and shape, said gate assembly rotatably attached to said structure such that it can rotate between a closed position and an open position relative to said opening; b) a trip plate rotatably attached to said gate assembly such that fluid flow through said gate assembly, at least in part, flows onto said trip plate, said trip plate being biased in an upward direction to a position that is substantially perpendicular to said gate assembly, and capable or rotational movement therefrom in a downward direction; c) said trip plate having at least one pin extending from either side of the plate that communicates with an arcuate groove formed in a bracket attached to the structure that prevents movement of the trip plate in a direction perpendicularly away from said gate assembly; but does allow movement of said trip plate in a rotationally downward direction, such that when the fluid flow onto said trip plate overcomes the upward biasing, the trip plate is caused to rotate downward, in turn allowing said gate assembly to rotate from said closed position to said open position.