Folding Tent Frame with Spring-Latch Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible fabric-covered structures, such as tents, have complex and cumbersome frames that are difficult to assemble, disassemble, and pack, particularly for large-scale applications, leading to inefficiencies in deployment and storage.
Innovation Solution
A folding tent frame system featuring leg elements with a spring-biased latch mechanism and arch brackets that allow for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling rapid deployment and secure attachment of a flexible tent body, with self-resetting lock mechanisms for simplified setup and teardown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple separate pieces are used for frame components, then the structure can be collapsed and stored, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into modular components (arch brackets, leg elements, roof sections) that can be independently handled and assembled. Each leg element is a self-contained unit with integrated latch mechanisms, allowing rapid assembly without complex multi-step procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased latch elements automatically engage with the latch-receiving slots when leg elements are inserted into arch brackets. The self-resetting lock mechanisms require no manual intervention to lock once positioned, eliminating time-consuming manual locking operations.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple separate pieces are used for frame components, then the structure can be collapsed and stored, but the components become misplaced and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The latch element and spring mechanism are integrated into a single leg element component. The lifting bar is combined with the outer sliding leg element, creating unified components that reduce the total number of separate parts to track and manage during assembly and storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The arch brackets serve as intermediary components that receive and secure multiple leg elements. This centralized reception point prevents components from becoming misplaced by providing designated attachment locations.
3Device complexity
If simple frame components are used, then assembly is simplified, but the secure attachment of the tent body may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tapered interior surfaces of the arch brackets and corresponding tapered outer surfaces of the leg elements create a conical interference fit. This geometric design provides secure mechanical engagement through friction and geometric interlocking, ensuring reliable attachment without complex fastening mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased latch elements automatically engage and lock the leg elements to the arch brackets through the tapered surfaces. This self-locking mechanism ensures secure attachment without requiring additional manual fastening operations, maintaining both simplicity and reliability.
4Productivity
If manual assembly procedures are used, then the structure can be erected, but the risk of injury or damage during setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-resetting lock mechanisms and spring-biased latch elements automatically secure the frame components together without requiring manual force or awkward positioning. Operators simply insert components and the mechanisms self-lock, eliminating dangerous manual manipulation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting bars allow operators to raise the roof frame to various heights by sliding the outer leg elements along the inner leg elements. This controlled elevation process distributes the lifting effort evenly and allows the structure to be raised to a safe working height before final securing, reducing injury risk during assembly.
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 facilitates rapid and efficient deployment of large-scale collapsible shelters by simplifying the assembly process, reducing the complexity of frame components, and ensuring secure attachment of the tent body, even in adverse conditions, while minimizing the risk of injury or damage during setup and teardown.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-biased latch element for securing the outer sliding leg element at selected vertical locations on the inner leg element
Data Source
AI summary
A modular tent frame system includes a number of folding frame elements which permit the shelter to be rapidly deployed in extreme environmental conditions. Telescopically sliding legs permit the tent frame to be unfolded, and the tent fabric attached to the frame, which the frame is on the ground and the tent can then be raised by sliding the outer leg elements up the inner leg elements to thereby raise the tent to the desired height, even in high winds.