Automated covering system
US8800214B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 12, 2011 |
| Grant date | Aug 12, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 12, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE04F10/0607
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A covering system includes a flexible, web-like membrane having first and second portions. A first cross support is connected to the first portion of the membrane, and a second cross support is connected to the second portion of the membrane. A drive mechanism is provided for moving the second cross support relative to the first cross support so that the membrane is movable between a first, retracted position and a second, deployed position. The drive mechanism includes a force multiplication mechanism for facilitating a longitudinal tensile stress application to the membrane when it is in the second, deployed position. A transverse tensioning mechanism that includes a catenary linkage is also provided for tensioning the membrane in a direction that is transverse to the longitudinal direction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.