Modular Architectural Canopy Assembly for Flexible Construction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing canopy systems lack modularity and flexibility in design, transportation, and construction, limiting their customization and ease of installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular canopy system with customizable components, including structural members, corner brackets, and add-on tracks, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, and a method for transporting and constructing architectural canopies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing canopy systems are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but modularity and flexibility in design, transportation, and construction are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy system is divided into modular components including frame sections, panel assemblies, and connection elements that can be independently manufactured, transported, and assembled. This segmentation enables flexible configuration while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with universal connection interfaces and standardized dimensions that allow the same basic elements to be used in various canopy configurations and applications, enhancing adaptability without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If customizable components are introduced, then design flexibility improves, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Customization is achieved through modular components that can be independently manufactured in standard configurations, allowing customization at the assembly level rather than requiring custom manufacturing for each variation, thus maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows customization by changing parameters such as panel dimensions, frame lengths, and component quantities while maintaining the same basic component designs and connection methods, enabling flexibility without increasing manufacturing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If modular components are used, then ease of assembly and disassembly improves, but the number of components and connection points increases
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy is segmented into modular components that can be easily assembled and disassembled through standardized connection mechanisms, improving ease of operation while the modular nature actually reduces the total number of unique component types compared to a monolithic design.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional elements are merged into integrated modular components that reduce the total number of separate parts. For example, connection elements incorporate both structural and fastening functions, reducing the number of discrete components needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular architectural canopy system is disclosed. The architectural canopy system may include a frame, a panel ceiling disposed in the frame, an architectural element snap fit to the frame, and a hanging rod support. The architectural canopy system further may include a bottom infill ceiling and/or a skylight.