Three adaptive devices for shock and vibration protection

Abstract

Disclosed is an adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force separation and attenuation metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic force between a dynamic force source and an object. In at least one embodiment, the device provides at least one cell unit that provides a pair of opposing first and second cell plates, between which at least one spring, restraint, and dashpot are disposed. The outer surface of the first cell plate is disposed in contact with the dynamic force source. The outer surface of the second cell plate is disposed in contact with the object. The at least one spring, restraint, and dashpot are configured to mutually transmit dynamic force energy while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic force source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [This translation is a provisional translation by machine translation. It is planned to correct translation errors later.] Government license right This invention was made with government support under grant number 1927071 awarded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) of the United States. The United States government has certain rights in this invention.

[0002] Related applications This application claims priority and the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 349,868, filed on June 7, 2022, is applicable. The content of the foregoing application is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Background The subject matter of this patent application generally relates to systems and methods for providing shock and vibration protection, and more specifically to a three-adaptive device configured to provide shock and vibration protection in ship transportation, transportation, work, sports, buildings, and the natural environment.

[0004] The applicant incorporates by reference all patents and published patent applications cited or referenced in this application into this application.

[0005] As background, due to vibrating machinery and the influence of dynamic loads, shock and vibration suppression in vehicles and buildings usually requires protective materials and designs that increase cost and weight. Shock and vibration suppression is also required for other types of objects currently known or to be developed in the future, such as cargo, satellites, batteries, IT equipment, electronic equipment, avionics, buildings, etc., as well as for people participating in sports subject to shock and those operating vibrating tools. Among known prior art shock and vibration control systems, there are those that reduce vibration by adding hardened structures and reinforcements. Other known prior art systems mitigate the effects of shock and vibration by means of absorbent and / or damping materials and devices.

[0006] The problem with strengthening structures and reinforcements is that weight and volume are added to the object or person to be protected. Similar problems also occur with conventional absorption and damping systems that consume volume during transportation, such as the available space in vehicles and enclosed environments, and the discomfort of people wearing protective gear for work and sports.

[0007] Conventional cushioning materials such as solid forms are an economically effective solution for protecting small consumer goods during transportation and manufacturing lightweight protective gear such as helmets. However, they are usually not sufficient to protect heavy machinery when transported over rough terrain or in situations where intense vibrations and shocks are likely to occur. Large and heavy precision equipment is usually transported in wooden boxes placed on cushioning material pallets, which is labor-intensive and expensive, usually disposable, and too costly to recycle. Similarly, foam-protected helmets provide limited protection from impacts because they require an unrealistic amount of foam to withstand intense shocks.

[0008] Active and passive vibration control devices used in vehicles, aircraft, buildings, etc. to mitigate the effects of intense shocks and vibrations include shock absorbers, energy dampers, insulation devices, etc. These devices provide a higher level of protection, but as the strength and energy dissipation capacity of the devices are increased, the weight, size, and cost increase rapidly.

[0009] In view of the above, there is a need for improved systems and methods for mitigating the effects of shock and vibration to overcome the aforementioned obstacles and deficiencies of conventional protection systems and reduce the additional weight, volume, and cost required for protection. Aspects of the present invention meet these needs and provide further related advantages as described in the following summary.

[0010] Note that the above background description includes information useful for understanding aspects of the present invention. It is not admitted that any of the information provided herein is prior art or that any publication related to or specifically or implicitly referenced in connection with the presently claimed invention is prior art. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Aspects of the invention teach specific advantages in construction and use that result in the exemplary advantages described below.

[0012] The present invention solves the above problems by providing an adaptable device configured to function as a dynamic force separation and damping metamaterial that reduces the transmission of vibratory and impact forces between a dynamic power source and at least one object. In at least one embodiment, the device provides at least one unit cell. It includes a pair of opposing first and second cell plates, at least one non-linear spring, and at least one restraint. The outer surface of the first cell plate is arranged to be in direct or indirect contact with a dynamic power source. The outer surface of the second cell plate is arranged to be in direct or indirect contact with at least one object. The at least one non-linear spring extends between the inner surfaces of the first and second cell plates along a substantially non-linear path and is configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral state. The at least one restraint engages with the inner surface of one of the first or second cell plates and extends substantially perpendicularly therefrom by a predetermined distance. When the unit cell is in the neutral state, the at least one restraint is arranged in proximity to the at least one spring and the inner surface of the other of the first or second cell plates. The at least one spring is configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of the at least one restraint when receiving a dynamic force from the dynamic power source, whereby the at least one spring makes frictional sliding contact with the at least one restraint and at least one energy dissipation dashpot is formed therebetween. Thus, the at least one spring, restraint, and dashpot can mechanically deform in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the power source while mutually transmitting kinetic energy.

[0013] In at least one other embodiment, the apparatus provides at least one unit cell including a pair of opposing first and second cell plates, at least one non-linear spring, and a plurality of restraints. The outer surface of the first cell plate is disposed in direct or indirect abutment with a dynamic power source. The outer surface of the second cell plate is disposed in direct or indirect abutment with at least one object. A pair of spaced-apart first restraints engage the inner surface of the first cell plate and extend from there a predetermined distance substantially perpendicular thereto and are disposed proximate the inner surface of the second cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral state. A pair of spaced-apart second restraints engage the inner surface of the second cell plate and extend from there a predetermined distance substantially perpendicular thereto and are disposed proximate the inner surface of the first cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral state.

[0014] At least one substantially horizontally oriented spring engages the first restraints and extends therebetween, and at least one spring is configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral state. At least one spring is further configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of the first and second restraints when receiving a dynamic force from the dynamic power source, whereby the first restraint frictionally slides into contact with the second restraint and at least one energy dissipation dashpot is formed therebetween. Accordingly, at least one spring, restraint, and dashpot can transfer kinetic energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the kinetic energy transmitted by the power source.

[0015] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the aspects of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] The accompanying drawings illustrate aspects of the present invention. In such drawings,

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[0017] The above drawings show aspects of the present invention in at least one of its exemplary embodiments and are further defined in the following description. Features, elements, and aspects of the present invention that are referenced by the same numeral in different drawings represent the same, equivalent, or similar features, elements, or aspects according to one or more embodiments.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a schematic view of an exemplary three - adaptive device 20 configured to function as a metamaterial that separates and attenuates shock and / or vibration (hereinafter, collectively referred to as "vibration" or "dynamic force" for brevity). This metamaterial reduces or eliminates the transmission of dynamic force from a vibration surface or other vibration and / or shock source 22 (hereinafter, collectively referred to as "dynamic force source" 22) to at least one object 24 (FIG. 1). 2)

[0019] The object 24 can be any type of object that may benefit from being protected from dynamic forces, whether currently known or developed in the future, and includes, but is not limited to, cargo, satellites, batteries, IT equipment, electronic devices, avionics, buildings, sports, protective devices, and the like. Accordingly, in this specification, for the purpose of illustration, the device 20 is shown and described in the context of a particular type of object and / or use case, but the device 20 should not be construed as being so limited.

