Hexagonal Tent with Three-Point Support and Universal Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional folding tents are prone to twisting and instability due to a two-point support structure, are cumbersome to assemble due to differing frame lengths, and offer limited awning space, making them inefficient and costly to manufacture and use.
Innovation Solution
A folding hexagonal tent design that uses a three-point support method with side frames and connecting frames of the same length, featuring adjustable posts and frames that can be easily assembled and disassembled, and a roof frame with height adjustment, allowing for secure assembly and a larger awning area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a two-point support structure is used to connect side frames to posts, then the assembly process is simplified, but the stability and resistance to twisting of the tent skeleton deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by differentiating the support structure at different locations: two side frames connect to each post at two points, while a connecting frame connects to the roof frame at a third point. This creates a three-point support system specifically at the critical roof connection area, providing enhanced stability where needed without complicating the overall assembly process.
2Strength
If side frames and connecting frames have different lengths as required by conventional square tent geometry, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameter from a square base to a hexagonal base. This parameter change allows all six side frames and six connecting frames to have the same length, simplifying manufacturing. The hexagonal geometry naturally provides equal spacing between posts, enabling standardized frame lengths while maintaining structural integrity through the six-point distribution of support.
Solution Approach 2:
By making all side frames and connecting frames the same length, the patent creates universal components that can be used interchangeably throughout the structure. This universality simplifies manufacturing, inventory management, and assembly, as workers need to handle only one type of frame component rather than multiple different lengths.
3Device complexity
If a square tent configuration is used, then the construction is simple, but the awning space is limited and not efficiently utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a square (4-sided) configuration to a hexagonal (6-sided) configuration, adding another dimension to the base geometry. This dimensional change increases the perimeter and internal area available for awning space while maintaining construction simplicity through the use of standardized repeating units. The hexagonal shape provides 60-degree angles that naturally distribute weight and space more efficiently.
4Ease of operation
If conventional tents are connected only in vertical and horizontal directions, then the assembly process is straightforward, but the versatility of awning space configuration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hexagonal configuration with all equal-length frames creates a universal modular unit that can be connected in multiple directions and orientations. The six-sided symmetry allows tents to be joined in various patterns (radial, linear, clustered) while maintaining structural consistency, providing versatile awning space configurations without complicating the assembly process.
Data Source
AI summary
A folding hexagonal tent includes: posts (2) disposed on respective vertices of a tent, and configured to support the tent; side frames (3) formed in rectilinear shapes, and coupled such that both ends of each of the side frames (3) are hinged to adjacent two of the posts and such that each of the side frames (3) is connected to selectively increase and decrease a distance between the adjacent two posts (2); a roof frame (4) configured to vertically support the center portion of the tent; and connecting frames (5) formed in rectilinear shapes, and coupled such that the first ends thereof are hinged to the respective tops of the posts (2) and the second ends thereof are hinged to the bottom of the roof frame (4) and such that the connecting frames (5) are connected to selectively increase and decrease distances between the posts and the roof frame.