Composite Structure with U- and Z-Folded Sheets for Load Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing composite structures lack design flexibility and fail to tailor mechanical characteristics to various external conditions, limiting their effectiveness in supporting heavy objects and withstanding wear and impact.
Innovation Solution
A composite structure composed of core elements and sheets, where sheets form U- or Z-shaped cross-sections with overlapping lateral portions at controlled angles, allowing for tailored mechanical properties and enhanced strength through precise sheet and core arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional methods with predetermined dimensions are used for manufacturing composite panels, then manufacturing process is simple, but design flexibility and ability to tailor mechanical characteristics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the composite panel into modular components: discrete core elements arranged in parallel rows, and separate fibrous reinforcement elements that can be positioned independently. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately with standard dimensions, then assembled into custom configurations to achieve desired mechanical characteristics without requiring entirely custom-manufactured parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic adaptation of the composite structure's mechanical properties by allowing variable spacing between core elements, variable orientations of fibrous reinforcement, and selective placement of reinforcements at different locations. This dynamic configurability during assembly allows tailoring of stiffness, strength, and other mechanical characteristics for specific application requirements.
2Strength
If traditional composite panel structures are used, then manufacturing is straightforward, but strength and wear resistance for heavy object support is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two distinct materials with complementary properties: rigid core elements (such as foam or plastic) that provide structural support and shape, and fibrous reinforcement materials (such as fiberglass or carbon fiber) that provide tensile strength and wear resistance. This composite approach creates a panel structure with superior load-bearing capacity and durability compared to single-material constructions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies fibrous reinforcement selectively at locations where strength and wear resistance are most needed, such as areas subject to heavy loads, friction, or impact. The reinforcement can be concentrated at edges, corners, or specific load paths while using lighter core material elsewhere, optimizing the strength-to-weight ratio and manufacturing efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite panel (20), which comprises multiple rows of cores (40) and sheets (60). The core rows (40) extend co-directionally along a first direction (X) and are arranged in an array along a second direction (Y). Each sheet row (60) is formed by a sequence of sheets (62) that extend in line along the first direction, and is arranged in-between two adjacent core rows along the second direction. The sheets are folded into U-shapes or Z-shapes around respective adjacent cores, and the sheets within the same sheet row (60) have leading and trailing edges (70, 72) that abut against or overlap with directly preceding sheets of the same sheet row.


