Rotating Guide Collapsible Structure for Dome Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible structures lack a versatile and efficient mechanism to transform between retracted and protruded configurations, limiting their application in various fields such as exercise systems, construction, and portable shelters.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus featuring guides on a base that allows members to translate via these guides, changing from a retracted to a protruded configuration through rotation, with a coupler and superstructure forming diverse dome shapes, and a locking mechanism for secure configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If existing collapsible structures use simple folding or bending mechanisms, then the device complexity is reduced, but the transformation efficiency and structural versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into multiple rigid members connected by joints, with guides segmented along the transformation path. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function (members provide structural integrity, guides constrain motion paths) while collectively achieving efficient transformation between configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure transitions from a static folded state to a dynamic transformation process using guided rotation mechanisms. The guides enable controlled rotational motion of members about axes, allowing the structure to dynamically reconfigure between retracted and protruded states while maintaining structural integrity during transition.
2Ease of manufacture
If existing collapsible structures use simple folding mechanisms, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the adaptability and application versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The guided rotation mechanism serves multiple functions: it enables transformation between configurations, maintains structural integrity during transition, controls the transformation path, and allows adaptation to different applications (exercise systems, roofing, concrete forms) by adjusting guide geometry and member arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure utilizes rotational motion about axes perpendicular to the base plane, adding a dimensional aspect to the transformation that goes beyond simple planar folding. This dimensional change enables diverse dome shapes and configurations while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized guide and member components.
3Device complexity
If existing collapsible structures use flexible bending members, then the device complexity is reduced, but the stability and orientation maintenance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The guides are pre-configured with specific geometries that define the transformation path before the actual transformation occurs. This preliminary arrangement of guides ensures that members follow predetermined rotation axes and paths, maintaining stable orientation and position throughout the transformation process while keeping the mechanism relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The guides act as intermediary elements between the rigid members and the transformation motion. These guides mediate the transformation by constraining member movement to specific paths and rotation axes, providing stability and orientation control without requiring complex active control mechanisms.
4Device complexity
If existing collapsible structures transform without guided rotation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the precision of configuration transformation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The guides are designed to self-constrain the transformation motion through their geometry, eliminating the need for external control mechanisms. As members translate and rotate within the guides, the guide geometry automatically ensures precise transformation paths and final configurations, achieving high precision without adding significant mechanism 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
Enables efficient transformation between configurations, supporting diverse applications by maintaining orientation and position, with adjustable stiffness and maximum protrusion distance, suitable for exercise systems and other uses like roofing and concrete forms.
Implementation Method 1
Such a member's material elasticity may cause the protrusion of the member when the opposite ends of the member are rotated to the inner ends of the guides
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to an apparatus configured to transform from a retracted configuration to a protruded configuration, and vice versa, by rotating via one or more guides disposed on a base. The apparatus may be formed in different sizes, from various materials depending on the intended use of the apparatus. In some implementations, the apparatus may include one or more of guides, a base, one or more members, a coupler, and/or other components.