Modular piece and tessellation-based assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular piece corresponding to a tessellation-based assembly concept, formed by tessellation modules, which has multiple uses owing to its properties and articulated, modular nature. The 3D geometry of the modular piece of the invention enables a complex element or system to be constructed by means of the mutual self-locking of a series of pieces, without the need for adhesive materials or tools or objects for fastening. The specific use and number of applications are determined by modifications to the dimensions and manufacturing material of the piece. In particular, the modular piece of the invention has a wide and unlimited range of uses. The invention also relates to a method for producing the tessellation-based modular pieces and to a method for assembling the pieces.

Description

[0001] MODULAR PIECE AND TESSELLATION ASSEMBLY

[0002] Technical field of the invention

[0003] The present invention falls within the field of mechanical engineering and industrial design since it defines a part and its method of generation and assembly, where said part allows a modular assembly and allows the manufacture or obtaining of structures.

[0004] Thus, the present invention relates to a modular piece that corresponds to a concept of generating three-dimensional geometries and assembling them by tessellation. This piece is made up of tessellated modules, which have a plurality of applications attributed to their articulated and modular characteristics and performance. From the three-dimensional geometry of the modular piece of the invention, a complex system or element is constructed by the self-locking of a series of pieces together, without the need for adhesive materials or fastening tools or objects. The specification of use and number of applications are determined by modifications to the dimensions of the piece and the material from which it is manufactured. In particular, the modular piece of the present invention has a wide variety of applications, such as: rapid construction in the development of modular floors for events (concerts,outdoor festivals and fairs or those requiring temporary floor modifications) and emergency response (floods, creation of bridges or paths due to obstructed walkways or walkable surfaces); vertical construction of partitions (construction or temporary modification of road corridors), roofs (lighting canopies and surface finishes for buildings), containment barriers (barriers to control fluid spills or the transit of any object or subject) and individual modules (storage and rapid construction of shelters); infrastructure through the generation of new brick geometries or building cells (rapid and efficient construction for urban roads and paths), as well as floating modules (aquatic surfaces, aquatic partitions, waterways or facilities for floating production systems: mining, oil, solar panels, wind turbines,among others); jewelry, from the manufacture of bracelets, chains, or bangles (manufacturing new chain configurations, watch bracelets, among others); fashion through 3D-printed fabrics (production of rigid but articulated fabrics, meshes, among others); curved screen technology (large-format events for the display of digital content, new LED panel assemblies for curved configurations), among others. Finally, the modular part of the present invention can be manufactured from any suitable material, such as polymers, mainly HDPE, LDPE, PP, ABS, PET, PES, among others, including the use of recycled plastics, without being limited to these materials. However, since it represents a construction base, the material with which the base piece can be constructed can be adapted to other families of materials (ceramics, metals, elastic, or composites), without limitations.

[0005] Background of the invention

[0006] Today, the need to adapt quickly to different environmental, construction, or application circumstances is crucial. Modular structures, based on the tessellation concept, offer an innovative and efficient solution for addressing challenges in construction and crisis management. These systems are composed of interlocking pieces, enabling faster and more flexible construction. This modularity not only accelerates the building process but also facilitates customization to meet the specific needs of the environment, which is especially useful in areas prone to natural disasters.

[0007] Tessellation involves creating mosaic-like assemblies from a single prefabricated piece that is repeated according to the application's requirements. It is a way to cover surfaces by arranging a repeated geometric pattern on them without overlapping, thus generating coverings that are usually two-dimensional.

[0008] Studies indicate that the use of prefabricated elements can reduce construction time by up to 50%, thanks to simultaneous manufacturing under controlled conditions and rapid on-site installation. This methodology also contributes to a 30% reduction in construction waste, due to precise measurements and less material waste. The uniformity and precision of prefabricated modules ensure a high standard of quality, minimizing errors and optimizing the use of resources. Furthermore, the flexibility of these systems allows for adapting the construction to different configurations and structural requirements, which not only improves operational efficiency but also reduces overall project costs.

