Single-User Folding Canopy With Cable-Pulley Deployment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional canopies require multiple individuals to set up and collapse due to their cumbersome mechanisms and the need for simultaneous adjustment of multiple structural elements, making deployment and folding challenging.
Innovation Solution
A folding canopy with a cable and pulley system connected to a pull handle at its outer periphery, telescoping support legs with adjustable heights, and rolling feet for mobility, allowing single-user operation and smooth deployment and retraction without the need to step underneath.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional canopy mechanisms are used, then structural stability is achieved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy structure is divided into modular components including telescoping legs with lockable segments, separate stabilizing legs, and an independently deployable canopy top. This segmentation allows each component to be deployed independently through the cable-pulley system, reducing operational complexity while maintaining overall structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy employs dynamic deployment mechanisms where telescoping legs can extend and lock at various positions, stabilizing legs can be adjusted to different angles, and the canopy top can be tensioned independently. This dynamic adaptability allows a single operator to achieve stable configuration through sequential adjustments rather than simultaneous complex maneuvers.
2Ease of operation
If traditional canopy mechanisms are used, then structural stability is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to need for multiple individuals
Solution Approach 1:
A cable-pulley system serves as the intermediary mechanism, allowing a single operator to apply force at a convenient location (the handle) and transmit it through the pulley system to simultaneously control multiple deployment actions. This mechanical advantage system enables one person to perform tasks that would otherwise require coordinated efforts of multiple individuals, while the lockable telescoping segments and adjustable stabilizing legs provide inherent stability during the deployment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy incorporates self-locking mechanisms in the telescoping legs and self-adjusting stabilizing legs that automatically engage at predetermined positions during deployment. These self-service features reduce the need for continuous manual intervention, allowing a single operator to deploy the structure reliably without requiring assistance to maintain stability during the process.
3Ease of operation
If canopy is designed for portability, then ease of transport is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy employs nested telescoping legs where inner leg segments are housed within outer segments, allowing the structure to collapse into a compact form for portable storage and transport. When deployed, these same telescoping segments extend to provide the necessary structural height and stability, while lockable mechanisms maintain the extended configuration during use.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing legs are designed with adjustable angles and extendable segments that can be dynamically configured during deployment to compensate for the reduced structural mass. This dynamic adjustment allows the lightweight portable structure to achieve adequate stability on various surfaces, while the same components fold into a compact configuration for transport when stability requirements are reduced.
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
Enables single-user deployment and retraction of a canopy over uneven terrain, providing versatile, durable, and user-friendly shade and shelter with a compact storage option.
Implementation Method 1
A folding canopy is equipped with a cable 42 and pulley system
Implementation Method 2
Pulling the handle causes the cable to exert force on the central lower hub, moving it closer to the central upper hub
Implementation Method 3
When the central lower hub and the central upper hub are forced closer together, the elongate members pivot outward, pushing the support legs outward
Implementation Method 4
one stationary foot with a high-friction surface for stability
Data Source
AI summary
The folding canopy provides a portable, user-friendly structure designed for single-person operation. It features telescoping support legs with three rolling feet equipped with wheels for mobility and one stationary foot with a high-friction surface to assist during deployment and folding. A cable and pulley system, operatively connected to a handle, enables deployment and retraction without requiring the user to step underneath the canopy. As the handle is pulled, the tensioned cable draws a central lower hub toward a central upper hub, causing pivoting elongate members to extend the support legs outward. Sliding feet with curved portions allow the canopy to navigate uneven terrain during deployment and folding. The telescoping legs are adjustable in height via middle brackets with locking mechanisms. Compact when folded, the canopy is easily transportable, making it ideal for outdoor events and recreational activities.