Arc-Shaped Pool Canopy Shading and Structural Support

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Solution Overview

Problem

Above-ground containers such as pools, spas, and Jacuzzi tubs are exposed to intense sunlight during warm weather, causing sunburn, discomfort, and potential skin cancer, while also being susceptible to wind and rain, which affects their usage and enjoyment.

Innovation Solution

A canopy system comprising a shading element, a support element, and an attachment element, where the shading element extends over the container in an arc-like fashion, secured by support members and brackets or straps, providing shade and structural durability, and can be affixed to the ground or the container's frame.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a canopy system is added to provide shade, then protection from sunlight and environmental elements is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotection from sunlightVSAvoidcanopy system structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The canopy system is divided into distinct functional modules: shading elements (fabric panels), support elements (frames and poles), and attachment elements (clamps and fasteners). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easy assembly and disassembly without requiring complex integrated designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The canopy system is designed with universal attachment mechanisms that can accommodate various above-ground pool shapes and sizes. The support elements can be configured in different arrangements, and the attachment elements work with multiple pool types, making the system adaptable without requiring custom designs for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If support members are affixed to the ground to maintain structural integrity, then reliability is improved, but ease of installation worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidinstallation process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support members are designed with pre-formed ground engagement features such as flared bases or integrated stakes that facilitate straightforward ground affixing. Attachment elements include pre-assembled clamp mechanisms that simplify the connection process between support members and pool structures, reducing installation complexity while ensuring reliable ground anchoring.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Area of stationary object

If the shading element extends in an arc-like fashion, then shade coverage is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshade coverage areaVSAvoidarc shape accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The shading elements utilize curved or arc-like shapes that naturally follow the contours of above-ground pools. These curved shapes are manufactured as standard components with consistent radii, allowing for adequate shade coverage while using conventional manufacturing tolerances rather than requiring custom precision bending for each installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The canopy system offers multiple shading element configurations with different arc radii, spans, and curvatures. By providing a range of standardized parameters, the system achieves effective shade coverage for various pool sizes and shapes without requiring high-precision custom manufacturing, as the appropriate pre-fabricated element can be selected for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8899251B2Pool canopy system
Publication Date: 2014.12.02 POLYGROUP MACAU BVI
  • US8899251B2 patent drawing
  • US8899251B2 patent drawing
  • US8899251B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A canopy system comprising a shading element, a support element, and an attachment element member. The canopy system is adapted to provide shade over at least a portion of an above-ground container. The canopy system is configured to maintain its structure during slightly windy and mild weather conditions.