Folding roof design ideas

[unwinm]

I'm planning a backyard observatory in a location where local building regulations pretty much rule out a dome (too high) or a roll-off roof (too big a footprint taking the rails into account). A roll-off shed like this (http://astro9.tripod.com/sunflowr.html) is one option, but in practice the site is probably better suited to a fold-off or batwing roof.

Can anyone supply images and/or plans for a suitable design? I'm well aware that folding roofs have a reputation for being leaky, but I see this as a problem to be solved rather than a show-stopper.

[pixelsaurus]

Welcome Martin. I look forward to the replies. I'm allowed a 10 sq m structure in Horowhenua but haven't decided which way to jump, yet.

[astro_nutt]

Hi Martin. Years ago I was reading an American Astro mag and saw a construction of limited space scope housing. Basically, the scope sits on a level platform. The scope itself in housed in a cupboard. The cupboard is made from two exact halves hinged together on one side so it opens up like a large book. Each half sits on 4 castors. The idea is to unlock the cupboard from the platform. Open the cupboard and roll it away from the scope. Some cupboards have a little storage for a fold-up chair, etc. So, if your scope and mount take up say, a square metre of space. You could make a cupboard to suit and have the freedom to move it around the platform out of the way. I hope this helps.
Cheers!

[garymck]

Hi,

I converted a gable ended 2.2 x 2.2 metre metal shed to a clamshell type easily to keep the footprint low. Have had no issues with leaks - even in Geelong's recent 100 year storm.

Will post images tomorrow if you are interested

cheers
Gary

[billdan]

On SGL a gentleman used a motorised garage roll-a-door on his roof and that worked really well.

Bill

[unwinm]

Thanks Gary - sounds like something I should be looking at. Will take a look at your photos and get back to you if I have any further queries.

[unwinm]

Thanks astro_nutt - that's a nice idea. Unfortunately, in my situation, it has the same drawback as the roll-off shed in that when open it leaves the telescope vulnerable to ambient light pollution. The street lighting in our new subdivision is all full cut-off (thanks to an enlightened developer), but one luminaire is still close enough to interfere with naked eye viewing. Having four enclosing walls even when the observatory is open will (I hope!) reduce the effect of light spill to an acceptable minimum.

[mswhin63]

My solution to limited size only because I live in a rental home.

http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=109479

I have move since then and managed to bring the slab, pier and lower section. Now I am in the slow process of building it differently.

The original solution worked really well although the water resistance was not the best, I used a tarp to cover over and was able to withstand some major winter conditions with ease. Before moving house I was considering the construction of a wind break, but moving I decided to completely re-build the top section.

Gone back to Uni now so the project is on a really slow boat, and the owner of my current premises is selling up so may have to move again. Not happy Jan