Folded structure and design method for folded structure

Abstract

To further compactly fold an objective member having a thickness.SOLUTION: A folded structure 1 includes: a first folded line which radially extends with a rib base as a start point, and at which a mountain-folded line and a valley-folded line are alternately arranged; a second folded line for connecting clearances of the adjacent first folded lines; the rib base; a first face support part 20 forming a plurality of first faces which are surrounded by the adjacent two first folded lines and the second folded lines; a second face support part 30 arranged outside the first face with respect to the rib base along an extension direction of the first folded line, and forming a plurality of second faces which are surrounded by the adjacent two first folded lines and the second folded lines; and a base member 10 having a shape corresponding to the rib base, and turnable with respect to the first face support part 20. Also, the folded structure includes a gusset part including a face which turns relative to the first face support part 20 or the second face support part 30 at least at a part between the first face support part 20 and the second face support part 30 which are arranged along an extension direction of the first folded line.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to a bent structure and a method for designing a bent structure. [Background technology]

[0002] One example of a sheet-like material that can be compactly folded is a method that alternately repeats mountain folds and valley folds, similar to a fan. Patent Document 1 discloses a fan that has a structure that can be folded both horizontally and vertically. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2003-61725 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] However, with the folding structure described in Patent Document 1, for example, if one attempts to fold a sheet horizontally after repeatedly folding it vertically in a mountain and valley direction, it is difficult to fold multiple layers of sheets. In particular, with thicker materials, it is difficult to fold multiple materials at once along overlapping creases.

[0005] This disclosure is made in view of the above, and aims to provide a technology that enables thick target components to be folded more compactly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above objective, a folding structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a folding structure that can fold a target member composed of a combination of plate-shaped members along a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member, each extending radially from the rib base and having alternating mountain fold lines and valley fold lines, and a second fold line which is a continuous single fold line connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines, wherein the second fold line allows the folding structure folded along the first fold line to be folded in one direction, and includes a first surface support portion that forms a plurality of first surfaces enclosed by the rib base, two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, a second surface support portion that is provided outside the first surfaces relative to the rib base along the extending direction of the first fold line and forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, and has a shape corresponding to the rib base and is rotatable relative to the first surface support portion. The rib has a base member, the first surface is rotatable with respect to the rib base by rotating the base member with respect to the first surface support, the second surface is rotatable with respect to the first surface by rotating the first surface support with respect to the second surface support, the plurality of first fold lines include a plurality of mountain fold lines extending radially from different starting points on the rib base, and a plurality of valley fold lines extending radially between adjacent mountain fold lines, each starting from the starting point of the plurality of mountain fold lines, the first surface support includes a plurality of support members that support the surface of the first surface that is continuous along the extending direction of the second fold line and is sandwiched between the first fold lines extending from different starting points, and at least a portion between the first surface support and the second surface support arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line has a gusset portion along the second fold line that connects the first surface support and the second surface support and includes a surface that rotates with respect to the first surface support or the second surface support.

[0007] The gusset portion is provided individually for each of a plurality of sets of first and second surface support portions arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, each set consisting of a first surface support portion on which the support member is provided and a second surface support portion arranged outward from the first surface support portion along the extending direction of the first fold line, and the width of each of the plurality of gusset portions provided along the second fold line may gradually increase from one to the other.

[0008] The first surface support portion may be configured such that it does not support the surface of the first surface that is continuous along the extending direction of the second fold line, and that the surface of the first surface that is sandwiched between the first fold lines extending from the same starting point is an opening.

[0009] The gusset portion may not be provided between the first surface which is an opening and the second surface which is continuously arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line relative to the first surface which is an opening, and the base member side end surface of the second surface which is continuously arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line relative to the first surface which is an opening may be provided outward from the second fold line.

[0010] The plurality of support members may include protrusions that set the first surface supported by each support member at a position spaced apart from the base member, such that the height positions of the first surface supported by each support member are different from those of the base member.

[0011] The height of the protrusion relative to the base member may be such that, in a plurality of support members provided along the second fold line, the height gradually increases along the second fold line, and in a support member where the width of the gusset portion is larger than that of the other support members, the height of the protrusion may be smaller than that of the other support members.

[0012] The plurality of support members may each be provided with a planar reinforcing member, and the plurality of reinforcing members may be positioned so as not to overlap with each other when the folding structure is folded.

[0013] A method for designing a bendable structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for designing a bendable structure in which a target member composed of a combination of plate-shaped members can be bent along a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member, the first fold lines each extending radially from a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member and having alternating mountain fold lines and valley fold lines, and a second fold line which is a continuous single fold line connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines, wherein the second fold line allows the bendable structure bent along the first fold line to be folded in one direction, and the bendable structure comprises the rib base, a first surface support portion that forms a plurality of first surfaces surrounded by the rib base and the second fold line, and a portion provided outside the first surface relative to the rib base along the extending direction of the first fold line and adjacent to the two first fold lines The invention comprises: a second surface support portion that forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion; a base member having a shape corresponding to the rib base and rotatable relative to the first surface support portion; and a gusset portion along the second surface support portion, which connects the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion and includes a surface that rotates relative to the first surface support portion or the second surface support portion, in at least a portion between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion arranged along the extending direction of the first surface support portion. The invention also includes designing the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion; designing the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion based on the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion; designing the gusset portion provided between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion; and designing a hinge portion between the base member and the first surface support portion such that the base member can rotate relative to the first surface support portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] This disclosure provides a technology that enables thick target components to be folded more compactly. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0015] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a view of a structure (folded structure) according to one embodiment, as seen from the surface. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a view of a structure (folded structure) according to one embodiment, seen from the back side. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating the design method for a bent structure. [Figure 4] Figures 4(a) and 4(b) illustrate the bending line design method. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the bending line design method. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the bending line design method. [Figure 7] Figure 7 illustrates the relationship between the fold lines and each face. [Figure 8] Figure 8 illustrates the relationship between the fold lines and the members included in the first and second surface support sections. [Figure 9] Figures 9(a) and 9(b) illustrate the shapes of the members included in the first and second surface support sections. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the base member. [Figure 11] Figures 11(a) to 11(e) illustrate the gusset and hinge sections. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the vicinity of the base and hinge sections. [Figure 13] Figures 13(a) and 13(b) illustrate the folding method of the structure. [Figure 14] Figures 14(a) and 14(b) illustrate the folding method of the structure. [Figure 15] Figures 15(a) and 15(b) illustrate the folding method of the structure. [Figure 16]Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating the folding method of the structure, and shows the movement of some of its components. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the folding method of the structure, and shows the movement of some of its components. [Figure 18] Figures 18(a) and 18(b) illustrate the folding method of the structure and illustrate the movement of some of its components. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a side view of the structure in its folded state. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a plan view of the structure in its folded state. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is an enlarged view of the vicinity of the base member of the structure in its folded state. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0016] The embodiments for implementing this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same elements will be denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0017] In the following embodiments, a folding structure that enables the target component (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "target component") to be folded into a compact shape will be described. A method for manufacturing the above folding structure will also be described.

[0018] The base component for a foldable structure is a component that has a foldable structure. An example of such a component is a combination of plate-like components that are difficult to deform except for the folded parts designed using the method described later. A plate-like component is a component that has a pair of main surfaces, and its material and size are not particularly limited, and it can be applied to, for example, buildings, aerospace, mechanical engineering, and everyday items. Note that a plate-like component only needs to include plate-like components in at least a part of it. A foldable structure forms a planar structure by combining multiple surfaces, but it is sufficient that some of these surfaces are made of plate-like components, and the surfaces that are not made of plate-like components may be made only of a framework, for example. The term "surface" here is not limited to so-called "flat surfaces," but also includes surfaces with some irregularities, and can be considered to form an integrated "surface."

[0019] In the following embodiments, the general structure of the folded structure will first be described, followed by a description of the manufacturing method (design method) of each part of the folded structure. Then, the deformation of the folded structure when folded will be described.

[0020] [Folded structure] Figure 1 is a view of a structure 1 (folded structure) according to one embodiment, seen from the front, and Figure 2 is a view of the structure 1 seen from the back. Figures 1 and 2 show the structure 1 in an unfolded state. In this embodiment, the side on which the gusset portion 40 protrudes when the structure 1 is unfolded is considered the front, and the opposite side is considered the back. However, this setting is just an example, and the setting of the front and back is not particularly limited.

