Large scale structural joint based on the carbon molecular logic for full scale construction

Abstract

A joint system is disclosed, including an internal node with a pair of linkage members in mechanical engagement with one another, and a plurality of struts configured to connect to any of the arms of the pair of linkage members.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 761,608, filed on Feb. 21, 2025, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to joint systems for structures, and more specifically to a joint structure with an internal node that resembles certain structures of a carbon molecule.BACKGROUND

[0003] Conventional space frame and tensegrity systems were pioneered by innovators like Alexander Graham Bell, Konrad Wachsmann, and Buckminster Fuller. Traditionally, the field has focused on utilizing mass produced orthogonal connections (perpendicular, or 90 degree angles with 45 degree accent connections). In contrast, many contemporary joint systems are form based, meaning they are beholden to the overall form of the structure. This requires a much greater cost and effort per node to construct. An improved joint system is needed.SUMMARY

[0004] In certain embodiments, a joint system which is enclosed inside of a strut tube is disclosed. The teachings of the present disclosure are directed to maximizing the overall form flexibility while simplifying manufacturing and in turn cost of the joint system. In certain embodiments, the joint system is formed from wooden components that may maximize the regenerative quality through material choice. The underlying planer geometric logic of the joint is based on angles found in the strongest configuration of the carbon molecule: 109.47 and 70.53 degrees with a 60 degree z-axis rotational value.

[0005] In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a joint system, comprising: an internal node, the internal node comprising: a first linkage member including a first central body with a first slot and a first plurality of arms extending from the first central body, each arm of the first plurality of arms including a first plurality of openings; second linkage member including a second central body with a second slot and a second plurality of arms extending from the second central body, each arm of the second plurality of arms including a second plurality of openings; and a locking disc configured to retain the first linkage member in engagement with the second linkage member, the locking disc including a first locking disc half and a second locking disc half, the first locking disc half including a first pair of lobes partially separated by a first locking disc slot, a first inner edge and a first pair of abutment bosses extending from the first inner edge, the second locking disc half including a second pair of lobes partially separated by a second locking disc slot, a second inner edge and a second pair of abutment bosses extending from the second inner edge; and a plurality of struts configured to connect to any of the first plurality of arms of the first linkage member or the second plurality of arms of the second linkage member, each of the struts of the plurality of struts including a plurality of strut openings configured to align with one of the first plurality of openings or the second plurality of openings and to receive a plurality of fasteners to secure the strut to one of the first plurality of arms or the second plurality of arms; wherein the first linkage member engages the second linkage member by mating the first slot with the second slot; and wherein the locking disc retains the first linkage member in engagement with the second linkage member by receiving a first part of the first central body in the first locking disc slot of the first locking disc half and receiving a second part of the first central body in the second locking disc slot of the second locking disc half such that the first pair of abutment bosses of the first locking disc half engage the second pair of abutment bosses of the second locking disc half thereby enclosing the second linkage member between the first inner edge of the first locking disc half and the second inner edge of the second locking disc half, and securing the first locking disc half to the second locking disc half. One aspect of this embodiment further comprises a first reinforcement plate configured to attach to the first linkage member and a second reinforcement plate configured to attach to the second linkage member; wherein the first linkage member, the second linkage member and the locking disc are made of wood and the first reinforcement plate and the second reinforcement plate are made of metal.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The above mentioned and other features of the present disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by reference to the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0007] FIG. 1 is an exploded axonometric view of one embodiment of a joint system according to the present disclosure;

[0008] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the joint system of FIG. 1 in an assembled state;

[0009] FIG. 3A is an assembled view of another embodiment of a joint system according to the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. 3B is an exploded axon view of the joint system of FIG. 3A;

[0011] FIG. 4A is an assembled axon view of another embodiment of a joint system according to the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. 4B is an exploded axon view of the joint system of FIG. 4A;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an internal node of the joint system of FIGS. 3A, 3B;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a plurality of components of the joint system of FIGS. 3A, 3B in various states of assembly;

[0015] FIG. 7 is an assembled perspective view of the joint system of FIGS. 4A, 4B;

[0016] FIG. 8 is an assembled perspective view of an internal node of the joint system of FIGS. 4A, 4B;

[0017] FIG. 9 is an assembled perspective view of an internal node of the joint system of FIGS. 3A, 3B;

[0018] FIG. 10 is an assembled perspective view of single-sided metal reinforcement version of the joint shown in FIGS. 4A, 4B;

[0019] FIG. 11 is an assembled perspective view of an internal node of another embodiment of a joint system according to the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a partially assembled joint system similar to that depicted in FIGS. 3A, 3B but without reinforcement plates;

