Flexible Keder Rail Element for Tent Torsion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing membrane tent constructions face challenges in connecting double-curved tarpaulin pieces, requiring high force transmission and stability, especially in three-dimensional designs, where traditional solutions are either expensive, difficult to install, or not aesthetically pleasing, and fail to quickly open or close tents during storms.
Innovation Solution
Designing a flexible keder rail element with an arcuate convex end and concave opposite end, allowing angular movement between elements, enabling smooth force transmission and absorption of bending and torsional forces, and facilitating quick assembly and disassembly of tarpaulins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid piping rail elements are used to connect double-curved membrane pieces, then force transmission is even and stable, but the structure becomes expensive and difficult to manufacture and install
Solution Approach 1:
The piping rail is divided into multiple individual piping rail elements that can be connected together. Each element has a standardized design with guide grooves and connection features, making them easy to manufacture individually while allowing flexible assembly to achieve the required curved shapes and force distribution patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The piping rail elements are designed to be movable relative to each other along the longitudinal direction through guide grooves. This dynamic capability allows the rigid elements to be assembled into curved configurations and to accommodate thermal expansion or contraction, maintaining force transmission stability without requiring complex custom fabrication.
2Ease of manufacture
If pointwise force transmission connections like hooks and D-rings are used, then installation is easier, but force transmission becomes uneven and less stable
Solution Approach 1:
The piping elements are pre-equipped with guide grooves and connection features during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows for straightforward assembly using simple connection elements, achieving easy installation while the distributed guide groove design ensures uniform force transmission along the entire connection length rather than at discrete points.
3Stability of the object's composition
If rigid piping rails are used for connection, then structural stability is achieved, but flexibility for curved connection areas and torsion absorption is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the piping rail into multiple elements that can be connected and positioned along guide grooves, the system achieves structural stability through the rigid elements while gaining flexibility in configuration. The elements can be arranged to follow curved paths and the connection points can accommodate torsional movements, combining rigidity with adaptability.
4Strength
If traditional connection methods are used for side tarpaulins, then connection strength is adequate, but quick removal for storm safety is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system allows the piping elements to move dynamically along the guide grooves. This movement capability enables quick release mechanisms where tarpaulins can be rapidly disconnected by allowing the piping elements to slide out of engagement, achieving both strong connection during use and rapid removal for storm safety.
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a keder rail element (1), a keder rail (20), and a tent structure (41) using such keder rails. Rigid keder rails no longer meet the requirements for safety and flexibility in mobile tent structures. The invention provides a keder rail made of individual, shorter keder rail elements (1), thereby fulfilling the technical requirements and safety aspects.