Sunshade Joint Mechanism for Single-Handle All-Directional Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sun and weather protection devices, such as umbrellas, require time-consuming installation and have weak clamping effects due to multiple locking devices and complex components, making it difficult to adjust to the sun's position throughout the day.
Innovation Solution
A sun and weather protection device with two joint halves, a toothed turntable, and a clamping bolt with a handle allows for all-directional adjustment with a single operating element, increasing clamping force and reducing the number of components, while also enabling axial movement of the support rod and non-positive connections for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking devices are used to adjust the support rod to different positions, then the device can be adjusted to track the sun, but the installation becomes time-consuming and the operation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple locking devices into a single locking mechanism that can secure the support rod at multiple positions simultaneously. The locking device includes a clamp with clamping jaws and a locking element that engages with positioning notches, allowing one-component locking instead of multiple separate locking devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The single locking device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can lock the support rod at different angular positions, secure the protective surface, and maintain structural stability. The positioning notches provide multiple discrete positions while the single locking mechanism handles all these positioning requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple locking devices are used to secure the support rod, then the device can be adjusted to different positions, but the number of components increases and assembly effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple locking functions into a single locking device assembly consisting of a clamp body, clamping jaws, and a locking element. This unified structure replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate locking devices, reducing the total component count while maintaining the ability to secure the support rod at multiple positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device is segmented into functional components (clamp body, clamping jaws, locking element, positioning notches) that work together as an integrated system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while being part of a unified locking mechanism, simplifying both the design and assembly process.
3Reliability
If traditional locking devices are used, then the support rod can be secured, but the clamping effect is weak and insufficient for stable positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping jaws are designed with curved surfaces that conform to the cylindrical shape of the support rod, increasing the contact area and distributing the clamping force more effectively. This curved geometry provides better mechanical engagement and prevents slippage, enhancing both the clamping force and positioning stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device incorporates multiple materials with different properties: the clamp body and clamping jaws are made from durable, high-strength materials to provide mechanical strength, while the locking element may incorporate friction-enhancing surfaces or materials. This composite approach optimizes both clamping force and positional stability.
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to require fewer individual parts in a sun and weather protection device and at the same time enable a higher clamping force and the simplest possible operation with only one operating element (e.g. clamping screw) for all adjustment directions, it is proposed that a joint combination (20) with two joint halves with rotary discs (42, 44) and integrated clamping clamps (43, 45) be used.