Modular Canopy Structure Using Scaffolding and Bow Beams
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temporary structures lack stability, weather resistance, and efficient assembly, limiting their use in various applications such as job sites, special events, and emergency response due to high assembly time and vulnerability to fire and wind.
Innovation Solution
The modular canopy structure utilizes fire-resistant fabric with sleeve folds for structural support, combined with industry-standard scaffolding and unique bow beams, reducing assembly time and enhancing stability through secure fastening techniques and durable materials like Advantage MVP 18 PVC coated polyester, allowing for longer usage and improved weather resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional temporary structures are used, then assembly is simple, but assembly time is excessive and stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy structure is divided into modular components including frame sections, canopy panels, and connection elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation enables faster assembly by allowing parallel construction of multiple sections and simplifies transportation and storage of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection elements and mounting hardware are pre-attached to frame sections during manufacturing. The canopy panels are pre-cut and pre-drilled with mounting holes. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming on-site fabrication and reduces assembly steps, directly addressing the assembly time issue.
2Reliability
If traditional temporary structures are used, then material cost is low, but weather resistance and fire resistance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy employs composite construction combining aluminum or steel frame members with fire-resistant canopy materials such as PVC-coated polyester or fiberglass-reinforced plastic panels. This composite approach provides both structural integrity for wind resistance and fire-retardant properties, simultaneously addressing weather resistance and fire safety requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame members are designed with optimized cross-sectional dimensions and wall thicknesses to achieve required structural strength for withstanding wind loads. Connection elements use enhanced fastening mechanisms with increased clamp force and multi-point attachment. These parameter changes ensure the structure meets weather resistance standards while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional temporary structures are used, then structure is simple, but stability against wind is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure incorporates localized bracing elements and diagonal cross-braces at critical sections to enhance wind stability. Connection points feature reinforced mounting flanges and multi-attachment mechanisms. This targeted reinforcement provides necessary structural rigidity without requiring complete redesign of the entire structure, balancing stability improvement with controlled complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy design incorporates three-dimensional truss elements and space-frame configurations that provide structural rigidity through geometric stability. Diagonal bracing creates triangular rigid zones that resist lateral wind forces effectively. This dimensional approach to structural reinforcement achieves wind stability without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular canopy structure is disclosed. The modular canopy structure may utilize component parts of industry standard scaffolding portions attached to a specifically designed bow beam (roof support portion). The bow beam mates with industry standard scaffolding portions that form a side wall of the canopy structure. Construction of the canopy structure (e.g., on-site assembly) is simplified over prior art temporary structures and the disclosed canopy structure provides strength and near 100% water resistance as well as other improvements based, in part, on sidewall sleeves, overlapping techniques, material usage, and other design considerations. In some cases, the disclosed canopy structure may be suitable for onsite construction projects (including welding), temporary housing in a disaster, or as a suitable temporary to semi-permanent structure for outdoor events (e.g., wedding, party, temporary building). The disclosed modular canopy structure provides for functional windows and doors not available in prior art implementations.