Sun Shade Bulge Stabilization via Tension and Curvature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing awning devices sag in the middle due to lack of technical solutions, leading to water collection and potential damage, and are limited in width by expensive, complex arching elements that require manual fabrication and cannot maintain an upwardly curved shape when the sun sail is too wide.
Innovation Solution
The awning device features a central upward curvature with a pull rope system and curvature elements that are straight or downwardly curved in the unforced state, using tension forces and weights to achieve an upwardly curved shape without prestress, allowing for wider and more cost-effective designs using standard materials like GRP battens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If existing arching elements are used to create upward curvature, then rainwater drainage is improved, but the sun sail width is limited and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sun sail is divided into multiple segments or zones with different curvature characteristics. Instead of using a single continuous arching element across the entire width, the sail is segmented into sections that can be independently curved or tensioned, allowing wider spans while maintaining drainage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies curved elements and tensioning mechanisms to create upward curvature in the sun sail surface. By strategically positioning curved support elements and tensioning cables, the sail surface forms a curved profile that promotes rainwater runoff while enabling wider sail dimensions.
2Reliability
If existing arching elements are used to maintain upwardly curved shape, then rainproof performance is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using complex pre-curved arching elements that require manual fabrication, the invention inverts the approach by using straight or simple curved elements combined with tensioning mechanisms. The curvature is achieved through tension forces rather than pre-formed complex shapes, simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameters of the curvature elements from complex pre-formed arches to simpler elements that achieve curvature through tensioning. By adjusting tension forces and element positioning, the desired upward curvature is achieved without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
3Shape
If tension forces are applied to maintain curvature, then upwardly curved shape is achieved, but the curvature elements must be permanently elastic increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces expensive permanently elastic curvature elements with simpler, more economical components. By using standard materials like straight GRP battens combined with tensioning mechanisms, the system achieves the same functional result at lower cost and with easier manufacturing.
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
This design ensures effective rainwater drainage and allows for larger shading areas with increased application scope, using standard materials to create a rainproof, upwardly curved shape without the need for expensive, complex manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
When the sunshade is unfurled, these elements return to their original curved shape due to the restoring forces resulting from their elasticity.
Implementation Method 2
Weights can then be attached to the free ends of the deflected pull ropes. These weights keep the ropes constantly taut by providing a corresponding range of motion.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a sun shade device (1, 20, 40), comprising a sun shade (3) with at least one bulging element (5) for stabilizing the bulge, at least one winding shaft (2) for winding and unwinding the sun shade (3) and at least one traction cable (4). In order to obtain an approximately central upward-facing bulge for secure water drainage, it is provided according to the invention that at least one traction cable (4) is connected to a first region (6) of the sun shade (3), wherein said first region (6) between the winding shaft (2) and the traction cable (4) is tightened in the unwound state of the sun shade (3) by the tension of the traction cable (4), and that a portion of at least one bulging element (5) is arranged within said first region (6), wherein the bulging element (5) is arranged in said first region approximately parallel to the winding shaft (2), that the sun shade (3) has at least on one side of the first region (6) a second region (7), into which extends the at least one bulging element (5), wherein the second region is mounted on the at least one bulging element (5) in a loosely suspended manner, and that the at least one bulging element (5) is substantially straight in the force-free state or has at least in one portion a downwardly facing bulge. According to the invention, the second region of the sun shade (3) has less surface tension in the direction of traction between the traction cable (4) and the winding shaft (2) than the first region (6).