Modular Rotatable Joint With Locking for Collapsible 3D Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotatable joints in modular systems often lack the ability to efficiently allow for multi-directional rotation and easy assembly of three-dimensional structures, as they either restrict rotation or require complex disconnection for collapse.
Innovation Solution
A modular rotatable joint system comprising a central pivot and multiple bar connectors, allowing bars connected orthogonally to the pivot to rotate freely, and featuring a locking mechanism that enables the joint to be easily collapsed by aligning bars perpendicular to the pivot, thus forming a single plane without disconnecting any bars.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing rotatable joints are used in modular systems, then rotation capability is provided, but the ability to efficiently allow for multi-directional rotation and easy assembly of three-dimensional structures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The joint is divided into separate modular components: a central pivot body, multiple bar connectors positioned at different orientations, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while providing multi-directional rotation capability through the arrangement of bar connectors at various angles around the pivot.
Solution Approach 2:
The central pivot body serves multiple functions: it acts as the rotation axis, provides mounting points for multiple bar connectors oriented in different directions, and incorporates the locking mechanism. This multi-functionality allows a single joint design to handle complex three-dimensional assembly requirements without requiring multiple different joint types.
2Productivity
If complex disconnection is required for collapse, then structural integrity is maintained, but assembly and collapse efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to engage and disengage bar connectors through a single centralized action. The locking arms or latches are pre-positioned to interact with the bar connectors, allowing all connections to be secured or released simultaneously rather than requiring individual disconnection of each bar.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism incorporates spring-loaded elements or cam actions that automatically engage with the bar connectors when the joint is assembled and can be released with a simple actuating motion. This self-service design eliminates the need for complex manual disconnection procedures while maintaining secure structural integrity during use.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotatable joint, comprising: at least three bar connectors; an axis piece comprising a central pivot and at least one of the at least three bar connectors longitudinally aligned with the central pivot; and two rotatable joint pieces each comprising a bushing and at least one of the at least three bar connectors oriented along the diameter of the bushing and aligned along the axis of symmetry of the bushing, wherein the bushing of each of the two rotatable joints pieces is configured to slide over the central pivot thereby coupling the two bushings with the central pivot and allowing the rotatable joint pieces to rotate about the central pivot, and orient the bar connectors of the rotatable joint pieces perpendicular to the bar connector of the axis piece.