Modular Sprung Floor With Elastomeric Joints

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular sprung-floor systems face challenges in providing optimal stability, balance, and shock absorption while allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and expansion without compromising performance or durability, particularly in environments where materials need to be transported and reconfigured frequently.

Innovation Solution

A modular sprung-floor system comprising interchangeable components with a frame module made of linear structural members and elastomeric joints, which supports a performance surface that can expand and contract, using standardized assemblies and elastomeric members to dampen vibrations and allow for easy panel removal and reconfiguration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If modular sprung-floor systems use permanent construction methods, then stability and durability are improved, but ease of assembly and disassembly deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovestabilityVSAvoidease of assembly and disassembly

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The floor system is divided into modular panels that can be independently assembled and disassembled. Each panel contains integrated shock-absorbing elements and connection mechanisms, allowing the system to be segmented into transportable units while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connection mechanisms between panels are designed to be dynamically adjustable, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly while maintaining stable connections during use. The elastomeric elements provide dynamic shock absorption that adapts to loading conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If modular sprung-floor systems use interchangeable components for easy reconfiguration, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereconfiguration capabilityVSAvoidcomponent interchangeability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Standardized connection mechanisms and panel designs allow the same components to serve multiple functions and be used in various configurations. The universal interface design enables different panel types to interconnect using the same connection system, reducing the number of unique parts needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows for parameter adjustments in panel arrangement, orientation, and combination to create different floor configurations. The standardized components maintain consistent dimensional parameters that enable flexible reconfiguration without increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If elastomeric members are used to allow expansion and contraction, then adaptability to environmental changes is improved, but shock absorption performance may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexpansion and contraction capabilityVSAvoidshock absorption performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the floor system have different elastomeric properties optimized for their specific functions. Connection areas use elastomeric elements designed for expansion and contraction, while load-bearing areas use denser elastomeric materials optimized for shock absorption. This localized differentiation allows both functions to perform optimally.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The shock-absorbing elements combine elastomeric materials with varying densities and durometers in composite constructions. This allows the same component to provide both dimensional stability for thermal expansion and sufficient shock absorption performance, resolving the trade-off between adaptability and performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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

The system provides enhanced stability, balance, and shock absorption, allowing for efficient assembly and disassembly, while accommodating environmental changes and ensuring the performance surface remains unstressed and securely fastened, thus reducing the risk of injury and fatigue.

Implementation Method 1

Elastomeric supports between frame modules and linear, structural channels damp vibrations between performance surface panels and frame modules

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration damping: Damping

Implementation Method 2

Elastomers are amorphous polymers having viscosity and elasticity with a high failure strain compared to other polymers

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 3

the performance surface may expand and contract in varying environmental conditions without stressing the materials

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal expansion: Thermal Expansion

Data Source

PatentUS11655639B2Modular sprung floor

Publication Date: 2023.05.23 HERING SPENCER GAVIN

AI summary

A method, system and apparatus for a modular sprung floor. An example embodiment is a sprung floor module having interchangeable components. Interchangeable components make up standardized assemblies. An example embodiment has a frame module that may be installed in a series to cover an area. The frame module comprises a frame that supports a performance surface. Standardized components include fiber-reinforced composite linear-structural members combined with elastomeric support members.