Bistable Tape Prop for Compact Self-Deploying Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deployable props typically occupy the same volume in both deployed and undeployed states, limiting their portability, and require additional restraining devices to maintain the undeployed state, which adds complexity.
Innovation Solution
A deployable prop utilizing a bistable carpenter's tape that transitions from a rolled, undeployed state to a linear, deployed state, eliminating the need for restraining devices and reducing mass, with features like a foot member for ground engagement and a head member with a deployment switch to facilitate self-deployment and prevent structural compromise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If sectioned or folding props are used, then the prop can be deployed to support objects, but the volume occupied in undeployed state is not reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The prop employs a dynamic tape element that can transition between rolled (undeployed) and extended (deployed) states. This dynamic configuration allows the prop to reduce its volume significantly when not in use while maintaining full deployment capability when needed, directly resolving the contradiction between compact storage and operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The tape element is rolled into a compact cylindrical form when undeployed, with the foot member and head member nested within or adjacent to the rolled tape. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall volume occupied by the prop in its undeployed state while preserving all functional components for deployment.
2Volume of moving object
If restraining devices are added to maintain undeployed state, then the prop can be stored compactly, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The prop utilizes the inherent elastic memory of the tape element to automatically maintain its rolled configuration in the undeployed state without requiring external restraining devices. The tape's material properties provide self-constraint, eliminating the need for additional locking mechanisms, clips, or fasteners that would increase device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The prop exploits the change in the tape's physical state between rolled and extended configurations. The elastic memory property of the tape allows it to naturally return to its rolled state after deployment, using parameter changes in the material's shape and configuration rather than mechanical restraining devices to maintain the undeployed state.
3Device complexity
If single-piece props are used, then the structure is simple, but the weight is high and volume is not reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The prop is divided into distinct functional segments: the tape element, foot member, and head member. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling the overall structure to be more lightweight and compact compared to a single-piece design. The segmented approach maintains structural simplicity through straightforward assembly while reducing weight.
4Volume of moving object
If telescoping or inflatable props are used, then the volume in undeployed state is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The prop achieves automatic deployment through the elastic memory property of the tape element, which self-extends when released from its rolled state. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex telescoping guides, inflatable chambers, or actuation systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining volume reduction benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The prop utilizes parameter changes in the tape's physical configuration and elastic properties to achieve deployment. The transition from rolled to extended state is driven by the tape's material characteristics rather than complex mechanical or pneumatic systems, simplifying the overall device while achieving compact storage volume.
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 prop achieves a smaller volume in the undeployed state, lower mass, and enhanced structural integrity, allowing for efficient support of objects adjacent to surfaces with reduced complexity and increased portability.
Implementation Method 1
Characteristic of a carpenter's tape is that in the deployed state the tape extends linearly and has a transverse curve over the deployed length of the tape... Also characteristic of a carpenter's tape is that the tape can be rolled from one end to the other end with the rolling resulting in the transverse curve in the tape being removed as the rolling operation progresses.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 2D~2E
AI summary
A deployable prop is provided that is capable of transitioning from an undeployed state to a deployed state in which the prop can be used to support an object against or adjacent to a structural surface. In one embodiment, the deployable prop includes a bistable "carpenter's" tape, a foot member that is engaged to one end of the tape, and a head member that is engaged to the other end of the tape. The tape, foot member, and head member can be placed in an undeployed state that has "roll" shape and in a deployed state in which the tape extends substantially linearly between the foot and head members and can be used to support an object against or adjacent to a structural surface.