Collapsible Structures Using Magnetic Planar Objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing collapsible structures lack the ability to efficiently form and retain complex three-dimensional geometric shapes using magnetic or electromagnetic materials, limiting their versatility and educational value.

Innovation Solution

Collapsible structures composed of hingedly connected planar objects with magnetic or electromagnetic materials that can be arranged into various three-dimensional configurations, using power sources like batteries or piezoelectric components to maintain shape and alter configurations dynamically.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If magnetic or electromagnetic materials are used in collapsible structures, then the ability to form and retain complex three-dimensional geometric shapes is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethree-dimensional geometric shapesVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collapsible structure is divided into multiple planar objects that can be independently manipulated and connected through hinges. Each planar object can be controlled individually using magnetic or electromagnetic materials, allowing complex 3D shapes to be formed by coordinating simpler components rather than requiring a monolithic complex structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Traditional mechanical connection methods are replaced with magnetic or electromagnetic attraction/repulsion forces to hold and manipulate the planar objects in space. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical fasteners, joints, and support structures, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the ability to form and retain complex three-dimensional geometric shapes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If power sources are added to maintain shape and alter configurations dynamically, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedynamic configuration capabilityVSAvoidpower system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system changes physical parameters (magnetic field strength, electromagnetic activation) to transition between different configurations. By controlling the intensity and presence of magnetic or electromagnetic fields, the structure can dynamically alter its shape and configuration without requiring complex mechanical actuators, motors, or multiple power sources for each component.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

A single power source or control system manages multiple functions: holding the structure in place, maintaining complex shapes, and enabling transitions between different configurations. The magnetic and electromagnetic materials serve multiple purposes simultaneously, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function and thereby reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables the formation of complex geometric structures that can be easily assembled and disassembled, providing an interactive and educational tool for exploring shapes and fields, while also allowing for dynamic changes in appearance and functionality.

Implementation Method 1

The structures may be comprised of multiple planar objects hingedly connected, where each planar object may include magnetic materials

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

Application of a current to the electromagnetic materials may cause the collapsible structure to form the 3-D object

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

or piezoelectric components to maintain shape and alter configurations dynamically

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS9731215B2Systems and methods for collapsible structure applications

Publication Date: 2017.08.15 HOWARD T DASHON

AI summary

Collapsible structures may be formed from planar solids. The structures may be comprised of multiple planar objects hingedly connected, where each planar object may include magnetic materials (e.g., magnets, ferromagnetic metals) or electromagnetic materials. Using the magnetic or electromagnetic materials, the connected planar objects may be arranged as a single planar object with multiple layers, or may be arranged as a three-dimensional (3-D) object, where the magnetic or electromagnetic materials may be used to retain the formed 3-D object shape. Application of a current to the electromagnetic materials may cause the collapsible structure to form the 3-D object, and removal of the electric current may cause the collapsible structure to revert to a single planar object. Multiple structures may be combined to form larger structures.