Modular Panels with Rotating Hinges for 3D Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building blocks are bulky and inefficient in storage and shipping, and lack the structural integrity and angular connectivity needed to construct large-scale, complex three-dimensional structures, such as airplanes, cars, and castles, while also failing to allow for customization of individual blocks with graphics.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising panels with attachment members and fixing members that allow for relative rotation and locking at various angles, enabling the construction of rigid three-dimensional structures with customizable graphics through a combination of panels and planar members with embedded data and decorative elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional building blocks are used, then structural integrity for large-scale structures can be achieved, but storage and shipping space consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The building system is divided into flat planar members with coupling mechanisms that can be assembled into three-dimensional structures. These flat members can be stacked and stored efficiently in compact form, then assembled into rigid structures when needed, resolving the contradiction between structural integrity and storage efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If building blocks allow rotation at various angles for complex structures, then adaptability for constructing diverse structures improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling members incorporate rotatable joints that allow dynamic adjustment to various angles during assembly. Once positioned, the joints can be locked to maintain the desired configuration. This provides both the adaptability for complex angular structures and controls the complexity through a standardized rotational mechanism
3Strength
If building blocks are made bulky for structural integrity, then strength is maintained, but ease of storage and shipping deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Flat planar members can be nested or stacked within each other during storage, maximizing space efficiency. When assembled into three-dimensional structures, they form rigid configurations that maintain structural strength. This nesting capability resolves the contradiction between structural strength and storage efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Modular systems for the construction of three-dimensional structures are disclosed. A system includes a first panel, a second panel, and a fixing member. The first panel includes a first edge and a first attachment member. The second panel includes a second edge and a second attachment member. The second edge is configured to mate with the first edge of the first panel. This mating forms a hinge that couples the first and the second panels and enables a relative rotation about a rotation axis through the hinge. The relative rotation defines a relative angle between the first and the second panels. The fixing member is configured to couple to each of the first and the second attachment members when the relative angle between the first and the second panels is equivalent to a first angle, fixing the relative angle at the first angle and forming the structure.