Open Shell Truss Assembly with Bulge Locking for Load-Bearing Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for assembling load-bearing support structures, such as stages for entertainment and special events, face challenges including limited load-bearing capacity, complexity in installation, difficulty in integrating dynamic elements, and inefficient use of space, leading to cumbersome setup times and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an open shell truss (OST) with bulges for receiving complementary members, a quad bowtie connector (QBC) for connecting members, and a push, turn, and lock (PTL) securing mechanism, allowing for quick, secure, and flexible assembly of load-bearing structures with improved load distribution and minimal hardware requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If modular scaffolding is used to provide load-bearing capacity and larger performance area, then the structure can support more loads and accommodate technical spaces, but the complexity of assembly increases and setup time becomes longer
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular components (trusses, panels, connectors) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each truss segment contains integrated connection points and mounting interfaces, allowing complex structures to be built from simple standardized units, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining load-bearing capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are combined into single components: trusses provide both structural support and mounting surfaces; panels integrate flooring with equipment mounting capabilities; connectors combine mechanical joining with alignment features. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies assembly procedures.
2Strength
If conventional scaffolding with cross-bracing and guy wiring is used to achieve point load and dynamic load capacity, then the structure can handle vertical loads, but it cannot accommodate dynamic elements like stage elevators or mechanized traps that require upward motion and torsion resistance
Solution Approach 1:
The truss structure is designed with inherent flexibility to accommodate dynamic loads and movements. Connection points are positioned to allow rotational movement and lateral displacement, enabling integration of elevators and traps that require upward motion and torsion resistance while maintaining overall structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The truss system provides universal mounting capabilities for both static and dynamic elements. Connection interfaces are designed to accommodate various equipment types (elevators, traps, lighting, sound) through standardized attachment points, making the structure adaptable to different production requirements without compromising load-bearing capacity.
3Device complexity
If standard scaffolding components are used to limit possible configurations, then the structure maintains simplicity, but the optimization of space under the floor for technical planning, storage, or dressing rooms is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The structure utilizes three-dimensional space more efficiently by positioning trusses at optimal heights and angles. The open-truss design creates vertical clearance that can be used for technical spaces, while horizontal panel configurations define usable floor areas. This dimensional optimization allows technical planning and storage without complicating the basic structural form.
4Strength
If plywood sheets are installed with multiple beams to constitute the floor and ensure required structural capacities, then the floor can support loads, but the multiplication of beams becomes necessary which increases complexity and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The panel design merges the flooring surface with structural support functions. The panels themselves are engineered to provide load-bearing capacity, eliminating the need for separate beam systems. Connection points in the panels directly transfer loads to the truss structure, reducing the number of components while maintaining floor strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for assembling a load-bearing support structure, and structure assembled with such a system. The system includes at least one supporting member, at least one connecting member, and at least one complementary member. Each supporting member includes an upper surface being provided with at least one section having at least one bulge protruding from the upper surface. Each connecting member is used for connecting a supporting member to at least one other member of the system. Each complementary member, typically a floor panel, is used for affixing onto a corresponding supporting member, and has at least one orifice being positioned, shaped and sized for inserting into a corresponding bulge of the corresponding supporting member so as form the load-bearing support structure. The system further includes at least one securing member cooperable between a given complementary member and a given supporting member for securing the complementary member onto the supporting member.