Tension release system

A shade membrane coupling system for use in an outdoor environment, the system comprising:

• a shade membrane coupling mechanism configured to couple to a shade membrane, the shade membrane coupling mechanism comprising:
• a moveable sleeve with a receiving element;
• a membrane coupling plate with a membrane coupling feature;
• and
• wherein the membrane coupling feature is configured to couple to a shade membrane;
• and
• a support structure coupling mechanism configured to couple to a support structure, the support structure coupling mechanism comprising:
• a coupling sleeve configured to extend substantially through the support structure, the coupling sleeve being configured to receive the moveable sleeve;
• an attachment mechanism configured to removable couple to the receiving element;
• and
• a support structure coupling plate configured to interface with the membrane coupling plate.

A method of installing a shade membrane in an outdoor environment, the method comprising:

• preparing a support structure;
• drawing a shade membrane coupling element, coupled to a corner of the shade membrane, toward the support structure;
• coupling the shade membrane to the support structure, wherein coupling comprises coupling the shade membrane coupling element to a support structure coupling element;
• securing the shade membrane coupling element to the support structure by actuating a securing mechanism;
• and
• wherein the coupling between the shade membrane coupling element and the support structure coupling element is a reversible coupling such that an integral component of the support structure is configured to, when actuated in a first direction, applies tension to the shade membrane, and, when actuated in a second direction, releases tension from the shade membrane.