Modular Curved Structure Forming Apparatus with Locking Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Constructing curved structures such as walls, archways, and columns is labor-intensive and inefficient due to the need for numerous cuts in standard construction materials, and existing sheet metal solutions are unwieldy and difficult to position accurately.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus comprising pivotally connected sections with slots and upwardly projecting members or protrusions that can be locked into place to maintain a desired radius, allowing for flexible and efficient formation of curved structures with improved strength and minimal labor requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If standard construction materials (runners and studs) are used for curved structures, then the construction can be completed with readily available materials, but the labor intensity increases significantly due to numerous cuts required to form the desired radius
Solution Approach 1:
The curved structure is divided into multiple modular sections that can be assembled together. Each section contains integrated runners and studs pre-formed at specific angles, eliminating the need for extensive on-site cutting and assembly of standard materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention integrates runners and studs into a single composite section unit, combining materials and functions that were previously separate. This allows the curved structure to be built with pre-assembled units rather than cutting and joining separate standard components.
2Productivity
If sheet metal runners are used to reduce labor and waste, then material efficiency improves, but the runners become unwieldy and difficult to position and retain in the desired position
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous sheet metal runner is segmented into discrete sections with standardized connection features. Each section is a manageable size that can be easily positioned and aligned, then joined to adjacent sections to form the complete curved structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection elements such as tabs, slots, and interlocking features act as intermediaries between adjacent sections. These features facilitate easy positioning and retention of sections in the desired curved configuration without requiring complex positioning techniques.
3Adaptability or versatility
If numerous cuts are made in runners and studs to form the desired radius, then curved structures can be constructed using standard materials, but material waste increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The runners and studs are pre-formed with curved geometries and angular features during manufacturing, rather than being cut to shape on-site. This preliminary preparation eliminates waste associated with cutting standard straight materials to fit curved configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved structure is divided into modular sections that can be manufactured independently with precise geometries. This segmentation allows for optimized material usage in each section while maintaining the ability to create various curved configurations through assembly.
4Productivity
If sheet metal runners are used to reduce the amount of labor, then construction time decreases, but the runners become difficult to retain in the desired position
Solution Approach 1:
Connection features including tabs, slots, and interlocking elements serve as intermediaries that secure adjacent sections together. These features provide positive mechanical retention, ensuring sections remain in the desired position once assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system allows for dynamic assembly where sections can be easily positioned and adjusted during construction, then locked into place. The connection features provide flexibility during installation but ensure stability in the final assembled state.
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
Enables the construction of curved structures with reduced labor and material waste, providing adequate strength and cost efficiency while allowing for precise positioning and retention of the desired radius, thus enhancing architectural styling options in construction.
Implementation Method 1
Bending or compressing the upwardly projecting member against the base portion precludes further pivotal movement between the adjacent sections
Implementation Method 2
Subsequent deformation of the protrusion will lock the adjacent sections in place thereby precluding further pivotal movement between the adjacent sections
Data Source
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AI summary
An improved apparatus for forming curved structures comprises a plurality of pivotally connected sections, each section having a track portion, and a strap member adapted for slidably engaging the track portion of the sections such that the sections are movable to form a radius of curvature. The sections of the apparatus of the current invention are initially pivotal in relation to one another. Following position in a desired configuration, one embodiment of the current invention provides a tab or protrusion carried by one section which is compressed against the base portion of an adjacent section to preclude further pivotal movement. In another embodiment, the pivotal connection between adjacent sections is further compressed, crimped or swaged to preclude further pivotal movement.