Modular Mini Trampoline Frame Structure with Node Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mini trampoline frames are inefficient in terms of material usage, prone to damage, noisy, and pose safety risks due to sharp edges and wobbling legs, while also being cumbersome to assemble and store.
Innovation Solution
A modular frame structure comprising nodes and internodes with legs fastened directly to nodes, featuring a stable, cost-effective design with minimized material loss, noise reduction, and improved safety through secure fastening and folding mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional tube bending and welding is used to manufacture mini trampoline frames, then structural strength is achieved, but material loss increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into separate modular components (nodes and internodes) that are manufactured independently and assembled together. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex bending and welding operations, reducing material loss while maintaining structural strength through precise mechanical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple frame components are merged into a complete frame structure through node connections. The nodes serve as central connection points where multiple internodes converge, creating a stable geometric structure without requiring extensive welding or bending operations on single continuous tubes.
2Strength
If conventional tube bending and welding is used to manufacture mini trampoline frames, then structural strength is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame manufacturing process is segmented into simpler sub-processes: producing straight or mildly curved internodes, manufacturing standardized nodes with connection features, and assembling them together. This avoids the complexity of bending and welding entire frame sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The manufacturing approach changes from continuous tube deformation (bending) and joining (welding) to discrete component fabrication and mechanical assembly. This parameter change simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining structural integrity through optimized connection geometries.
3Ease of operation
If screw connections are used to attach legs to the frame, then ease of assembly is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to thread damage and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The node design incorporates built-in protective features such as recesses, guides, and tolerance compensation mechanisms that prevent misalignment and damage during assembly. This beforehand cushioning protects against the thread damage and wear that would otherwise occur with simple screw connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The node serves as an intermediary component between the frame internodes and the legs. It provides a specialized connection interface that combines the ease of screw attachment with enhanced protection against damage through its geometric design, including recesses that guide and protect the fastening elements.
4Ease of operation
If folding mechanisms are added to enable compact storage, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame incorporates dynamic elements such as folding legs or collapsible internodes that can transition between extended and retracted positions. This dynamic capability enables compact storage while the modular node-based structure keeps the complexity manageable through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding mechanism is implemented through segmented components that can independently fold or collapse. The modular nature of the node-internode structure allows folding actions at specific locations without requiring complex mechanisms throughout the entire frame, thus limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
5Stability of the object's composition
If heavy materials are used to ensure stability, then stability is improved, but weight increases making the trampoline cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The node connections utilize spherical or rounded geometries that optimize force distribution and structural stability. This geometric optimization allows for lighter materials to be used while maintaining stability, as the curved surfaces and optimized connection angles efficiently transmit and distribute loads throughout the frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame employs composite construction combining different materials with complementary properties. The modular node-internode structure allows selective use of materials optimized for specific functions: lighter materials for internodes where weight is critical, and potentially stronger materials for nodes where connection strength is paramount, achieving overall weight reduction while maintaining stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A frame structure for a mini trampoline includes at least three nodes and at least three elongate internodes, as well as a multiplicity of legs. In each case, two of the internodes are assigned to each other with end portions and are connected rigidly to each other via one of the nodes such that a closed frame lying substantially in one main plane is formed. Each leg is fastened directly to one of the nodes.