Method for creating ice 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 inconsistent thickness, as well as high water usage, which affect the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
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 easily cut and assembled into desired shapes and structures, allowing for predictable and efficient construction of ice structures with improved aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If icicles are used to form the initial structure, then the ice structure can be constructed, but the icicle formation is unpredictable and inconsistent in thickness and density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming ice logs in controlled conditions before construction. The ice logs are frozen in advance using a controlled freezing process that ensures uniform thickness and density, eliminating the unpredictability of on-site icicle formation. This pre-prepared ice component is then transported and assembled into the final structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a mold or form to create a standardized ice log template that can be repeatedly copied. The mold ensures that each ice log has consistent dimensions and shape, providing manufacturing precision across all ice components. This copying approach replaces the variable natural icicle formation with a reproducible manufacturing process.
2Productivity
If water is sprayed to form icicles, then the ice structure grows, but a substantial amount of water is used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-forming ice logs in controlled conditions before construction. The ice logs are frozen in advance using a controlled freezing process that ensures uniform thickness and density, eliminating the unpredictability of on-site icicle formation. This pre-prepared ice component is then transported and assembled into the final structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a mold or form to create a standardized ice log template that can be repeatedly copied. The mold ensures that each ice log has consistent dimensions and shape, providing manufacturing precision across all ice components. This copying approach replaces the variable natural icicle formation with a reproducible manufacturing process.
3Ease of manufacture
If wood or steel structures are used as initial starting points, then the structure can be built, but the opaque material is visible through the ice and makes it appear less natural
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from opaque construction materials (wood/steel) to translucent ice material. The structural framework is completely ice-based, with ice logs forming both the structural elements and the aesthetic components. This parameter change in material transparency eliminates the visual conflict between framework and ice exterior.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining ice with minimal visible support elements. The ice logs themselves serve as both structural and aesthetic components, eliminating the need for separate opaque framework. Any necessary support structures are designed to be minimally visible or integrated into the ice design.
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 stable and aesthetically pleasing ice structures with greater control over dimensions and shape, reducing water waste and enhancing the structural integrity, allowing for larger and more complex designs to be built quickly.
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.