[0021] FIG. 13 is an assembled perspective view of another embodiment of an internal node according to the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of components of the internal node of FIG. 13;

[0023] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a structure formed using a joint system of various smaller scale joints utilizing the same chemical based geometric logic as disclosed herein;

[0024] FIGS. 16-39 are various views of structures formed using one of the joint systems depicted in FIGS. 3A-14;

[0025] FIG. 40 is an assembled perspective view of another embodiment of an internal node similar to the internal node depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B;

[0026] FIG. 41A is a perspective view of another embodiment of an internal node according to the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 41B is an exploded view of a joint system implementing the internal node of FIG. 41A;

[0028] FIG. 41C is a side view of the components of the internal node of FIG. 41A;

[0029] FIG. 42A is a perspective view of a load testing system according to the present disclosure;

[0030] FIGS. 42B-42D are different perspective views of the joints in the load testing system of FIG. 42A;

[0031] FIG. 42E is another perspective view of the load testing system of FIG. 42A;

[0032] FIG. 43A is a perspective view of a structure formed using a joint system implementing the internal nodes as disclosed herein; and

[0033] FIG. 43B is an exploded axonometric view of one embodiment of a joint system according to the present disclosure.

[0034] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Unless stated otherwise the drawings are proportional and drawn to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings.

[0036] The joint system disclosed herein is a structural connection system designed to be versatile, aiming for multistory architectural applications. In certain embodiments, the technology consists of an internal joint mechanism made from ⅛″ galvanized steel that fits inside tubular structural members to create versatile, strong connections inspired by molecular geometry. This system enables rapid assembly of complex spatial structures while minimizing material usage and maximizing structural efficiency. The commercial potential spans architectural, construction, and temporary structure markets, with applications ranging from permanent buildings to disaster relief shelters.

[0037] In certain embodiments, the joint system leans heavily on the molecular angle configurations of the carbon molecule, which has a very prolific diversity of form factors ranging from amorphous to some of the very strongest configurations found in nature. The joint system allows for many of the benefits of both mass produced orthogonal joint systems and form based joint systems: the cost benefits of a standardized joint system, while at the same time having many of the formal versatility features of custom joints meant to conform to the overall geometry of the structure. The initial development emerged from research at Wenzhou-Kean University exploring molecular geometries, specifically carbon's tribrachial (three-branched) structural arrangements, as inspiration for architectural / structural connections. Previous iterations using 3D printed components and micro-bamboo demonstrated the potential of the geometric system, leading to the more robust internal steel joint design for full-scale architectural applications as described below.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the joint system is an internal joint system consisting of: a galvanized steel internal node piece (⅛″ thickness for current prototypes) designed to fit inside standard tubular structural members; connection geometry based on carbon molecule arrangements enabling 120° (or other) connections in multiple planes; load transfer mechanisms through the tube walls rather than external connector pieces; ability to create both rigid and flexible connections depending on the assembly method; the capability to integrate with tensegrity principles for enhanced structural performance; system components engineered to utilize standard manufacturing processes; design optimized for reducing material usage while maintaining structural integrity; and assembly methodology requiring minimal specialized tools or training.

[0039] Referring now to FIG. 1, a joint system 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The joint system 10 generally includes an internal node 12, an intermediate member 14 and a tubular member 16. The internal node 12 generally includes a plurality of arms 18 extending outwardly from a central area 20. In the depicted embodiment, the internal node 12 includes eight arms 18. Each of the arms 18 is formed by a plurality of support members 22 that are interlocked with a plurality of discs 24. In the depicted embodiment, three support members 22 are interlocked with three discs 24 to form each arm 18. The support members 22 are generally V-shaped and include a pair of longitudinal supports 26 coupled together at an intersection 28. One of the longitudinal supports 26 of the pair of longitudinal supports 26 is used to form one arm 18 and the other longitudinal support 26 of the pair of longitudinal supports 26 is used to form an adjacent arm 18. Each of the discs 24 includes a generally circular body 30 with an inner edge 32 forming an inner opening 34. In the depicted embodiment, three notches 36 are spaced apart on the inner edge 32 and configured to receive a corresponding notch (not shown) formed on an outer edge of each of the three longitudinal supports 26 that form the arm 18.

[0040] The intermediate member 14 generally includes a disc-shaped body 38 and a plurality of engagement prongs 40 extending from the body 38. The body 38 includes a circular end surface 42 and a side surface 44 extending perpendicularly from the end surface 42. The side surface 44 includes an opening 46 configured to receive a pin 48 are is further described below. Each of the prongs 40 includes an inner portion 50, an intermediate portion 52 and an outer portion 54. The inner portion 50 transitions to the intermediate portion 52 at a shoulder 56 and the intermediate portion 52 transitions to the outer portion 54 at a shoulder 58. The tubular member 16 includes a cylindrical wall 60 forming an internal bore 62, An opening 64 is formed in the cylindrical wall 60.

