Integrated Eave Pole Mechanism for Compact Tent Frame Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tent frames with eave structures are complex, bulky when folded, and inconvenient to use due to the need for additional poles and separate operation of eave poles, which complicates folding and unfolding processes.
Innovation Solution
A tent frame design incorporating a supporting pole, upper poles, oblique poles, and a sleeve member that allows the eave pole to pivotally connect with the upper poles and slidably couple with the sleeve member, enabling the eave structure to extend beyond the upper frame when unfolded and retract when folded, simplifying the folding and unfolding process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If eave supporting frame includes two poles (main and auxiliary poles) and sliding block, then eave structure can be folded and unfolded, but total number of poles and elements increases, making structure complex and folded size larger
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the eave pole with the upper frame poles, eliminating the need for separate auxiliary poles and sliding blocks. The eave pole is integrated into the upper frame structure, allowing it to serve dual purposes as both an upper frame pole and an eave support when extended.
Solution Approach 2:
The upper frame poles are designed to serve multiple functions: they act as structural supports for the tent body and simultaneously serve as eave poles when extended outward. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated eave supporting elements.
2Ease of operation
If eave poles are slidably coupled to fixed seats or upper poles, then eave poles can be positioned, but eave poles cannot be folded or unfolded along with main frame, requiring manual separate operation
Solution Approach 1:
The eave pole is merged with the upper frame pole structure, allowing them to move together as a single unit. When the upper frame is unfolded, the eave pole automatically extends; when folded, it retracts, eliminating the need for separate manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The eave pole automatically extends and retracts based on the unfolding and folding of the upper frame. The structure self-adjusts without requiring manual intervention to position or store the eave pole separately.
3Area of stationary object
If upper frame is enlarged by increasing pole lengths, then shading area increases, but folded tent is not compact and additional supporting poles are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The eave pole is designed to be extendable and retractable, allowing the tent to provide a large shading area when unfolded while maintaining a compact form when folded. The dynamic extension mechanism enables the eave pole to reach outward only when needed for shading.
Solution Approach 2:
The eave pole nests within the upper frame structure when not in use, allowing it to be stored compactly within the existing frame volume. When extended, it provides additional shading area without requiring separate storage space.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are eave structures and tent frames with integrated eave structures. A tent frame includes supporting poles, an upper frame coupled with the supporting poles, and two or more eave structures. An eave structure includes an eave pole, and a sleeve member disposed at a connector coupled with a supporting pole. The eave pole has a first end portion pivotally connected with an upper pole of the upper frame, and a second end portion slidably coupled with the sleeve member. The eave structures can be folded and unfolded together with the supporting poles and the upper frame. When unfolded, the eave poles of the eave structures extend beyond the upper frame.