Movable Shade Structure with Adjustable Roof Pitch and Solar Power Generation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shade structures do not easily adjust to maximize shade throughout the day and lack the capability to generate power while providing sun protection.
Innovation Solution
A movable shade apparatus with a roof, support posts, an actuator to adjust the roof's pitch, and integrated solar panels to generate power, along with power outlets and a base assembly for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional shade structures are used, then shade provision is achieved, but adjustability and power generation capability are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The shade structure incorporates movable components including an adjustable roof pitch mechanism and mobile base assembly with weights that can be repositioned. The roof can be tilted at different angles to track the sun's movement, and the base assembly can be relocated to optimize shade coverage throughout the day, transforming a static structure into a dynamic adaptive system.
Solution Approach 2:
The shade structure integrates multiple functions into a single system: it provides shade coverage, generates electrical power through solar panels, and offers structural stability through its weighted base assembly. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate shade and power generation systems, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Power
If conventional shade structures are used, then shade provision is achieved, but power generation capability is absent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shade structure with solar power generation components by integrating solar panels onto the roof surface. This merging allows the structure to simultaneously provide shade and generate electrical power, eliminating the need for separate power generation systems and reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shade structure is designed to perform multiple functions: physical shade provision and electrical power generation. The solar panels are incorporated into the roof design, allowing the same structure to serve both protective and energy-producing roles, thereby achieving power generation capability without proportionally increasing structural complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the roof pitch is adjusted to maximize shade, then shade coverage is optimized, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The base assembly incorporates weights that can be positioned to counterbalance the roof structure during adjustment. These counterweights provide stability by offsetting the moment created when the roof is tilted at extreme angles, allowing the structure to maintain stability while achieving optimized shade coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic changes in the roof pitch parameter to optimize shade coverage at different times of day. The adjustable mechanism enables the roof to be tilted at various angles according to the sun's position, while the counterbalancing weights ensure that structural stability is maintained across the range of motion.
4Power
If solar panels are added to generate power, then power generation is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar panels are integrated directly into the roof structure, merging the power generation function with the shade provision function. This combination allows the structure to serve dual purposes without requiring separate mounting systems or additional structural elements, thereby minimizing the increase in complexity.
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 movable shade apparatus effectively provides adjustable shade and integrated power generation, enhancing usability in various settings while offering convenience and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
a solar panel disposed on the roof
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of movable shade apparatus are provided herein. In some embodiments, a movable shade apparatus includes: a roof configured to provide shade when standing below the roof; one or more support posts coupled to the roof, wherein at least one of the one or more support posts includes a power outlet; an actuator coupled to at least one of the one or more support posts and configured to adjust a pitch of the roof with respect to the one or more support posts; and a base assembly coupled to a lower end of each of the one or more support posts, wherein the base assembly includes a support member and one or more weights that are removably attached to the support member.