[0041] After the internal node 12 is formed using the support members 22 and the discs 24, the internal node 12 may be connected to one or more tubular members 16. More specifically, an intermediate member 14 may be positioned onto one of the arms 18 such that the prongs 40 extend over the discs 24 of the arm 18. When in this position, the shoulders 56, 58 engage notches 66 formed on the outer perimeter of the discs 24 and secure the intermediate member 14 onto the arm 18, thereby inhibiting movement of the intermediate member 14 longitudinally outwardly relative to a longitudinal axis of the arm 18. Next, the tubular member 16 is positioned over the intermediate member 14 and the arm 18 to which it is attached such that the intermediate member 14 and the arm 18 is positioned within the internal bore 62 of the tubular member 16. The tubular member 16 may then be rotated about it longitudinal axis until the opening 64 in the cylindrical wall 60 of the tubular member 16 aligns or registers with the opening 46 in the side wall 44 of the body 38 of the intermediate member 14. The pin 48 may then be placed through the opening 64 in the cylindrical wall 60 and the opening 46 in the body 38 of the intermediate member 14 to connect the tubular member 16 to the intermediate member 14, and therefore to the arm 18 of the internal node 12 as is shown in FIG. 2. The pin 48 thus inhibits movement of the tubular member 16 longitudinally outwardly away from the internal node 12 and rotationally about the longitudinal axis of the tubular member 16. In this manner, any of a plurality of tubular members 16 may be connected to any of a plurality of arms 18 of any of a plurality of internal nodes 12 to form structures of a variety of shapes.

[0042] Referring now to FIG. 3A, another embodiment of a joint system 100 according to the present disclosure is shown. System 100 generally includes an internal node 102 and a plurality of struts 104 coupled to the internal node 102. As best shown in the exploded view of FIG. 3B, the internal node 102 generally includes a pair of linkage members 106, a plurality of reinforcement members or reinforcement plates 108, and a locking disc 110 consisting of a first locking disc half 112 and a second locking disc half 114.

[0043] Each linkage member 106 is formed in the shape of an “X” and includes four arms 116A-D extending from a central body 118. Each arm 116A-D includes a plurality of openings 120 for connecting the arm 116A-D to a pair of struts 104 as is further described below. Each central body 118 includes a slot 122 for coupling one linkage member 106 to another linking member 106 as is further described below. In certain embodiments, the linkage members 106 are made of wood, although other suitable materials such as, but not limited to, plastic, etc. may be used.

[0044] Each reinforcement plate 108 is formed in the shape of a “V” and includes a pair of arms 124 extending from a central body 126. Each arm 124 includes a plurality of openings 128 for connecting the reinforcement plate 108 and a corresponding arm 116A-D of a linkage member 106 to one or more struts 104. In certain embodiments, the reinforcement plates 108 are made of metal, such as aluminum or steel, although other suitable materials may be used.

[0045] As indicated above, the locking disc 110 includes a first locking disc half 112 and a second locking disc half 114, which in certain embodiments are identical. As such, only the first locking disc half 112 is described in detail herein. The locking disc half 112 includes a first lobe 130 and a second lobe 132 partially separated by a slot 134. Each of the lobes 130, 132 includes an opening 136 positioned adjacent an abutment boss 138 which extends outwardly from the lobes 130, 132 relative to an inner edge 140 of the lobes 130, 132.

[0046] As should be apparent from the foregoing, the internal node 102 is made from a combination of only three unique components: (1) two identical locking disc halves 112, 114; (2) two identical linkage members 106; and (3) four identical reinforcement plates 108. In one embodiment, the internal node 102 may be assembled using conventional tools (e.g., wrenches, etc.) as described below.

[0047] A pair of reinforcement plates 108 may first be attached to one side of a linkage member 106 such that the openings 120 in the arms 116A-D of the linkage member 106 align with the openings 128 in the arms 124 of the reinforcement plates 108. In certain embodiments, the reinforcement plates 108 may be attached to the linkage members 106 using adhesive or other attachment mechanism. When the reinforcement plates 108 are attached to the linkage member 106 with the openings 120, 128 aligned, the central bodies 126 of the reinforcement plates 108 are positioned so as not to obstruct the slot 122 of the linkage member 106.

