Pivoting Roller Awning Structure for Compact Ground Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing roller awnings for ground installation are large, fixed structures that cannot be folded, making them bulky, difficult to transport, and costly to manufacture and install.

Innovation Solution

A roller awning with a pivoting structure comprising two U-shaped frames, one fixed and one pivoting, that opens and closes with the fabric, allowing it to occupy minimal space when closed and featuring a lightweight, economical design with a gas strut for tensioning and a motor for automatic operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a fixed rectangular frame with four or more posts is used, then the awning provides stable shade coverage, but the structure becomes large-volume and cannot be folded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidstructure volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transforms the static fixed frame into a dynamic pivoting frame that can rotate between a closed position (minimal volume) and an open position (functional shade coverage). The pivoting frame is connected to the fixed frame via a pivot axis, allowing it to dynamically adjust its configuration based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The support structure is divided into two independent frames: a fixed frame that remains stationary and provides anchoring, and a pivoting frame that can rotate independently. This segmentation allows the movable portion to be compact when not in use while maintaining structural integrity during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Area of stationary object

If a fixed rectangular frame structure is used, then the awning provides adequate shade coverage, but it becomes difficult to transport and install

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshade coverage areaVSAvoidtransport and installation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The pivoting frame enables the awning to transition between a compact transported state and an expanded operational state. When folded against the fixed frame, the structure occupies minimal space for transport and storage, yet fully extends to provide adequate shade coverage when deployed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

By separating the support structure into fixed and pivoting components, the invention reduces the overall volume during transport while maintaining the necessary coverage area during use. The segmented design allows for easier handling and installation compared to a monolithic fixed frame.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If a fixed rectangular frame with multiple posts is used, then the awning provides structural support, but the manufacturing and installation costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural supportVSAvoidmanufacturing and installation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The structure is divided into a permanent fixed frame that provides anchoring and a separate pivoting frame that can be simpler in construction. This segmentation allows for optimized manufacturing of each component and reduces the total material requirements compared to a complete fixed frame structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dynamic pivoting mechanism eliminates the need for multiple fixed posts, reducing material usage and assembly complexity while maintaining adequate structural support through the pivot connection between frames.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 awning is lightweight, easy to install, and occupies minimal space when not in use, reducing transportation and manufacturing costs while providing shade in private and public areas.

Implementation Method 1

one or both of the articulated anchors comprise a component or device that produces this opening tendency of the pivoting frame, such as a gas strut connected to the lower end of the bar

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGas spring:

Implementation Method 2

an alternative embodiment, the awning comprises a double fabric, with the support structure purposely comprising a fixed frame with two parallel crossbars secured to the tops of the posts, each with a roller and a retractable fabric

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectric motor:

Data Source

PatentEP4685307A1Roller awning with a pivoting structure
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 CALSINA RUBINAT JAIME
  • EP4685307A1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP4685307A1 patent drawingFigure 5~8
  • EP4685307A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a roller awning with a pivoting structure, comprising, at least, a canvas awning (2) that can be rolled around a drum (3) incorporated into a support structure (4) that can be installed on the ground (s) or a similar flat surface, and also comprising, at least, two bridge-shaped frames that are anchored to the ground parallel to each other by means of respective articulated anchor elements (5, 6), one frame being a fixed frame (41) which incorporates the drum (3) for the canvas awning (2), and the other frame being a pivoting frame (42) to which the distal end (2a) of the canvas (2) is secured and which pivots on articulated anchor elements (6) between an open position and a closed position with respect to the fixed frame (41) based on the opening and closing of the canvas (2). The fixed frame (41) consists of two vertical posts (411) which are solidly connected to the ground by means of respective fixed anchor elements (5), a horizontal crossbar (412) is joined at its ends to the upper ends of the vertical posts (411), the assembly defining a framework with an inverted U-shape configuration. The pivoting frame (42) includes a device (7) in one or both articulated anchor elements (6) ensuring that the frame will tend to occupy the open position with respect to the fixed frame (41).