Awning Arm Sheath Layout for Hidden Cable Routing at Pivot Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing awning deployment systems face challenges in integrating electrical connections, particularly at the central articulated joint, which are both functionally unsatisfactory and aesthetically unpleasing.
Innovation Solution
A deployment device for awnings that incorporates a flexible sheath with integrated conduits for both a tension link and electrical connections, allowing the arm to pivot smoothly while maintaining a neat appearance and functional integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the electrical cable is integrated into the arm of the deployment device, then the electrical connection is provided for LEDs, but the integration is unsatisfactory from functional and aesthetic points of view at the central articulated joint
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical cable is nested within a flexible conduit that is itself contained within the sheath covering the arm. This multi-layer nesting approach allows the cable to be routed through the articulated joint without exposing it, maintaining both functional integrity and aesthetic appearance while accommodating the pivoting motion of the arm.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible conduit acts as an intermediary between the electrical cable and the external environment. This conduit is housed within the sheath and allows the cable to pass through the articulated joint smoothly, protecting the cable from mechanical stress while maintaining a neat appearance at the joint.
2Shape
If a sheath is used to cover the arm, then the appearance is improved, but the sheath must deform during arm pivoting which complicates its design
Solution Approach 1:
The sheath is made from a flexible material that can deform to accommodate the pivoting motion of the arm while maintaining its protective and aesthetic functions. This flexibility allows the sheath to follow the arm's movement without cracking or detaching, and the material properties enable it to return to its original shape after deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sheath contains nested within it both the electrical cable (through a conduit) and the tension link (through another conduit). This nested arrangement allows all components to move together harmoniously during arm pivoting, reducing the complexity of designing individual routing paths for each component.
3Ease of operation
If the tension link passes through the articulated joint, then the arm can unfold smoothly, but the cable routing becomes complex and aesthetically unpleasing
Solution Approach 1:
The tension link is routed through a dedicated conduit that is nested within the sheath, similar to how the electrical cable is routed. This nested configuration allows the tension link to pass through the articulated joint smoothly while keeping it hidden within the sheath, maintaining aesthetic appearance while ensuring smooth arm operation.
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
The solution provides a streamlined and aesthetically pleasing integration of electrical components within the awning deployment system, ensuring smooth operation and easy addition of electrical functionalities.
Implementation Method 1
at least one tension assembly arranged to store elastic energy intended to allow the arm to unfold from its folded position to its unfolded position; said tension assembly comprising at least one tension link on which elastic means are suspended under prestress
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4A
Figure 4B~4C
AI summary
The invention relates to a device used for deploying the fabric of an awning, said device comprising: - An arm (1), - The arm extending lengthwise by means of a first element (10) and a second element (11) connected to each other by means of an articulated link (12) so as to be able to pivot relative to each other to give the arm (1) a folded position and an unfolded position, - At least one tension assembly arranged to store elastic energy intended to allow the arm (1) to unfold, - Said tension assembly comprising at least one tension link on which elastic means are attached under prestress, - A sheath (4), - An electrical connection (5) extending along the length of said arm, - Said sheath (4) comprising at least a second conduit (43) through which said electrical connection (5) passes lengthwise.