Designing a retractable roof module based on the kinematics of Class IV mechanism

This paper presents a new approach to the design of foldable structures—retractable roofs that implements a Class IV mechanism as a movable frame beneath three roof panels. The purpose of the study is to select and analysis mechanism structure that meets to provide the efficient opening and closing of the roof. The methodology is based on the application of numerical methods in structural design. Simulation tests are conducted using computer models and supported by mathematical models (the vector-matrix method), to determine the positions, displacements, angular velocities, and angular accelerations of the mechanism links. A modification method is used to identify the positions of the moving mechanism links, this approach is supported by parametric modeling. This analysis produces a single Class IV mechanism whose motion is strictly defined. The mechanism consists of two ternary links, three binary links, six movable connections of revolute links, and one prismatic kinematic pair acting as a driver unit. The mechanism acts as the moving frame of the roof and provides 94 % opening space beneath the roof. The use of mechanism allowed the covered area to be doubled while using the same number of modules and drive units.