Beam component for use in technical construction, construction kit and method of connecting beam components
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction kits face challenges in providing stable, durable, and space-efficient connections for beam components, especially when assembling in small spaces or under stress, as they often rely on snap connections or nodal joints that are not suitable for multiple axis connections and require pre-made beam lengths, leading to instability and limited adaptability.
Innovation Solution
The design of a beam component with flanges and a perforated web, along with a kit of rectangular brackets and corner brackets, allows for connections in up to six perpendicular directions using bolts and nuts that fit within the beam's open channels, ensuring stability and flexibility in assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If snap connections are used for joining beam components, then assembly is simplified and components can be quickly connected, but the construction becomes less stable and durable under stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the simplicity of snap connections with the strength of bolted connections by integrating a snap-fit mechanism that guides and pre-positions the beam components, followed by bolt insertion through aligned holes to provide durable stress resistance. This merging allows quick assembly initiation while maintaining construction stability under load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary guiding structure or alignment feature that mediates between the simple snap connection action and the precise bolted joint requirement. This intermediary element ensures proper alignment during simple assembly operations while enabling secure bolted connections for structural integrity.
2Ease of manufacture
If pre-made beam lengths are used with special connection surfaces, then manufacturing is simplified, but the construction lacks adaptability for different configurations and cannot accommodate additional beams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the beam components with standardized hole patterns and connection interfaces that can be consistently manufactured, while the modular nature of these segmented features allows flexible assembly into various configurations. The segmentation enables simple production of standardized parts that retain high adaptability when combined.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs beam components with universal connection features such as standardized hole patterns and interface geometries that serve multiple functions: structural connection, alignment, and adaptability for various beam lengths and configurations. This universality allows the same manufactured component to be used in diverse assembly scenarios.
3Strength
If collar-form nodal joints are used to connect beams to columns, then connection is achieved, but the collars occupy external volume and cannot be retro-fitted without disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the nesting principle by placing connection holes and fastening features within the beam's internal volume rather than adding external collars. The connection mechanism is nested inside the beam structure, eliminating external volume occupation while maintaining joint strength through internal bolted connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from external collar connections to internal hole-based connections, effectively moving the connection feature from the external surface dimension to the internal cross-sectional dimension. This dimensional shift allows connections to be made within the beam's existing volume without adding external protrusions.
4Strength
If triangular fixing elements are used to reinforce corner joints, then joint strength is improved, but the elements protrude outside the beam volumes and complicate further mounting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connection function from external protruding elements and integrates it directly into the beam's structure through internally positioned holes and fasteners. By taking out the need for external reinforcing elements, the design maintains joint strength while preserving external surface area for mounting additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the structural beam function with the connection function by incorporating connection holes and fastening features directly into the beam geometry. This merging eliminates the need for separate external fixing elements, thereby maintaining both joint strength and external space availability.
Data Source
Figure 1A1~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5B
AI summary
The present invention discloses the components and kit for technical construction method of sturdy and permanent connection up to six beam components perpendicularly, while none of the nodal joint structure protrudes outside the open channel(s) of the beam component(s). The method is user friendly during assembling.