[0021] Structure 1 includes a base member 10, a first surface support portion 20 that radiates outward from the base member 10, a second surface support portion 30 located further from the base member 10 than the first surface support portion 20, and a gusset portion 40 provided between the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30. In the following embodiments, the state close to the base member 10 may be referred to as the "inside," and the state far from the base member 10 may be referred to as the "outside."

[0022] The first surface support portion 20 forms a plurality of inner surfaces (first surfaces) that are provided in a position continuous with the base member 10. The first surface support portion 20 is composed of support members 211 to 215, which will be described later. The second surface support portion 30 forms a plurality of outer surfaces (second surfaces) that are provided outside the inner surfaces. The second surface support portion 30 is composed of support members 311 to 315 and 321 to 324, which will be described later.

[0023] When folded, structure 1 has a first surface support section 20 that forms multiple inner surfaces (first surfaces) and a second surface support section 30 that forms multiple outer surfaces (second surfaces), which overlap each other. At this time, the presence of the gusset section 40 makes it possible to overlap the first surface support section 20 and the second surface support section 30 more neatly.

[0024] The multiple inner surfaces are composed of, for example, a first inner surface P11 that is roughly rectangular in shape and extends from the base member 10, and a second inner surface P12 that is roughly triangular in shape and extends from the base member 10. The multiple outer surfaces are composed of a first outer surface P21 that is located outside the first inner surface P11, and a second outer surface P22 that is located outside the second inner surface P12. The first inner surface P11 and the second inner surface P12 are arranged alternately along the base member 10. More specifically, when viewing the surface of the structure 1, from left to right, there are five first inner surfaces P111 to 115 and four second inner surfaces P121 to 124 arranged alternately. Furthermore, outside of that, there are five first outer surfaces P211 to 215 and four second outer surfaces P221 to 224 arranged alternately. Note that in Figures 1 and 2, only the shape of the first inner surface P111, the second inner surface P121, the first outer surface P211, and the second outer surface P221 is shown, while the other inner and outer surfaces are simply indicated by their location.

[0025] The angle between adjacent first inner surface P11 and second inner surface P12 can be changed. The angle between adjacent first inner surface P11 and first outer surface P21 can also be changed, as can the angle between adjacent second inner surface P12 and second outer surface P22. Furthermore, the angle between adjacent first outer surface P21 and second outer surface P22 can also be changed. The angle between the main surface of the base member 10 and the first inner surface P11, and the angle between the main surface of the base member 10 and the second inner surface P12, can also be changed. Specific configurations for changing these angles will be described later.

[0026] Of these, the adjacent first inner surface P11 and the first outer surface P21 are connected by a gusset portion 40 (gusset portions 42-45 in Figure 1). Therefore, the distance between the first inner surface P11 and the first outer surface P21 can be changed by the deformation of the gusset portion 40. In structure 1, the portion corresponding to the second inner surface P12 is an opening. Therefore, no gusset portion 40 is provided between the second inner surface P12 and the second outer surface P22. Furthermore, since the second inner surface P12 and the second outer surface P22 are connected without a gusset portion 40, their relative positions can change around the boundary portion while they are connected at that boundary. In addition, the inner surfaces P11 and P12 are rotatable relative to the base member 10. As a result, when folding, the base member 10 can be folded in a stacked state in addition to the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30. However, even when folded, in order to maintain the connection between the overlapping first surface support portion 20 and the base member 10, it is necessary to adjust the shape of the hinge portion (hinge portion 50) in order to adjust the positional relationship between the base member 10 and the first surface support portion 20. This point will be described later.

[0027] To realize the above folding structure, the structure 1 has first fold lines that extend radially from the base member 10 and have alternating mountain and valley fold lines, and second fold lines that are continuous fold lines formed by connecting adjacent first fold lines.

[0028] The inner surfaces P11 and P12 are enclosed by the base member 10 and two adjacent first fold lines and a second fold line, respectively. Similarly, the outer surfaces P21 and P22 are enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and a second fold line, respectively. In other words, the boundaries of the inner surfaces P11 and P12, and the boundaries of the outer surfaces P21 and P22, are defined by the first fold line. Furthermore, the space between the first inner surface P11 and the first outer surface P21, and the space between the second inner surface P12 and the second outer surface P22, are defined by the second fold line.

[0029] The first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 are provided to specify the position and shape of the inner surface (first surface) and outer surface (second surface) described above. The shapes of the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 can be changed in various ways, but both the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 have the function of defining the position and shape of the inner surface and outer surface. For example, in this embodiment, the first surface support portion 20 (support members 211 to 215) is not provided at the positions corresponding to the four second inner surfaces P121 to 124, but the position and shape of the four second inner surfaces P121 to 124 are substantially specified by providing the first surface support portion 20 to define the outer shape of the five first inner surfaces P111 to 11. Thus, there are cases in which the first surface support portion 20 is not provided at the positions corresponding to each surface. The same applies to the second surface support portion 30. However, the outer edge of the outer surface (second surface) (the edge furthest from the base member 10) is not adjacent to any other surface and can therefore be defined by the second surface support portion 30.

[0030] [Design (and manufacturing) methods for folded structures] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the design method for structure 1. The design method for each part of structure 1 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 3 and Figures 4 to 10.

[0031] First, in step S01, the first and second folded lines are set. In this step, the base member 10 used in the design of the first and second folded lines is also set.

[0032] The design of the folded lines in step S01 will be explained with reference to Figures 4-6. First, as shown in Figure 4(a), the rib base and reference line, which form the basis of the folded lines, are set. The rib base is the reference part when designing the folded lines. Here, the reference circle O is set as the rib base. This reference circle O is the circle that serves as the basis for folding the structure 1. Here, the case where the rib base is circular is explained, but the rib base includes a line segment of a certain length to identify the reference point when designing the folded lines, and its shape is not particularly limited. As an example, various annular shapes such as a perfect circle or an ellipse can be set as the rib base. The rib base is the reference area for designing the first folded lines (radial folding lines) described later, and is the starting point H0~H of the folded lines described later. m It is determined that it will be possible to set this.

[0033] Furthermore, a reference point A and a reference line MN are set corresponding to the reference circle O. Reference point A is used as a reference point for designing the first polyline described later. Reference point A may be set outside the rib base, but its location is not particularly limited. Also, as shown in Figure 4(a), the reference line MN can be a straight line set between the reference circle O and reference point A, or on reference point A. The direction in which the reference line MN extends is, for example, the direction that demarcates the space between reference point A and reference circle O (the direction that intersects the line connecting reference point A and reference circle O), but it is not limited to this direction. Also, in this embodiment, there is one reference point A, but multiple reference points may be set. At least the intersection points F1~F described later are located on the reference line MN. m It is sufficient that the reference line MN is set so that it can be set. Therefore, without setting the reference point A in advance, for example, the intersection points F1~F described later are on the reference line MN. m By directly specifying the intersection points F1~F m You may decide that.

[0034] Next, for the design of the first fold line, the starting point of the fold line H0~H mSet it. Starting points H0 to H m are respectively provided on the reference circle O (rib base). As an example, in the example shown in Fig. 4(a), first, after determining the starting point H0, the starting point H1 is set with respect to the starting point H0 such that the arc of the reference circle O becomes the circumferential angle θ1. Similarly, the starting point H2 is set with respect to the starting point H1 such that the circumferential angle becomes θ2. By repeating this operation, the positions of the starting points H0 to H m are determined.

[0035] At this time, the starting points H1 to H m are respectively connected to the reference point A. Also, the intersection points of the lines connecting the starting points H1 to H m and the reference point A and the reference line MN are respectively the intersection points F1 to F m Let them be. The line segment H i F i (i = 1 to m) corresponds to the direction of the rib when folded based on the folding line. Note that the intersection points F1 to F m may be designed without using the reference point A as described above. The positions of the intersection points F1 to F m affect the arrangement, angle, etc. of the designed folding line, and are one of the parameters to be adjusted after design.

