Aeromorph Reinforcement Layout for Controlled Folding and Shape
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aeromorph structures face challenges in controlling directional folding and minimizing wrinkles, especially in complex designs, leading to inconsistent shape formation during inflation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating reinforcing members made of thermoplastic polyurethane or similar materials with varying stiffness values, secured to the exterior surface using additive manufacturing techniques, to guide directional movement and sequence of folding in inflatable structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional aeromorph structures use seams and seals to form air pockets for shape formation, then the structure can achieve basic 3-D shaping, but the directional folding control becomes difficult and inconsistent, especially in complex designs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the stiffness of reinforcing members at different locations on the aeromorph structure. Different regions have reinforcing members with specifically tailored stiffness values to control folding in those particular areas, enabling precise directional control where needed while maintaining flexibility elsewhere.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes physical parameters by using reinforcing members with different stiffness values (modulus of elasticity) to control the folding behavior. By adjusting the stiffness parameter of reinforcing members in different regions, the patent achieves reliable directional folding control and prevents unwanted folding directions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If aeromorph structures attempt to control complex folding patterns, then more complex shapes can be achieved, but the control of folding direction and sequence becomes increasingly difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies complex folding control by applying local quality through region-specific reinforcing members. Each region has reinforcing members with stiffness values optimized for that particular area's folding requirements, allowing complex overall shapes to be achieved through simple local control rules rather than complex global control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the aeromorph structure into multiple regions, each with its own reinforcing members of specific stiffness values. This segmentation allows independent control of folding in different areas, making complex folding patterns manageable through simple modular units rather than requiring complex integrated control.
3Reliability
If reinforcing members with higher stiffness are used to control folding direction, then directional control improves, but the material selection and manufacturing process become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent manages manufacturing complexity by systematically varying the stiffness parameter of reinforcing members based on location and function. This parameter-based approach allows for standardized manufacturing processes while achieving different control characteristics through material selection and geometric configuration rather than complex manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite construction by combining the base aeromorph material with reinforcing members of different stiffness values. This composite approach allows the base material to remain simple and easy to manufacture while the added reinforcing members provide the necessary directional control, separating the manufacturing simplicity requirement from the control performance requirement.
4Shape
If wrinkles are allowed to form on the aeromorph structure, then the material can accommodate complex shapes, but the wrinkles influence and distort the folding manner
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses wrinkle-induced folding distortion by applying local quality through strategically placed reinforcing members. These members are positioned in specific regions where wrinkles tend to form and have detrimental effects, providing localized stiffness to control folding behavior in those problem areas while allowing wrinkles to form in regions where they are harmless.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution effectively controls the folding sequence and minimizes wrinkles, ensuring consistent and desired shape formation in aeromorph structures, allowing for precise shape management and repeated inflation-deflation without explosive transformations.
Implementation Method 1
The reinforcing member exhibits a stiffness greater than a stiffness of the programmable material
Implementation Method 2
secured to a surface of the bladder with additive manufacturing techniques, such as 3-D printing
Data Source
AI summary
Inflatable structures, or aeromorphs, are provided with reinforcing member shape controlling features. The inflatable structure includes a bladder formed of a programmable substrate and defining an outer perimeter. The bladder includes a plurality of seams and a plurality of foldable segments defined by the plurality of seams. At least one hinge is provided, located adjacent each foldable segment. The hinge is configured to permit a folding movement of the respective foldable segment. At least one reinforcing member is provided, secured to the bladder and configured to guide a directional movement of at least one of the plurality of foldable segments, control a shape of the inflatable structure, and determine a sequence of folding. In various aspects, the reinforcing member includes a thermoplastic polyurethane, and is secured to a surface of the bladder with additive manufacturing techniques, such as 3-D printing.