[0048] Next, one linkage member 106 may be coupled to the other linkage member 106 by fitting the slot 122 of the first linkage member 106 into the slot 122 of the second linkage member 106. Finally, the locking disc halves 112, 114 are connected together to lock the linkage members 106 to one another. More specifically, in the embodiment shown the slot 134 of the disc half 112 is placed over the intersection between the arm 116A and the arm 116B of one linkage member 106 and the slot 134 of the disc half 114 is placed over the intersection between the arm 116C and the arm 116D of the linkage member 106. As shown, the slots 134 of the disc halves 112, 114 each include a narrow section 135 that receives the linkage member 106 and a wider section 137 that receives the linkage member 106 and the reinforcement plate 108 attached to the linkage member 106. When the disc halves 112, 114 are seated in this manner on the linkage member 106, the abutment bosses 138 of the disc half 112 engage the abutment bosses 138 of the disc half 114. The engagement of the abutment bosses 138 creates a space between the inner edges 140 of the disc halves 112, 114 to accommodate the other linkage member 106 which extends in a plane perpendicular to the first linkage member 106. The disc halves 112, 114 are connected to one another using the openings 136 and standard hardware including straight brackets and a through bolt.

[0049] Once assembled in the manner described above, the internal node 102 of the joint system 100 may be connected to any of a plurality of struts 104, which may be connected to any of a plurality of other internal nodes 102 to form a structure. More specifically, in the embodiment shown, a pair of struts 104 are positioned such that one strut 104 abuts against one side of an arm 116 of a linkage member 106 and another strut 104 abuts against one side of an arm 124 of a reinforcement plate 108 connected to the arm 116 of the linkage member 106. The struts 104 include a pair of openings (not shown) which, when positioned as described above, align with the openings 120, 128 of the arm 116 and the reinforcement plate 108, respectively. Finally, a pair of fasteners 142 (FIG. 3A) are passed through the openings in the struts 104, the reinforcement plate 108 and the arm 116. In certain embodiments, the fastener is a bolt, the other end of which receives a nut (not shown) which together tighten the struts 104 to the internal node 102. As should be understood by those skilled in the art, various washers and other hardware may be used to reinforce and retain the connections provided by the fasteners 142.

[0050] FIGS. 4A and 4B depict another embodiment of a joint system 200 according to the present disclosure. The joint system 200 is identical to the joint system 100 of FIGS. 3A and 3B except that the reinforcement plates 208 on the internal node 202 each include four arms 224 and include a slot 244 partially separating two of the arms 224. Additionally, in this embodiment, two reinforcement plates 208 are attached to each linkage member 206, one reinforcement plate 208 on one side of the linkage member 206 and another reinforcement plate 208 on the other side of the linkage member 206. As two reinforcement plates 208 are attached to each linkage member 206, the slot 134 of each disc half 112, 114 includes a wider portion 237 that is wide enough to receive the linkage member 206 and two reinforcement plates 208 attached to the linkage member 206.

[0051] FIG. 5 shows portions of an assembled internal node 102 of the type depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As shown, reinforcement plates 108 are attached to one side of the linkage members 106.

[0052] FIG. 6 shows a plurality of locking disc halves 112, 114, a plurality of linkage members 106 connected to one another, and a plurality of fully assembled internal nodes 102.

[0053] FIG. 7 is another depiction of the joint system 100 of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

[0054] FIG. 8 is another depiction of the joint system 200 of FIGS. 4A and 4B which uses four reinforcement plates 208.

[0055] FIG. 9 is another depiction of the joint system 100 of FIGS. 3A and 3B which uses two reinforcement plates 108.

[0056] FIG. 10 is a depiction of an alternative embodiment of the joint system 100 of FIGS. 3A and 3B which uses four reinforcement plates 108.

[0057] FIG. 11 is another embodiment of an internal node 302 for a joint system 300 according to the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the internal node 302 is substantially the same as the internal nodes 102, 202 of FIGS. 3A, 3B and 4A, 4B, respectively, except that no reinforcement members are used. In this embodiment, the linkage members 306 are made of metal such as steel or aluminum so reinforcement members are unnecessary.

[0058] FIG. 12 depicts a partially assembled joint system 100 without any reinforcement plates 108.

[0059] FIG. 13 is another embodiment of an internal node 402 for a joint system 400 according to the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a locking disc is omitted as are the reinforcement plates. Each linkage member 406 includes four arms 416A-D. Each arm 416A-D includes an in-plane member 444 and a perpendicular member 446 that intersects the in-plane member 444 and extends away from the in-plane member 444 on both sides of the in-plane member 444.