[0009] Tessellation applications focus on generating two-dimensional geometric patterns, not three-dimensional figures. However, one of the biggest problems or challenges is the vulnerability of infrastructure to phenomena such as earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes. Conventional structures often lack the necessary resilience to withstand these crises, which can lead to devastating collapses and significant loss of life. In contrast, three-dimensional modular systems can be designed to absorb and redistribute the forces generated by these events, increasing safety and durability. Because they are built with components that can be easily replaced or repaired, these systems offer a viable alternative for reconstruction in affected areas.

[0010] Similarly, the implementation of modular structures can help address the problem of resource scarcity and time constraints in emergency situations. When a disaster strikes, every minute counts, and traditional construction methods can be too slow and expensive. Modular components allow for a rapid response, as they can be transported and assembled on-site with relative ease. This not only reduces the waiting time for infrastructure restoration but also minimizes the impact on affected communities, providing shelter and basic services more effectively.

[0011] Likewise, tessellation in modular structures not only offers short-term solutions, but also fosters a future in which cities and communities are more resilient and sustainable.

[0012] Accordingly, the prior art includes various types of tessellation or modular systems for obtaining flexible structures, among which are the following, which are included in this disclosure for reference purposes only. US Patent 6309716B1 describes sets of tessellatable elements in which a relatively small number of different elements can be combined to provide tessellated patterns, where these elements are two-dimensional and allow for dimensional accuracy on the x and y axes. The elements can be in the form of tiles for paving or covering floors or walls, for example, game pieces, pieces for use in the construction of mazes, and for many other applications.Furthermore, depending on their application, the elements can be stackable or scalable for different uses; that is, the thickness will vary according to where the tessellated elements will be installed or used. Finally, these elements employ specific angles to achieve assembly with each other.

[0013] As a first step, US patent 11149427 refers to a series of individual square modules used in an assembly for underground storage of rainwater and other fluid storage needs. These modules are assembled into a resulting square shape to maximize structural strength and material efficiency. The inner square modules are assembled and enclosed by outer square modules. Adjacent inner modules are in direct fluid communication with each other through a channelless chamber. The inner square modules drain into a chamber of square modules where the fluid is stored or drained. The assemblies include various top and side pieces along with access ports for entering the assembly.

[0014] On the other hand, there is document US10787803 which shows prefabricated wall panels with integrated electronic devices, as well as a modular building made with said prefabricated panels with integrated electronic devices, individual panel identifiers and a central computer system.

[0015] Also included in the state of the art is document US10267029, which discloses individual hexagonal modules used in an assembly for underground storage of rainwater and other fluid storage needs. These modules are assembled into a honeycomb-like structure to maximize structural strength and material efficiency. Adjacent modules are in direct fluid communication with each other through openings or windows in the module's side walls. The assemblies include several top and side pieces, along with access ports for entering the assembly.

[0016] US20170239587 refers to a building unit configured to interlock with other building units to create a variety of different shapes. These units can be two-dimensional or assembled three-dimensionally into circular shapes. Their three-dimensional form is reduced and they do not have a self-locking mechanism.

[0017] Finally, there is document US 3722162, which describes a tessellation or paving element or tile comprising a lower portion having symmetrical two-by-two side surfaces, one pair of which is convergent and the other divergent toward the upper surface. This portion has on its upper surface a prism whose base is congruent with the upper surface, wherein this prismatic portion constitutes at least one-third, preferably more than half, of the element's height to improve interlocking in directions perpendicular to the paving surface, and to make the joints impenetrable to the loose underlying layer.

[0018] Based on the above information, an expert in the field can clearly determine that in the state of the art there are a number of disclosures related to devices or parts that are modular and that are assembled together under a tessellation principle in order to obtain a desired result, that is, for the manufacture of a defined structure that allows some flexibility.

