Diagonal Bracing Lattice for Buckling Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagonal bracing designs in beam and truss support systems have reached their load-carrying capacity limits, restricting the strength, height, and length of structures such as buildings and bridges due to weight constraints.
Innovation Solution
A structural lattice design featuring a rectangular base with two sets of intersecting diagonal beams forming an open-and-closed cell architecture, which includes a double diagonal support system with specific beam alignments and material allocation to enhance buckling resistance without increasing weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional diagonal bracing designs are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the load-carrying capacity and strength are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The diagonal bracing is segmented into multiple discrete beam elements arranged in specific patterns (e.g., X-bracing, K-bracing, N-bracing) within each panel. This segmentation allows the structure to distribute loads more effectively across multiple load paths while maintaining manufacturability through standardized component fabrication and assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from simple diagonal bracing to multi-pattern bracing systems that utilize both diagonal and non-diagonal beam arrangements in two-dimensional panel configurations. This dimensional complexity creates additional load-bearing pathways and structural redundancy without significantly increasing manufacturing difficulty
2Strength
If additional material is added to increase strength, then the load-carrying capacity improves, but the weight of the structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing system employs varying beam sizes and configurations localized to specific panels based on their structural requirements. High-stress areas receive more robust bracing patterns (e.g., double X-bracing), while lower-stress areas use simpler configurations, optimizing material distribution and minimizing overall weight while maintaining required strength
Solution Approach 2:
The structure utilizes composite bracing systems combining different beam types (diagonal, non-diagonal, vertical, horizontal) with potentially different material properties or cross-sectional characteristics. This composite approach allows optimization of each component's contribution to overall strength while controlling total material usage and weight
3Length of stationary object
If the structure height or length is increased, then the structural performance improves, but the weight limits the maximum achievable height or length
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into multiple standardized panels with consistent bracing patterns that can be repeated vertically and horizontally. This segmentation allows for scalable construction of taller and longer structures using modular units, where each panel contributes to the overall structural integrity without requiring proportional increases in material weight
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing panels are designed as universal, multi-functional units that simultaneously provide lateral stability, load distribution, and structural rigidity. These standardized panels can be configured in various arrangements to achieve different height and length requirements while maintaining consistent material efficiency across the entire structure
Data Source
AI summary
A structural lattice includes a rectangular base defined by four periphery beams, and two non-diagonal beams that divide the rectangular base in four quadrants. The structural lattice further includes a diagonal reinforcement strut system overlaid on the rectangular base and having at least two intersecting sets of diagonal beams forming an open-and-closed cell architecture.