Self-Inflating Canopy Tent with Integrated Battery Fan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inflatable canopy systems face challenges with proper connection between pumps and canopy supports, and often require external power sources, which are not always available in outdoor settings.
Innovation Solution
A portable, rechargeable battery-powered fan system that inflates the canopy without an external AC power supply, featuring a specially designed coupling to facilitate connection and inflation, allowing for quick and effortless setup and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate powered electrical pump is used to inflate the canopy, then the canopy can be inflated, but it requires external power supply and proper connection which are difficult to achieve in outdoor environments
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is integrated directly into the canopy structure, merging the inflation device with the canopy itself. This eliminates the need for separate external pumps and their associated connection problems, while the integrated design allows the canopy to be self-inflating using battery power that can be recharged at any location.
Solution Approach 2:
The canopy includes an integrated pump system with rechargeable battery that enables self-inflation without requiring external power sources or assistance. The pump can be recharged at any location with power access, and then the canopy can be inflated anywhere outdoors without needing external power supply during the inflation process.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid poles and truss elements are used to support the canopy, then structural stability is achieved, but portability and compact storage are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The canopy uses flexible inflatable arches instead of rigid poles and truss elements. These inflatable arches can be deflated to a compact size for easy portability and storage, yet when inflated provide sufficient structural stability to support the canopy tarp and resist environmental forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural support system uses pneumatic inflation to create rigid-like stability from flexible materials. By inflating the arches with air pressure, the flexible shell gains structural integrity comparable to rigid poles, yet maintains the advantage of being collapsible and portable when deflated.
3Ease of operation
If an integrated pump system is built into the canopy, then portability and ease of use are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated pump system is designed to be rechargeable and portable, serving multiple functions: inflating the canopy, providing portable power through its battery, and being recharged at various locations. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by eliminating the need for separate pump, battery, and connection components.
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
Enables easy, portable, and efficient inflation of the canopy in any location, eliminating the need for power outlets and electrical cords, while providing quick deployment and compact storage.
Implementation Method 1
a portable, rechargeable battery-powered fan system that can inflate the canopy tent
Data Source
AI summary
A portable, inflatable canopy is disclosed having an inflatable support system including interconnected, intersecting arches over which a tarp is secured to form a dome structure that can be temporarily anchored to the ground as a respite for sun, heat, wind, and rain. The inflatable support system works with a battery powered fan to inflate the canopy quickly without outside power requirements, and the fan can also be used to quickly deflate the canopy. The use of all soft materials allows the canopy to be folded or rolled when deflated into a compact storage configuration without poles, rigid supports, or other cumbersome elements.