Retractable Sunshade Center Rod With Locking Height Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sunshades with a single center rod structure have limited height adjustment capabilities, restricting their application and effectiveness in blocking sunlight or rainwater, and there is a need for a retractable design to meet modern demands for larger and more versatile sunshades.
Innovation Solution
A sunshade with a retractable center rod system, featuring a honeycomb component connected to umbrella ribs, a first center rod with a through hole, a second center rod that slides within the first, and a locking device with stop devices to lock the rods at extended or contracted positions, allowing for easy extension and contraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single center rod structure is used, then the structure is simple, but the height adjustment capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested center rod structure where a second center rod is inserted inside a first center rod. The second center rod can slide relative to the first center rod along the longitudinal direction, enabling extended and contracted positions. This nested configuration allows the sunshade to achieve variable height without significantly increasing overall structural complexity, as the rods share the same central axis and housing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static single center rod into a dynamic system with two telescopic center rods that can adjust their relative positions. The second center rod is designed to slide within the first center rod, allowing the sunshade to dynamically change its height according to user needs. This dynamic adjustment capability is achieved through sliding surfaces and locking mechanisms that enable controlled movement and position fixation.
2Area of stationary object
If a retractable center rod design is implemented, then the shadow area is enlarged, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nested center rod structure allows the sunshade canopy to be supported at greater heights while maintaining a compact form when contracted. The second center rod extends from the first center rod to provide additional height support, enabling the canopy to cover a larger shadow area. When not in use, the rods telescope into each other, minimizing the occupied space and maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The center rod system is segmented into two independent but coordinated rods: the first center rod and the second center rod. Each rod can be controlled independently to achieve different height configurations. This segmentation allows for flexible adjustment of the shadow area while distributing the structural complexity across modular components that can be manufactured and assembled separately.
3Reliability
If a locking device is added, then the extended position is secured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the position of the second center rod relative to the first center rod. When the second center rod is pushed to its extended position, the locking mechanism automatically locks it in place without requiring additional manual operation. Similarly, when the rod is pushed back, the locking device automatically releases, enabling easy and reliable position fixation with minimal user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two center rods. It includes components such as a locking groove on the first center rod and a corresponding locking protrusion on the second center rod, mediated by a spring-loaded locking member. This intermediary structure enables reliable position stability by mechanically coupling the two rods at specific positions, while keeping the overall device complexity manageable through the use of simple mechanical elements rather than complex electronic or hydraulic systems.
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 retractable design provides a larger shadow area without obstructing the line of sight or movement, enhancing user experience, particularly suitable for outdoor activities like golfing.
Implementation Method 1
the elastic stop sheets are unfolded and press against the groove under the action of the elastic force, and abut against the stop bulge
Implementation Method 2
a first spring is arranged inside the first center rod; and the first spring is fixed at an upper end of the first center rod and resists against a top of the mounting bracket
Implementation Method 3
a mounting bracket, at least two elastic stop sheets fixed to the mounting bracket, and a third spring located between the elastic stop sheets
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a sunshade includes a honeycomb component, a first center rod, a second center rod and a locking device. The honeycomb component is connected with several umbrella ribs, and the honeycomb component is configured to control opening and closing of the umbrella ribs. The honeycomb component sleeves the first center rod, and the first center rod is provided with a first through hole. The first center rod sleeves the second center rod, and the second center rod can slidably expand to an extended position or a contracted position within the first through hole. The second central rod is locked at the extended position or the contracted position through the locking device. The sunshade can be used as a golf umbrella, which is very beneficial for a user in outdoor activities or any situation that requires shading and greatly improves the user experience.