Modular Floating Block Assembly Using Diagonal Single-Lug Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular floating block structures require a large number of blocks to cover a given length and are inflexible in adapting to different topologies, making them inefficient and difficult to implement.
Innovation Solution
A floating structure composed of rectangular parallelepipedal blocks connected diagonally, reducing the number of assembly lugs and allowing for easier assembly and adaptation by enabling blocks to be joined with a single assembly lug, facilitating curved shapes and reduced block count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If blocks are joined using assembly lugs on vertical edges with locking keys, then the structure achieves stable connections, but a large number of blocks are required to cover a given length
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from joining blocks at vertical edges to joining blocks at horizontal top surfaces. This dimensional change allows blocks to be connected in a more space-efficient manner, reducing the total number of blocks needed to cover a given length while maintaining connection stability through the same assembly lug and locking key mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple connection functions into a single assembly lug configuration on the top surface. By positioning assembly lugs on the horizontal top surface rather than distributing them along vertical edges, the structure achieves stable connections with fewer blocks, effectively combining the connection functionality that previously required more numerous block units.
2Ease of manufacture
If blocks are arranged in parallel and perpendicular linear portions, then the structure achieves straightforward assembly, but it is difficult to adapt to different area topologies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability by allowing the floating structure to be configured in various topological arrangements. The assembly lugs on horizontal top surfaces enable blocks to be connected in flexible patterns beyond strict linear arrangements, allowing the structure to adapt to curved, radial, or irregular area topologies while maintaining assembly simplicity through the standardized connection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly lug design on horizontal top surfaces serves multiple functions: it maintains straightforward assembly through the locking key mechanism while simultaneously enabling adaptation to various area topologies. This universal connection interface allows the same block design to be used in linear, curved, radial, or irregular configurations, achieving both assembly simplicity and topology adaptability.
3Strength
If multiple assembly lugs are used per block connection, then the structure achieves robust connections, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential connection function to a single assembly lug configuration on the horizontal top surface. By positioning assembly lugs on the top surface rather than requiring multiple lugs along vertical edges, the structure achieves robust connections through optimized lug placement while reducing assembly complexity. The locking key mechanism remains the same, but the reduced number of lugs per connection point simplifies the overall assembly process.
Data Source
AI summary
A floating structure having at least one row of floating rectangular parallelepipedal modular blocks, one block having four vertical peripheral faces that meet at four vertical edges, each vertical edge bearing an assembly lug in which an assembly system can be received in order to join the block to one or more adjacent blocks, each row having a plurality of blocks joined to one another by assembly systems arranged in two diagonally opposite lugs of each block, with the exception of two end blocks, the floating structure being configured so that each block is joined to an adjacent block by a single assembly lug.