[0020] In at least one embodiment, the device 20 includes at least one unit cell 26 that includes at least one non-linear spring 28, at least one energy dissipating dashpot 30, and at least one restraint retainer 32, these components being arranged as a relatively thin layer positioned between a pair of opposing first cell plates 34 and second cell plates 36, such that the at least one spring 28, retainer 32, and dashpot 30 can transfer dynamic force energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to dynamic forces transmitted by a dynamic force source (i.e., 3 adaptive types). Thus, in at least one such embodiment, as will be described in detail below, the device 20 is relatively lightweight and has a compact shape. In this regard, it should be noted that the size, shape, dimensions, quantity, and relative position of the at least one unit cell 26 and its various components (including but not limited to the at least one spring 28, dashpot 30, retainer 32, and opposing first and second cell plates 34 and 36) depicted in the drawings (and described herein) are merely illustrative. In further embodiments, each of the at least one unit cell 26 and its various components may take on any other size, shape, dimensions, quantity, and / or relative position currently known or later developed, as long as the at least one unit cell 26, and the device 20 incorporating the at least one unit cell 26, can substantially perform the functions described herein.

[0021] In at least one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 3A, the outer surface 38 of the first cell plate 34 is disposed in direct or indirect contact with the dynamic force source 22, while the outer surface 40 of the opposing second cell plate 36 is disposed in direct or indirect contact with the object 24 to be protected. In at least one embodiment, at least one spring 28 extends between an inner surface 42 of a first cell plate 34 and an inner surface 44 of a second cell plate 36 along a substantially non-linear path. In at least one embodiment, at least one spring 28 is configured as one or more thin-wall plates. However, in further embodiments, at least one spring 28 may be configured or constructed as any other material and / or component currently known or later developed, at least partially depending on the particular circumstances in which the device 20 is used, as long as the device 20 can substantially perform the functions described herein. In at least one embodiment, at least one unit cell 26 further comprises at least one spring strut 46 that extends between at least one spring 28 and an inner surface 44 of a second cell plate 36, forcing a controlled deformation of the spring 28 when either the first or second cell plate 34 or 36 receives a dynamic force from the dynamic force source 22. In at least one embodiment, at least one restraint 32 is composed of a relatively flexible material. Each of the at least one restraint 32 engages an inner surface 42 or 44 of one of the first or second cell plates 34 or 36 and extends a predetermined distance substantially perpendicular therefrom, and when the unit cell 26 is in a neutral state (i.e., a state in which no dynamic force is acting on the unit cell 26), the restraint 32 is disposed in proximity to (i.e., separated by a predetermined distance from, or in contact with) each of the at least one spring 28 and the inner surface 42 or 44 of the other of the first or second cell plates 34 or 36. In at least one embodiment, at least one restraint 32 is engaged with an inner surface 42 or 44 of the first or second cell plate 36 via a torsion spring.

[0022] In at least one embodiment, at least one unit cell 26 is configured such that as the spring 28 is vertically deformed by the dynamic force from the dynamic force source 22, it also expands and contracts laterally simultaneously. Furthermore, the spring 28 is configured to bias the unit cell. It becomes the neutral state 26. Thus, when the unit cell 26 is in a compressed state (i.e., when the spring 28 is compressed), the spring 28 expands laterally, the space between the spring 28 and the restraint 32 decreases, and the spring 28 comes into frictional sliding contact with the restraint 32. When the unit cell 26 is in a neutral state (i.e., when the dynamic force from the dynamic force source 22 stops), the spring 28 contracts laterally and the spring 28 disengages from the frictional sliding contact with the restraint 32. In at least one embodiment, the frictional sliding contact between the spring 28 and the restraint 32 represents and functions as at least one dashpot 30. The frictional force at the sliding contact point between the spring 28 and the restraint 32 dissipates energy as the contact point moves due to the vertical deformation of the spring 28. The greater the dynamic excitation, the greater the vertical deformation of the spring 28, the contact force between the spring 28 and the restraint 32, and the amount of frictional force at that contact point. As a result, the amount of dynamic energy dissipated throughout the sliding contact increases. Here, the term "vertical" is used to define a direction or orientation that is substantially perpendicular to the first cell plate 34 and the second cell plate 36, and the terms "horizontal" and "lateral" are used to define a direction or orientation that is substantially parallel to the first cell plate 34 and the second cell plate 36 regardless of the specific orientation of the first cell plate 34 and the second cell plate 36 in a particular embodiment. Note this.

[0023] In at least one embodiment, when the dashpot 30 is a frictional sliding contact between the spring 28 and the restraint 32, the dashpot 30 may be machined, chemically treated, or lined with a different material to alter the frictional characteristics between the spring 28 and the restraint 32. In at least one alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9, 11, and 12, at least one dashpot 30 is integrated with at least one spring 28 and is disposed substantially at the apex of the spring 28. In at least one further alternative embodiment, at least one dashpot 30 may comprise any other mechanism currently known or later developed (e.g., a viscoelastic or hysteresis material connecting the spring 28 to the restraint 32), thereby slowing the movement of the spring 28 relative to the restraint 32 while absorbing an amount of dynamic energy from the dynamic power source 22.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, each of the spring 28, dashpot 30, restraint 32, first cell plate 34, and second cell plate 36 is composed of one or more of a metal, metal alloy, polymeric material, ceramic material, composite material, or bio-based material. However, in further embodiments, the unit cell 26 or one or more of its components (including but not limited to the spring 28, dashpot 30, restraint 32, first cell plate 34, and second cell plate 36) may be composed of other materials (or combinations of materials) currently known or later developed that depend at least in part on the particular circumstances in which the device 20 is utilized. At least one unit cell 26, and a device 20 incorporating at least one unit cell 26, can substantially perform the functions described herein. Thus, the constituent materials depend at least in part on the particular circumstances in which the device 20 is utilized. Furthermore, the dimensions of at least one unit cell 26, along with the dimensions of the device 20, depend at least in part on the particular circumstances in which the device 20 is utilized.

[0025] In at least one further embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the components of the unit cell 26 are mirrored about a virtual vertical plane 48 located proximal to at least one restraint 32, thereby forming a relatively large and symmetric unit cell 26. Similarly, in at least one further embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the entire unit cell 26 is mirrored and arranged radially about a virtual vertical plane 48 located proximal to at least one restraint 32, thereby forming a relatively large symmetric group of unit cells 26.

