Structural Member With Lattice Ribs for Rigidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing structural members face challenges in increasing rigidity and dispersing external loads effectively without increasing weight or compromising welding quality, particularly in sustainable transportation systems.
Innovation Solution
A structural member with a U-shaped frame and integrated columnar ribs forming a three-dimensional lattice structure, manufactured using additive manufacturing, which disperses loads across multiple directions and enhances strength and rigidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the wall thickness of the structural member is increased to improve rigidity, then the rigidity increases, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional wall thickening to three-dimensional lattice structure. By introducing a spatial framework of struts arranged in triangular or tetrahedral patterns, the structure gains rigidity through geometric configuration rather than material volume, achieving enhanced stiffness-to-weight ratio through dimensional transformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a lattice structure with intentional voids and open spaces, creating a porous configuration that reduces material usage and weight while maintaining structural integrity. The strategic arrangement of struts forms a lightweight yet rigid framework that disperses loads efficiently throughout the structure.
2Strength
If the wall thickness is increased to improve rigidity, then the rigidity increases, but the welding quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional thick-walled structures with a three-dimensional lattice configuration, transforming the approach to rigidity from material thickness to geometric arrangement. This dimensional shift eliminates welding issues associated with thick walls by using thin-walled struts joined at nodes, where welding or other connection methods can be more effectively applied.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the continuous thick wall into discrete struts arranged in a lattice pattern. This segmentation allows for standardized connection nodes where struts meet, enabling consistent and high-quality joining processes rather than welding through thick material sections.
3Strength
If a solid structural member is used to improve rigidity, then the rigidity increases, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces solid material with a porous lattice structure consisting of interconnected struts and voids. This configuration maintains structural rigidity through the geometric arrangement and load-path distribution while significantly reducing material volume and weight compared to a solid equivalent.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a solid three-dimensional mass to a framework structure that utilizes spatial arrangement of elements. By distributing material along strategic load-bearing paths in three dimensions rather than filling the entire volume, the structure achieves rigidity with minimal material.
Data Source
AI summary
A structural member includes: a wall including a first side wall and a second side wall; a space surrounded by the wall; and a plurality of ribs provided in the space and coupling the first side wall and the second side wall, wherein the plurality of ribs include: a plurality of columnar first ribs which couple the first side wall and the second side wall, a plurality of columnar second ribs which couple the first side wall and the second side wall, a plurality of columnar third ribs which couple the first side wall and the second side wall, and a plurality of columnar fourth ribs which couple the first side wall and the second side wall, and a plurality of coupling portions each coupling the first rib, the second rib, the third rib, and the fourth rib are formed.