[0019] Therefore, it is also clear that there are several problems in the prior art related to obtaining three-dimensional shapes that allow self-assembly without the need for glue, screws, hinges, welding, adhesive tabs, or inserts. In other words, it is highly desirable that the parts be self-locking with complementary shapes and dimensions that allow the desired result to be achieved and meet existing needs. Furthermore, an additional problem arises related to obtaining modular parts whose assembly allows for flexible construction along multiple axes. Brief description of the invention

[0020] The present invention proposes a solution to the problem described above by providing a method for generating three-dimensional modular parts by tessellation, with self-assembly and self-locking. This method is defined or based on the use of tessellation and its understanding in three dimensions as a tool for obtaining tessellated parts that generate articulated and self-locking assemblies. These parts lock together to generate planar or cylindrical structures without the need for tertiary parts or adhesive elements, thus making optimal use of space and generating multifunctional arrangements. Likewise, the present invention is also directed to a modular tessellated part based on the concept of tessellation assembly, which has a plurality of applications attributed to its articulated and modular characteristics and performance.

[0021] Thus, the modular component of the present invention has a three-dimensional geometry that allows the components to self-lock together without the need for adhesives, tools, or fasteners to obtain a final structure with the desired specifications. The modular assembly of this component requires a single assembly block, features self-locking parts, and allows for movement or flexibility in the assembled modular form when joined.

[0022] Thus, the modular component of the invention is the geometric result of applying the tessellation concept to three-dimensionality. Starting with a closed rectangular box, the construction technique involves "removing" and "adding" pieces of the solid from one side to the other to create complementary faces and new geometries. This results in a final design that allows the pieces to interact and form a structure with the desired properties. Furthermore, the pieces are complementary on each and every one of their faces; that is, when the pieces are assembled, tessellation patterns can be observed on each face.

[0023] Likewise, the assembly method for the modular parts of the invention takes advantage of the new geometries derived from the three-dimensional tessellation process to lock the parts together, complementing any missing or protruding sections with adjacent geometries. The assembly begins with a piece (Piece 1) to which an identical piece (Piece 2) is added on top, restricting the rotational movement of both with a shaft-hole connection. Next, another identical piece (Piece 3) is added to the right of Piece 1, which, in turn, blocks the axial sliding of Piece 2 and horizontally grips Piece 1 with shaft-hole and male-female connections. Finally, to create a stable assembly, a fourth piece (Piece 4) is added, which is joined to Piece 3 by a shaft-hole connection and to Piece 2 by shaft-hole and male-female connections.

[0024] Similarly, it's important to note that for the assembly to be functional, at least four pieces must be joined in a 2x2 arrangement. This forms the basis of the assembly, as the base piece requires three identical complementary pieces to prevent any possible movement between the parts. This consideration is crucial for defining the assembly, since the base piece cannot exist and function on its own without the other three.

[0025] The invention also provides a method for assembling three-dimensional modular parts. Using this method, the modular parts can be assembled into horizontal or vertical structures, for example, to build bridges or houses, respectively. Assemblies with rounded shapes can be achieved, for example, for igloo houses or malokas. Likewise, longitudinal assemblies can be made from a single piece with smooth edges, for example, for the wrist of a watch.

[0026] This is achieved because the dimensions of the pieces are modifiable, allowing them to be longer or wider as needed, while always maintaining their assembly or tessellation characteristics. Similarly, the side edges can be smooth or have grooves to limit or facilitate the assembly of other pieces or to define boundary pieces in the structure being created or obtained.