[0060] As best shown in FIG. 14, which shows components sufficient to assemble two internal nodes 402, the linkage members 406 each include a slot 422 for coupling one linkage member 406 to another linkage member 406 in the manner described above. The in-plane members 444 of each of the arms 416A-D of the linkage members 406 include a longitudinal slot 448. Each of the perpendicular members 446 also includes a longitudinal slot 450. Each perpendicular member 446 is coupled to an in-plane member 444 by mating the longitudinal slot 450 of the perpendicular member 446 with the longitudinal slot 448 of the in-plane member 444 and moving the perpendicular member 446 toward the central body 418 of the linkage member 406 until the end 452 of the longitudinal slot 450 reaches the end 454 of the longitudinal slot 448. This engagement prevents rotational movement of the perpendicular member 446 and strengthens the arms 416A-D of the internal node 402.

[0061] FIG. 15 depicts a structure formed using a smaller scale system similar to the system 10 described above wherein the struts are internally mounted tubes.

[0062] FIGS. 16-39 depict various structures formed using the joint system 100 and / or the variations of the joint system 100 (i.e., the joints systems 200, 300 and / or 400).

[0063] FIG. 40 depicts an internal node 102 similar to the internal node depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The internal node 102 has a plurality of linkage members 106, a plurality of arms 116, and locking disc halves 112 and 114 (only the first locking disc half 112 is visible in FIG. 40). The arms 116 include a plurality of openings 120 for connecting the arms to the struts (not shown) as disclosed herein.

[0064] FIG. 41A shows another example of an internal node 4100 which may be implemented in the joint system 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The internal node 4100 may be used as a replacement or substitute for the internal node 102. The internal node 4100 includes a pair of linkage members 4102 and 4104, and a plurality of reinforcement members 4106 fastened to the linkage members 4102 and 4104 using a plurality of fasteners 4108. The first linkage member 4102 and the second linkage member 4104 may be interconnected at an angled orientation in an “X” shape relative to each other, such as at a perpendicular angle when viewed from the top. The linkage members may each be formed using a single piece of material (e.g., wood, such as plywood) or by attaching a plurality of pieces of material together (e.g., multiple pieces of wood) in a layered configuration, for additional reinforcement. Each reinforcement member 4106 includes a pair of arms 4110 extending from a central body 4112. Each arm 4110 includes a plurality of openings 4114 for connecting the reinforcement member 4106 and one or more struts 104. In certain embodiments, the reinforcement members 4106 are made of metal, such as aluminum or steel, although other suitable materials may be used.

[0065] FIG. 41B shows how the internal node 4100 may be assembled in the joint system 100, according to embodiments disclosed herein. Each of the linkage members 4102 and 4104 includes a slot 4116 that is located in an intermediate portion of the linkage member and extends from an outer edge of the linkage member toward a center 4124 of the linkage member. The first linkage member 4102 is coupled with the second linkage member 4104 by inserting the first linkage member 4102 through the slot 4116 in the second linkage member 4104, which also causes the second linkage member 4104 to be inserted through the slot 4116 of the first linkage member 4102, until both a top edge surface 4118 and a bottom edge surface 4120 of the linkage members 4102 and 4104 are substantially flush or flat upon the insertion.

[0066] Each of the linkage members 4102 and 4104 includes a plurality of openings 4122 that align with a plurality of openings 105 in the struts 104 as well as a plurality of openings 4114 in the reinforcement members 4106 that correspond to the positions of the openings 4122 in the linkage member. Using the fasteners 4108 passed at least partially through the corresponding openings 105, 4114, and 4122 of the struts 104, the reinforcement members 4106, and the linkage member 4102 or 4104, respectively, the struts 104, the reinforcement members 4106, and the linkage member 4102 or 4104 can be fixedly coupled with each other. For example, the reinforcement member 4106 may be positioned between the strut 104 and the linkage member 4102 or 4104, and the linkage member 4102 or 4104 may be positioned between two separate struts 104. The fasteners 4108 may include any number of one or more of the following: screws, washers, nuts, bolts, or any other suitable means of fastening two or more components together as known in the art.

[0067] FIG. 41C shows the details of the reinforcement member 4106 and the linkage members 4102 and 4104 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The reinforcement member 4106 includes two arms 4110 extending from the central body 4112 such that the arms and the central body are not coplanar with respect to each other (i.e., positioned on different nonparallel or intersecting planes with respect to each other). The central body 4112 is not coplanar with either of the arms 4110, and neither of the arms 4110 are coplanar with each other. For example, when the central body 4112 is positioned on a first plane, one of the arms 4110 is positioned on a second plane, and the other arm 4110 is positioned on a third place, none of the three planes are parallel and therefore would intersect with each other. This is because one of the arms 4110 is in contact with (and substantially coplanar with) a surface of the first linkage member 4102, and the other one of the arms 4110 is in contact with (and substantially coplanar with) a surface of the second linkage member 4104. The central body 4112 connecting the two arms 4110 together are therefore not coplanar with either of the arms 4110 or with the linkage members 4102 and 4104. The central body 4112 may have a trapezoidal shape, with each arm 4110 extending angularly from one side of the trapezoid. When viewed from the side (e.g., from the angle as shown in FIG. 41C), the central body 4112 may be seen as being positioned substantially linearly with the arms 4110. In some examples, the trapezoid may be an isosceles trapezoid. In some examples, one of the non-parallel sides of the trapezoidal shape forming the central body 4112 may be angled at 114 degrees relative to one of the parallel sides of the trapezoidal shape.

