Bump N’ Drive
The aptly named Bump N’ Drive is a functional attachment that farmers can install to open gates with ease from the comfort of their vehicle.
According to the creators, farmers can turn their existing gate into a drive-through gate without replacing it.
The gate opener does not require electricity but operates on a mechanical and gravitational basis. Initially, it designed Bump N’ Drive for use by vehicles with what it calls “a true bumper”.
So, how does it work? According to the company, to open the gate, “gently” push the PVC-sleeved bump arm on the gate with your vehicle while engaging a “slow-rolling” speed.
When the gate opens, follow through without coming to a halt and continue pushing the bump arm until the gate swings open completely.
It says that the gate will stay open for several seconds, based on your adjustments, before shutting slowly behind you.
Installation and accuracy
According to the designers, it takes approximately half a day to mount a complete “time-saving and convenient” Bump N’Drive kit to a gate.
The inventors recommend using metal posts as latch or hinge posts, preferably square metal posts of at least 5” or more.
It says that its “extensive tests” have shown how if livestock were to accidentally disengage the gate latch, the hinge design makes the gate want to stay closed.
However, it does acknowledge that no cattle guard or gate is “100% secure”.
According to the company, it has engineered the kits to fit any farm pipe rail gate, among other types.
The automatic gate opener kit from Bump N’ Drive – which farmers can install in five steps and do not require professional assistance to do so – costs what is the equivalent of circa €400.
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