[0027] The modular piece of the present invention can be used for: rapid construction in the development of modular floors for events (concerts, festivals and outdoor fairs or those requiring a temporary adaptation of floors) and emergency response (floods, creation of bridges or paths due to obstruction of walkways or walkable surfaces); vertical construction of partitions (construction or temporary modification of road corridors), roofs (light roofs and surface finishes for buildings), containment barriers (barriers to control fluid spills or the transit of any object or subject) and individual modules (storage and rapid construction of shelters);infrastructure through the generation of new brick geometries or building cells (fast and efficient construction for urban roads and paths), as well as flotation modules (aquatic surfaces, aquatic divisions, waterways or facilities for floating production systems: mining, oil, solar panels, wind turbines, among others); jewelry from the manufacture of bracelets, chains or bangles (manufacturing of new configurations of chains, watch bracelets, among others); fashion through 3D printed fabrics (production of rigid but articulated fabrics, meshes, among others);curved screen technology (large-format events for the display of digital content, new LED panel assemblies for curved configurations), among others. Thus, the tessellated piece of the invention is preferably manufactured from a series of polymers, such as HDPE, LDPE, PP, ABS, PET, PES, among others, including the use of recycled plastics. However, the present invention also contemplates the use of different materials, not only polymers, which depend directly on the final application of the structure obtained with the assembly of the modular pieces, where these materials can be selected from ceramics, metals, elastic materials, biocomposites, or combinations thereof, without being limited to this list.

[0028] Brief description of the figures

[0029] The present invention is more clearly understood from the following figures, which show the components associated with the present modular piece, as well as the novel elements with respect to the state of the art, where the figures are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is solely defined by the attached claims, where:

[0030] Figure 1 corresponds to a first orthogonal isomethic view of the tessellated piece that is the object of the present invention, in which it is possible to see the front, bottom and right side faces.

[0031] Figure 2 corresponds to a second orthogonal symmetric view of the tessellated piece that is the object of the present invention, in which it is possible to see the right, lower and rear faces.

[0032] Figure 3 corresponds to a third orthogonal symmetric view of the tessellated piece that is the object of the present invention, in which it is possible to see the right, top and rear faces.

[0033] Figure 4 corresponds to a lower orthogonal view of the modular piece that is the subject of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 5 corresponds to a top orthogonal view of the modular piece that is the subject of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 corresponds to a front orthogonal view of the modular part that is the subject of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 corresponds to a rear orthogonal view of the modular part that is the subject of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 8 corresponds to an orthogonal symmetric view of an assembly of nine (9) pieces in a 3x3 configuration of the modular pieces of the present invention coupled and self-locked to each other.

[0038] Figure 9 corresponds to an exploded view of the structure shown in Figure 8 and formed by the modular parts of the invention.

[0039] Figure 10 corresponds to a planar orthogonal view of one modality of the assembly of the tessellated pieces of the present invention, wherein said pieces have smooth lateral edges

[0040] Detailed description of the invention

[0041] The present invention relates to a modular piece based on the tessellation assembly concept, which has a plurality of applications attributed to its articulated and modular characteristics and performance, where said modular piece has a three-dimensional geometry that allows the self-locking of pieces to each other, without the need to use adhesive materials, tools or clamping objects.

[0042] In this sense, the modular piece of the invention has an irregular three-dimensional structure with several flat and cylindrical surfaces, where its geometry is complex and is designed to be assembled with other identical pieces by means of a fitting system, as will be defined later.

[0043] Thus, Figures 1 to 7 show that the modular piece of the present invention is formed by a single body, which is generally composed of the following parts or components:

[0044] • a male-female upper side coupling in the form of a cylinder (1) and side cylinder receiver (2) or lower cylinder receiver (5), wherein a coupling form is located on an edge of the piece;

[0045] • a second male-female coupling in the form of an upper projection (3) and lower socket (4) on the central surface of the piece, where the height of the cylinder (1) is greater than the location of the side cylinder receiver (2) on the piece.

[0046] Additionally, the modular part of the invention is characterized by the following:

[0047] • A cylinder (1) protruding from one side of the modular piece, where said cylinder (1) is designed as an anchoring pivot or rotational element, which is a fundamental element in the joining process and allows a solid connection with other modular pieces. Additionally, said cylinder (1) is rounded and has a clean finish, which offers mechanical stability, allowing the precise alignment of the pieces and ensuring that the modular system formed by multiple modular pieces maintains its structural integrity during assembly;