[0068] In some examples, the linkage members 4102 and 4104 use two components that are shaped identical to each other but are in opposite positions when coupled together. For example, the first linkage member 4102 may be the same component as the second linkage member 4104 when rotated by 180 degrees, with the only difference being the position of the slot 4116 formed in the linkage member. For example, in the first linkage member 4102, the slot 4116 may extend from the center 4124 of the linkage member 4102 toward the bottom edge surface 4120, whereas in the second linkage member 4104, the slot 4116 may extend from the center 4124 toward the top edge surface 4118. The coupling of the linkage members 4102 and 4104 is facilitated by inserting each linkage member into the slot 4116 of the other linkage member until the top edge surface 4118 and the bottom edge surface 4120 of the first linkage member 4102 are substantially flush or flat with respect to the top edge surface 4118 and the bottom edge surface 4120 of the second linkage member 4104, respectively.

[0069] In some examples, each of the linkage members 4102 and 4104 is formed by removing portions from a rectangular base shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 41C, the linkage member 4104 has a substantially rectangular configuration (refer to a dotted rectangular outline 4126) due to the top edge surface 4118 and the bottom edge surface 4120 being substantially parallel to each other. To form the linkage member, a triangular portion 4128 is removed from each side of the rectangular outline 4126, a rectangular section is removed from the middle portion (along a central axis A-A) of the rectangular outline 4126 to form the slot 4116, and a plurality of circular sections are removed to form the openings 4122. In some examples, the corners may be rounded from the rectangular outline 4126.

[0070] The height “H” of the slot 4116 may be equal to the distance from the center 4124 to one of the edge surfaces 4118 and 4120, and the width “W” of the slot 4116 may be equal to the thickness “T” of the other linkage member that is to be received in the slot 4116. For example, the first linkage member 4102 may include a first slot 4116A, and the second linkage member 4104 may include a second slot 4116B, such that the first slot 4116A and the second slot 4116B may couple together the first linkage member 4102 and the second linkage member 4104 according to the insertion method as described herein. The triangular portion 4128 may be in the shape of an isosceles triangle, with one of the angles being 134 degrees. Any number of openings 4122 may be formed in the linkage members 4102 and 4104. In some examples, the openings 4122 are positioned to align with the diagonals (e.g., lines B-B and C-C) of the rectangular outline 4126.

[0071] FIG. 42A shows an exemplary setup for a load testing system 4200 that tests how much of a load 4202 can be supported by an internal node 102 without the internal node 102, or more specifically its linkage member(s), undergoing deformation or permanent stress. For example, in the initial setup, the system 4200 may adopt a “sundial” configuration in which a plurality of internal node 102 and a plurality of struts 104 are fastened together to form a base portion 4204 that is placed on the ground, with the base portion 4204 configured such that the struts 104 of the base portion 4204 are preferably coplanar with respect to each other and are also parallel to the ground.

[0072] To test one of the internal nodes 102, another pair of struts 104 are fastened to the internal node 102 that is to be tested at one end of the struts 104, and the load 4202 is placed on the other end of the struts 104 (i.e., the end that is raised at an angle from the ground) to allow gravity to pull the end of the struts 104 downward using the load 4202, thereby applying torque to the internal node 102 that is being tested. Upon the torque application, measurements on the bending moment, the axial force, and the shear force associated with the internal node 102 may be taken and recorded. For consistency, the length of the struts 104 and the angle at which the struts 104 are raised from the ground would be predetermined. For example, the angle may be 45 degrees with respect to the ground, and the length of the struts 104 that is raised at an angle may be the same as the length of the struts 104 that form the base portion 4204.

[0073] FIG. 42B shows a possible failure mode 4206 (the shaded region) associated with the internal node 102 when too much load is placed on the joint. For example, the struts 104 are shown in the state prior to the failure mode (broken line arrow 104) and the state after the failure mode (solid line arrow 104). The failure mode 4206 involves the deformation of the linkage members 106 as well as the deformation of the reinforcement plates 108 under duress.