[0036] <00003—49>Next, as shown in Fig. 4(b), with the line segment H0H1 between adjacent starting points on the reference circle O serving as the rib base as a reference, a broken line H1A'1 symmetric to the line H1A is drawn. Similarly, with the line segments H1H2 to H m-1 H m as a reference, broken lines H2A'2 to H m symmetric to the line segments H2A to H m A m A' m A' m are drawn. Here, these broken lines H1A'1 to H

[0037] become the mountain folding lines when folding the structure 1. m A' m Next, on the broken lines H1A'1 to H m with the starting points H1 to H m as a reference, vertices F'1 to F'<Set up vertices F'1~F' m These are the points that serve as the basis for designing the second polyline. Then, vertices F'1~F' m Starting from each point, the line segment H corresponds to each point. i-1 H i Line segments F1M~F are such that they are symmetric with respect to each other. m Line segment F'1M'1~F' corresponding to M m M' m Design it.

[0038] On the other hand, starting points H1~H m Based on this, the broken line H1A'1~H m A' m By rotating it by a predetermined angle, the fold lines H1B'1~H become valley fold lines. m B' m This is designed. The predetermined angle at this time is, for example, the polyline H. i A' i and line H i B' i The angle between them is ∠H i-1 H i H i+1 =Θ i In this case, it is designed so that π-Θ. If the rib base is a perfect circle like the reference circle O, then this π-Θ is (θ i +θ i+1 This results in a configuration corresponding to the first fold line L1, which alternates between mountain folds and valley folds.

[0039] Here, H i B' i and F' i+1 M' i+1 The intersection point is the rifling line H. i B' i Vertex V' in i (V'1~V' m ) can be expressed as F' i and V' i The line passing through corresponds to the second fold line, which is a fold line that intersects the mountain and valley fold lines corresponding to the first fold line. That is, this switching point V' iThe design of i is important as the design of the second fold line. That is, the lines F’1, V’1, F’2, V’2, F’3, V’3, …, F’ i , V’ i-1 , … continuing are equivalent to a plurality of second fold lines, and line segments F’1V’1, line segment V’1F’2, …, line segment F’ i-1 V’ i-1 F’ i … etc. correspond to each second fold line.

[0040] In the above design process, the relationships of the following mathematical formulas (1) and (2) hold. This is also clear from FIG. 5. ∠V’ i-1 F’ i H i = ∠V’ i F’ i H i …(1) ∠F’ i V’ i H i = ∠F’ i+1 V’ i H i …(2)

[0041] The point F’’ shown in FIG. 5 i is obtained by placing the point F i symmetrically with respect to the line segment H i+1 H i . At this time, θ i is the angle between the line segment H i-1 H i and the line segment H i H i+1 . Here, when the flat foldability around H i is satisfied (that is, ∠F’ i H i V’ i = π - θ i ), △H i V’ i F’ i and △H i V’ i F’’ iThey coincide. Therefore, the relationship between equations (1) and (2) above is satisfied. These equations also mean that flat folding is satisfied around these vertices. The condition for satisfying "flat folding" above is based on Kawasaki's theorem (theorem of flatness).

[0042] Through the steps so far, multiple first fold lines L1(H i A' i ,H i B' i ) and multiple second polylines L2(F' i V' i ,V' i F' i+1 ) are formed, but folding along these fold lines can lead to the following problems. That is, if you simply try to fold the structure along the fold lines formed in the previous steps, after folding the mountain fold and valley fold based on the first fold line, if you try to fold it along the second fold line, the second fold lines will compete with each other at the same position in the folded shape. Therefore, the first and second fold lines are corrected so that the axis of rotation (hinge) of the sheet when folded moves slightly between multiple second fold lines.

[0043] The correction of the first and second fold lines is performed starting from vertex F'1. The corrected vertex is then pointed to as point F * i ,V * i Let's assume that in this case, the corrected vertex V * Point 1 is plotted at the intersection of the line obtained by rotating line segment V'1F'1 by φ1 around F'1 and the radial fold line H1B'1. Also, line segment V * 1F * With point 2 parallel to the original line segment V'1F'2, the corrected vertex F * The corrected vertex F is set so that 2 is the intersection point with line segment H2A'2. * 2 is determined. Furthermore, vertex F * Using 2 as the reference, follow the procedure described above to vertex V * 2 is determined (the rotation angle at this time is assumed to be φ2). By repeating this process, the vertices F that make up the corrected second polyline are determined. *i and V * i The corrected vertex F is determined. * i and V * i of i The line segments (...,F) pass through them alternately in the order of... * i-1 ,V * i-1 ,F * i ,V * i ,F * i+1 ,V * i+1 Let the collection of ,…) be the corrected multiple second polylines L'2.

[0044] Furthermore, in accordance with this correction, the line segment F' is the line segment outside the intersection point of the first radial fold line with the second fold line. i A' i and line segment V' i B' i This is the corrected vertex F * i Corrected vertex V * i It is redrawn based on the original line segment F'. i A' i and line segment V' i B' i Angle φ i Corrected line segment F after rotation by that amount. * i A * i and F * i B * i This is drawn. As a result, the corrected first fold line L'1, outside the intersection point with the corrected second fold line L'2, forms an angle φ with respect to the line segment inside the corrected second fold line L'2. i The resulting fold line is tilted only slightly.

[0045] In Figure 6, each starting point H1 to H on the reference circle O mVarious figures are defined by the first fold line L'1 and the second fold line L'2. Each of these figures corresponds to a face in structure 1. Specifically, line segments H1H2, line segment H1V * 1. Line segment H2F * 2. Line segment V * 1F * The quadrilateral enclosed by 2 corresponds to the first inner surface P11. Also, line segment V * 1F * Outside of 2, the region sandwiched between the first fold line L'1 and the second fold line L'2 corresponds to the first outer surface P21. Also, line segment H2F is formed adjacent to the first inner surface P11. * 2. Line segment H2V * 2. Line segment F * 2V * The triangle enclosed by 2 corresponds to the second inner surface P12. Also, line segment F * 2V * Outside of point 2, the region sandwiched between the first fold line L'1 and the second fold line L'2 corresponds to the second outer surface P22. The outer periphery of the first outer surface P21 and the second outer surface P22 is separately defined by the outer shape of the structure 1, but as described above, each fold line and reference circle are considered to be the basic fold lines of the folded shape in the structure 1.

[0046] Figure 7 shows the reference circle O, the corrected first fold line L'1, and the corrected second fold line L'2. The corrected first fold line L'1 and second fold line L'2 become the basic fold lines for folding the outer and inner surfaces of structure 1. In other words, as shown in Figure 7, the reference circle O, the corrected first fold line L'1, and the corrected second fold line L'2 define five first inner surfaces P111-115, four second inner surfaces P121-124, five first outer surfaces P211-215, and four second outer surfaces P221-224.

[0047] By correcting the first and second fold lines as described above, the design of the first and second fold lines is completed. Also, the starting point H0~H mThe outer edge of the reference circle O, where the reference circle was set, becomes the boundary between the base member 10 and the inner surfaces P11 and P12. The base member 10, described later, may be slightly larger than the reference circle O (extending towards the inner surfaces P11 and P12). This is because the pivot axis of the base member 10 and the first surface support portion 20 relative to the base member 10 is located on the base member 10 side. This point will be explained later.

[0048] Furthermore, after designing the first and second fold lines using the procedure described above, the procedure may include a step to verify whether the designed fold lines (reference circle, first fold line, and second fold line) are suitable for the pre-configured settings.

[0049] Next, in step S02, the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 are designed using the first fold line L'1 and the second fold line L'2 designed in step S01.

[0050] Figure 8 shows an image of the arrangement of the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 for forming the inner surfaces P11, P12 and outer surfaces P21, P22 shown in Figure 7, and the base member 10 continuous with the first surface support portion 20. Of the gray areas shown in Figure 8, the areas that are different from the area shown as the base member 10 correspond to the parts of the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 shown in Figure 9(a). Figure 9(a) also shows the configuration of each part of the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 in detail. Furthermore, Figure 9(b) is a design drawing of the folded shape when the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 are folded.

