Sliding Pergola Canopy Runner Clip Assembly Without Belt Perforation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fastening systems for sliding canopies in pergola structures are complex to assemble, requiring multiple operators and are prone to belt weakening due to perforation for fixation, which complicates and slows down the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A stick fastening system that uses a clipping mechanism between runners and sticks, along with a coupling system for the belt, eliminating the need for perforation, featuring a stud with a rib for coupling to the stick and independent clips for secure fastening, allowing for easier and safer assembly without the need for additional support during screwing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the belt is fixed to the runner by screwing or nailing through perforation, then the belt can be securely attached, but the belt strength is weakened at the perforation points
Solution Approach 1:
A clip element is introduced as an intermediary component between the belt and the runner. The clip has a body that receives the belt end and a jaw that clamps onto the runner, transferring the attachment function from direct screwing/nailing of the belt to a separate clipping mechanism that preserves belt integrity while achieving secure attachment
2Reliability
If multiple operators are used to hold the canopy in elevated position during screwing, then the runners can be securely fixed to the sticks, but the assembly process becomes slower and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment process is segmented into two independent stages: first, the runner is clipped to the stick support piece using a simple clipping action that can be done from ground level; second, the definitive screwing is performed later. This segmentation eliminates the need for multiple operators to hold the canopy elevated during initial attachment, improving assembly speed and safety
3Strength
If the runner is directly screwed to the stick, then the fixation is definitive, but the assembly process requires additional support and becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The runner is preliminarily attached to the stick support piece through a clipping action before the definitive screwing is performed. This preliminary clipping action simplifies the initial assembly process, allowing single-person operation from ground level, while the definitive screwing is completed as a separate, simpler subsequent step
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention, a stick fastening system for a sliding canopy in a pergola type structure and a pergola structure with a sliding canopy, relates to the set of elements making up the stick fastening system for fastening the sticks of a sliding canopy, particularly of the PVC tensioned canvas type, to a pergola type structure and that enables said canvas to slide for the folding and unfolding thereof providing speed, ease and safety in the assembly thereof. Likewise, the invention relates to the pergola structure with a sliding canopy that incorporates the above system. Generally, the fastening system comprises for each stick of the canopy, a runner that is fastened to a support piece on one end of a stick and, where appropriate, to an intermediate support piece which makes up joints between stick segments to enable the runner to slide along the beams of the structure in which it is installed and to be able to be pulled by means of a strap fastened at the ends thereof to, at least, a runner of a first stick.