Arc-Shaped Roofing Frame Sections for Large Spans
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing swimming pool canopies are expensive to produce and have limited spans, typically not exceeding 5 to 6 meters, and lack the structural integrity to support larger dimensions with minimal material usage and high dimensional accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The method involves producing longitudinal frame sections using a carrier and U-profiles, where the carrier forms an arc segment and the U-profiles provide stabilization, allowing for high flexural strength and large spans without extensive material usage, achieved by cutting and bending metallic materials to create arc-shaped components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional roofing systems are used, then manufacturing complexity and cost increase, but span capability remains limited to 5-6 meters
Solution Approach 1:
The roofing system is divided into modular components: U-profiles with integrated carriers that can be prefabricated and assembled on-site. This segmentation allows for simplified manufacturing of individual elements while achieving large spans through modular assembly, resolving the contradiction between span capability and manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a third dimension by adding vertical carriers that extend upward from the U-profiles, creating a three-dimensional structural system. This dimensional addition enables the structure to achieve large spans by distributing loads vertically and diagonally, rather than relying solely on horizontal beam strength, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity
2Quantity of substance
If material usage is minimized, then cost decreases, but structural integrity and bending stiffness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The U-profiles are designed with curved, arched geometries that naturally distribute bending stresses along the curve. This curvature provides inherent structural strength and bending stiffness while using minimal material, as the arch shape efficiently channels loads to the support points without requiring excessive material thickness or volume
Solution Approach 2:
The system combines different materials strategically: aluminum or steel U-profiles for structural strength, polycarbonate or glass for the roofing panels, and concrete or masonry for the carriers. This composite approach optimizes material usage by assigning each material to its most efficient function, achieving high bending stiffness with minimal total material
3Length of stationary object
If span is increased beyond 5-6 meters, then coverage area increases, but dimensional accuracy and structural precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The U-profiles and carriers are designed as prefabricated modular units with pre-drilled connection holes and pre-formed geometric shapes. This preliminary preparation ensures that each component maintains its dimensional accuracy during manufacturing, and the modular nature allows for precise assembly over large spans without cumulative errors, resolving the contradiction between span and precision
Solution Approach 2:
The U-profiles are designed with self-aligning features and self-supporting geometries that automatically maintain dimensional accuracy during assembly. The curved profiles and integrated connection points create self-stabilizing structures that resist deformation under their own weight and environmental loads, preserving precision without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables the production of roofing elements with high dimensional accuracy and flexibility, allowing spans of over 10 meters, providing protection from debris, weather, and reducing maintenance needs while being cost-effective and aesthetically appealing.
Implementation Method 1
bending a U-profile rail to an arc-shaped profile adapted to the support
Implementation Method 2
bending a U-profile rail to an arc-shaped profile adapted to the support
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
Figure 6
AI summary
The invention relates to a roofing element (U), wherein the roofing element (U) comprises a frame (6) and a shield (3). Here, two longitudinal frame sections (LRA1, LRA2) each comprise a support (1) and a U-profile (2), wherein the support (1) forms, in side view, a first arch segment (9) and wherein the U-profile (2) forms, in side view, a second arch segment (9), wherein the shield (3) is held in mutually opposite grooves of the two U-profiles (2) and wherein each U-profile (2) is stablized by the associated support (1).