What Is a Moving Fence?

Gates

• Moving sections of fence are used instead of a normal manually operated gate. These moving gates may be large or small. Some automated moving gates are only big enough for a person to pass through and are designed as walking access into the gated area. In other setups, the gate may be much larger and designed to block a driveway. When a car approaches, the large and heavy gate automatically can be opened to make way for the car to enter.

Movements

• There are several types of moving fence sections, two of which are more common in residential use. The first is a swinging gate. This type of fence opens like a typical gate. The opening section pivots on a post that is connected to one end of the gate while the other end swings open. Other gates slide or retract instead. A section of fence may retract into a larger wall, or a sliding section might slide horizontally in front or behind the rest of the fence to allow entry. This type of moving fence requires a little less clearance room, because you don't need to accommodate a large swinging gate.

Power

• A power source is needed to generate the motion of a moving gate. Usually, the motor that drives the movement of the fence is plugged into the property's power connection to drive it. However, the electricity can be generated in other ways. Many moving fences on farms that are far away from a power connection have a small, self-contained solar panel and cell system that captures enough energy to move the fence. Similar systems can be used in residential fences, as well.

Opening Mechanisms

• Moving fences are opened in a number of different ways. Some are opened remotely from inside the car, using a similar system to that used in garage door openers. Others might have a security keypad and need a code entered in order to open the fence. In locations with an active security system or attendant, you might need a third party to open the fence for you.