[0026] As described above, each of the at least one unit cell 26 and its various components can take on any other size, shape, dimension, quantity, and / or relative position currently known or later developed, so long as the at least one unit cell 26, and the device 20 in which the at least one unit cell 26 is incorporated, can substantially perform the functions described herein. In such an alternative at least one embodiment, the at least one spring 28 can take on other non-linear shapes, such as an ellipse (FIG. 6), can have a variable thickness (FIG. 10) rather than a uniform thickness, and can have a relatively rigid core (FIG. 12) to provide additional stiffness and strength. Further, in at least one alternative embodiment, as also shown in FIG. 6, the at least one restraint 32 can be a hollow structure rather than a solid one. As shown in FIG. 7, in at least one further alternative embodiment, the at least one unit cell 26 comprises a plurality of restraints 32 that are in frictional sliding contact with each other, and the unit cell 26 comprises at least one further dashpot 30 disposed between the restraints 32. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, in at least one further alternative embodiment, one or both of the first cell plate 34 or the second cell plate 36 has a discontinuous rather than a continuous structure. In at least one such embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, if the first cell plate 34 has a discontinuous structure, at least one restraint 32 may be arranged and configured to interconnect the discontinuous first cell plate 34. As shown in FIG. 9, in at least one further alternative embodiment, at least one spring strut 46 can be omitted. As shown in FIGS. 9, 11, and 12, in at least one further alternative embodiment where at least one dashpot 30 is integrated with at least one spring 28 and is disposed substantially at the apex of the spring 28, at least one unit cell 26 provides a plurality of restraints 32 disposed on the inner surfaces 42 or 44 of one or both of the first or second dashpots 30. A cell plate 34 or 36 in frictional contact with the opposing inner and outer surfaces of at least one dashpot 30.

[0027] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, in at least one alternative embodiment, at least one spring 28 is a thin-walled, planar, substantially horizontally oriented membrane that extends between opposing restraints 32 provided by the inner surface 42 of the first cell plate 34. In at least one alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, the membrane of at least one spring 28 is configured as an elongated band or string. In at least one embodiment, at least one spring 28 is composed of an elastic material such as rubber, for example. However, in a further embodiment, at least one spring 28 may be composed of any other currently known or later developed material (or combination of materials), at least partially depending on the particular circumstances in which the device 20 is utilized, as long as the device 20 incorporating at least one unit cell 26, and thus at least one unit cell 26, can substantially perform the functions described herein. Furthermore, in at least one such embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 13, the inner surface 44 of the second cell plate 36 extends a certain distance substantially perpendicular therefrom and further provides at least one restraint 32 that frictionally slides into contact with a corresponding one of the restraints 32 provided by the first cell plate 34. In at least one such embodiment, at least one further restraint 32 provided by the second cell plate 36 is the circumferential side wall of the second cell plate 36. Thus, when the unit cell 26 is in a compressed state, the spring 28 deforms vertically and contracts laterally such that the spacing between the restraints 32 of the first cell plate 34 and the second cell plate 36 is reduced and the restraints 32 come into frictional sliding contact with each other. In at least one embodiment, the frictional sliding contact between the restraints 32 of the first cell plate 34 and the second cell plate 36 represents and serves the function of at least one dashpot 30. The frictional force at the contact point dissipates energy as the contact point moves due to the vertical deformation of the spring 28. The greater the dynamic excitation, the greater the vertical deformation of the spring 28, the contact force between the restraints 32 of the first cell plate 34 and the second cell plate 36, and the amount of frictional force at their contact points. As a result, the amount of dynamic energy dissipated over the entire sliding contact increases. In at least one alternative embodiment, at least one further restraint 32 provided by the second cell plate 36 is omitted such that at least one spring 28 frictionally slides into contact with the restraint 32 provided by the first cell plate 34.

[0028] In at least one alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, at least one unit cell 26 comprises at least one spring 28, a dashpot 30, a restraint 32, and at least one fixing element 56 configured to couple each of the opposing first and second cell plates 34 and 36. In at least one such embodiment, at least one fixing element 56 provides a snap fit. By engagement, the unit cell 26 can be assembled quickly and easily. In a further embodiment, at least one fixing element 56 may be configured to couple at least one spring 28, a dashpot 30, a restraint 32, and each of the opposing first and second cell plates 34 and 36 using other types of permanent or non-permanent engagement mechanisms that are currently known or developed later.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a rheology model of two exemplary embodiments of the device 20 disposed between the dynamic power source 22 and the object 24 to be protected. The first (i.e., left side) exemplary rheology model shows the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 - 12, and the second (i.e., right side) exemplary rheology model shows the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 - 17. In at least one embodiment, when the dynamic force generated from the dynamic power source 22 enters the device 20 through the first cell plate 34, the spring 28 (represented in FIG. 2 as a set of deformable interconnected springs acting in multiple directions) undergoes a primary deformation in the direction of the dynamic energy, and each of the dashpot 30 (represented in FIG. 2 as a friction slider) and the retainer 32 (represented in FIG. 2 as a linear spring) reacts to cause a secondary deformation in a direction perpendicular to the dynamic energy. In at least one embodiment, the secondary deformation is designed to cause a frictional sliding contact between the spring 28 and the restraint 32. Due to the force between spring 28 and restraint 32, deformation and relative movement occur between spring 28 and restraint 32. As a result, dynamic energy dissipates and mechanical energy is absorbed by restraint 32 and transmitted to spring 28. Through this interaction, the dynamic energy is divided into three parts and unevenly distributed and flows among spring 28, dashpot 30, and retainer 32 respectively based on their respective mechanical characteristics. In the first (i.e., left - hand side) exemplary rheology model shown in FIG. 2, when spring 28 receives a compressive force, spring 28 pushes restraint 32, and when spring 28 receives a tensile force, spring 28 pulls restraint 32.

[0030] In the second (i.e., right - hand side) exemplary rheology model shown in FIG. 2, when spring 28 receives a compressive or tensile force, spring 28 pulls restraint 32. To explain in more detail, in at least one such embodiment, when the dynamic force generated from dynamic force source 22 enters device 20 through first cell plate 34, the dynamic force causes spring 28 to deform vertically and expand and contract horizontally, and the gap between restraint 32 of first cell plate 34 and second cell plate 36 closes and opens. The frictional sliding contact between restraint 32 of first cell plate 34 and second cell plate 36 represents at least one dashpot 30 and functions as such. The frictional force at the contact point dissipates energy as the contact point moves due to the vertical deformation of spring 28. The greater the dynamic excitation, the greater the vertical deformation of spring 28, and the contact force depends on the amount of frictional force at restraint 32 of the first and second cell plates 34 and 36 and their contact points, and the amount of dynamic energy dissipated throughout the sliding contact increases.