[0048] • A side cylinder receiver (2) located on the opposite face of the cylinder (1), which is located on the upper side of the piece and allows the cylinder (1) of the adjacent piece to be received inside it during assembly, where said receiver (2) allows the side of the piece to protrude to a certain extent from the main body of the piece; • An upper projection (3) that has a substantially inverted “L” shape and is located on the upper part of the main body of the piece, where said upper projection (3) allows the piece to be coupled with others at its upper part and whose shape helps to prevent the piece located above from moving vertically and to keep it hooked during assembly;

[0049] • A lower socket (4) substantially shaped like an inverted “L” and matching the shape of the upper projection (3), where said lower socket (4) receives the upper projection (3) of an adjacent lower piece inside, in order to perform the assembly and obtain a final structure. Furthermore, said lower socket (4) has the characteristic that its internal walls are substantially curved, allowing the final structure assembled with other pieces to have some degree of movement;

[0050] • A lower cylinder receiver (5) located on the lower side of the part body, particularly below the cylinder (1), wherein said lower cylinder receiver (5) allows the insertion of the cylinder (1) of an adjacent part to be located below to perform the assembly and obtain the desired final structure.

[0051] Therefore, the component of the present invention is designed to be highly adaptable and versatile. This is because its characteristics, such as grooves, cylindrical openings, and curved surfaces, allow it to be used in a wide range of applications, from mechanical assembly systems to modular structures requiring flexibility. Furthermore, the combination of grooves and pivots allows the components to connect securely while also facilitating disassembly, which is essential in systems where repetitive assembly and disassembly are necessary. Additionally, assembly requires minimal effort; simply adjusting or clicking the components together is sufficient, as is disassembly, thanks to the geometry of the components that enables such easy assembly and disassembly.

[0052] Now, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cylinder (1) has a specific diameter that coincides with the diameter of the lower cylinder receiver (5) and the side cylinder receiver (2), wherein, furthermore, the cylinder (1) and the lower cylinder receiver (5) are aligned parallel to each other, one on top of the other, and this allows these elements, together with the side cylinder receiver (2), to function as pivots or fixing points for a rotational coupling system.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the area around the cylinder (1) is circular and similar to a partial "U" shaped cut, allowing a certain degree of movement when said cylinder (1) is inserted into the lower cylinder receiver (5) of a part that is to be placed above or below the neighboring part.

[0054] Additionally, the component of the present invention features curved edges, which are particularly evident in Figures 1 and 2. These curved surfaces are designed not only for aesthetic reasons but also to facilitate smoother sliding and alignment during assembly. The curved surfaces provide a more user-friendly profile for handling, preventing blockages or unnecessary friction when assembling the modular components. Furthermore, they allow movement about the axis, enabling modular assemblies that adapt to areas with movement or irregular shapes.

[0055] Similarly, it is important to note that the upper and lower faces of each of the pieces of the present invention are completely flat, which ensures the absence of interstitial spaces.

[0056] The piece also features flat, rectangular surfaces on its front and back faces, which are interlocked with the curved surfaces of the sides, demonstrating a mixed geometric approach. These flat surfaces may help provide stability once the pieces are fully assembled.

[0057] Similarly, the modular part of the present invention is characterized by a series of lines and contours that allow for an improved desired result compared to the prior art. In particular, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the L-shaped grooves, notches, or protrusions (3, 4) and the angled cuts observed from these perspectives are key to the assembly, since these grooves, notches, and protrusions allow the part to interlock perfectly with neighboring modules, providing a secure connection. The L-shape of the upper protrusion (3) and the lower notch (4) also helps prevent displacement once the parts are aligned, as this L-shaped protrusion is curved to follow the rotation path established by the axis. This is highly relevant and important because if this protrusion were not curved, assembly would not be possible, as there would be an intersection between the parts.

[0058] The previously defined shapes of the upper projection (3) and the lower recess (4) are designed so that when two pieces are assembled one on top of the other, they are precisely secured, ensuring that the pieces do not slip out of place under moderate stress.

