Structural Wave Frameworks with Neutral Axes and Bend Limiters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible structures lack a defined neutral axis and effective bend limiters, leading to unpredictable deformation and potential overstressing under bending forces.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a flexible framework with annular, axial, and undulating members that define a neutral axis, along with bend limiters such as dependent, independent, and wave-matched limiters, to control and limit bending deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flexible structures are designed without defined neutral axis and bend limiters, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but deformation becomes unpredictable and structural reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible structure is segmented into distinct functional components: neutral axis members that define the bending axis, undulating members that provide flexibility, and bend limiters that constrain deformation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function, ensuring predictable bending while maintaining reasonable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the structure are given different properties: neutral axis members are positioned to define the bending axis, undulating members are placed where flexibility is needed, and bend limiters are positioned at critical locations to prevent overstressing. This local differentiation ensures reliable deformation control without requiring complex structures throughout
2Reliability
If bend limiters are added to control deformation, then structural reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Bend limiters are nested within the framework formed by neutral axis members and undulating members. The limiters are positioned inside the geometric boundaries defined by the other components, allowing them to function without adding external complexity. This nesting approach enables deformation control while maintaining a compact structure
Solution Approach 2:
Bend limiters act as intermediary elements between the neutral axis members and undulating members, mediating the deformation process by providing geometric constraints. These limiters translate the interaction between tension and compression zones into controlled bending behavior, preventing overstressing without requiring direct modification of the primary structural members
3Adaptability or versatility
If undulating members are used to create flexibility, then adaptability improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The neutral axis members are positioned and configured in advance to define the desired bending axis and geometric constraints before the undulating members are attached. This preliminary action establishes a reference framework that guides the formation of undulating members, ensuring they achieve the correct waveform geometry without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances
Solution Approach 2:
The undulating members are designed to self-align and self-constrain within the framework defined by the neutral axis members and bend limiters. The geometric constraints provided by the framework cause the undulating members to naturally assume their intended configuration during assembly, reducing the need for high-precision manufacturing while maintaining adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
Flexible Frameworks with Neutral Axis and Bend limiters may be provided by a framework, including a plurality of flexible components, each flexible component having a plurality of structural components, including a first annular member; a second annular member; a first axial member, a second axial member, diametrically opposite from where the first axial member is connected to the first annular member and the second annular member; a first undulating member, having an annular profile and a waveform defined about a circumference thereof, which intersects the first annular member twice, intersects the first axial member once, and intersects the second axial member once; and a second undulating member, having an annular profile and a waveform defined about a circumference thereof, which intersects the second annular member twice, intersects the first axial member once, and intersects the second axial member once.