Terrace Canopy Beam With Integral Gutter for Rainwater Drainage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Terrace canopies with operable roofs face challenges with water leakage due to gaps between movable parts and the frame, and existing drainage systems are cumbersome to install and maintain, requiring proper alignment and sealing to function effectively.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a frame with beams that have an integral gutter, forming a single piece, which simplifies manufacturing and assembly. The gutter is designed with a collecting wall and a chamber that allows for easy attachment of accessories without piercing the collector side, enhancing drainage and reducing the risk of water damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate gutters are installed in the frame, then drainage function is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The gutter is merged with the beam to form an integral structure. The beam comprises a gutter with a collecting wall, where the beam and gutter form one single beam profile piece. This eliminates the need for separate gutter installation while maintaining effective drainage functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam serves multiple functions: it provides structural support and simultaneously functions as a gutter for water collection and drainage. The single beam profile integrates both structural and drainage roles, reducing the number of components needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple beam types are used for different frame parts, then functional requirements are met, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
All beams in the frame use the same profile design with an integrated gutter. This standardization simplifies manufacturing while the gutter's collecting wall and chamber design allow adaptation to different installation positions and orientations within the frame structure.
3Ease of operation
If accessories are attached by piercing through the collecting wall, then attachment is simplified, but water leakage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attaching accessories by piercing through the collecting wall from the water collection side, the chamber provides a third dimension (internal space) where accessories can be attached from the opposite side. This allows screw attachments without compromising the water-tightness of the collecting wall.
4Ease of operation
If the beam structure is simplified for easy assembly, then assembly ease is improved, but structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The beam is formed as a single integrated profile combining structural elements with the gutter system. This composite structure maintains high strength-to-weight ratio while enabling straightforward assembly. The chamber within the beam profile also contributes to structural rigidity against bending and torsion.
Data Source
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AI summary
A terrace canopy is provided, comprising a frame including a first and second beams. The frame forms a plane being substantially horizontal with respect to the ground when the terrace canopy is installed. Each beam of the frame comprises a gutter with a collecting wall for collecting rainwater, including a depression for reducing dirt buildup. The beam and gutter form one single beam profile piece, so the gutter is an integral part of the beam. The first and second beam, in particular each beam of the frame, have the same profile.