Retractable Canopy Water Guide for Splash-Free Drainage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current roofing systems experience water splashing and accumulation issues due to the distance between gutter profiles and the roof edge, leading to aesthetic and structural problems, including condensation and disproportionate external views.
Innovation Solution
A retractable roofing system with a main waterproof canopy supported by sliding central beams and parallel guides, featuring a gap between the supporting structure and gutter profiles, allowing for tight closure and efficient water evacuation, and an optional auxiliary roof for aesthetic improvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the gutter profile is located in a significant distance from the edge of the canopy overhang to accommodate the maximum overhang height when the roof is open, then the roof can be fully opened to allow solar radiation, but water flows from a significant height causing splashing and water entering under the roofing
Solution Approach 1:
A water guide element is introduced as an intermediary component between the canopy edge and the gutter profile. This element actively directs water flow along a controlled path to the gutter, preventing splashing and water infiltration while allowing the gutter to be positioned at an optimal distance for roof opening functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The water guide element is pre-positioned and configured to intercept and redirect water flow before it can splash or infiltrate. By establishing the water flow path in advance through the guide element, the system prevents harmful effects before they occur
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the gutter profile is positioned close to the canopy edge to prevent water splashing, then water evacuation is improved, but the height of the gutter profile must be large enough to include the maximum height of the overhang, resulting in a disproportionate external view
Solution Approach 1:
The water guide element serves as a mediator that allows the gutter profile to be positioned at an aesthetically pleasing distance from the canopy edge while still effectively capturing and directing water flow. This intermediary component bridges the gap between aesthetic requirements and functional water management
Solution Approach 2:
The water management function is segmented into two separate components: the water guide element for active water flow direction and the gutter profile for water collection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the gutter can be positioned for aesthetic proportionality while the guide element ensures effective water capture
3Adaptability or versatility
If the canopy sections are not tightly stretched when the roof is closed, then the roof structure remains flexible and retractable, but water accumulates in the canopy pleats forming overhangs that flow outside the gutter profile area
Solution Approach 1:
The solution applies different quality requirements to different parts of the canopy system. The canopy sections maintain loose, flexible characteristics for retractability, while the water guide element provides a localized, controlled path for water flow. This local quality approach allows the canopy to remain flexible overall while preventing water accumulation through targeted structural guidance
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
Ensures complete and splash-free water evacuation, prevents overhangs and condensation, and enhances the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal by forming a sloping surface that directs rainwater effectively into gutters, while the auxiliary roof addresses creases and improves insulation.
Implementation Method 1
the location of the central beam and position of the extreme beams when the canopy has been stretched tight shape the sloping surfaces of the roof which ends are located in the region of the gutter profile and the gutter
Implementation Method 2
between said profiles of the supporting structure guides and gutter profiles from the internal side of the supporting structure a gap is formed
Implementation Method 3
an auxiliary roof for aesthetic improvement
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Roofing with retractable canopy, mounted in the frame of a supporting structure, supported on two extreme straight beams, one of which permanently fixed and the other sliding, and between the extreme beams the canopy is also supported on sliding central beams 6. The central beam is formed of longitudinal profiles 5 coupled at an angle less than 180°, and the ends of the beams are provided with hangers 7 which are fastened to two located opposite to each other, parallel supporting structure guides 8.To the lower edge of the supporting structure guide is mounted a gutter profile. Between the supporting structure guide and the gutter profile from the internal side of the supporting structure is a gap and when the roof is closed and the canopy stretched tightly, the edges of a roof waterproof canopy 4 are inserted into the gap.