[0059] Considering the shapes and surfaces of the modular components of the present invention, it is clear that the component is intended for applications where controlled movement or core stability are important. Thus, the use of curved surfaces, interlocking grooves, and cylindrical anchoring elements indicates that the modular system can withstand both rotational movement and linear sliding, depending on how the components are used.

[0060] Furthermore, from the attached Figures it can be seen that the piece of the present invention has a lower part or “base” that corresponds to a flat surface with rounded corners and right angles in certain areas, where the edge of said base has a cut square section, which shows an area designed for a precise fit.

[0061] The modular component of the invention can vary in its base dimensions, being, for example, wider, longer, or deeper. The parts that fit together will be adjusted according to the construction requirements.

[0062] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the modular piece has smooth side edges so that the assemblies are held together but form flat side finishes. This modular piece can be used for frames with a single row, where a smooth edge is required. For example, for watch strap or ribbon constructions.

[0063] The design of the modular component of the present invention is based on a geometric tessellation principle, meaning it can be infinitely repeated and fit together perfectly with identical modular components without gaps or overlaps. This approach allows for the efficient and precise covering of flat surfaces. Furthermore, the geometry of the component of the invention has been designed to fit into a grid pattern that maximizes usable space, enabling a uniform and stable distribution of the modules.

[0064] Based on the above, it is important to highlight that each modular piece is joined to others through precise tessellation, resulting in a solid and coherent assembly. The geometric shapes, such as the L-shaped slots or interlocking pieces (4) and the cylinders (1) defined earlier, are designed to ensure that the assembly of the pieces is not only precise but also repeatable, guaranteeing that the piece can be replicated in any direction within the plane without breaking the pattern's continuity. This system is ideal for applications requiring the covering of large surfaces without compromising the stability of the final structure.

[0065] Similarly, the geometric design on which the tessellation is based includes key elements, such as right-angle cuts and grooves, that allow for automatic adjustment between adjacent pieces. Cylindrical pivots facilitate the alignment of the pieces and ensure a solid connection, while the L-shaped grooves or slots (4) distribute assembly forces evenly, optimizing both the flexibility and strength of the system.

[0066] This type of geometric principle presents a series of advantages, including the maximization of space, since it allows taking advantage of every centimeter of space in applications where efficiency is key, such as in the creation of flat surfaces for conveyor belts, modular floors or assembly structures, which will be defined later.

[0067] Therefore, because tessellation allows for infinite replication of the design, the system can be easily scaled to fit larger or smaller areas without altering the basic structure. This tessellation system reduces assembly complexity, as it requires no adjustments or adaptations, only the repetition of the pattern, making it easy to assemble and disassemble. This tessellation-based approach not only ensures efficient modular design but also presents a robust method for creating stable and reusable surfaces in various industrial and structural applications.

[0068] In addition to the above, the modular component of the present invention can be manufactured from any suitable material, such as a polymer, primarily HDPE, LDPE, PP, ABS, PET, PES, among others, including the use of recycled plastics, but not limited to these materials. However, since it represents a construction base, the material from which the base component can be constructed can be adapted to other material families (ceramics, metals, flexible, elastic, or composites), without limitations.

[0069] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate the modular component of the present invention as previously defined, clearly showing the joining of several of these components. This joining or coupling of the modular components is achieved by inserting the cylinder (1) of one component into the lateral cylinder receiver (2) of the next lateral component, and by inserting the cylinder (1) into the lower cylinder receiver (5) of the next upper component. Simultaneously, the upper projection (3) of one component is inserted into the lower recess (4) of the adjacent upper component, among other elements that are also coupled as shown in the Figures. It is important to note that for the assembly to be functional, at least four tessellated components must be joined in a 2x2 arrangement. This constitutes the assembly base, as the base component requires three identical complementary components to prevent any possible movement between the parts.

