Automatically Foldable Tent Frame Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tent frames require manual folding and unfolding, which is tedious and time-consuming, making them inconvenient to use.
Innovation Solution
An automatically foldable tent frame mechanism featuring a driving mechanism with a motor, power source, and controlling device, along with a guide pole and connectors, allows for automatic folding and unfolding, facilitated by a remote control or switch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual folding and unfolding is used for tent frames, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to tedious and time-consuming manual assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional manual mechanical assembly system with an automated motor-driven system. The motor moves connectors along guide poles to automatically assemble and disassemble the tent frame, eliminating the need for manual folding and unfolding operations while maintaining structural integrity through the guide pole and connector mechanism.
2Productivity
If manual folding and unfolding is used for tent frames, then the device complexity is reduced, but the loss of time increases due to tedious and time-consuming manual assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional manual mechanical assembly system with an automated motor-driven system. The motor moves connectors along guide poles to automatically assemble and disassemble the tent frame, eliminating the need for manual folding and unfolding operations while maintaining structural integrity through the guide pole and connector mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The tent frame system performs its own assembly and disassembly operations through the automated driving mechanism, eliminating the need for external manual intervention. The motor-driven connectors automatically position themselves along the guide poles to assemble the frame structure.
3Ease of operation
If automatic folding and unfolding mechanism is added to tent frames, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional motor and control components
Solution Approach 1:
The motor and connector assembly serves multiple functions: it moves connectors along guide poles for assembly, positions them for disassembly, and can be controlled through various interfaces (remote control, switch, or controller). This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing comprehensive automated operation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide pole acts as an intermediary element that guides the connector movement, while the connector itself serves as a mediator between the motor's rotational motion and the linear assembly/disassembly action. These intermediary components facilitate the transition from simple manual operation to automated control without requiring complex direct-drive 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
Enables effortless and convenient folding and unfolding of tent frames, reducing the time and effort required for setup and teardown.
Implementation Method 1
The driving mechanism includes a motor for moving one or both of the first and second connectors along the guide pole
Implementation Method 2
Each upper pole pair includes two upper poles pivotally connected to each other and forming an 'X' shape when unfolded
Data Source
AI summary
A tent frame includes supporting poles and an upper frame connected to the supporting poles. The upper frame includes a guide pole, first and second connectors, upper connecting units, and a driving mechanism. The first and second connectors are coupled with the guide pole. Each upper connecting unit includes one or more upper pole pairs. Each upper pole pair includes two upper poles pivotally connected to each other and forming an “X” shape when unfolded. Of the upper pole pair proximal the guide pole, one upper pole is pivotally connected to the first connector and the other upper pole is pivotally connected to the second connector. The driving mechanism includes a motor for moving one or both of the first and second connectors along the guide pole, a power source for providing power to the motor, and a controlling device for controlling the motor.