Roller Shutter Lateral Guide Rib Clamp to Prevent U-Section Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lateral guide assemblies for sliding curtains or blinds deform the U-sections when the fixing end is connected, affecting the free sliding of the apron and being complex and bulky.
Innovation Solution
A sliding curtain lateral guide assembly featuring a U-section with a solid longitudinal rib and a fixing end with two facing jaws that clamp the rib, providing a firm connection without deforming the U-section, and adjustable jaws for adjusting the connection's intensity and position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If two longitudinal external flanges are used as anchoring elements, then the U-section can be connected to the support arm, but the U-section deforms when the fixing end is connected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the anchoring function into two separate elements: a solid longitudinal rib for structural integrity and external flanges for connection. The rib remains fixed to prevent U-section deformation, while the flanges provide the connection interface without compromising the U-section shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The solid longitudinal rib acts as an intermediary element between the U-section and the fixing end. It transfers the connection forces from the flanges to the U-section without causing deformation, as the rib is specifically designed to withstand these forces while maintaining the U-section's geometric integrity.
2Strength
If two longitudinal external flanges are used, then the connection can be made, but the blocking member becomes complex and bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking member is segmented into two functional parts: a solid longitudinal rib that provides structural support and a simplified connection interface. This segmentation allows the blocking member to achieve the required connection strength without the complexity and bulk of previous single-piece designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the blocking member by introducing a solid longitudinal rib with specific dimensions and positioning. This parameter optimization reduces the overall size and complexity while maintaining the necessary connection strength through the rib's structural properties.
3Strength
If external flanges are used for connection, then the U-section can be attached to the support arm, but material usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is segmented into a solid longitudinal rib and external flanges, where the rib provides the primary structural function with minimal material, and the flanges provide the connection interface. This segmentation eliminates redundant material while maintaining connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the material usage by changing the dimensional parameters of the solid longitudinal rib and flanges. The rib is designed with precise cross-sectional dimensions that provide sufficient strength without excess material, and the flanges are positioned and sized to achieve the required connection with minimal material consumption.
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 solution prevents deformation of the U-section, achieves a firmer connection between the U-section and the support arm, and reduces material usage by using a solid rib instead of external flanges, allowing for adjustable and rigid attachment.
Implementation Method 1
said fixing end comprising two facing jaws intended to hold said solid rib like a vice, to connect together said U-shaped section and said support arm
Implementation Method 2
the approximation by force of the jaws which comes to grip the solid rib, causes a significant crushing and a localized deformation of the solid rib without affecting the wing of the U-section
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7B
AI summary
The assembly has U-shaped sections (26, 28) including external anchoring elements (40) that are located outside a longitudinal internal housing (39). Support arms (30) comprise a base plate (32) mounted on side edges (18, 20) of a bay, and a fixing end (34) located opposite to the base plate. The anchoring elements are in contact with the fixing end to connect the section and the support arms. The anchoring elements comprise a longitudinal rib placed longitudinally on the section. The fixing end has two jaws in contact with the longitudinal rib to connect the section and the support arms.