[0051] As shown in Figures 8 and 9(a), the first surface support section 20 has support members 211 to 215 at positions corresponding to the inner surface P11 (five first inner surfaces P111 to 115). On the other hand, there is no member at the position corresponding to the inner surface P12 (four second inner surfaces P121 to 124), and it is an open. The second surface support section 30 has support members 311 to 315 at positions corresponding to the outer surface P21 (five first outer surfaces P211 to 215), and support members 321 to 324 at positions corresponding to the outer surface P22 (four second outer surfaces P221 to 224). Among the support members constituting the second surface support section 30, between adjacent support members, for example, between support member 311 and support member 321, or between support member 321 and support member 312, a hinge or similar component may be provided so that the relative position can be changed by the two support members rotating around a pivot axis extending along the first fold line L'1 corresponding to the boundary between support member 311 and support member 321. As described in this embodiment, when plate-shaped support members are connected by hinges or the like, the hinge or similar component may be arranged alternately on the back side, front side, etc. of the plate so that the pivot axis is formed on the main surface on the valley fold side of the pair of main surfaces. With such a configuration, when the support members 311-315 and 321-324 are folded, they can be stacked without any gaps (see also Figure 19).

[0052] The support members 211 to 215 that constitute the first surface support section 20 each have connecting portions 211a to 215a that protrude toward the reference circle O. In Figure 9(a), the outer circumference of the reference circle O is shown by a dashed line, and the connecting portions 211a to 215a each extend toward the center of the reference circle O (see Figure 4(a)). That is, regardless of the extension direction of the support members 211 to 215, they are directed toward the center of the reference circle O, so for example, the connecting portion 215a extends in a direction different from the extension direction of the support member 215. The connecting portions 211a to 215a are configured to enable proper support of the support members 211 to 215 when they are unfolded (rotated). A hinge portion is provided on the back surface of the support members 211 to 215 to enable rotation of the support members 211 to 215 relative to the base member 10. The hinge portion will be described later.

[0053] Furthermore, it is assumed that when the structure 1 is folded along the corrected first fold line L'1 and second fold line L'2, it will take on the shape shown in Figure 9(b). The areas shown by the thick lines in Figure 9(b) correspond to, for example, the support members 215 and 315. Thus, the first fold line L'1 and the second fold line L'2 are designed so that the support members 211-215, 311-315, and 321-324 that constitute the first surface support section 20 overlap.

[0054] Reinforcement members may be provided on the support members 211 to 215. As shown in Figure 9(a), in this embodiment, reinforcement members 211b to 215b are provided for each of the support members 211 to 215. The reinforcement members 211b to 215b are each provided on the root portion of the support members 211 to 215 that is close to the base member 10. In addition, the reinforcement members 211b to 215b are also provided on the connecting portions 211a to 215a. They are positioned so as not to interfere with each other when the structure 1 is folded.

[0055] If the support members 211-215 constituting the first surface support section 20 and the support members 311-315, 321-324 constituting the second surface support section 30 are formed from plate material, it is expected that while the rigidity will be high, the total weight will be large. Therefore, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 8 and 9(a), etc., openings may be provided in the support members to reduce weight. On the other hand, since there is a concern that rigidity will decrease while weight is reduced by providing openings, it is expected that some kind of reinforcement will be provided. The reinforcing members 211b-215b are members that reinforce the first surface support section 20, which is particularly close to the base member 10, among the first surface support section 20 and the second surface support section 30. The mounting position of the reinforcing members is not particularly limited, but if the reinforcing members 211b-215b are arranged in a way that prevents interference with other support members, the rigidity of the structure 1 can be increased while maintaining the compact shape of the structure 1 when folded. This point will be discussed later.

[0056] Figure 10 is an example of a schematic plan view of the base member 10. The base member 10 has a starting point H set on the outer edge of the reference circle O. i Notches 111 to 115 for forming hinges are formed at positions corresponding to (for example, H1 to H5). In the example shown in Figure 10, notches 111 to 115 are provided at positions corresponding to support members 211 to 215. Each of the notches 111 to 115 includes a shaft housing portion (for example, shaft housing portion 111a) that houses a shaft member which becomes a pivot axis t along the outer edge of the reference circle O, and a hinge housing portion (for example, hinge housing portion 111b) that houses a hinge portion which rotates the support member along the pivot axis t.

[0057] As shown in Figure 10, the pivot axes (t1 to t5) of the support members 211 to 215 relative to the base member 10 are located inside the outer circumference 10a of the base member 10 and correspond to the outer edge of the reference circle O. On the other hand, the connecting portions 211a to 215a are formed on the base member 10 side of the position where the base member 10 and the first surface support portion 20 overlap in a plan view (see also Figure 1).

[0058] Next, in step S03, the gusset portion 40 between the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 is designed.

[0059] The gusset portion 40 is provided at the boundary between support member 211 and support member 311, the boundary between support member 212 and support member 312, the boundary between support member 213 and support member 313, the boundary between support member 214 and support member 314, and the boundary between support member 215 and support member 315. Figures 11(a) to 11(e) show the gusset portion 45 provided at the boundary between support member 215 and support member 315, the gusset portion 44 provided at the boundary between support member 214 and support member 314, the gusset portion 43 provided at the boundary between support member 213 and support member 313, the gusset portion 42 provided at the boundary between support member 212 and support member 312, and the gusset portion 41 provided at the boundary between support member 211 and support member 311, respectively.

[0060] The basic structure of the gusset portion 40 will be described with reference to the gusset portion 45. As illustrated in Figure 11(a), the gusset portion 45 is composed of a first gusset 45a that is continuous with the support member 215 on the first surface support portion 20 side and protrudes perpendicularly to the support member 215, and a second gusset 45b that is continuous with the support member 315 on the second surface support portion 30 side and protrudes perpendicularly to the support member 315. Similarly, the gusset portion 44 includes a first gusset 44a and a second gusset 44b, the gusset portion 43 includes a first gusset 43a and a second gusset 43b, and the gusset portion 42 includes a first gusset 42a and a second gusset 42b. However, the gusset portion 41 does not have a gusset in substance. In the structure 1 described in this embodiment, when folded, the support member 211 and the support member 311 are in contact when folded. Therefore, a gusset portion 41 connecting the support member 211 and the support member 311 is not provided. However, gusset portions may be provided on the support member 211 and the support member 311, and their structure can be modified as appropriate.

[0061] The first chock 45a and the second chock 45b are each made of plate material (see also Figure 1), and their boundary is connected by a hinge or the like. As a result, as shown in Figure 11(a), the first chock 45a and the second chock 45b each rotate around a pivot axis q5 set by a hinge or the like. The length of the first chock 45a and the second chock 45b to the pivot axis q5 (length from the end of the support member to the pivot axis q) is set so that the second chock 45b is longer. This is set considering the thickness of the support members 211~215 and the thickness of the support members 311~315, 321~324 when the structure 1 is folded.

[0062] Similar to gusset section 45, gusset sections 44, 43, and 42 are also composed of first gussets 44a to 42a and second gussets 44b to 42b, respectively, as shown in Figures 11(b) to 11(d). However, the shapes of the first and second gussets are the same as those of gusset section 45. However, the total length of both the first and second gussets (i.e., the gusset width) decreases in the order of gusset sections 45, 44, 43, and 42. This is because when folded, support members 211 and 311 are positioned furthest inward, sandwiched between support members 212 and 312, and then the support members 213 and 313, support members 214 and 314, and support members 215 and 315 are positioned outward in that order when folded. Therefore, the gussets connecting the outer support members 215 and 315 are set to be longer, and the gussets connecting the support members become shorter as they are positioned further inward, with the innermost support members 211 and 311 having a shape in which the gussets are virtually nonexistent.

[0063] Similar to the gusset section 45, the boundaries between the first and second gusset sections 44-42 are connected by hinges, allowing them to rotate around pivot axes q4-q2. Furthermore, a pivot axis q1 is also provided by hinges between the support members 211 and 311, where the gusset section 41 is virtually absent, allowing them to rotate around this pivot axis q1. The pivot axes q1-q5 are set to be at the same height after folding, a point that will be explained later.

[0064] Next, in step S04, the shape of the second surface support portion 30 is adjusted, and the shape of the second outer surface P22 of the outer surface is adjusted.