[0074] FIGS. 42C and 42D show other examples of the internal node 102 from different angles as may be implemented in the load testing system 4200, such as in the base portion 4204. For example, in FIG. 42C, the reinforcement member 108 has a first arm 124A positioned between a first linkage member 106A and a first strut 104A, and a second arm 124B is positioned between a second linkage member 106B and a second strut 104B, with a plurality of fasteners 142 fastening them together in mechanical engagement. FIG. 42E shows an image of the load testing system 4200 according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0075] FIG. 43A is an exemplary structure 4300 formed using the joint systems depicted in FIGS. 41A through 41C. The structure 4300 uses a plurality of internal nodes 4100 interconnecting a plurality of struts 104. The struts 104 may extend laterally (e.g., parallel to the ground) or longitudinally (e.g., perpendicular to the ground).

[0076] FIG. 43B shows another embodiment of the joint system 100 with the internal node 4100 using a plurality of reinforcement members 4106. The reinforcement member 4106 may be provided in different configurations. For example, when the internal node 4100 is to be fastened to one or more struts 104, the reinforcement members 4106 as shown in FIGS. 41A through 41C may be implemented. Alternatively, when the internal node 4100 is to be fastened to the ground or a foundation of a structure, the reinforcement members 4106 as shown in FIG. 43B may be implemented.

[0077] The reinforcement member 4106 of FIG. 43B differs from the reinforcement member 4106 of FIGS. 41A through 41C in that there is an extended arm 4302 that extends from one of the arms 4110 extending from the central body 4112. For example, the central body 4112 of the reinforcement member 4106 has a first arm 4110A extending from one end and a second arm 4110B extending from the other end, such that the first arm 4110A is fastened to the first linkage member 4102, and the second arm 4110B is fastened to the second linkage member 4104. In addition, the extended arm 4302 extends from an end of the second arm 4110B such that the extended arm 4302 may be fastened to the ground or foundation using additional fasteners 4108 shown in FIG. 43B. Similar to the first arm 4110A and the second arm 4110B, the extended arm 4302 may also include openings (not shown) through which the fasteners 4108 may pass and fasten the extended arm 4302 to the ground. In some examples, the extended arm 4302 may be fastened to a foundation for stabilizing the structure 4300. As such, the extended arm 4302 is coplanar with the ground or foundation and is not coplanar with any of the central body 4112, the first arm 4110A, and the second arm 4110B of the reinforcement member 4106.

[0078] According to load testing experiments performed on the internal node 4100 using the load testing system 4200 using struts 104 with a length of 8 ft (about 2.4 m), it was discovered that the joint system that implements the internal node 4100 could withstand an applied load 4202 of up to 17 lbs (about 7.7 kg) and, considering the member weight of 16 lbs (about 7.3 kg) for the components that form the joint system, the total forces at the joint at failure would include 141.5 ft-lbs (about 19.6 m-kg) of bending moment, 17.7 lbs (about 8.0 kg) of axial or compression force, and 17.7 lbs (about 8.0 kg) of shear force.

[0079] In certain embodiments of the joint systems described herein, internal joint placement, unlike traditional external node systems, reducing material usage and improving aesthetics. Also, certain embodiments enable integration of tensegrity capabilities within a standardized joint system. In certain embodiments, load transfer is through tube walls rather than external connection points. As a result of the teachings of the present disclosure, the assembly process for structure may be simplified and require minimal specialized tools, and may be scalable from small temporary structures to multi-story buildings. The systems described herein may have the ability to accommodate both rigid and flexible connections within the same system and may be engineered for a maximization of strength to weight ratio and a minimization of cost to internal volume. In certain embodiments, the systems described herein provide a building service integrated solution providing access to electrical and water through the system.

[0080] Thus, as compared to conventional joint systems for building structures, the systems described in the present disclosure may provide reduced material usage through internal placement and optimized geometry, lower manufacturing costs using standard galvanized steel and common fabrication methods, improved aesthetic appeal with clean external appearances, greater structural efficiency through molecular geometry-inspired load paths, enhanced versatility in structural configurations, faster assembly times with simplified connection methods, better scalability across different applications, reduced transportation and storage costs and the potential for both temporary and permanent structural applications. The systems according to the present disclosure may be applied in any of a variety of ways including, but not limited to, the commercial construction industry, temporary event structures, disaster relief shelters, military deployable structures, exhibition and display systems, agricultural structures, and infrastructure support systems. Finally, the systems according to the present disclosure may provide significant advantages in terms of cost, efficiency and versatility when compared to traditional space frame systems (MERO, etc.), conventional steel connection methods, proprietary modular building systems, and / or standard construction methodologies.