[0031] In other words, in each embodiment, at least one spring 28, restraint 32, and dashpot 30 can operate with each other and transmit dynamic force energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic force source (i.e., 3 adaptable types). Therefore, at least one spring 28, restraint device 32, and dashpot 30 can adapt to each other's operations, thereby providing optimal protection from dynamic forces.

[0032] FIG. 1 shows the energy flow between each of a spring 28, dashpot 30, restraint 32, and opposing first and second cell plates 34 and 36, according to at least one embodiment. In at least one such embodiment, the dynamic force generated from the dynamic force source 22 enters the device 20 through the first cell plate 34 and is transmitted to at least one spring 28. A portion of the dynamic force is transmitted by the spring 28 to the dashpot 30, and another portion of the dynamic force is transmitted to the retainer 32. The dashpot 30 and the restraint 32 exchange dynamic energy through mutual deformation and relative movement. Therefore, the restraint 32 reacts to restrain the deformation of the spring 28, thereby returning a portion of the dynamic force from the spring 28 to the spring 28. Thus, in at least one embodiment, this energy tri-division function realized by the cooperation of the spring 28, dashpot 30, and restraint 32 within the unit cell 26 has the effect of modifying and reducing the dynamic energy reaching the second cell plate 36 on the opposite side of the unit cell 26 in contact with the object 24 to be protected, resulting in a controlled dynamic force.

[0033] The design of the interacting operations is performed based on the content of the input energy. The dynamic energy on the first cell plate 34 first enters the spring 28, and the spring 28 is adjusted to absorb most of the dynamic energy in the form of distorted mechanical energy. The strain mechanical energy is absorbed through the non-linear interaction between the deformations of the spring 28 in non-parallel directions. The more the amount of dynamic energy absorbed by the spring 28 due to these deformations, the more dynamic energy is transmitted to the dashpot 30, the dynamic energy dissipates and the influence of the dynamic force is mitigated, and it is transmitted to the restraint 32 through the dashpot 30. The restraint 32 restrains one deformation component of the spring 28 and further deforms the spring 28 in a non-parallel direction. By doing so, the restraint 32 returns part of the mechanical energy to the spring 28 and increases the resistance to the stress induced by the dynamic energy. The restraint device 32 and the dashpot 30 interact with each other to balance the dynamic energy transmission with the spring 28 and achieve an optimal combination of the restraint effect and the damping effect that adapts to various levels of dynamic excitation. As a result of the adaptable dynamic energy absorption, dissipation, confinement, and mutual energy transmission mechanisms in at least one embodiment, only a part of the dynamic energy received by the first cell plate 34 is then transmitted to the opposite second cell plate 36 and the object 24, resulting in highly controlled vibrations for a wide range of vibration inputs.

[0034] In at least one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the apparatus 20 comprises a plurality of unit cells 26 arranged side by side. For convenience of explanation, a plurality of unit cells 26 arranged in parallel are referred to herein as a "cell assembly" 52. In at least one such embodiment, all of the unit cells 26 of a given cell assembly 52 are oriented in substantially the same direction. Further, in at least one embodiment, a given cell assembly 52 can include a plurality of unit cells 26 aligned in a linear strip and coupled via one or both of respective first cell plates 34 or second cell plates 36, as shown in the various exemplary embodiments shown in FIG. 18. In at least one such embodiment, the unit cells 26 of a given cell assembly 52 may be oriented longitudinally with respect to the length of the cell assembly 52. In at least one alternative embodiment, the unit cells 26 of a particular cell assembly 52 may be oriented perpendicular to the length of the cell assembly 52. In at least one further alternative embodiment, the unit cells 26 of a given cell assembly 52 may be oriented both longitudinally and perpendicularly in an alternating pattern with respect to the length of the cell assembly 52. Further, in at least one embodiment, the unit cells 26 of a particular cell assembly 52 may be arranged continuously with each other, but in at least one alternative embodiment, one or more of the unit cells 26 of a particular cell assembly 52 may be arranged discontinuously.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 19-21, the apparatus 20 comprises a plurality of cell assemblies 52 arranged side by side. For the sake of convenience of explanation, the plurality of cell assemblies 52 arranged horizontally are referred to herein as an “assembly layer” 54. These assembly layers 54 can assume virtually any size, shape, dimension, quantity, and / or relative position, currently known or later developed, at least partially depending on the particular situation in which the apparatus 20 is used, as long as the apparatus 20 can substantially perform the functions described herein. Similar to the unit cells 26 of a given cell assembly 52, in at least one embodiment, the cell assemblies 52 of a given assembly layer 54 may be arranged continuously with respect to each other, although in at least one alternative embodiment, one or more cell assemblies 52 of a given assembly layer 54 may be arranged discontinuously. In at least one embodiment, the individual cell assemblies 52 are manufactured separately and then joined to form a given assembly layer 54. In at least one alternative embodiment, the unit cells 26 are made of the same constituent material and the unit cells 26 may be manufactured as a whole by additive or subtractive manufacturing.

[0036] In at least one alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the unit cells 26 of the cell assemblies 52 of a given assembly layer 54 are configured as an elastic membrane and comprise at least one spring 28 arranged to extend across a plurality of unit cells 26 (and in at least one such embodiment, a plurality of cell assemblies 52), whereby the cell assemblies 52 of the corresponding assembly layer 54 are joined to each other via at least one spring 28. In at least one alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 24, the unit cells 26 of the cell assemblies 52 of a particular assembly layer 54 are joined via a grid, snap fit, or other means of a fixing element 56.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the apparatus 20 comprises a plurality of assembly layers 54 arranged in a vertically stacked arrangement. In at least one embodiment, the assembly layers 54 are oriented such that all of the unit cells 26 of a particular assembly layer 54 face in substantially the same direction as the unit cells 26 of other assembly layers 54. In at least one alternative embodiment, the assembly layers 54 are oriented such that the unit cells 26 of at least some of the assembly layers 54 are oriented in a direction substantially transverse to the direction of the unit cells 26 of each adjacent assembly layer 54, depending at least in part on the particular situation in which the apparatus 20 is utilized and relative to the unit cells 26 of other assembly layers 54. In at least one embodiment, the first cell plate 34 of a particular assembly layer 54 is fixed or otherwise engaged to the second cell plate 36 of the immediately adjacent assembly layer 54, the first cell plate 34 of the lowermost assembly layer 54 is disposed in direct or indirect abutment with the dynamic power source 22, and the second cell plate 36 of the uppermost assembly layer 54 is disposed in direct or indirect abutment with the object 24 to be protected.

