Assembly and a modular construction system for supporting a functional module

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular construction systems for supporting functional modules, such as multi-camera systems, are inflexible and poorly suited for movable or adjustable applications, with limited ability to accommodate specific forms of scaffolding and inadequate consideration for routing electrical cables, making them cumbersome for film production and other dynamic environments.

Innovation Solution

A modular construction system featuring support elements with hollow cross sections and profile elements with central half-tube sections and partial wing sections, allowing for flexible assembly and disassembly, with profile element openings that form wing sections for stable and adaptable mounting of functional modules, including cameras and lighting devices, using carbon fiber reinforced materials for reduced weight and increased stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If prefabricated exhibition stand systems are used for mounting multi-camera systems, then the structure can be quickly assembled, but the system lacks flexibility for mobile installations and specific scaffolding shapes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly speedVSAvoidflexibility for mobile installations
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into modular support elements with standardized connection interfaces. Each support element can be independently assembled and disassembled, enabling rapid configuration while maintaining flexibility for different installation scenarios including mobile applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support elements are designed with universal connection features that allow them to be used in multiple configurations and applications. The same basic support element can serve different functions depending on how it is connected to other elements, providing both speed and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If custom-made structures are built for specific applications, then the structure can be precisely adapted, but the structure becomes even less flexible for subsequent adjustments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision adaptationVSAvoidflexibility for subsequent adjustments
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable rather than statically fixed. Connection elements allow for easy adjustment and repositioning of support elements, enabling the structure to adapt to different precision requirements while maintaining flexibility for future modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

By segmenting the structure into standardized modular elements, the system achieves precision adaptation through careful selection and arrangement of modules, while the standardized interfaces ensure that adjustments can be made without requiring custom fabrication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If heavier devices such as cinema cameras are supported, then the load-bearing capacity must be increased, but the weight and complexity of the support structure increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload-bearing capacityVSAvoidweight of support structure
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The support elements utilize composite material construction that provides high strength-to-weight ratio. This allows the structure to support heavy devices like cinema cameras while keeping the overall weight of the support system minimized for easier transport and installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The support structure implements local reinforcement only where heavy loads are applied. The connection elements and support elements have strategically placed strengthening features at load-bearing points while maintaining lighter construction in non-critical areas, optimizing the strength-weight balance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentEP4257865B1Assembly and a modular construction system for supporting a functional module
Publication Date: 2024.12.25 VOLUCAP GMBH
  • EP4257865B1 patent drawingFigure 1(a)~1(b)
  • EP4257865B1 patent drawingFigure 2(a)~2(b)
  • EP4257865B1 patent drawingFigure 3(a)~3(b)

AI summary

The invention relates to an arrangement for supporting a functional module, comprising: a modular support structure (80) formed with support elements (20) having a hollow cross-section and opposing profile elements, wherein the profile elements each have a central half-tube section and integrally formed partial wing sections with profile element openings on both sides, and the partial wing sections of the profile elements are arranged overlapping in such a way that the profile element openings are paired, the half-tube sections of each support element (20) form a tube section, and the partial wing sections of each support element each form a wing section, and a functional module mounted on the support structure (80). Furthermore, a modular construction system is created.