Geodesic Shape Assembly Using Pre-Made Forms and Hinged Struts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for assembling geodesic shapes face challenges in achieving precise radial, dihedral, and axial angles, requiring complex measurements and adjustments during construction.
Innovation Solution
A method using pre-made triangular forms and struts with strategically placed hinges allows for the spontaneous alignment of axial and dihedral angles without additional measurements, by coupling inner edges of forms to strut faces and allowing free motion along the strut-panel interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional methods are used to assemble geodesic shapes, then structural integrity can be achieved, but precise radial, dihedral, and axial angles require complex measurements and adjustments during construction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling complete polygons (such as pentagons and hexagons) before deploying them to the geodesic structure. These pre-assembled polygons come with pre-configured struts and panel assemblies already in correct geometric relationships, eliminating the need for complex on-site angular measurements and adjustments. The pre-assembly is performed in a controlled environment where precision can be ensured, and then the complete polygons are transported and installed as ready-made units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the geodesic structure into discrete, modular complete polygons that can be independently assembled and then combined. Each complete polygon is a self-contained module with specific geometric properties (radial, dihedral, and axial angles) already established. This segmentation allows workers to assemble manageable units rather than attempting to assemble individual struts and panels in the complex three-dimensional configuration, significantly reducing on-site measurement and adjustment requirements.
2Productivity
If traditional assembly methods are used, then geodesic shapes can be constructed, but construction time is increased due to required measurements and recutting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assembling complete polygons with all struts, panels, and connections prepared in advance. This eliminates time-consuming on-site measurements, angle calculations, and recutting operations. The pre-assembly process allows for optimized workflow and quality control in a controlled environment, and the complete polygons are transported to the construction site ready for installation, significantly accelerating the overall construction process.
3Ease of operation
If hinges are used to couple panels to struts with free range of motion, then spontaneous alignment of axial and dihedral angles is achieved, but additional measurement and cutting by the user is eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing the complete polygon modules so that they self-align to the correct angular positions when assembled. The hinges allow panels to rotate and naturally settle into the correct radial, dihedral, and axial angle configurations determined by the geometry of the pre-assembled polygon and its connection to adjacent polygons. This eliminates the need for workers to measure and mark angles, as the structure itself guides the components into their proper orientations through the mechanical constraints of the hinge connections and the geometric relationships built into the pre-assembled units.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of making a geodesic shape is provided. The method comprises of providing and assembling a plurality of pre-made forms, and a plurality of struts. The pre-made forms have a triangular shape, first and second inner edges, and an outer edge. The length of each inner edge and outer edge are determined by the frequency of the geodesic shape, diameter of the geodesic shape, and known formulas for relating diameter and frequency when creating a geodesic dome or sphere. Using the pre-made forms and struts, a polygonal shape is assembled, each shape having either five or six pre-made forms. The resulting desired polygonal shape and additional desired polygonal shapes made using the same steps are connected at preset angles in known geodesic form and function. The desired polygonal shapes then combine to form a desired geodesic shape. Throughout the process, no struts are operably coupled to other struts.