Autonomous Reconfigurable Construction Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction elements are often rigid and not reusable, requiring specific handling and being limited to a single use, which restricts their flexibility and adaptability in construction processes.
Innovation Solution
A system of three-dimensional elements with motion-guiding, motion-restriction, and communication modules that allow for flexible displacement and reconfiguration, enabling the creation of various shapes and structures through predefined trajectories and data processing for autonomous shape shifting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If standardized construction elements are used, then production and construction processes are simplified, but the elements become rigid and non-reusable for different constructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by equipping construction elements with motion modules that enable them to change their configuration and position autonomously. Elements can transform from a transported state to a construction state and back, allowing the same standardized elements to be reused for different constructions by dynamically reconfiguring their spatial arrangement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing elements that can serve multiple functions: they can be transported individually, assembled into various constructions, disassembled, and reused for different purposes. The motion-guiding and motion-restriction modules enable elements to adapt to different construction requirements while maintaining their standardized form
2Manufacturing precision
If elements are designed for specific constructions, then construction precision is improved, but handling complexity increases and reusability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by equipping elements with autonomous motion capabilities. Elements can self-position, self-align, and self-assemble using their integrated motion modules, eliminating the need for complex external handling equipment and reducing handling complexity while maintaining construction precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical handling systems with integrated motion modules within each element. These modules use motion-guiding modules (with trails and sensors) and motion-restriction modules to achieve precise positioning without requiring complex external mechanical manipulation systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If elements are made reusable through autonomous motion, then adaptability is improved, but the system complexity and energy requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the autonomous motion functionality into distinct modular components: motion modules, motion-guiding modules, and motion-restriction modules. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, reducing overall system complexity while enabling adaptable reconfiguration of elements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses motion-guiding modules with trails and sensors as intermediaries between elements. These trails provide a communication and guidance medium that simplifies the interaction between elements, enabling autonomous coordination without requiring complex direct communication systems between all element pairs
Data Source
AI summary
A game, and a method for playing a game, that includes providing an initial shape of a plurality of elements, and an end shape that includes the elements by displacing, using a motion module for at least one element, which motion function provides the at least one element with its own movement ability relative to the other elements, in which the end shape is different than the initial shape; providing a set of parameters which together with the end shape determine losing or winning the game. The game is completed on a basis of the parameters and a position of the elements in relation to the end shape.