[0065] In the design examples of the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 shown in Figures 8 and 9(a), the first fold line L'1 (see Figure 8) teethThe second fold line L'2 appears in the outer shape of support members 211-215 and at the boundaries between adjacent support members among support members 311-315 and 321-324. On the other hand, the second fold line L'2 appears at the boundary between support member 211 and support member 311, the boundary between support member 212 and support member 312, the boundary between support member 213 and support member 313, the boundary between support member 214 and support member 314, and the boundary between support member 215 and support member 315. On the other hand, the base member side end faces 321a-324a of support members 321-324 are provided outside the second fold line L'2. In other words, as shown in Figure 9(a), the design is such that the opening corresponding to the second inner surface (P12) extends beyond the second fold line L'2. The reason the opening is set to extend beyond the second fold line L'2 is to prevent interference when the structure 1 is folded. The extent to which the base member side end faces 321a to 324a of the support members 321 to 324 are moved outward from the second fold line L'2 (to enlarge the opening) can be changed depending on the shape of the structure 1, and also depending on its material, etc.

[0066] Next, in step S05, the shape of the hinge portion 50 is designed. As described above, the support members 21 to 25 of the first surface support portion 20 are provided with hinge portions 51 to 55 as the hinge portion 50.

[0067] The basic structure of the hinge portion 50 will be explained with reference to the hinge portion 55. As shown in Figure 11(a), the hinge portion 55 is composed of a projection 55a that extends vertically from the back surface of the support member 215 and connects the back surface of the support member 215 to the pivot axis t5 (see also Figure 10) relative to the base member 10, and a portion 55b that restricts further rotation of the support member 215 when the support member 215 rotates around the pivot axis t5. The projection 55a is provided with a through hole (not shown) through which the shaft member constituting the pivot axis t5 passes. With the shaft member inserted onto the pivot shaft t5, the shaft member is housed in the shaft housing (e.g., shaft housing 111a) and the protruding portion 55a is housed in the hinge housing (e.g., hinge housing 111b). This arrangement allows the hinge portion 55, including the protruding portion 55a, and the support member 215 to which the hinge portion 55 is attached, to rotate relative to the pivot shaft t5 with respect to the base member 10. The length L51 of the protruding portion 55a is set so that the support member 215 does not interfere with other members when the support member 215 rotates relative to the base member 10, and so that the base member 10 folds more compactly when the structure 1 is folded.

[0068] The restricting portion 55b is provided on the side opposite to the extending direction of the support member 215 (towards the gusset portion 45) (towards the center of the reference circle O), with the pivot axis t5 in between. The restricting portion 55b may, for example, be provided near the tip of the connecting portion 215a provided on the support member 215. The restricting portion 55b is shaped to extend vertically from the back surface of the support member 215, similar to the protruding portion 55a. The length L52 of the restricting portion 55b is set by the arrangement of the support member 215 when the structure 1 is unfolded. When the structure 1 is unfolded, the rotation angle of the support member 215 relative to the base member 10 is maximized compared to when the structure 1 is folded. The restricting portion 55b is set according to the rotation angle of the support member 215 when the structure 1 is unfolded. Furthermore, if the support member 215 is inclined with respect to the surface of the base member 10 at the position where the rotation angle of the support member 215 is maximum, the tip portion that contacts the base member 10 may be inclined, as in the restricting portion 55b, to increase the contact area with the base member 10.

[0069] The hinges 54 to 51 shown in Figures 11(b) to 11(e) are also constructed similarly to the hinge 55, including protruding parts 54a to 51a that connect the pivot axis and the support member, and restricting parts 54b to 51b that restrict the rotation of the support member. The protruding parts 54a to 51a are rotatable around axes t4, t3, t2, and t1, respectively.

[0070] Here, the length L1 of the protrusion is set to decrease in the order of hinge parts 51 to 55. Similarly, the length L2 of the restricting part is also set to decrease in the order of hinge parts 51 to 55. This is because the base member 10 is located on the outermost side when the structure 1 is folded. When the base member 10 is on the outermost side when folded, the support member 211, which is the innermost of the support members 211 to 215 when folded, has the greatest distance from the base member 10. Therefore, the length L1 of the protrusion 51b is made the longest in order to maintain the state in which the base member 10 and the support member 211 are connected via the pivot axis t1 when folded. In other words, the length L1 of the protrusion 55a attached to the support member 215, which is located closest to the base member 10 when folded, is set to be the shortest compared to the protrusions attached to the other support members 211 to 214. In this way, the lengths of the protruding parts 51a to 55a (protrusion length) are set based on the positional relationship between the base member 10 and the support members 211 to 215 when folded. Furthermore, the lengths of the restricting parts 51b to 55b (protrusion length) are set in accordance with the lengths of the protruding parts 51a to 55a and the arrangement of the support members 211 to 215 based on the arrangement of each surface when the structure 1 is unfolded, so that the unfolded shape of the structure 1 is appropriately maintained.

[0071] In Figure 12, the restricting portions 51b to 55b of the hinge portions 51 to 55 attached to the connecting portions 211a to 215a of the support members 211 to 215 are shown in contact with the base member 10. Since the lengths L1 of the protruding portions 51a to 55a and the lengths L2 of the restricting portions 51b to 55b are set to be different in the hinge portions 51 to 55, even when the structure 1 is extended (similar to the state shown in Figures 1 and 2), the height positions of the support members 211 to 215 relative to the base member 10 are different, as shown in Figure 12.

[0072] Based on the above design, the individual parts can be manufactured and combined to produce structure 1. To achieve rotation based on the pivot axis of each part as described above, known hinge structures or the like may be used. Alternatively, a rotatable configuration can be achieved simply by connecting the rotating members on the pivot axis with tape or the like.

[0073] [Instructions for folding the structure] The folding procedure for structure 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 13 to 21. Figures 1 and 2 show structure 1 in its unfolded state. Here, we will explain how each part deforms and moves when folding structure 1 from the state shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0074] Figures 13(a), 13(b), 14(a), 14(b), 15(a), and 15(b) all show the intermediate shapes of structure 1 when it is folded. Figure 13(a) is a view of structure 1 from the back side, and Figure 13(b) is a view of structure 1 from the front side. Similarly, Figures 14(a) and 14(b) are views of structure 1 from the back side, and Figures 15(a) and 15(b) are views of structure 1 from the front side. These figures show structure 1 from different angles to explain the operation of each part.

[0075] First, when folding structure 1, as shown in Figures 13(a) and 13(b), the support members 211 to 215 are rotated relative to the base member 10 around the pivot axis t1 to t5 between the hinge parts 51 to 55 and the base member 10. At this time, since the hinge parts 51 to 55 are provided with restricting parts 51b to 55b, the support members 211 to 215 are rotated in a direction in which the restricting parts 51b to 55b move away from the base member 10, that is, in a direction in which the support members wrap around toward the back surface of the base member 10. In Figures 13(a) and 13(b), the direction of rotation at this time is indicated by arrows.

[0076] The pivot axes t1 to t5, which extend along the tangent to the reference circle O, extend in slightly different directions from each other. In addition, the connecting portions 211a to 215a, which extend from the support members 211 to 215, extend in a direction perpendicular to the pivot axes t1 to t5. The support members 211 to 215 that form the inner surface P11 extend in different directions from the connecting portions 211a to 215a. Therefore, the support member 211, which extends in almost the same direction as the connecting portion 211a, rotates while extending in a direction perpendicular to the pivot axis t1, but the support member 215, which extends in a different direction from the connecting portion 215a, changes its direction of extension to align with the pivot axis t5 as it rotates (see also Figure 14(b)).

[0077] As a result, as shown in Figures 14(a), 14(b), 15(a), 15(b), etc., as the support members 211 to 215 are rotated relative to the base member 10, the support members 211 to 215 gradually move closer to each other. Then, as shown in Figure 15(b), the support members 211 to 215 that constitute the first surface support portion 20 begin to overlap.

[0078] At this time, the angle of support members 311 to 315 changes in accordance with the rotation of support members 211 to 215. Also, in accordance with the change in the relative position of support members 311 to 315, support members 311 to 315 and the support members 321 to 324 located between them gradually fold, as shown in Figures 14(a), (b), etc. That is, the first fold line L is provided between adjacent support members among support members 311 to 315 and 321 to 324. * The support member rotates along the pivot axis provided along 1, and the first folded line L * The material is folded along the mountain and valley fold lines set in step 1. As a result, as shown in Figures 15(a), (b), etc., the support members constituting the second surface support section 30 are folded in an alternating pattern of mountain and valley folds, with support members 321 to 324 sandwiched between support members 311 to 315.