[0038] It should be noted again that the size, shape, dimensions (including the respective sizes, shapes, dimensions, and quantities of each unit cell 26, cell assembly 52, and assembly layer 54) of the device 20 depend at least in part on the circumstances in which the device 20 is utilized. For example, in at least one embodiment, the device 20 may be configured as a buffer pallet for the object 24 or alternatively as a protective box. Thus, in further embodiments, as long as the device 20 can substantially perform the functions described herein, each of the unit cells 26, cell assemblies 52, and assembly layers 54 can take on any other size, shape, dimension, position, and / or quantity that is currently known or later developed. In at least one embodiment, when the device 20 includes a plurality of unit cells 26, cell assemblies 52, and / or assembly layers 54, one or more of the unit cells 26, cell assemblies 52, and / or assembly layers 54 can optionally provide different properties or characteristics relative to one or more of the other unit cells 26, cell assemblies 52, and / or assembly layers 54 that control the dynamic force control consisting of the rigidity, damping, and strength of the device 20.

[0039] In this regard, in at least one embodiment, the mechanical properties of at least one spring 28, dashpot 30, and restraint 32 of each unit cell 26 can be selected to adapt the device 20 to a particular frequency and level of the dynamic force generated from the dynamic force source 22, as well as the level of the dynamic force tolerated by the object 24. FIG. 25 is a flow diagram showing an exemplary method for configuring the device 20 according to at least one embodiment. In at least one such embodiment, the method begins with an analysis of a given dynamic force generated from the dynamic force source 22 that is used to evaluate the power spectral density (PSD) response of the object 24 to be protected. If the PSD response does not achieve the desired protection performance, a range of properties such as frequency, damping, strength, etc. is determined to achieve the desired protection performance and used as an input for the design and configuration of the device 20. In at least one embodiment, weight and volume constraints of the protection system are specified, imposing constraints on the manufacturing method of the components of device 20 and the selection of bulk materials, which constitute additional design inputs. In the design, considering the interdependence of elements within a particular unit cell 26 and the multiple unit cells 26 that make up device 20, the optimal arrangement of unit cell 26 is determined according to specific manufacturing constraints and the properties of the bulk materials. Next, metamaterial design is used to estimate the modified PSD response. If the PSD response meets the targeted protection performance requirements, the targeted dynamic force protection is achieved. As the amplitude of the dynamic force from dynamic force source 22 increases, at least one spring 28 provides variable stiffness, while at least one dashpot 30 and restraint 32 increase attenuation and strength, respectively. To that end, at least one spring 28, dashpot 30, and restraint 32 are designed to vary the range of their interactions based on the level of the dynamic force. Due to the diverse design parameters of the elements within at least one unit cell 26, the dynamic force performance characteristics of device 20 can be optimally adjusted in response to dynamic excitation.

[0040] Aspects of this specification can also be described as the following embodiments.

[0041] 1. A three - adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force separation and damping metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic force. It comprises a power source and at least one object. The device includes at least one unit cell, which has a pair of opposing first and second cell plates, an outer surface of the first cell plate disposed in direct or indirect contact with the power source, an outer surface of the second cell plate disposed in direct or indirect contact with at least one object, at least one non - linear spring extending between the inner surfaces of the first and second cell plates along a substantially non - linear path and configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral state, at least one restraint engaging an inner surface of one of the first or second cell plates and extending a constant distance substantially perpendicularly therefrom, and when the unit cell is in the neutral state, at least one restraint is disposed in proximity to each of the inner surfaces of the other of the at least one spring and the first or second cell plate. At least one spring is configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of at least one restraint when receiving power from the power source, whereby at least one spring makes frictional sliding contact with at least one restraint, forming at least one energy - dissipating dashpot therebetween. Thus, at least one spring, restraint, and dashpot can transmit power energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the power transmitted by the power source.

[0042] 2. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiment 1, wherein at least one spring is configured as one or more thin - wall plates.

[0043] 3. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 - 2, wherein at least one unit cell further comprises at least one spring strut extending between at least one spring and the inner surface of the second cell plate, and when one of the first cell plate or the second cell plate receives dynamic force from the dynamic force source, it forces a controlled deformation of at least one spring.

[0044] 4. In the three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 3, at least one restraint is composed of a relatively flexible material.

[0045] 5. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein at least one restraint is engaged with the inner surface of the first or second cell plate via a rotary spring.

[0046] 6. In the three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 5, at least one dashpot is integrated with at least one spring and is disposed substantially at the apex of at least one spring.

[0047] 7. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 6, wherein at least one unit cell includes a plurality of restraints disposed on the inner surface of one or both of the first or second cell plates for frictionally contacting the inner and outer surfaces on the opposite side of at least one dashpot.

[0048] 8. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein at least one dashpot includes a viscoelastic material or a hysteresis material that extends between and interconnects at least one spring and a retainer.

[0049] 9. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 8, wherein each of at least one spring, restraint, first cell plate, and second cell plate is composed of one or more of a metal, metal alloy, polymer material, ceramic material, composite material, or bio-based material.

[0050] 10. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 9, wherein at least one unit cell includes a plurality of springs and restraints arranged radially symmetrically about a virtual vertical plane.

[0051] 11. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 10, wherein at least one spring has a substantially uniform thickness.

[0052] 12. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the thickness of at least one spring is variable.

[0053] 13. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 12, wherein at least one restraint has a substantially solid structure.

[0054] 14. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 13, wherein at least one restraint has a substantially hollow structure.

[0055] 15. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 14, wherein at least one unit cell includes a plurality of restraints that are in frictional sliding contact with each other, thereby forming at least one energy - dissipating dashpot therebetween.

[0056] 16. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 15, wherein one or both of the first cell plate and the second cell plate have a discontinuous structure.

[0057] 17. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the first cell plate has a discontinuous structure, and at least one restraint is arranged and configured to interconnect the discontinuous first cell plate.

[0058] 18. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 17, further comprising a plurality of unit cells arranged in parallel to form at least one cell assembly.

[0059] 19. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 18, wherein all the unit cells of at least one cell assembly are oriented in substantially the same direction.

[0060] 20. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 19, wherein one or more unit cells of at least one cell assembly are oriented in different directions.

[0061] 21. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the unit cells of at least one cell assembly are aligned in a linear strip.

[0062] 22. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 21, wherein one or more unit cells of at least one cell assembly are oriented in a longitudinal direction with respect to the length of the cell assembly.

[0063] 23. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 22, wherein one or more unit cells of at least one cell assembly are oriented in a lateral direction with respect to the length of the cell assembly.

[0064] 24. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 23, wherein the unit cells of at least one cell assembly are interconnected via one or both of the respective first cell plates or second cell plates of the unit cells.

