Modular Lattice Structure with Double-Ring Nodes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lattice structures lack versatility and adaptability in size and configuration, particularly in industrial and architectural applications, where customizable three-dimensional modules with high mechanical properties and ease of assembly are required.

Innovation Solution

A lattice structure comprising primary and secondary profiles, orienting elements, and connecting rings or half rings that allow for adjustable angles and shapes, enabling easy assembly and modification to accommodate various diameters and sections, with features like slots and holes for connecting rods and profiles, facilitating adaptability under tensile or compressive forces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional lattice structures use fixed single-ring nodes with specific rod element configurations, then the structural stability is maintained, but the adaptability to different sizes and configurations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different sizes and configurationsVSAvoidcomplexity of node and rod element assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The double-ring node design serves multiple functions: it connects rod elements at various angles, provides structural stability, and enables adaptability to different lattice configurations. The node acts as a universal connector that can accommodate both major and minor rod elements while maintaining mechanical properties across different module sizes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The lattice structure is divided into modular units with standardized double-ring nodes and rod elements that can be assembled in various configurations. This segmentation allows the structure to be scaled to different sizes while maintaining consistent connection mechanisms and structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If lattice structures use customizable three-dimensional modules with adjustable angles and shapes, then the versatility is improved, but the manufacturing and assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomizability of three-dimensional modulesVSAvoidease of assembly and manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The double-ring nodes are pre-manufactured with standardized connection points and geometric configurations. The rod elements are also pre-cut and pre-drilled with connection holes, allowing for rapid assembly without complex on-site manufacturing. This preliminary preparation of components with fixed geometries simplifies the overall manufacturing process while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The lattice structure achieves customization by changing geometric parameters such as the number of nodes, rod lengths, and connection angles, rather than redesigning the fundamental node and rod elements. The double-ring node geometry remains constant, but its orientation and the configuration of connected rods can be varied to create different three-dimensional modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Strength

If the lattice structure uses a double-ring node design with multiple connection points, then the mechanical properties and structural stability are improved, but the number of components and assembly steps increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical properties and structural stabilityVSAvoidnumber of components and assembly steps
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The double-ring node merges two concentric rings into a single integrated component that provides multiple connection points. This consolidation reduces the total number of separate nodes required compared to using multiple single-ring nodes, while maintaining enhanced structural stability and mechanical properties through the distributed connection geometry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP3604702B1Lattice structure
Publication Date: 2022.12.28 BETHENCOURT CRAVID MANUEL FERNANDO
  • EP3604702B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3604702B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3604702B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a lattice structure comprising a series of connecting rings (1) or half-rings (2) on which a series of orienting elements (3) are secured, said orienting elements being equipped with holes (4) and a slot (10) in which the rings (1) or half-rings (2) are disposed, as well as comprising profiles (A) and (B) that are solidly connected using joining elements (8) that extend through holes (9) in the profiles.