[0079] In this way, as the support members 211-215 constituting the first surface support section 20 and the support members 311-315, 321-324 constituting the second surface support section 30 deform in a way that makes them appear folded, the gusset portions 42-45 deform so that the first gusset and the second gusset are separated, as shown in Figures 15(a), (b), etc. Also in this process, for example, as shown in Figure 14(a), the gusset portion 45 passes near the base member side end face 324a of the support member 324. Similarly, the gusset portion 44 passes near the base member side end face 323a of the support member 323, the gusset portion 43 passes near the base member side end face 322a of the support member 322, and the gusset portion 42 passes near the base member side end face 321a of the support member 321. As described above, in the support members 321 to 324, the end face on the base member 10 side is set outward from the second fold line L'2, and the opening corresponding to the second inner surface P12 is made larger, thereby preventing the gusset portions 42 to 45 from interfering with the support members 321 to 324 when they deform.

[0080] Depending on the shape of the gusset portions 42-45, it may be possible to prevent interference between the gusset portions 42-45 and the support members 321-324 without enlarging the opening.

[0081] As structure 1 is deformed in a folding manner, the first and second gussets open up so that the angle between them increases. At the same time, the positions of the support members 211 to 215 constituting the first surface support section 20 gradually change so that they overlap each other. At this time, as shown in Figures 15(a) and (b), the gussets begin to overlap as the folding progresses. In Figures 15(a) and (b), as the first gusset 45a and second gusset 45b of gusset section 45 deform to spread out, gusset section 44 moves closer to gusset section 45, and the first gusset 44a of gusset section 44 overlaps the first gusset 45a of gusset section 45, and the second gusset 44b overlaps the second gusset 45b. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 15(b), gusset section 43 also moves closer and similarly deforms to overlap. In this way, as the support members 211 to 215 are rotated relative to the base member 10, the support members 211 to 215 constituting the first surface support section 20 and the support members 311 to 315 and 321 to 324 constituting the second surface support section 30 deform in a folded manner, the gusset sections 42 to 45 rotate so that the first gusset and the second gusset spread out from each other, and the gusset sections 42 to 45 change so that they overlap each other.

[0082] As shown in Figure 11, the angle between support members 211-215 and support members 311-315 changes according to the angle between the first and second gussets. Support members 321-324 follow the movement of support members 311-315. Therefore, as the first and second gussets of gusset sections 42-45 rotate to spread apart from each other, the angle between support members 211-215 constituting the first surface support section 20 and support members 311-315, 321-324 constituting the second surface support section 30 changes. When gusset sections 42-45 are fully open and the angle between the first and second gussets becomes 180°, the folding of the structure 1 is completed.

[0083] Figures 16 to 18 show the changes in the arrangement of the support members 214, 314, 324 and the gusset portion 44 when the above structure 1 is folded. Figure 16 shows the various parts of structure 1, but in Figures 17 and 18(a) and 18(b), the display of support members other than support members 214, 314, and 324 is omitted.

[0084] In Figure 16, the structure 1 is in a state before the support member 214 is rotated relative to the base member 10, with support members 214, 314, and 324 spread out in positions where they do not overlap each other. Also, the gusset portion 44 is folded. In contrast, as the structure 1 is folded while the support member 214 is rotated relative to the base member 10, the support member 314 rotates in the opposite direction (arrow K2 shown in Figure 17) to the rotation direction of the support member 214 (arrow K1 shown in Figure 17). As the support member 314 rotates relative to the support member 214, the gusset portion 44 gradually opens. Furthermore, the support member 324 is folded so that it overlaps with the support member 314. The support members 314 and 324 can rotate about the axis corresponding to the first fold line L'1. Therefore, as shown in Figure 17, their positions change so that the support member 324 overlaps with the support member 314.

[0085] When the folding of structure 1 is complete, the gusset portion 44 is fully open, as shown in Figures 18(a) and 18(b). At this time, as shown in Figure 18(b), support member 214 and support member 314 face each other, separated by a distance corresponding to the width of the gusset portion 44. Furthermore, support member 314 and support member 324 overlap while touching each other. Although Figures 18(a) and 18(b) show only some of the support members, the other support members deform in a similar manner. That is, as support members 211, 212, 213, and 215 rotate relative to the base member 10, support members 311, 312, 313, 315, 321, 322, and 323 rotate relative to each other. Furthermore, as the gusset portion opens, the support members deform so that they overlap each other, resulting in a stacked state where the support members face each other with the gusset portion in between.

[0086] Figures 19 to 21 show the structure 1 when folded. Figure 19 is a view of the structure 1 from the side, and Figure 20 is a view of the structure 1 from the back. Figure 21 is a magnified view of the vicinity of the hinges 51-55 after folding.

[0087] As shown in Figures 19 and 20, in the folded state, the set of support members 211 and 311 is located on the inside, and the set of support members 212 and 312 connected by the gusset portion 42, the set of support members 213 and 313 connected by the gusset portion 43, the set of support members 214 and 314 connected by the gusset portion 44, and the set of support members 215 and 315 connected by the gusset portion 45 are overlapped in a roughly U-shape, in this order from the inside out. In addition, support members 321, 322, 323, and 324 are overlapped so as to fit between the support members 311, 312, 313, 314, and 315. Furthermore, the base member 10 is located outside the support members 215, while being connected to the support members 211 to 215 via hinge portions 51 to 55 (see Figure 20).

[0088] In this case, the reinforcing members 211b to 215b that reinforce the support members 211 to 215 are shaped so that they do not overlap with each other, as shown in Figure 20, and are attached to the support members 211 to 215 respectively. As a result, as shown in Figure 19, when folded, the reinforcing members 211b to 215b do not overlap with each other, thus preventing the thickness from increasing when folded due to the reinforcing members 211b to 215b.

[0089] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 19 and 21, since the lengths L1 of the protrusions 51a to 55a differ among the support members 211 to 215, even when the support members 211 to 215 overlap, the connection between each support member 211 to 215 and the base member 10 is maintained via the connecting portions 211a to 215a.

[0090] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19, in the folded state, the pivot axes q2 to q5 of the first and second gussets in the gusset sections 42 to 45 are at the same height as the pivot axis q1 between the support member 211 and the support member 315. Also, the pivot axis q1 is located at a position corresponding to the second fold line L'2. Therefore, the pivot axes q2 to q5 are also set at a position corresponding to the second fold line L'2. With this configuration, it is thought that strain will be less likely to occur in each member constituting the structure 1, thus making the folding and unfolding of the structure 1 smoother.

[0091] [Effect] In the structure 1 (foldable structure) according to the above embodiment, a target member composed of a combination of plate-shaped members can be folded along a first fold line in which mountain fold lines and valley fold lines are arranged alternately, and a second fold line which is a continuous single fold line connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines. Specifically, the first fold lines each extend radially from a reference circle O corresponding to a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member, and mountain fold lines and valley fold lines are arranged alternately. Furthermore, the structure 1 includes a rib base, a first surface support portion 20 that forms a plurality of first surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and a second fold line, a second surface support portion 30 that is provided outside the first surfaces relative to the rib base along the extending direction of the first fold line and forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and a second fold line, and a base member 10 that has a shape corresponding to the rib base and is rotatable relative to the first surface support portion. Of these, the first surface is rotatable relative to the rib base by rotating the base member 10 relative to the first surface support 20, and the second surface is rotatable relative to the first surface by rotating the first surface support 20 relative to the second surface support 30. Furthermore, the plurality of first fold lines include a plurality of mountain fold lines extending radially from mutually different starting points on the rib base, and a plurality of valley fold lines extending radially between adjacent mountain fold lines, each starting from one of the starting points of the plurality of mountain fold lines, and the first surface support 20 includes a plurality of support members 211 to 215 that support the surface of the first surface that is continuous along the extending direction of the second fold line and is sandwiched between the first fold lines extending from mutually different starting points. Furthermore, the structure 1 has a gusset portion 40 (41-45) along the second fold line, which includes a first gusset and a second gusset, which are surfaces that connect the first and second surfaces and rotate relative to the first or second surface, in at least a portion of the space between the first and second surfaces arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line.