[0081] It should also be understood that, unless a term is expressly defined in this patent using the sentence “As used herein, the term ‘term’ is hereby defined to mean...” or a similar sentence, there is no intent to limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or by implication, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term should not be interpreted to be limited in scope based on any statement made in any section of this patent (other than the language of the claims). To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to not confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such claim term be limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, the patent claims at the end of this patent application are not intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless traditional means plus-function language is expressly recited, such as “means for” or “step for” language being explicitly recited in the claim(s). The systems and methods described herein are directed to an improvement to the structural functionality of joint systems.

[0082] While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.

Claims

1. A joint system, comprising:an internal node, the internal node comprising:a first linkage member with a first slot and having a first plurality of openings;a second linkage member with a second slot and having a second plurality of openings, the first and second slots facilitating mechanical engagement of the first and second linkage members with respect to each other; anda plurality of reinforcement members, each of the reinforcement members comprising a central body and a pair of arms extending therefrom and is configured to retain the first and second linkage members in the mechanical engagement by fastening a first arm of the pair of arms to the first linkage member and fastening a second arm of the pair of arms to the second linkage member; anda plurality of struts having a plurality of strut openings, each of the struts configured to connect to one of the first and second linkage members by passing a plurality of fasteners through the first and second pluralities of openings and through the strut openings that are aligned therewith.

2. The joint system of claim 1, wherein the central body is positioned on a first plane, the first arm is positioned on a second plane different from the first plane, the second arm is positioned on a third plane different from the first and second planes.

3. The joint system of claim 1, wherein the central body has a trapezoidal configuration.

4. The joint system of claim 1, wherein:the first linkage member has a top edge surface, a bottom edge surface, and a center positioned therebetween,the first slot extends from the bottom edge surface toward the center of the first linkage member,the second linkage member has a top edge surface, a bottom edge surface, and a center positioned therebetween, andthe second slot extends from the top edge surface toward the center of the second linkage member.

5. The joint system of claim 4, wherein a width of the first slot is the same as a thickness of the second linkage member, and a width of the second slot is the same as a thickness of the first linkage member.

6. The joint system of claim 1, wherein the first and second linkage members are positioned perpendicularly with respect to each other in the mechanical engagement.

7. The joint system of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second linkage members is formed by removing two triangular portions from opposing sides of a rectangular component.

8. The joint system of claim 7, wherein the first and second pluralities of openings are positioned to align with a diagonal associated with the rectangular component.

9. The joint system of claim 1, wherein the first arm is positioned between the first linkage member and a first strut of the plurality of struts, and the second arm is positioned between the second linkage member and a second strut of the plurality of struts.

10. The joint system of claim 1, wherein the first arm or the second arm of at least one of the reinforcement members further comprises an extended arm extending therefrom, the extended arm configured to fasten the internal node to a ground or to a foundation.

11. The joint system of claim 1, wherein the first linkage member and the second linkage member are made of wood, and the reinforcement members are made of metal.

12. A joint system, comprising:an internal node, the internal node comprising:a first linkage member including a first central body with a first slot and a first plurality of arms extending from the first central body, each arm of the first plurality of arms including a first plurality of openings;a second linkage member including a second central body with a second slot and a second plurality of arms extending from the second central body, each arm of the second plurality of arms including a second plurality of openings; anda locking disc configured to retain the first linkage member in engagement with the second linkage member, the locking disc including a first locking disc half and a second locking disc half, the first locking disc half including a first pair of lobes partially separated by a first locking disc slot, a first inner edge and a first pair of abutment bosses extending from the first inner edge, the second locking disc half including a second pair of lobes partially separated by a second locking disc slot, a second inner edge and a second pair of abutment bosses extending from the second inner edge; anda plurality of struts configured to connect to any of the first plurality of arms of the first linkage member or the second plurality of arms of the second linkage member, each of the struts of the plurality of struts including a plurality of strut openings configured to align with one of the first plurality of openings or the second plurality of openings and to receive a plurality of fasteners to secure the strut to one of the first plurality of arms or the second plurality of arms;wherein the first linkage member engages the second linkage member by mating the first slot with the second slot; andwherein the locking disc retains the first linkage member in engagement with the second linkage member by receiving a first part of the first central body in the first locking disc slot of the first locking disc half and receiving a second part of the first central body in the second locking disc slot of the second locking disc half such that the first pair of abutment bosses of the first locking disc half engage the second pair of abutment bosses of the second locking disc half thereby enclosing the second linkage member between the first inner edge of the first locking disc half and the second inner edge of the second locking disc half, and securing the first locking disc half to the second locking disc half.

13. The joint system of claim 1, further comprising:a first reinforcement plate configured to attach to the first linkage member and a second reinforcement plate configured to attach to the second linkage member;wherein the first linkage member, the second linkage member and the locking disc are made of wood and the first reinforcement plate and the second reinforcement plate are made of metal.

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