Collapsible Chair Canopy Frame for Flexible Shade Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing canopy designs for outdoor furniture lack versatility in positioning, as they are typically limited to either an overhead or behind-the-chair configuration, and do not efficiently adapt to intermediate positions or storage.
Innovation Solution
A frame and canopy system that can be oriented in overhead, behind-the-furniture, and intermediate positions, with a mechanism allowing the frame to collapse and extend for easy storage, and a hinged canopy design that allows segments to fold and unfold for carrying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the canopy is designed with a fixed rigid structure, then it provides stable shade coverage, but it becomes difficult to store and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy structure is divided into multiple collapsible frame segments that can be disconnected and folded. The frame includes vertical supports, horizontal bars, and diagonal bracing elements that can be separated at joint locations, allowing the rigid shade structure to be broken down into manageable pieces for storage and transport while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy frame incorporates movable joints and connection mechanisms that allow the structure to transition between a rigid extended state for providing shade and a collapsed folded state for storage. The dynamic elements include pivot joints at the chair attachment points and connection points between frame segments, enabling the canopy to adapt its configuration based on operational needs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the canopy is designed to be adjustable to multiple positions, then it increases versatility, but it increases structural complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable positioning capability is achieved by segmenting the frame into modular components that can be independently positioned. The vertical supports, horizontal bars, and bracing elements are arranged in discrete segments that can be adjusted relative to each other, allowing the canopy to be configured in multiple positions (overhead, behind chair, intermediate) without requiring a completely complex reconfigurable structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is designed with universal attachment points and standardized connection mechanisms that allow the same structural elements to serve multiple functions. The vertical supports can attach to the chair back at different heights, the horizontal bars can be positioned at various distances, and the same bracing elements provide both structural support and positioning adjustment, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary embodiment providing one or more improvements includes a frame which attaches to outdoor furniture, in particular to a chair, and a canopy. Embodiments can be moved from an overhead position to a behind the chair position. The frames can be moved form a collapsed to a fully extended position. In embodiments the canopy can be positioned to contain the collapsed frame and chair in the carrying position.