[0092] A design method for a bendable structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a design method for a bendable structure that allows a target member, which is composed of a combination of plate-shaped members, to bend along a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member, with each of the first fold lines extending radially from the rib base and having alternating mountain fold lines and valley fold lines, and a second fold line which is a single continuous fold line formed by connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines. The second fold line allows the folded structure, which is folded along the first fold line, to be folded in one direction. The folded structure comprises a rib base, a first surface support portion that forms a plurality of first surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, a second surface support portion that is provided outside the first surfaces relative to the rib base along the extending direction of the first fold line and forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, a base member having a shape corresponding to the rib base and rotatable relative to the first surface support portion, and arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line. The present invention includes a gusset portion 40 along a second fold line, which is located at least a portion between the first and second surface support portions and includes a surface that connects the first and second surface support portions and rotates relative to the first or second surface support portion, and comprises designing the first and second fold lines, designing the first and second surface support portions based on the first and second fold lines, designing the gusset portion provided between the first and second surface support portions, and designing a hinge portion between the base member and the first surface support portion so that the base member can rotate relative to the first surface support portion.

[0093] In the above-described structure 1 and its design method, a gusset section 40 including a first gusset and a second gusset is provided in order to realize a more compact folding structure. Therefore, when the structure 1 is folded, the gusset section 40 can be used to easily and compactly overlap the support members 211-215 included in the first surface support section 20 and the support members 311-315, 321-324 included in the second surface support section 30.

[0094] As described in the above embodiment, if the support members 211-215 included in the first surface support section 20, which forms a plurality of first surfaces (inner surfaces) and second surfaces (outer surfaces), and the support members 311-315, 321-324 included in the second surface support section 30 are each made of plate-shaped members, then if these are simply combined and connected with hinges, it is thought that they cannot be folded until they overlap each other (to a 180° position) due to the effect of plate thickness. Furthermore, since plate-shaped members cannot be bent like flexible members, forcing them to deform will lead to damage to the members. In such cases, even if the structure is folded within a range that does not cause damage, it cannot be made sufficiently small. In contrast, by providing a gusset section 40 that is rotatable relative to the first surface support section 20 or the second surface support section 30, folding between the first surface (inner surface) and the second surface (outer surface) can be performed while preventing excessive deformation, and the structure 1 can be folded more compactly.

[0095] The gusset portion 40 is provided individually for each of several sets of first surface support portions 20 and second surface support portions 30 arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, each set consisting of a first surface support portion on which a support member is provided and a second surface support portion arranged outward from the first surface support portion along the extending direction of the first fold line. The width of each of the multiple gusset portions provided along the second fold line gradually increases from one to the other. Specifically, the gusset portions 42 to 45 are provided between sets of support members 212, 312, 213, 313, 214, 314, and 215, 315, which are aligned along the second fold line. In addition, the width of the gusset portions 42 to 45, that is, the sum of the lengths of the first and second gussets, gradually increases from gusset portions 42 to 45. As described above, structure 1 is folded in a manner in which mountain folds and valley folds are repeated along the first fold line, so that each component can be stacked in the order along the second fold line. Therefore, by configuring the gusset portion to gradually increase in size from one side to the other along the second fold line, it becomes possible to set the gusset width according to the distance between the first and second surface support parts when folded.

[0096] The first surface support does not support the surface of the first surface that is sandwiched between the first folds extending from the same starting point, and the surface sandwiched between the first folds extending from the same starting point may be an opening. In the case of the above structure, the second inner surface P12 is an opening. By adopting this shape, the first surface support 20 and the second surface support 30 can be folded smoothly. Furthermore, as in the above structure, the provision of an opening reduces the number of components that make up the structure 1, which can result in a more compact design. In addition, the reduced number of components increases the degree of freedom of movement, which is thought to reduce the strain on each component and allow for smoother movement.

[0097] Furthermore, no gusset is provided between the first surface, which is an opening, and the second surface, which is continuously positioned along the direction of extension of the first fold line relative to the first surface, and the base member side end face of the second surface, which is continuously positioned along the direction of extension of the first fold line relative to the first surface, may be provided outside the second fold line. In structure 1, the base member side end faces 321a to 324a of the support members 321 to 324 are located outside the second fold line. With such a structure, for example, when folding, the deformation of the gusset or other members can be performed smoothly, and interference between members can be prevented.

[0098] Multiple support members may include protrusions 51a to 55a that set the first surface of each support member at a position spaced apart from the base member 10, such that the height positions of the first surfaces supported by each support member are different from those of the base member 10. This configuration prevents problems such as the support members not being able to be stacked due to interference with the base member 10 when the structure 1 is folded.

[0099] The height of the protruding portion relative to the base member gradually increases along the second fold line in multiple support members provided along the second fold line, and in support members where the width of the gusset portion is larger than that of other support members, the height of the protruding portion may be smaller than that of other support members. When folded as shown in Figure 19, the base member 10 may be provided on the outside of the stacked first surface support portions 20 (support members 211 to 215). Therefore, the height of the protruding portion 55a is set shorter for support member 215 provided further out, and the height of the protruding portion 51a is set shorter for support member 211 provided further in. On the other hand, the width of the gusset portion is the opposite; the width of the gusset portion 45 continuous with support member 215 provided further out is set to be larger, and the width of the gusset portion 41 continuous with support member 211 provided further in (in this embodiment, the gusset portion 41 does not substantially exist, but even if it were provided, its width would be reduced). Therefore, by establishing the size relationship described above, it becomes possible to set appropriate gussets and protrusions that correspond to the shape when structure 1 is folded.

[0100] Each of the multiple support members is provided with a planar reinforcing member, and the multiple reinforcing members may be positioned so as not to overlap each other when the folding structure is folded. In the above embodiment, reinforcing members 211b to 215b correspond to the above reinforcing members. By providing such reinforcing members, the rigidity of the structure 1 can be increased while maintaining compactness when folded.

[0101] [Differentiation] Although this embodiment has been described in detail above, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0102] For example, the detailed procedure for designing the fold lines described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and various modifications are possible. For instance, the design procedures for the rib base shape and the multiple first and second fold lines are not limited to the above embodiment.

[0103] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described a procedure for correcting the first and second fold lines after they have been designed, the procedure is not limited to this. For example, the configuration and program may be designed from the beginning to correct the fold lines.

[0104] Furthermore, the shape of each part of structure 1 can be changed as appropriate. For example, the number of first and second faces in structure 1 in the above embodiment (9 faces each for the first and second faces) is just one example, and the number of faces constituting structure 1 can be changed as appropriate.

[0105] For example, the shapes of the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 can be changed as appropriate. The first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 only need to define the first and second surfaces, and do not need to conform to their outer shape. Also, for example, the first surface support portion 20 and the second surface support portion 30 only define the outer shapes of the first and second surfaces, and the interior may be, for example, an opening or covered with cloth or the like.

[0106] Furthermore, in the above embodiment of structure 1, the case in which the first surface support portion 20 is not provided on the second inner surface P12 of the first surface (inner surface) has been described, but the first surface support portion 20 may also be provided at a position corresponding to the second inner surface P12. Also, in this case as well, the first surface support portion 20 does not have to be provided so as to cover the entire second inner surface P12, for example, the first surface support portion 20 may be provided as a framework only on a part of it.

[0107] Furthermore, the shape of the gusset portion 40 may also be changed as appropriate. In the above embodiment, the gusset portions 42 to 45 are each composed of a combination of a first gusset and a second gusset, and are structured to rotate around a pivot axis q2 to q5. However, for example, the pivot axis may be set at the end of the first surface support portion 20 (support member) or the end of the second surface support portion 30 (support member), and the gusset portion may be composed of a single flat plate-shaped member that rotates around this pivot axis.