[0065] 25. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 24, wherein one or more unit cells of at least one cell assembly are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0066] 26. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 25, wherein one or more unit cells of at least one cell assembly are arranged discontinuously from each other.

[0067] 27. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 26, further comprising a plurality of cell assemblies arranged in a parallel arrangement so as to form at least one assembly layer.

[0068] 28. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 27, wherein one or more cell assemblies of at least one assembly layer are arranged continuously with respect to each other.

[0069] 29. A three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 28, wherein one or more cell assemblies of at least one assembly layer are arranged discontinuously with respect to each other.

[0070] 30. A three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 29, further comprising a plurality of assembly layers arranged in a vertically stacked arrangement.

[0071] 31. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the assembly layers are oriented such that all unit cells of each assembly layer face in substantially the same direction.

[0072] 32. The three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the assembly layers are oriented such that at least one unit cell of one assembly layer faces in a different direction from the unit cells of at least one other assembly layer.

[0073] 33. A three - adaptive device according to Embodiments 1 to 32, wherein the first cell plate of the unit cells of each assembly layer engages with the second cell plate of the unit cells of the immediately adjacent assembly layer, the first cell plate of the unit cells of the lowermost assembly layer is arranged in direct or indirect contact with a dynamic power source, and the second cell plate of the unit cells of the uppermost assembly layer is arranged in direct or indirect contact with at least one object.

[0074] 34. An adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force separation and damping metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic force between a dynamic power source and at least one object. The device includes a plurality of unit cells arranged in parallel to form at least one cell assembly. Each unit cell includes a pair of opposing first and second cell plates, an outer surface of the first cell plate disposed in direct or indirect contact with the dynamic power source, an outer surface of the second cell plate disposed in direct or indirect contact with at least one object, at least one non-linear spring extending between the inner surfaces of the first and second cell plates along a substantially non-linear path and configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral state, at least one restraint engaging an inner surface of one of the first or second cell plates and extending a predetermined distance substantially perpendicular therefrom, and when the unit cell is in the neutral state, the at least one restraint is disposed proximate to each of at least one spring and the inner surface of the other of the first or second cell plates. And, at least one spring is configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of the at least one restraint when receiving a dynamic force from the dynamic power source, whereby the at least one spring makes friction-sliding contact with at least one restraint and forms at least one energy dissipation dashpot therebetween. Thereby, the at least one spring, restraint, and dashpot can transmit dynamic force energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic power source.

[0075] 35. An adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force separation and attenuation metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic force between a dynamic power source and at least one object, the device comprising at least one unit cell, the unit cell comprising a pair of opposing first and second cell plates, an outer surface of the first cell plate disposed in direct or indirect contact with the dynamic power source, an outer surface of the second cell plate disposed in direct or indirect contact with at least one object, a pair of spaced-apart first restraints that engage an inner surface of the first cell plate and extend substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the first cell plate such that the first restraints are disposed proximate to the inner surface of the second cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral state, a pair of spaced-apart second restraints that engage an inner surface of the second cell plate and extend substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the second cell plate such that the second restraints are disposed proximate to the inner surface of the first cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral state, at least one substantially horizontally oriented spring that engages the first restraints and extends between the first restraints and is configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral state, and at least one spring further configured to expand and contract laterally in the directions of the first and second restraints when receiving a dynamic force from the dynamic power source, thereby causing the first restraints to be in frictional sliding contact with the second restraints and forming at least one energy dissipation dashpot therebetween, whereby the at least one spring, the at least one dashpot, and the restraints are capable of mutually transmitting dynamic force energy while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic power source.

[0076] 36. The adaptive device according to embodiment 35, wherein at least one spring is composed of an elastic material.

[0077] 37. The adaptive device according to embodiments 35-36, wherein at least one spring is a substantially planar membrane.

[0078] 38. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 37, wherein at least one spring is configured as an elongated band or string.

[0079] 39. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 38, wherein the second restraint is the circumferential side wall of the second cell plate.

[0080] 40. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 39, wherein at least one unit cell further comprises at least one fixing element configured to couple each of at least one spring, restraint, first cell plate, and second cell plate.

[0081] 41. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 40, wherein at least one fixing element provides a snap - fit engagement.

[0082] 42. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 41 further comprises a plurality of unit cells arranged in parallel to form at least one cell assembly.

[0083] 43. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 42, wherein the unit cells of at least one cell assembly are aligned in a linear strip.

[0084] 44. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 43, wherein the unit cells of at least one cell assembly are interconnected via one or both of the respective first cell plates or second cell plates of the unit cells.

[0085] 45. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 44, wherein one or more unit cells of at least one cell assembly are arranged adjacent to each other.

[0086] 46. The three - adaptation device according to Embodiments 35 to 45, wherein one or more unit cells of at least one cell assembly are arranged discontinuously with respect to each other.

[0087] 47. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 46, further comprising a plurality of cell assemblies arranged in parallel to form at least one assembly layer.

[0088] 48. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 47, wherein one or more of the cell assemblies in at least one assembly layer are arranged continuously with respect to each other.

[0089] 49. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 48, wherein one or more cell assemblies in at least one assembly layer are arranged discontinuously with respect to each other.

[0090] 50. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 49, wherein the unit cells of at least one cell assembly in at least one assembly layer are interconnected via at least one spring of the unit cells.

[0091] 51. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 50, wherein the unit cells of at least one cell assembly in at least one assembly layer are interconnected via at least one fixing element.

[0092] 52. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 51, further comprising a plurality of assembly layers arranged in a vertically stacked arrangement.

[0093] 53. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiment 35 to 52, wherein the assembly layer is oriented such that all unit cells of each assembly layer face in substantially the same direction.

[0094] 54. The three-adaptive device according to Embodiment 35 to 53, wherein the assembly layer is oriented such that at least one unit cell of the assembly layer faces in a different direction from the unit cells of at least one other assembly layer.

[0095] 55. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 54, wherein the first cell plate of the unit cell of each assembly layer engages with the second cell plate of the unit cell of the immediately adjacent assembly layer, the first cell plate of the unit cell of the lowermost assembly layer is disposed in direct or indirect contact with the dynamic power source, and the second cell plate of the unit cell of the uppermost assembly layer is disposed in direct or indirect contact with at least one object.

[0096] 56. A three-adaptive device according to Embodiments 35 to 55, wherein at least one unit cell includes a plurality of springs and restraints arranged radially symmetrically about a virtual vertical plane.

