Roller Awnings Blocking System Synchronized Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic blocking systems for roller awnings are prone to misalignment and require precise assembly, are complex, and can malfunction due to asymmetrical movements or external factors, making them difficult to install and use effectively.
Innovation Solution
A blocking system with symmetrically placed engaging elements actuated by electric motors, connected via a transmission shaft and Oldham coupling, which automatically coordinate to block and disengage the awning in the extended position, ensuring simultaneous and synchronized movement without the need for precise positioning or external cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an automatic blocking system with separate ratchets is used, then the blocking function is achieved, but the system requires precise assembly and is sensitive to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate ratchets into a single integrated ratchet mechanism with symmetric teeth. This merging eliminates the need for precise positioning between separate ratchets and coupling means, as the integrated design ensures both sides engage simultaneously with the coupling means through its symmetric tooth structure, resolving the assembly precision issue while maintaining automatic blocking functionality.
2Device complexity
If separate ratchets are used without connection, then the structure is simpler, but coordinated movement and engagement cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate ratchets into one integrated ratchet body with symmetric teeth arranged on opposite sides. This single piece ensures coordinated movement by design - when the coupling means engages, both sides are activated simultaneously through the symmetric geometry, providing reliability without requiring complex connection mechanisms or verification systems.
3Reliability
If symmetric movement is required for correct operation, then the blocking system works reliably, but temperature expansion or obstacles can cause misalignment and malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs symmetric design elements (symmetric ratchet teeth, symmetric coupling means) that create a self-aligning mechanism. The symmetry ensures that regardless of minor positional variations caused by thermal expansion or obstacles, the coupling means will naturally engage both sides equally, maintaining reliable blocking operation without requiring perfect symmetric movement or being sensitive to expansion differences.
4Ease of manufacture
If manual blocking system with hooks is used, then the system is simple to manufacture, but it requires manual operation and is not convenient to use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the blocking and unblocking operations are performed automatically by the terminal's own movement. As the terminal moves along the guide, the coupling means automatically engages with the ratchet teeth to block the terminal, and automatically disengages when the terminal needs to move, eliminating the need for manual hook operation while maintaining structural simplicity.
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 system provides a solid, simple, and convenient automatic blocking mechanism that ensures coordinated blocking and disengagement of the awning, reducing the risk of malfunction and simplifying installation, while being compact and not requiring precise alignment or external ducts for cables.
Implementation Method 1
actuated by electric motors
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a blocking system (1, 1') associable to a roller awning having an end edge fixed to a winding roller and the opposed end edge associated to a terminal (3) comprising a tubular body whose end portions (3A) are adapted to slide inside guides (2) for moving said awning between a wound position and an extended position, wherein said terminal (3) of the roller awning is placed adjacent to the lower stop ends (2A) of said guides (2). The blocking system (1, 1') comprises first coupling means (40) comprising a pair of engaging elements (4, 4'), each associable to a respective end portion (3A) of the terminal (3) of the roller awning and capable to move between a first position, wherein said end portions (3A) of the terminal (3) can slide freely within said guides (2) and a second position, wherein they cooperate with second coupling means (50) associable to said lower stop ends (2A) of said guides (2) for removably blocking the awning in the extending position. In particular, said first coupling means (40) further comprise driving circuits (100), each comprising first actuation means (6) and driving means (44), said driving means (100) each being connected to one of said engaging elements (4, 4'), said second coupling means (50) comprise second actuation means (7) adapted to interact with said actuation means (6) for triggering said driving means (44) so that said engaging elements (4, 4') move automatically between said first position and said second position.