Ice Log Assembly Method for Predictable Transparent Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for constructing ice structures, such as ice castles, face challenges with unpredictable icicle formation and high water usage, leading to inconsistent thickness and density, as well as visibility issues with opaque wood or steel frameworks under lighting.
Innovation Solution
The method involves forming ice logs by filling elongate sleeves with water, allowing them to freeze, and then removing the sleeves to create uniform ice logs that can be cut to specific sizes and shapes for constructing ice structures, allowing for predictable and aesthetically pleasing designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If icicles are used to form the initial structure, then the ice structure can be built, but the icicles are unpredictable in formation with inconsistent thickness and density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming ice logs in controlled conditions before assembling the ice structure. The ice logs are created by freezing water in molds or by controlled pouring, ensuring uniform thickness and density before they are transported and assembled into the final structure. This eliminates the unpredictability of on-site icicle formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the natural dripping mechanism that forms icicles with a controlled freezing process. Instead of relying on gravity-driven water flow that creates unpredictable icicle shapes, the invention uses molds or controlled pouring methods to create uniform ice logs, substituting the natural mechanical process with a controlled manufacturing approach.
2Ease of manufacture
If a substantial amount of water is used to form icicles, then the initial structure can be created, but water usage becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming ice logs in controlled conditions before assembling the ice structure. The ice logs are created by freezing water in molds or by controlled pouring, ensuring uniform thickness and density before they are transported and assembled into the final structure. This eliminates the unpredictability of on-site icicle formation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of water usage by transitioning from continuous dripping (icicle formation) to controlled freezing of measured water quantities. By freezing water in molds or pouring controlled amounts, the invention precisely controls water consumption, eliminating the excessive water usage associated with traditional icicle methods.
3Device complexity
If wood or steel structures are used as initial starting points, then the structure framework can be established, but the opaque material is visible through the ice and reduces aesthetic appeal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by making the framework material itself transparent rather than using opaque materials like wood or steel. The ice logs are transparent, creating a homogeneous appearance throughout the structure that allows light to pass through uniformly, eliminating the visual disruption caused by opaque framework materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining ice with reinforcing elements that are either transparent or embedded within the ice matrix. The ice logs may contain embedded lighting elements or transparent reinforcement, creating a composite structure that maintains both structural integrity and aesthetic transparency.
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
This approach enables the creation of larger, more consistent ice structures with improved predictability and reduced water usage, while maintaining transparency to enhance the aesthetic appeal under lighting, allowing for faster construction and increased creativity in design.
Implementation Method 1
The ice logs are formed by filling elongate sleeves with water and allowing the water to freeze
Data Source
AI summary
A method for building an ice structure includes making a plurality of ice logs and attaching the ice logs together to form a support structure. The support structure may be two or more stories high and may be constructed by freezing the ice logs together.