Greenhouse Column Segmentation for Buckling Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
As greenhouses increase in size, the compression forces on columns lead to higher buckling resistance requirements, necessitating larger cross-sectional dimensions, which increase light-intercepting surface area and costs, while also reducing buckling resistance with increased length.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating connecting elements at intermediate levels between columns to limit outward bending, using a lattice frame construction with minimal cross-sectional dimensions in the transverse direction, and employing horizontal pressure and tensile elements to enhance anchoring and reduce unnecessary light-intercepting surface area and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the cross-sectional dimensions of columns are increased to fulfill buckling resistance requirements, then the buckling resistance is improved, but the light-intercepting surface area increases and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The column is divided into segments by introducing connecting elements at intermediate levels between the roof and foundation. This segmentation reduces the effective length of each column segment, thereby reducing buckling requirements and allowing for smaller cross-sectional dimensions while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from solely increasing cross-sectional dimensions (one-dimensional approach) to introducing intermediate connecting elements that create additional support points along the column length. This dimensional change in the support structure allows for reduced column sizes while maintaining buckling resistance.
2Length of stationary object
If the length of columns is increased to accommodate taller greenhouses, then the greenhouse height increases, but the buckling resistance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing connecting elements at intermediate levels, the single long column is segmented into multiple shorter effective segments. Each segment has reduced buckling requirements, enabling taller greenhouse construction without compromising structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Intermediate connecting elements are introduced as mediators between the roof and foundation. These connecting elements provide additional support points that reduce the effective length of column segments, thereby maintaining buckling resistance in taller greenhouse structures.
3Area of stationary object
If connecting elements are added at intermediate levels to reduce column size, then the light-intercepting surface area of columns decreases, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements serve multiple functions: they reduce the effective length of columns for buckling resistance, provide additional support points, and can be integrated with the existing greenhouse structure. This multi-functionality justifies the added structural complexity by delivering multiple benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution changes the structural parameter from single-point support at ends to multi-point support along the column length. This parameter change in the support configuration reduces column dimensions and light interception while accepting increased structural complexity as a trade-off.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a greenhouse, as known for instance in glass horticulture, comprising at least one row of columns and a roof supported by these columns. The invention is distinguished by the feature that at least one connecting element is arranged at an intermediate level between a number of columns in the row and an anchoring.