Automatic Tensioning Side Track Assembly for Retractable Screens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable screen assemblies face issues with maintaining tension over extended periods due to external shear and tension forces, leading to a baggy appearance and potential corrosion of magnetic components, which reduces their lifespan.
Innovation Solution
An automatic tensioning side track assembly with enclosed magnet channels and L-shaped prongs that engage with pockets in the base track, preventing lateral exit and maintaining screen tension through magnetic attraction, while shielding magnets from corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnets are housed in open magnet channels to provide magnetic tensioning, then the magnetic tensioning function is achieved, but the magnets are exposed to ambient atmospheric elements causing corrosion and reduced lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by enclosing the magnets in sealed magnet channels with closed cross-sections. The magnet channels act as protective shells that completely isolate the magnets from ambient atmospheric elements while maintaining the magnetic field generation capability. This resolves the contradiction by providing both the magnetic tensioning function and protection against corrosion.
2Reliability
If screen edges are retained within side tracks to prevent insects and improve sealing, then the sealing function is improved, but the screen may become distorted or detached under external shear and tension forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by providing the screen receiver with the ability to move horizontally along the base track. This dynamic capability allows the screen receiver to adjust its position in response to external shear and tension forces, maintaining proper screen tension and preventing distortion while preserving the sealing function of the retained screen edges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the side track system into two separate components: a stationary base track and a movable screen receiver. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally - the base track provides structural support and sealing, while the screen receiver provides tensioning and adaptability to external forces.
3Shape
If adjustable mechanisms are added to maintain screen tension, then the screen flatness and aesthetics are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by enabling the screen receiver to automatically adjust its own position horizontally along the base track in response to changing tension requirements. This self-adjusting capability maintains screen flatness and aesthetics without requiring external adjustment mechanisms, thereby avoiding increased device complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with a simpler system based on magnetic attraction between the screen receiver and base track. The magnetic force provides the necessary tensioning capability without requiring additional actuators, springs, or complex mechanical linkages, thus reducing device complexity while maintaining screen flatness.
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 solution effectively maintains screen tension, reduces material costs, and extends the lifespan of magnetic components by preventing corrosion, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing retractable screen system.
Implementation Method 1
maintaining a retractable screen (31) of a retractable screen enclosure (32) assembly at a desired tensioned state by: providing a first magnet (37) engaged with the screen receiver (38); and providing a second magnet (37a) engaged with the base track (35)
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic tensioning side track assembly includes at least one of a screen receiver and a base track. The screen receiver includes a first magnet channel having a first outer wall continuously surrounding an entire perimeter of the first magnet channel. A first magnet is housed within the first magnet channel, wherein the first magnet channel is configured to entirely shield the first magnet from ambient fluid and debris. The base track is engaged with the screen receiver, wherein the base track includes a second magnet channel having a second outer wall continuously surrounding an entire perimeter of the second magnet channel. A second magnet is housed within the second magnet channel, wherein the second magnet channel is configured to entirely shield the second magnet from ambient fluid and debris.