[0097] 57. A three-adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force separation and damping metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic force between a dynamic power source and at least one object, the device comprising a plurality of unit cells arranged in parallel to form at least one cell assembly, each unit cell including a pair of opposing first and second cell plates, an outer surface of the first cell plate disposed to contact the dynamic power source directly or indirectly, an outer surface of the second cell plate disposed to contact at least one object directly or indirectly, and a pair of spaced restraints engaging the inner surface of the first cell plate and extending a substantially constant distance. A spring extending vertically from the second cell plate and at least one substantially horizontally oriented spring are configured to engage with the restraints and extend between the restraints so as to be disposed proximate to the inner surface of the second cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral state, biasing the unit cell to the neutral state. At least one spring is further configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of the restraints when receiving a dynamic force from a dynamic force source, whereby at least one spring makes frictional sliding contact with the restraints and at least one energy dissipation dashpot is formed between the restraints. Thereby, at least one spring, the restraints, and the dashpot can transmit dynamic force energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic force source.

[0098] Finally, it will be understood that, with respect to the exemplary embodiments of the invention shown and described herein, three adaptive devices are disclosed and configured for providing shock and vibration protection. Since the principles of the present invention can be implemented in various configurations other than the illustrated and described configurations, the present invention is in no way limited by the exemplary embodiments, and generally targets three adaptive devices, and it should be understood that the present invention can take various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the specific shapes and structural materials disclosed, and other functionally equivalent structures or materials known now or developed in the future may be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0099] This specification describes particular embodiments of the invention, including the best mode known to the inventors for practicing the invention. Of course, variations of these described embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect that a skilled artisan will adopt such modifications as necessary, and the inventors intend that the present invention be practiced in a manner different from that specifically described herein. Accordingly, the present invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto, as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified herein or clearly contradicted by context, any combination of any possible variations of the above-described embodiments is included in the present invention.

[0100] Groupings of alternative embodiments, elements, or steps of the present invention should not be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referenced and claimed individually or in combination with other group members disclosed herein. One or more Group members may be included in or deleted from the group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. In the event of such inclusion or deletion, the specification is considered to include the modified group, thereby satisfying the description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0101] Unless otherwise specified, all numerical values representing characteristics, items, quantities, parameters, properties, terms, etc. used in this specification and the claims are understood to be modified in all cases by the terms "about" and "approximately". As used herein, the terms "about" and "approximately" mean that the so-limited characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term encompasses a range of plus or minus 10 percent of the value of the recited characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term. Accordingly, unless otherwise specified, the numerical parameters set forth in this specification and the appended patent claims are approximations and may vary. Rather than attempting to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical representation should be construed by applying ordinary rounding techniques, taking into account the reported significant digits. Although the numerical ranges and values indicating broad scope of the present invention are approximations, the numerical ranges and values set forth in the specific examples are reported as accurately as possible. However, every numerical range or value inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation detected in each respective test measurement. The recitation of numerical ranges herein is merely intended to serve as a concise method of referring individually to each numerical value within the range. Unless otherwise expressly specified herein, each individual value of a numerical range is incorporated herein as if it were individually recited herein. Similarly, as used herein, the term "substantially" is a term intended to indicate the degree to which a so - limited characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term is an approximation of the characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term so limited, including within the scope that can be understood and interpreted by one of ordinary skill in the art, or at least including a range of plus or minus 10 percent of the value of the recited characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term, unless the contrary is indicated.

[0102] The use of the terms "may" or "can" with respect to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment also carries with it the opposite meaning of "may not" or "cannot". Accordingly, where this specification discloses that an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment may or may be included as part of the subject matter of the invention, negative limitations or exclusionary provisos are also implicitly meant, meaning that the embodiment or aspect of the embodiment may not or cannot be included as part of the subject matter of the invention. Similarly, when the term "optionally" is used with respect to an embodiment or aspect of an embodiment, such an embodiment Also, aspects of an embodiment may or may not be included as part of the subject matter of the present invention. Whether such negative limitations or exclusionary conditions apply depends on whether the negative limitation or exclusionary condition is recited in the claimed subject matter.

[0103] The terms "a", "an", "the" and similar references used in the context of describing the present invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to include both the singular and the plural unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by the context. Furthermore, ordinal indicators such as "first", "second", "third", etc. of identified elements are used to distinguish the elements and do not indicate or imply any required or limiting number of such elements, nor do they indicate, unless otherwise specified, a particular position or order of such elements. All methods described in this document can be performed in any suitable order, unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by the context. The use of any examples or exemplary language provided herein (e.g., "such as") is intended only to better illustrate the present invention and does not limit the scope of the claimed invention. No language in this document should be construed as indicating an element not claimed as essential to the practice of the present invention.

[0104] When used in a claim, whether at the time of filing or added by amendment, the open-ended transitional term "comprising" (and its equivalent open-ended transitional phrases "including", "containing", and "having") includes all elements, limitations, steps, and / or features expressly recited, singly or in combination with other subject matter not recited. The specified elements, limitations, and / or features are essential, but other unnamed elements, limitations, and / or features may be added and still form a configuration within the scope of the claim. Certain embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims by using the closed transitional phrases "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of" instead of or as an amendment to "comprising". "When used in a claim, whether at the time of filing or added by amendment, the closed transitional phrase "consisting of" excludes elements, limitations, steps, or features not expressly recited in the claim. The closed transitional phrase "consisting essentially of" limits the scope of the claim to the expressly recited elements, limitations, procedures, and / or features, and other elements, limitations, procedures, and / or features that do not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the meaning of the open-ended transitional phrase "comprising" is defined to include all elements, limitations, steps, and / or functions specifically recited, as well as optional additional unspecified ones. The meaning of the closed transitional phrase "consisting of" is defined to include only the elements, limitations, steps, and / or features specifically recited in the claim, while the phrase "consisting essentially of" is defined to include only the elements, limitations, steps, and / or features specifically recited in the claim, and elements, limitations, steps, and / or features that do not substantially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the meaning of the open-ended transitional phrase "comprising" (and its equivalent open-ended transitional phrases) includes, as a limiting case, the claimed subject matter specified by the open-ended transitional phrases "consisting of" or "consisting essentially of". Accordingly, the embodiments described herein, or the embodiments claimed with the term "comprising", are enabled and supported by being explicitly or inherently clearly described herein with respect to the terms "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of".

[0105] Claims intended to be treated under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) begin with the phrase "means for", but the use of the term "for" in other contexts is not intended to invoke treatment under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to pursue additional claims in either this application or a continuing application after the filing of this application.

[0106] It should be understood that the methods disclosed herein, and the order in which each element of such methods is performed, are purely exemplary. Depending on the implementation, and unless otherwise indicated in the present disclosure, they can be performed in any order or in parallel.

