Modular Truss System With Slot Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing welded structural support systems are heavy, require skilled fabricators, and are difficult to assemble, disassemble, and repair due to their complexity and reliance on welding, which also makes them susceptible to damage from environmental stressors.
Innovation Solution
A weld-free structural support system utilizing a truss element with corner elements and wall cavities that receive connecting members via slot openings, allowing for assembly and disassembly without welding and providing a lightweight, modular, and customizable configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If welded structures are used to support multi-media systems, then structural strength and joint stability are improved, but weight increases and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular truss elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each element contains integrated connection features (slot openings in corner elements) that receive connecting members, eliminating the need for heavy welded joints while maintaining structural integrity through standardized modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner elements merge multiple functions: structural support, connection interface (via slot openings), and alignment features. The connecting members integrate the joining function with the truss elements themselves, creating a unified lightweight assembly that eliminates separate heavy welding hardware.
2Strength
If welded structures are used, then joint strength is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates and skilled fabricators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular truss elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each element contains integrated connection features (slot openings in corner elements) that receive connecting members, eliminating the need for heavy welded joints while maintaining structural integrity through standardized modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner elements are designed with self-aligning slot openings that automatically guide connecting members into proper positions during assembly. The geometry of the slot openings and connecting members provides inherent alignment and positioning, eliminating the need for skilled fabricators to maintain joint quality and tolerances.
3Strength
If welded structures are used, then structural integrity is improved, but adaptability and ease of repair deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular truss elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each element contains integrated connection features (slot openings in corner elements) that receive connecting members, eliminating the need for heavy welded joints while maintaining structural integrity through standardized modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design with standardized connecting members and slot openings allows damaged or worn components to be easily removed and replaced without affecting the integrity of the entire structure. Connecting members can be extracted from slot openings and replaced, enabling maintenance and adaptation without complex repair procedures.
4Stability of the object's composition
If welded structures are used, then joint stability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular truss elements that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each element contains integrated connection features (slot openings in corner elements) that receive connecting members, eliminating the need for heavy welded joints while maintaining structural integrity through standardized modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner elements and connecting members are designed as universal components that can be used in multiple positions and configurations throughout the structure. The standardized slot opening geometry and connecting member design allow the same components to serve multiple functions, simplifying the overall device complexity and reducing the variety of unique parts required.
Data Source
AI summary
A truss element to form a structural support system. The truss element includes at least one wall forming a void space extending along a first dimension of the truss element. The void space includes a geometry to receive at least a portion of a connecting member of a connecting element. At least one corner element extends along the first dimension of the truss element adjacent the wall. A slot opening formed by selective removal of a portion of the corner element provides access to the void space of the wall. The access permits at least partial insertion of the connecting member into the void space of the wall. A method of assembling a structural support system is also disclosed.