[0070] It is important to note that this joining or insertion of the cylinder (1) into both the receiver (2) of the side piece and the lower cylinder receiver (5) of the upper piece is achieved because the height of said cylinder (1) is greater than the location of the side cylinder receiver (2) in the piece, as shown in the figures. This allows the cylinder (1) to protrude slightly when inserted into the receiver (2), enabling it to be fitted into the next piece above it, that is, the upper piece positioned above, for a proper fit. This is more clearly illustrated in the exploded view of Figure 9, where the pieces are partially separated before assembly, as shown in Figure 8.

[0071] The figures in question show that the modular part of the invention is designed to be joined to other identical parts by means of a snap-fit ​​coupling system, where multiple modules are assembled precisely and compactly, forming a continuous, uniform and articulateable surface, which has the characteristic that facilitates quick and easy assembly, without the need for additional tools, thanks to the interconnecting slots and pivots, as previously indicated.

[0072] Furthermore, it should be noted that the cylinder (1) located at the top of each module acts as an anchoring axis, fitting into the receivers (2, 5) of the adjacent side and top pieces, as previously described. These cylinders (1) allow the modular pieces to align precisely, providing structural stability. Likewise, the lower grooves or slots (4) and L-shaped cuts at the base of each piece allow the units to slide and lock together, ensuring that the pieces do not easily come apart once connected, thus maintaining a solid structure.

[0073] This allows adjacent modular pieces to interlock, resulting in a desired final structure with a matrix-type assembly. The modular pieces form an interlocking pattern, reinforcing the overall stability of the modular system. Thus, this arrangement not only increases the rigidity of the assembly but also allows for the efficient covering of large areas.

[0074] One of the characteristics of the assembly or structure created with the modular parts of the present invention, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, is that it allows for easy assembly and disassembly. This is because the parts connect intuitively, enabling rapid assembly without the need for specialized equipment or external agents such as adhesives. Furthermore, the geometry of the parts allows for easy assembly and disassembly, requiring minimal effort. This makes the final system or assembly ideal for modular applications requiring flexibility or quick adjustments.

[0075] In addition, the modular design allows the final structure to be scalable, meaning that parts can be added or removed as needed without affecting the overall integrity. The only potential limitation arises when using end pieces (as shown in Figure 10), which prevents internal components from being exposed. However, this is an alternative approach and not a true limitation. This type of design is suitable for systems requiring repetitive assembly, such as conveyor belts, assembly platforms, or temporary structures where structural integrity and flexibility are essential, such as in locations with adverse weather conditions like flooding.

[0076] In addition to the foregoing, the present invention is also directed to a method for generating three-dimensional modular parts by tessellation, as defined in the preceding paragraphs, where said generation method is characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a. modeling parts with irregular three-dimensional geometry with paired coupling elements, b. placing said paired coupling elements on different edges of the part, c. combining at least two types of paired coupling elements for each part, d. generating friction-reducing elements in the paired coupling elements with curved ends, and e. verifying the self-locking of the elements that fit the parts together.

[0077] This method allows the construction of modular parts with which three-dimensional assemblies with self-locking mechanisms can be generated.

[0078] Likewise, in another embodiment of the invention, the present disclosure relates to a method for assembling a plurality of three-dimensional modular parts, as described above, wherein said assembly method is characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) preparing or supplying a series of modular parts, as defined above, wherein each part includes a body with a male-female upper side coupling in the form of a cylinder (1) on one edge, a side cylinder receiver (2) or a lower cylinder receiver (5) on another edge; b) aligning adjacent parts by positioning a first modular part so that the cylinder (1) fits the side cylinder receiver (2) or the lower cylinder receiver (5) of a second adjacent modular part, ensuring that the side coupling forms a stable connection between the parts;c) adjusting the central couplings by inserting the upper projection (3) located on the central surface of one modular piece into the lower recess (4) of an adjacent piece, where said central coupling allows an additional connection between the pieces, increasing structural stability; d) verifying the cylinder height by ensuring that the height of the cylinder (1) of the first modular piece is greater than the position of the lateral cylinder receiver (2) in the second modular piece, where this arrangement guarantees a correct intersection between the pieces and allows transverse adjustment between them; e) repeating the coupling process defined in the previous steps to assemble multiple modular pieces in a tessellated configuration, where the lateral and central male-female couplings ensure the firm connection of all pieces in a three-dimensional arrangement;f) forming a final structure by completing the assembly of the modular pieces, where each lateral and central connection contributes to the formation of a continuous, stable and geometrically organized structure, with the cylinders (1) and the corresponding receivers (2 and 5) ensuring the precise alignment of the modules.;

