Collapsible Truss X-Joint Reinforcement With Layered U-Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable collapsible shelters using lighter weight, lower strength materials like aluminum in truss assemblies are prone to deformation and failure due to user abuse and weather-related axial bending stresses, particularly at pivotal x-joints, leading to structural instability and failure.
Innovation Solution
The use of a layered u-bracket and internal support bodies at pivotal x-joints to reinforce truss members, providing additional strength and preventing deformation by aligning apertures for connecting members and using washers to reduce friction, thus enhancing the structural integrity of the collapsible truss assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials like aluminum are used in truss assemblies, then weight is reduced and portability is improved, but strength and resistance to deformation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines aluminum truss members with steel reinforcement elements (internal support bodies and external u-brackets) to create a composite structure. This allows the primary structure to remain lightweight aluminum while critical stress areas are strengthened with steel, resolving the contradiction between weight and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies reinforcement only at specific critical locations (pivotal x-joints and areas experiencing axial bending stresses) rather than throughout the entire truss member. This localized reinforcement maintains overall lightness while providing strength where most needed.
2Weight of stationary object
If thin walled truss members are used, then weight and cost are reduced, but resistance to deformation and failure is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates internal support bodies and external u-brackets as preventive reinforcement before deformation occurs. These elements are designed to absorb and distribute stresses that would otherwise cause thin-walled members to deform or fail, particularly at pivotal x-joints during setup, takedown, and weather exposure.
3Ease of manufacture
If lower strength materials are used, then cost is reduced, but durability under operational and environmental stresses is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a hybrid material approach where aluminum provides cost-effective lightweight structure while steel reinforcement elements provide enhanced durability. This composite construction extends the lifespan of the truss assembly under operational abuse and environmental stresses without requiring expensive all-steel construction.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible truss assembly is described herein. One component includes a layered u-bracket including a first u-bracket connected to the collapsible truss assembly, having a first channel, a first surface opposing the channel, and a first aperture that spans from the first surface to the first channel and is of a particular diameter. The layered u-bracket also includes a second u-bracket having a second channel, a second surface opposing the second channel, and a second aperture that spans from the second surface to the second channel and is of the particular diameter. For the layered u-bracket, the second channel is flush with the first surface, and the first and second apertures are aligned.