Multi-Positionable Link Chain With Diagonal Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing chains are not versatile or adaptable, as they are designed to retain only one neutral position and lack variability in length, width, and height dimensions, limiting their use in dynamically changing industrial and aesthetic applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of a multi-positionable link chain with a through hole and diagonal channels on top and bottom sides, allowing relative rotation and multiple points of connection, enabling flexible transformation in length, width, and height dimensions, and including a clasp for ornamental use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If chains are designed with fixed geometry and single neutral position, then manufacturing precision and structural simplicity are improved, but adaptability and versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The chain link is divided into multiple segments or zones with different geometric properties. The link comprises a first portion and a second portion with different cross-sectional areas, allowing each segment to contribute differently to the overall flexibility and transformability of the chain while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces geometric variations in multiple dimensions within the chain link structure. By varying the cross-sectional area along the length of the link and creating asymmetric geometries, the chain gains the ability to transform in three-dimensional space, moving from a one-dimensional flexible element to a multi-dimensional transformable structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If chains are made with uniform cross-section, then ease of manufacture is improved, but ability to transform in multiple dimensions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The chain link features local geometric variations rather than uniform changes throughout. Specific portions of the link have modified cross-sectional areas or shapes while other portions remain simpler, allowing the chain to achieve complex transformability where needed while maintaining easier manufacturability in other regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The chain link geometry is designed to be dynamically adaptable during operation. The varying cross-sectional areas allow the link to naturally assume different effective shapes and stiffness characteristics depending on its orientation and loading conditions, enabling multi-dimensional transformation without requiring active control or complex mechanisms.
3Stability of the object's composition
If chains allow flex and twist under tension, then length variability is improved, but stability and return to original configuration deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The chain link geometry is pre-designed with specific asymmetric cross-sectional variations that act as built-in mechanical cushions or stops. These geometric features provide predetermined stable equilibrium positions that the chain can assume, preventing uncontrolled deformation while still allowing intentional transformation between defined configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention(s) seeks to protect Applicant's link, link chain and methods of making, transforming and using such. The link, for use in series to form a multi-positionable link chain includes a through hole and a first and a second diagonal channel on a top and a bottom side running in opposite directions. Generally, the geometry of the links, and specifically, material removed from and/or sharpened edges of the through hole, the diagonal channels and/or corner portions of the modified rectangular solid links, is such to allow for relative rotation and/or multiple points of connection of adjacent links. The link chains of the present invention(s) are flexible in the length, width and height dimensions to allow adaptable transformation in a plurality of stable configurations. And they can include a clasp for ornamental and/or decorative use.