Segmented Panel Assembly for Portable Solar Radiation Mitigation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shading devices are impractical for prolonged outdoor use due to their bulkiness, irregular shape, and the need for manual adjustment, which hinders visibility and is cumbersome to carry, offering limited protection against solar radiation beyond specific conditions.
Innovation Solution
A solar radiation mitigation system comprising a panel assembly with adjustable arms and detachable panels made of materials blocking significant UV radiation, allowing for adjustable positioning and orientation relative to a furniture element, providing enhanced protection and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional shading devices are used, then solar radiation protection is provided, but the devices are bulky and irregular in shape making them difficult to carry and store
Solution Approach 1:
The shading device is divided into multiple detachable panels that can be separated and stored individually. Each panel maintains its protective function while reducing overall volume when not in use, allowing easy carrying and storage in compact spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The panels are designed to nest within each other when detached, creating a compact storage configuration. The larger panels can contain smaller panels, significantly reducing the volume occupied during transport and storage while maintaining full protective capability when assembled.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional shading devices with manual adjustment are used, then positioning flexibility is achieved, but visibility is hindered and adjustment is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable arms with multiple degrees of freedom that allow dynamic repositioning of the panels. Users can easily adjust the position and orientation of each panel independently to track the sun's movement throughout the day, providing continuous protection without cumbersome manual manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is designed to attach to various furniture elements (chairs, tables, umbrellas) using universal mounting mechanisms. This multi-functionality allows the same device to adapt to different outdoor settings and furniture types, enhancing positioning flexibility without requiring complex adjustment procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional shading devices are positioned within arm's length of the user, then manual adjustment is possible, but visibility is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the shading system have specialized functions: the panels provide UV protection while the mounting arms are designed for adjustability, and the connection points enable easy attachment/detachment. This local specialization allows the protective panels to be positioned optimally for visibility while maintaining full adjustability capability through the mounting system.
Solution Approach 2:
The shading panels are mounted on extendable arms that provide spatial separation between the user and the panels. This dimensional adjustment allows panels to be positioned at optimal distances and angles for both protection and visibility, moving the panels out of the direct line of sight while maintaining protective coverage.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple panels are used to increase radiation blocking, then protection effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple identical or similar panels instead of a single complex structure. Each panel is a simple, self-contained unit with standardized mounting interfaces, making the overall system easier to manufacture, assemble, and maintain despite having multiple components. The segmented design also allows selective use of panels based on needs.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple panels are combined through standardized mounting mechanisms that simplify the overall assembly process. The panels work together as an integrated system while maintaining individual simplicity, reducing the complexity of each component and facilitating easy attachment and detachment without requiring complex coordination mechanisms.
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 system effectively blocks a high percentage of solar radiation, offering improved protection and convenience by being mountable to furniture, adjustable, and compact for portability, while allowing for selective exposure to sunlight.
Implementation Method 1
a first panel constructed of a material capable of blocking a first amount of solar radiation, and a second panel in operational relation with the first panel and detachably connected thereto. The second panel is made from a material capable of blocking a second amount of solar radiation
Data Source
AI summary
The present technology generally relates to a solar radiation mitigation system mountable to a furniture element. The solar radiation mitigation system has a panel assembly. The panel assembly has a first panel capable of blocking a first radiation amount, and a second panel in operational relation with the first panel. The second panel blocks a second radiation amount. The panel assembly blocks a combined radiation amount greater than the first and second radiation amounts when the first and second panels are in operational relation. The solar radiation mitigation system comprises at least one adjustable arm comprising a distal arm connector connected to the first panel, a proximal arm connector being detachably attachable to the furniture element for mounting the system to the furniture element, and an elongated member extending from the proximal arm connector to the distal arm connector. The elongated member is adjustable to position and orient the first panel with respect to the furniture element.