Plant Shade Device with Adjustable Rod and Solar LED

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for shading plants sensitive to direct sunlight are either impractical, unattractive, or require multiple anchor points, making them unsuitable for residential use and obstructing the view of plants.

Innovation Solution

A self-contained shade cloth holder with a frame and adjustable rod system that can be easily assembled and anchored without external points, using a triangular ground receiver and optional LED lighting powered by solar panels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If conventional shade cloth sails are used, then plants can be shaded, but the device requires multiple anchor points and is unattractive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesun protectionVSAvoidinstallation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The shade cloth is divided into multiple panels that can be independently attached to the frame, allowing the system to be assembled without requiring anchor points at distant locations. Each panel can be separately managed and positioned.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame acts as an intermediary structure that holds the shade cloth panels and provides attachment points without requiring external anchor points in the ground. The frame itself serves as the supporting structure, eliminating the need for separate anchoring systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If large pieces of cloth are laid over plants, then plants can be shaded, but the view of plants is obstructed and aesthetics are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesun protectionVSAvoidvisual appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The shade cloth panels are positioned above the plants rather than being laid over them, creating vertical clearance that allows visibility of the plants below. The frame structure elevates the shade material to a position where it protects without obstructing the view.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The shade cloth is applied selectively to specific areas where sun protection is needed, rather than covering the entire plant structure. This allows the plants to remain visible in areas where direct shade is not required, maintaining aesthetic appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Object-affected harmful factors

If shade cloth is used in agricultural settings, then ground plants can be shaded, but it doesn't translate well to residential use and requires complex anchoring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesun protectionVSAvoidanchoring system
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring system is extracted from the overall structure and replaced with a frame-based attachment mechanism. The frame provides built-in attachment points for the shade cloth panels, eliminating the need for separate ground anchors and simplifying installation for residential use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame structure serves multiple functions: it supports the shade cloth panels, provides attachment points for the panels, and acts as the overall structural framework. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate anchoring components and simplifies the overall system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Provides effective sun protection for plants while being aesthetically pleasing and easy to use, allowing for adjustable height and visibility of the plants, with the added feature of solar-powered LED lighting.

Implementation Method 1

The batteries are recharged by the solar panels included

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolar energy conversion: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

LED lighting can be added that is battery powered

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission from LED: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS11778959B2Plant shade device
Publication Date: 2023.10.10 CALLAHAN MICHELLE
  • US11778959B2 patent drawing
  • US11778959B2 patent drawing
  • US11778959B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is a shade apparatus with central hub an shade components.