Retractable Enclosure Modular Bay Telescopic Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable enclosure systems lack a robust and modular design that allows for efficient telescopic overlap and smooth movement between retracted and extended positions, particularly in windy environments, and do not offer customizable shapes and sizes.
Innovation Solution
A retractable enclosure system comprising multiple bays with vertically framing sections connected by assembly rods, supported by tracks and a drive system, allowing for telescopic overlap and customizable configurations, with a motor assembly and cable mechanism for smooth movement between positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing retractable enclosure systems are used, then basic enclosure function is provided, but they lack robust and modular design for efficient telescopic overlap and smooth movement, particularly in windy environments
Solution Approach 1:
The retractable enclosure is divided into multiple independent bays, each comprising vertical framing sections, horizontal framing members, and assembly rods. This segmentation allows each bay to function as a modular unit that can be manufactured, assembled, and maintained independently, improving reliability while managing complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The bays are designed to telescopically overlap with one another, with each bay capable of nesting within the adjacent bay during retraction. This nested configuration enables efficient storage and smooth movement while maintaining structural integrity, as each modular unit retains its structural independence even when nested.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing retractable enclosure systems are used, then basic enclosure function is provided, but they do not offer customizable shapes and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure system uses standardized modular bays that can be configured in different numbers and arrangements to create custom shapes and sizes. Each bay serves as a universal building block that can be adapted to various architectural requirements without redesigning the entire system, enhancing versatility while controlling complexity through modularity.
Solution Approach 2:
The framing members, assembly rods, and connecting structures are designed as universal components that can be used across all bay configurations. This universality allows the same basic components to serve multiple functions and adapt to different enclosure sizes and shapes, improving customizability without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If existing retractable enclosure systems are used, then enclosure function is provided, but they lack robust design for smooth movement between retracted and extended positions, particularly in windy environments
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly rods are pre-tensioned to apply compressive force to the horizontal framing members before the enclosure is put into service. This preliminary action ensures that the structure is pre-stressed to resist wind loads and other external forces, enabling smooth movement during operation while maintaining structural strength in windy environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses adjustable clamping elements that can modify the tension parameters of the assembly rods to optimize the compressive force on framing members. By adjusting these parameters, the enclosure can adapt to different wind conditions and operational requirements, ensuring both structural strength and smooth movement.
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable enclosure includes moveable bays that telescopically retract inside each other. Each bay is made from two or more vertical framing sections and a plurality of first framing members. Each vertical framing section can be made from a plurality of second framing members. Assembly rods are provided to couple the vertical framing sections and are tensioned to load the first framing members in longitudinal compression. The framing members are fastenable to each other. The second framing members can be held together using splice plates. The retractable enclosure may also include a drive system. A related method of constructing a retractable enclosure is also provided.