Pre-Stressed Sinusoidal Members for Elastic Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current building systems and methods are inefficient in utilizing the advanced properties of new materials, particularly in pre-stressing techniques, which are underutilized for steel due to its lack of elastic properties and susceptibility to corrosion, whereas high-performance composite materials offer superior corrosion resistance and mechanical properties but require innovative methods for effective pre-stressing.
Innovation Solution
The development of pre-stressed three-dimensional sinusoidal shaped members made from high-performance composite and alloy materials, which are elastically deformed to store potential energy and can be used to form superior structural and mechanical assemblies, leveraging the unique properties of materials like carbon fiber reinforced polymers and shape memory alloys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional steel members are used for pre-stressing, then structural strength can be achieved, but the material lacks sufficient elastic properties and is susceptible to corrosion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials consisting of high-strength steel strands embedded in a flexible polymer matrix. This composite construction combines the tensile strength of steel with the corrosion resistance and elasticity of polymers, resolving the contradiction between achieving structural strength and maintaining reliability against corrosion and elastic deformation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters by selecting polymers with specific elastic moduli and steel strands with particular strength characteristics. By adjusting these parameters, the composite member achieves optimal balance between strength, elasticity, and corrosion resistance, overcoming the limitations of traditional steel alone
2Reliability
If high-performance composite materials are used, then corrosion resistance and mechanical properties are improved, but traditional pre-stressing methods are ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-stressing the composite members during the manufacturing process itself. The steel strands are tensioned and embedded in the polymer matrix before final assembly, ensuring the pre-stress is locked in during fabrication rather than requiring complex field application methods
Solution Approach 2:
The composite material structure is designed to be self-stressing through the manufacturing process. The polymer matrix encapsulates and maintains the pre-stressed steel strands, creating a self-contained system that requires no additional pre-stressing equipment or complex assembly procedures at the construction site
3Use of energy by moving object
If pre-stressed assemblies are created with elastic materials, then elastic potential energy storage is achieved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved or sinusoidal geometries in the composite members that naturally store elastic potential energy through their shape. These curved configurations, when pre-stressed, create efficient energy storage systems without requiring complex mechanical assemblies, mechanisms, or multiple components
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the structural element and the energy storage function into a single integrated component. The pre-stressed composite members simultaneously serve as load-bearing structural elements and elastic potential energy storage devices, eliminating the need for separate energy storage mechanisms and reducing overall assembly complexity
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
This approach enables the creation of lightweight, high-strength structural components that can efficiently store and release elastic potential energy, enhancing mechanical and structural toughness, tensile strength, and flexural properties, while reducing the need for cement and minimizing corrosion issues.
Implementation Method 1
elastically deformed to store potential energy
Data Source
AI summary
Sinusoidal shaped member units and support member units are parts that form pre-stressed assemblies having flexural properties. Sinusoidal shaped members are relaxed material members that have been elastically deformed. Support members maintain the elastically deformed state of the sinusoidal shaped members. The sinusoidal shaped members and support members are organized into pre-stressed curvilinear assemblies containing stored elastic potential energy that is equal to the work done by the forces that deformed their pre-stressed structure. The assemblies' sinusoidal shaped members and support members are adapted to use materials having exceptional mechanical properties and flexural strength. This includes nano-composites and/or shape memory alloys. The assemblies' pre-stressed state enhances its mechanical, electrical and structural performance. The size, number, density and possible geometric configurations of the sinusoidal shaped member units and support member units within an assembly/structure is vast. Products of this sinusoidal building system have mechanical and structural applications and can be manufactured and/or deployed.