Programmable Multistable System with Adjustable Elastic Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multistable systems have a fixed number of stable positions that cannot be modified after manufacture, limiting their adaptability to user needs.
Innovation Solution
A multistable system with adjustable elastic members, where the position and force applied to certain ends can be modified, allowing the system to change its number of stable states and the forces required to transition between them, achieved through a combination of elastic members, guide devices, and adjustment mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of stable positions is fixed after manufacture, then the manufacturing precision and structural stability are improved, but the adaptability to user needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the multistable system reconfigurable through adjustable elastic members. The system transitions from a fixed-configuration structure to a dynamic one where the number of stable states can be modified after manufacture. Specifically, the elastic members with adjustable ends allow users to change the system's multistability characteristics, enabling adaptation to different user needs while maintaining a relatively simple base structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If adjustment mechanisms are added to modify stable positions, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical parameters of the elastic members (position and force applied to their ends) to change the system's behavior. By adjusting these parameters, the number of stable states and the forces required for transitions can be controlled. This approach allows programmability through simple parameter adjustment rather than complex mechanical reconfiguration mechanisms.
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
Enables dynamic adjustment of the number of stable states and the forces needed to switch between them, enhancing the system's adaptability and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The elastic members typically comprise deformable blades in buckling and/or articulated arms subjected to the action of at least one spring
Implementation Method 2
a first elastic member of rank r=1 comprising first and second ends and a connecting zone between said first and second ends
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
Multistable system comprising a first elastic element (1) of rank r=1 comprising first (2) and second (3) ends and a linkage zone (4) between the first (2) and second (3) ends, and (n-1) other elastic elements (10, 100) of rank r each comprising first (20, 200) and second (30, 300) ends, with r between 2 and n, n being an integer greater than or equal to 2, each of said other elastic elements of rank r with r between 2 and (n-1) comprising a linkage zone (40) between its first and second ends, each of said other elastic elements of rank r with r between 2 and n being joined by its first end to the linkage zone of the elastic element of rank (r-1).The position of at least one of the first (2) and second (3) ends of the first elastic element (1) or the force applied to at least one of the first (2) and second (3) ends of the first elastic element (1), and/or the position of the second end of at least one of said (n-1) other elastic elements (10, 100) or the force applied to the second end of at least one of said (n-1) other elastic elements (10, 100), is adjustable so as to define, for the multistable system, at least two multistable configurations having different numbers of stable states.