Material Web Roll-Up System with Triangular Cable Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for rolling up and unrolling material webs, such as awnings or sun sails, are visually intrusive and bulky due to prominent support structures, which detract from the appearance and require complex installation or occupy significant space when rolled up.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a shaft, a material web, and an extension element with retaining and traction cables, where the material web is attached to the shaft and the extension element, allowing for unwinding and winding by rotating the shaft, with cables forming a triangular arrangement to distribute tensile forces evenly and minimize visual bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional support structures (frames, roller tubes) are used to support the material web, then the material web can be supported and unrolled, but the support structures become visually prominent and bulky, detracting from the appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional frame and roller tube support structures entirely. Instead, the material web is attached directly to a shaft that rotates to enable unrolling and rolling up, extracting the essential support function while eliminating the bulky visual elements that detract from appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses thin cables (retaining cable and tension cable) instead of rigid frame structures. These flexible cable elements provide the necessary support and tension while being visually minimal, allowing the material web to be supported without prominent structural elements.
2Ease of operation
If rails or cable systems are used to guide roll-out or fold-out awnings, then the material web can be guided during unrolling, but the rails and cable systems occupy significant space when rolled up, impairing the appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the guidance and support functions into the minimal cable system that is already necessary for tensioning and retaining the material web. The retaining cable and tension cable serve dual purposes of structural support and operational guidance, eliminating the need for separate rail systems that would occupy space.
3Shape
If the frame is omitted to improve visual appearance, then the support structures become less prominent, but complicated removal mechanisms are required for permanent installation or severe weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the shaft can rotate to enable easy unrolling and rolling up of the material web. This dynamic capability allows the awning to be quickly deployed and retracted in response to weather conditions or user needs, eliminating the need for complicated permanent installation mechanisms while maintaining visual appeal.
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 provides a visually appealing and space-efficient solution by minimizing the visibility of support structures and ensuring even tension distribution, preventing wrinkles and damage, while allowing for easy installation and operation.
Implementation Method 1
The retaining cable and the tension cable form a triangle when the material web is unrolled, in particular an isosceles triangle, wherein the extension element forms a base of the triangle. This triangular arrangement distributes tensile forces evenly and minimizes visual bulk.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system 1 for rolling up and unrolling a material web 20, in particular a sun sail. The system comprises a shaft 10 and a material web 20, as well as at least one holding cable 40, 50, and a traction cable 60.