[0108] The structure near the hinge between the support member and the base member 10 can also be modified. For example, in the above embodiment, the hinge portion included in the support member (e.g., hinge portion 55) is provided with a projection (e.g., projection 55a) that connects the pivot shaft and the support member. However, a configuration corresponding to the projection may be provided on the base member 10 side. In this case, the shaft that becomes the pivot shaft of the support member (e.g., t5) may be provided at the tip of the projection. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 1...Structure (folded structure), 10...Base member, 20...First surface support part, 30...Second surface support part, 40 (41~45)...Gusset part, 50 (51~55)...Hinge part, 51a~55a...Protruding part, 211~215, 311~315, 321~324...Support member, 211b~215b...Reinforcement member, 321a~324a...End face on the side of the base member.

Claims

1. A folding structure that allows a target member, composed of a combination of plate-like members, to bend along a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member, with each rib extending radially from the rib base and having alternating mountain and valley fold lines, and a second fold line which is a single continuous fold line connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines, wherein the target member is composed of a combination of plate-like members, The second fold line allows the folded structure, which has been folded along the first fold line, to be folded in one direction. The rib base, the two adjacent first fold lines, and the second fold line form a plurality of first surfaces, and the first surface support portion is provided. A second surface support portion is provided along the extending direction of the first fold line, outside the first surface relative to the rib base, and forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, It has a base member having a shape corresponding to the rib base and rotatable relative to the first surface support portion, The first surface is rotatable with respect to the rib base by rotating the base member with respect to the first surface support portion, The second surface is rotatable relative to the first surface by rotating the first surface support portion relative to the second surface support portion, Each of the multiple first fold lines includes a plurality of mountain fold lines extending radially from different starting points on the rib base, and a plurality of valley fold lines extending radially between adjacent mountain fold lines, with each of the starting points of the plurality of mountain fold lines as its respective starting point. The first surface support portion includes a plurality of support members that support the surface of the first surface that is continuous along the extending direction of the second fold line and is sandwiched between the first fold lines that extend from different starting points. At least a portion between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion, which are arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, has a gusset portion along the second fold line, which includes a surface that connects the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion via a pivot axis and rotates around the pivot axis relative to the first surface support portion or the second surface support portion. The pivot axis is located at a position offset in the thickness direction from the central position in the thickness direction of the first surface support portion, and / or at a position offset in the thickness direction from the central position in the thickness direction of the second surface support portion.

2. The gusset portion is provided individually for each of a plurality of sets of first and second surface support portions arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, each set comprising a first surface support portion on which the support member is provided and a second surface support portion arranged outward from the first surface support portion along the extending direction of the first fold line. The folded structure according to claim 1, wherein the width of each of the plurality of gusset portions provided along the second fold line gradually increases from one to the other.

3. The first surface support portion does not support the surface of the first surface that is continuous along the extending direction of the second fold line, but is sandwiched between the first fold lines that extend from the same starting point. The folded structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the surface sandwiched between the first fold lines extending from the same starting point is an opening.

4. No gusset is provided between the first surface which is an opening and the second surface which is continuously arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line with respect to the first surface which is an opening. The folding structure according to claim 3, wherein the end face on the base member side of the second surface support portion that supports the second surface which is continuously arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line with respect to the first surface which is an opening, is provided outward from the second fold line.

5. The folding structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of support members include protrusions that set the first surface supported by each support member at a position spaced apart from the base member such that the height positions of the first surface supported by each support member are different from those of the base member.

6. The height of the protrusion relative to the base member gradually increases along the second fold line in the plurality of support members provided along the second fold line. In a support member in which the width of the gusset portion is larger than that of other support members, the height of the protruding portion is smaller than that of other support members, as described in claim 5.

7. Each of the aforementioned support members is provided with a planar reinforcing member. The folding structure according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of reinforcing members are provided in positions that do not overlap each other when the folding structure is folded.

8. A method for designing a bendable structure in which a target member, composed of a combination of plate-like members, can be bent along first fold lines, each extending radially from a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member and having alternating mountain and valley fold lines, and second fold lines, which are continuous fold lines connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines. The second fold line allows the folded structure, which has been folded along the first fold line, to be folded in one direction. The aforementioned folding structure is The rib base, the two adjacent first fold lines, and the second fold line form a plurality of first surfaces, and the first surface support portion is provided. A second surface support portion is provided along the extending direction of the first fold line, outside the first surface relative to the rib base, and forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, A base member having a shape corresponding to the rib base and rotatable relative to the first surface support portion, At least a portion between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion, which are arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, has a gusset portion along the second fold line, which connects the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion via a pivot axis and includes a surface that rotates around the pivot axis relative to the first surface support portion or the second surface support portion. Designing the first and second fold lines, The first surface support portion and the second surface support portion are designed based on the first and second fold lines, Designing the gusset portion provided between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion, This includes designing a hinge between the base member and the first surface support so that the base member can rotate on the first surface support, A method for designing a bent structure, wherein the pivot axis is located at a position offset in the thickness direction from the central position in the thickness direction of the first surface support portion, and / or at a position offset in the thickness direction from the central position in the thickness direction of the second surface support portion.

9. A folding structure that allows a target member, composed of a combination of plate-shaped members, to bend along first fold lines, each extending radially from a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member and having alternating mountain fold lines and valley fold lines, and second fold lines, which are continuous fold lines connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines, the following: The second fold line allows the folded structure, which has been folded along the first fold line, to be folded in one direction. The rib base, the two adjacent first fold lines, and the second fold line form a plurality of first surfaces, and the first surface support portion is provided. A second surface support portion is provided along the extending direction of the first fold line, outside the first surface relative to the rib base, and forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, It has a base member having a shape corresponding to the rib base and rotatable relative to the first surface support portion, The first surface is rotatable with respect to the rib base by rotating the base member with respect to the first surface support portion, The second surface is rotatable relative to the first surface by rotating the first surface support portion relative to the second surface support portion, Each of the multiple first fold lines includes a plurality of mountain fold lines extending radially from different starting points on the rib base, and a plurality of valley fold lines extending radially between adjacent mountain fold lines, with each of the starting points of the plurality of mountain fold lines as its respective starting point. The first surface support portion includes a plurality of support members that support the surface of the first surface that is continuous along the extending direction of the second fold line and is sandwiched between the first fold lines that extend from different starting points. At least a portion between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion, which are arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, has a gusset portion along the second fold line, which connects the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion and includes a surface that rotates relative to the first surface support portion or the second surface support portion. The gusset portion is provided individually for each of a plurality of sets of first and second surface support portions arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, each set comprising a first surface support portion on which the support member is provided and a second surface support portion arranged outward from the first surface support portion along the extending direction of the first fold line. A folded structure in which the width of each of the multiple gusset portions provided along the second fold line gradually increases from one to the other.

10. A method for designing a bendable structure in which a target member, composed of a combination of plate-like members, can be bent along first fold lines, each extending radially from a rib base set on a surface along the main surface of the target member and having alternating mountain and valley fold lines, and second fold lines, which are continuous fold lines connecting adjacent first fold lines among a plurality of first fold lines. The second fold line allows the folded structure, which has been folded along the first fold line, to be folded in one direction. The aforementioned folding structure is The rib base, the two adjacent first fold lines, and the second fold line form a plurality of first surfaces, and the first surface support portion is provided. A second surface support portion is provided along the extending direction of the first fold line, outside the first surface relative to the rib base, and forms a plurality of second surfaces enclosed by two adjacent first fold lines and the second fold line, A base member having a shape corresponding to the rib base and rotatable relative to the first surface support portion, At least a portion between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion, which are arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, has a gusset portion along the second fold line, which connects the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion and includes a surface that rotates relative to the first surface support portion or the second surface support portion. Designing the first and second fold lines, The first surface support portion and the second surface support portion are designed based on the first and second fold lines, Designing the gusset portion provided between the first surface support portion and the second surface support portion, This includes designing a hinge between the base member and the first surface support so that the base member can rotate on the first surface support, The gusset portion is provided individually for each of a plurality of sets of first and second surface support portions arranged along the extending direction of the first fold line, each set consisting of a first surface support portion on which a support member is provided and a second surface support portion arranged outward from the first surface support portion along the extending direction of the first fold line. A method for designing a folded structure, wherein the width of each of the multiple gusset portions provided along the second fold line gradually increases from one to the other.

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