Composite Building Block with Integrated Alignment Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite building blocks are not material-efficient, require external alignment devices for assembly, and lack stability, especially when subjected to mechanical loads.
Innovation Solution
A composite building block design utilizing six or eight building blocks with an internal alignment device that eliminates the need for external alignment tools, providing stability through a clamping mechanism without adhesives or screws, and is produced using minimal material, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If external alignment devices are used for assembly, then alignment precision is improved, but device complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment device is merged with the building blocks themselves. The building blocks contain integrated alignment features (such as tapered pins or shaped interfaces) that directly provide alignment functionality, eliminating the need for separate external alignment tools. This integration reduces overall device complexity while maintaining alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment function is extracted from external alignment devices and embedded directly into the building block structure. By incorporating alignment features as integral parts of the blocks, the system eliminates standalone alignment equipment while preserving the alignment capability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional composite building blocks are manufactured, then structural stability is improved, but material usage and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The composite building block is segmented into a minimal necessary configuration of six or eight individual blocks arranged around a central alignment device. This segmentation allows each block to be optimized for its specific structural role while using only the minimum material required for stability, avoiding unnecessary material consumption in traditional solid composite blocks.
Solution Approach 2:
The building blocks utilize thin-walled hollow cylindrical structures instead of solid mass. These thin-walled structures provide sufficient structural stability and rigidity while dramatically reducing material usage compared to traditional solid composite blocks.
3Strength
If additional fasteners such as adhesives or screws are used, then connection strength is improved, but ease of manufacture and disassembly worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between building blocks and the alignment device is achieved through purely mechanical means - specifically tapered pins that create a friction-based clamping connection. This mechanical system replaces the need for chemical adhesives or threaded fasteners, simplifying both manufacturing and disassembly processes while maintaining strong connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment device and building blocks are designed to self-align and self-lock through their geometric features. The tapered pins automatically position themselves and create clamping force through interference fit, eliminating the need for additional fastening operations or components.
4Reliability
If building blocks are designed for high stability, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation for disassembly worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to transition between a tight clamped state during operation and an easily separated state when needed. The tapered pin design provides strong holding force under normal conditions but allows controlled disassembly by overcoming the clamping force, balancing stability with ease of operation.
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 solution enables the building blocks to be aligned in multiple directions, providing enhanced stability and mechanical resistance while reducing production costs and time, and allowing for the use of biodegradable materials.
Implementation Method 1
The alignment device can also provide a holding function, particularly due to a clamping effect
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a composite building block, an alignment device and a complementary composite building block. Disclosed are inter alia a composite building block (V1) made of at least six building blocks (B1 to B6) and at least one alignment device (V1, V2) surrounded by the building blocks (B1 to B6). The alignment device (V1, V2) aligns the at least six building blocks (B1 to B6) in such a manner that the surface normals (FN1 to FN6) of the attachment surfaces (AF1 to AF8) of the building blocks (B1 to B6), which are provided with at least one stud (N5 to N8) or a plurality of studs (N5 to N8), point in at least six directions which are different from each other (x, y, z, -x, -y, -z).