[0107] All patents, patent publications, and other publications referenced and identified herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for the purpose of disclosing and describing, for example, the compositions and methodologies described in publications that may be used in connection with the present invention. These publications are provided solely for the purpose of disclosure prior to the filing date of this application. Nothing in this regard shall be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention or otherwise. All statements as to the date or content of these documents are based on the information available to the applicant, and the applicant does not admit the accuracy of the date or content of these documents.

[0108] Aspects of the present invention are described with reference to at least one exemplary embodiment, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited thereto. Rather, the scope of the present invention should be construed only in conjunction with the appended claims, where it is clearly stated that the inventor believes the claimed subject matter to be the present invention.

Claims

1. A three-adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force isolation and damping metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic forces between a dynamic force source and at least one object, Equipped with at least one unit cell, The at least one unit cell is, A pair of opposing first and second cell plates, The outer surface of the first cell plate, which is positioned in direct or indirect contact with the dynamic force source, The outer surface of the second cell plate is positioned in direct or indirect contact with at least one object, A substantially nonlinear path is provided, extending between the inner surfaces of the first and second cell plates, and configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral state, and at least one nonlinear spring is provided. At least one restraint that engages with one inner surface of the first or second cell plate and extends substantially perpendicularly therefrom at least one restraint configured to be positioned in close proximity to each of the at least one spring and the other inner surface of the first or second cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral position, Equipped with, The at least one spring is configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of the at least one restraint when it receives a dynamic force from the dynamic force source, thereby causing the at least one spring to frictionally slide in contact with the at least one restraint, forming at least one energy dissipation dashpot between them. The at least one spring, the restraint, and the dashpot can transmit dynamic force energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic force source. Three-adaptive device.

2. The at least one spring is configured as one or more thin-walled plates. The three-adaptive device according to claim 1.

3. The at least one unit cell further comprises at least one spring strut extending between the at least one spring and the inner surface of the second cell plate, The at least one spring strut compels a controlled deformation of the at least one spring when one of the first cell plate or the second cell plate receives a dynamic force from the dynamic force source. The three-adaptive device according to claim 1.

4. The at least one dashpot is integrated with the at least one spring and is substantially located at the apex of the at least one spring. The three-adaptive device according to claim 1.

5. The at least one unit cell comprises a plurality of restraints disposed on one or both inner surfaces of the first or second cell plate to frictionally contact the opposing inner and outer surfaces of the at least one dashpot. The three-adaptive device according to claim 4.

6. The at least one unit cell includes a plurality of springs and restraints arranged radially and symmetrically around a virtual vertical plane, The three-adaptive device according to claim 1.

7. The at least one unit cell comprises a plurality of restraints that are in frictional sliding contact with one another, thereby forming at least one further energy dissipation dashpot between them. The three-adaptive device according to claim 1.

8. The first cell plate has a discontinuous structure, The at least one restraint is arranged and configured to interconnect the first cell plates of the discontinuous structure. The three-adaptive device according to claim 1.

9. Further comprising a plurality of unit cells arranged in parallel to form at least one cell assembly, The three-adaptive device according to claim 1.

10. One or more unit cells of the at least one cell assembly are arranged discontinuously with respect to each other. The three-adaptive device according to claim 9.

11. Further comprising a plurality of cell assemblies arranged in parallel to form at least one assembly layer, The three-adaptive device according to claim 9.

12. Further comprising a plurality of assembly layers arranged in a vertically stacked configuration, The three-adaptive device according to claim 11.

13. A three-adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force isolation and damping metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic forces between a dynamic force source and at least one object, It comprises multiple unit cells arranged in parallel to form at least one cell assembly, Each unit cell is, A pair of opposing first and second cell plates, The outer surface of the first cell plate, which is arranged to be in direct or indirect contact with the dynamic force source, The outer surface of the second cell plate, which is arranged to be in direct or indirect contact with at least one of the aforementioned objects, A substantially nonlinear path is provided between the inner surfaces of the first and second cell plates, and at least one nonlinear spring is configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral state. At least one restraint that engages with one inner surface of the first or second cell plate and extends substantially perpendicularly therefrom for a predetermined distance, wherein when the unit cell is in a neutral position, at least one restraint is positioned in close proximity to each of the at least one spring and the other inner surface of the first or second cell plate, Equipped with, The at least one spring is configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of the at least one restraint when it receives a dynamic force from the dynamic force source, thereby causing the at least one spring to frictionally slide in contact with the at least one restraint, forming at least one energy dissipation dashpot between them. The at least one spring, the restraint, and the dashpot can transmit dynamic force energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic force source. Three-adaptive device.

14. A three-adaptive device configured to function as a dynamic force isolation and damping metamaterial that reduces the transmission of dynamic forces between a dynamic force source and at least one object, Equipped with at least one unit cell, The at least one unit cell is, A pair of opposing first and second cell plates, The outer surface of the first cell plate, which is arranged to be in direct or indirect contact with the dynamic force source, The outer surface of the second cell plate, which is arranged to be in direct or indirect contact with at least one of the aforementioned objects, A pair of spaced-apart first restraints engage with the inner surface of the first cell plate, extend substantially perpendicularly therefrom for a predetermined distance, and are positioned close to the inner surface of the second cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral position; A pair of spaced-apart second restraints engage with the inner surface of the second cell plate, extending substantially perpendicularly therefrom for a predetermined distance, and positioned close to the inner surface of the first cell plate when the unit cell is in a neutral position; At least one substantially horizontally oriented spring that engages with the first restraint and extends between the first restraints, configured to bias the unit cell to a neutral position, Equipped with, The at least one spring is further configured to expand and contract laterally in the direction of the first and second restraints when it receives a dynamic force from the dynamic force source, thereby causing the first restraint to come into frictional sliding contact with the second restraint, forming at least one energy dissipation dashpot between them. As a result, the at least one spring, the at least one dashpot, and the restraint can transmit dynamic force energy to each other while mechanically deforming in response to the dynamic force transmitted by the dynamic force source. Three-adaptive device.

15. The at least one spring is made of an elastic material, The three-adaptive device according to claim 14.

16. The at least one spring is a substantially planar membrane. The three-adaptive device according to claim 15.

17. Further comprising a plurality of unit cells arranged in parallel to form at least one cell assembly, The three-adaptive device according to claim 14.

18. One or more unit cells of the at least one cell assembly are arranged discontinuously with respect to each other. The three-adaptive device according to claim 17.

19. Further comprising a plurality of cell assemblies arranged in parallel to form at least one assembly layer, The three-adaptive device according to claim 17.

20. Further comprising a plurality of assembly layers arranged in a vertically stacked configuration, The three-adaptive device according to claim 19.

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