Transparent Panel Lift Wall for Wind-Resistant Opening Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional retractable power screens face issues with operation in windy or stormy weather, inefficiency in cold weather, and limitations in visibility and sealing, while sliding doors occupy space and are not easily motorized.
Innovation Solution
A motorized lift wall system with multiple transparent panels that stack or overlap, using a spool and cable mechanism, and incorporate a cleat assembly for interlocking engagement, providing stability and protection from elements, and optionally includes a screen panel for insect and debris protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional retractable power screens are used, then the opening can be covered, but they operate poorly in windy or stormy weather and have limited visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The lift wall is divided into multiple individual panels that can move independently within the opening. Each panel is supported by its own vertical side channels and can be positioned separately, allowing the structure to flex and adapt to wind loads while maintaining coverage. This segmentation enables the wall to withstand windy or stormy weather better than a single continuous screen while preserving visibility through the transparent panels.
2Ease of operation
If sliding doors are used, then the opening can be closed, but they occupy space and are not easily motorized
Solution Approach 1:
The lift wall panels are designed to move vertically along the side channels rather than horizontally like sliding doors. The panels can be lifted up and stacked at the top of the opening or lowered to the bottom, creating a dynamic system that clears the opening completely when retracted. This vertical movement mechanism is easily motorized using winches or motors that pull on cables attached to the panels, eliminating the need for large horizontal sliding mechanisms that occupy space.
3Reliability
If panels are stacked at the top of the opening, then the opening is covered, but the panels are harder to access for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical side channels and cable mechanisms allow panels to be easily lowered from the stacked position at the top of the opening back to their operational position at the bottom. The same cable system that lifts the panels for weather protection can be used to lower them for maintenance. The panels can be individually accessed by releasing the cable tension on specific panels while others remain in place, providing easy access for repair without requiring disassembly of the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
A lift wall for covering a large opening between an indoor and outdoor space, such as a veranda or lanai. The lift wall comprises several vertically arranged panels that are at least partially transparent. Each of the panels is mounted in in a vertical side channel for movement between a closed position and an opening position. In the closed position, the panels are spread vertically with overlapping and interlocking horizontal edges to seal the opening. In the open position, the panels are positioned in side-by-side “stacked” arrangement, which may be at the top or the bottom of the opening. Top stacking is ideal for spaces where foot traffic traverses the threshold of the opening. Bottom stacking is advantageous for upper levels; the stacked panels provide a safety railing while not obscuring the view. A mesh screen panel may be added for use when the panels are retracted.