Sliding Tarp Support Tracks With Diverter Gap Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible sheet coverings like tarps require time-consuming detachment and reattachment for position adjustments and often leave gaps that allow rain and debris to fall through, compromising their effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A tarp support apparatus with elongated structural members and tarp fastener devices that allow easy repositioning and sliding along tracks, combined with a diverter member that redirects rain and debris away from gaps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional attachment systems are used to secure tarps, then the tarp can be held in position, but adjusting the position requires time-consuming detachment and reattachment of fasteners
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fastener system into a dynamic one by providing fasteners that can slide along the structural member. The fastener moves from a fixed attachment point to a movable one, allowing continuous adjustment of tarp position without detachment. The sliding mechanism enables the fastener to be repositioned along the structural member while remaining engaged, thus facilitating easy adjustment of the tarp's position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate structure (the sliding fastener mechanism with engagement features along the structural member) that mediates between the tarp and the support structure. This intermediary allows the tarp to be adjusted to different positions while maintaining continuous attachment, eliminating the need for complete detachment and reattachment operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If tarps are secured to supporting walls at the location of spaced-apart grommet fittings, then the tarp can be attached, but gaps are present between the tarp edge and supporting wall through which rain and debris can fall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses the gap problem by extending the protective function into a new dimension - adding a diverter member that protrudes outward from the structural member. This creates an additional spatial layer that redirects water and debris away from the gap area, transforming a two-dimensional attachment problem into a three-dimensional protective system.
Solution Approach 2:
The diverter member performs preliminary anti-action by redirecting rain and debris before they can penetrate through the gaps. The outwardly extending structure intercepts harmful elements and directs them away from the tarp attachment area, preventing the harmful effect before it occurs.
Data Source
AI summary
A tarp support apparatus comprising an elongated structural member configured to support an edge of a tarp extending over a ground area under tension in a stretched orientation including a longitudinally extending track for slidably receiving a plurality of tarp fastener members configured to be secured to the track, wherein the tarp fastener members include a receiving element configured to engage with a fitting such as a grommet connected a tarp for securing an edge of the tarp to the elongated structural member, and in some embodiments also including a diverter member is attachable to the structural member at a location above the track section and extending over the tarp edge and any gaps between the structural member and the tarp edge, and in other embodiments the tarp edge is positioned in a channel of the longitudinally extending track.