Modular Sun Shade Frame With Wind-Suspended Canopy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sun shading systems are ineffective in low wind conditions, noisy in high wind conditions, and cumbersome to transport and assemble, lacking adequate support and stability across varying wind speeds.
Innovation Solution
A sun shading system comprising a frame with multiple sections that can be aligned end-to-end, a canopy supported by the frame and anchors, and wind-suspendable design using cords and anchors, including a container that doubles as a weight or anchor for ease of transport and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the canopy is supported by a singular frame with counterweight, then the canopy can be aerially suspended, but at least 3-4 mph wind is required and the system becomes noisy in high wind conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple sections that can be engaged in an end-to-end alignment, creating a modular structure that can be adapted to different wind conditions and is easier to transport and assemble
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses anchors that can be engaged with the surface to provide counterbalancing force, eliminating the need for minimum wind speeds to suspend the canopy and reducing noise in high wind conditions
2Weight of moving object
If the canopy is made lightweight for easy transport, then portability is improved, but the canopy may not be sufficiently supported in low wind conditions
Solution Approach 1:
Anchors are engaged with the surface to provide counterbalancing force, allowing lightweight canopies to remain stable in low wind conditions where wind force is insufficient to suspend them
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows the canopy to be partially supported by wind when wind speeds are sufficient, while relying on anchors when wind speeds are low, creating a dynamic adaptation to varying wind conditions
3Strength
If the canopy is rigid for structural strength, then durability is improved, but the system becomes cumbersome to transport and assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is segmented into multiple sections that can be easily assembled and disassembled, reducing transport complexity while maintaining structural strength when engaged in end-to-end alignment
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy uses a flexible fabric material that can be easily folded and transported, yet provides sufficient structural coverage when assembled with the frame
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 stable shade across different wind conditions, from no wind to high winds, while being easy to transport and assemble, with the canopy being partially supported by wind and securely anchored, reducing noise and ensuring effective shade provision.
Implementation Method 1
the canopy is at least partially supportable by wind for providing shade onto the surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system for providing shade onto a surface is disclosed, where the system includes at least one frame that includes a plurality of sections configured for engagement in an end-to-end alignment to provide the frame in a supporting configuration; a canopy defining a length and a width, the canopy being supportable by the at least one frame in the supporting configuration such that the frame extends along the length of the canopy or along the width of the canopy; and a plurality of anchors engageable with one or both of the canopy and the frame, at least one of the plurality of anchors being engageable with a corner of the canopy, wherein, in the supporting configuration, the canopy is supported by the frame and the plurality of anchors and is at least partially supportable by wind for providing shade onto the surface.