[0079] Although the foregoing description defines the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the scope of this document also includes the various modifications that may be evident to a person skilled in the art, and this scope is in no way limited to the preferred embodiments, but is defined solely by the attached claims and the subject matter therein.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A method for generating parts by tessellation characterized by: a) modeling three-dimensional parts with paired coupling elements, b) placing said paired coupling elements on different edges of the part, c) combining at least two types of paired coupling elements for each part, d) generating friction-reducing elements in the paired coupling elements with curved ends, e) verifying the self-locking of the parts' fitting elements with each other.

2. A three-dimensional modular part, characterized by: a. a male-female upper side coupling in the form of a cylinder (1) and a side cylinder receiver (2) or a lower cylinder receiver (5), where one coupling form is located on an edge of the part; b. a second male-female coupling in the form of an upper projection (3) and a lower recess (4) on the central surface of the part, where the height of the cylinder (1) is greater than the location of the side cylinder receiver (2) on the part.

3. A modular part, according to claim 2, characterized in that the first and second couplings are formed by: • a cylinder (1) protruding from one side of the piece, wherein said cylinder (1) is a rotational element, and wherein the area around the cylinder (1) is substantially circular in a "U" shape; • a side cylinder receiver (2) located on the opposite face to the cylinder (1) on the upper side of the piece and receiving inside the cylinder (1) of an adjacent piece; • an inverted “L” shaped upper projection (3) located that protrudes from the top of the main body of the piece, where the inner edges of the upper projection are curved; • a lower fitting (4) shaped like an inverted “L” and matching the shape of the upper projection (3), where said lower socket (4) receives inside the upper projection (3) of an adjacent lower piece, wherein the internal walls of the lower socket (4) are curved; and • a lower cylinder receiver (5) located on the lower side of the part body, below the cylinder (1), wherein said lower cylinder receiver (5) receives the cylinder (1) from an adjacent lower part, wherein the diameter of the cylinder (1) coincides with the diameter of the lower cylinder receiver (5) and of the side cylinder receiver (2), and wherein the height of the cylinder (1) is greater than the location of the side cylinder receiver (2) in the part.

4. The modular piece according to claim 2, characterized in that the piece has curved side edges and flat, rectangular surfaces on its front and rear faces.

5. The modular piece according to claim 2, characterized in that the piece has a lower part or base which is a flat surface with rounded corners and right angles, wherein the edge of said base has a cut square section.

6. A method for assembling three-dimensional modular parts characterized by: a) supplying modular parts, where each part includes a body with a male-female cylindrical upper side coupling (1) on one edge, a side cylinder receiver (2) or a lower cylinder receiver (5) on another edge; b) aligning adjacent parts by fitting the cylinder (1) of a first modular part to the side cylinder receiver (2) or the lower cylinder receiver (5) of a second adjacent modular part; c) fitting the center couplings by inserting the upper projection (3) located on the center surface of one modular part into the lower recess (4) of an adjacent part; d) verifying the cylinder height by ensuring that the height of the cylinder (1) of the first modular part is greater than the position of the side cylinder receiver (2) on the second modular part; e) repeating the above steps by assembling multiple modular parts into a tessellated configuration; and f) form a final structure by completing the assembly of the modular parts, with the cylinders (1) and the corresponding receivers (2 and 5) in precise alignment.

7. Modular parts assembly method, according to claim 6, characterized in that the parts assembly is in a two-dimensional configuration.

8. Modular parts assembly method, according to claim 6, characterized in that the modular parts may vary in one or more dimensions, but the coupling area is similar between them.

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