Surface adaptive tension-compression base structure and apparatus using the same
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tensegrity structures are rigid and poorly adapted for use on irregular surfaces, making them unsuitable for outdoor or uneven terrain, as they lack the ability to adjust and maintain stability.
Innovation Solution
A tension-compression base structure with at least three independent compression elements and a tension element that can be slidably adjusted, allowing the structure to accommodate irregular surfaces while maintaining stability through a pre-stressed static equilibrium position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If tensegrity structures use rigid pre-stressed equilibrium, then structural strength and stability are improved, but adaptability to irregular surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the compression elements movable relative to each other through sliding interfaces. The compression elements can adjust their positions and orientations dynamically to adapt to irregular surfaces while maintaining the pre-stressed equilibrium state, thus resolving the contradiction between structural strength and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by allowing the geometric parameters of the tensegrity structure (positions of compression elements, lengths of tension elements) to change adaptively. The sliding mechanism enables continuous adjustment of these parameters to match the irregular surface geometry while preserving the structural integrity through maintained pre-stress.
2Stability of the object's composition
If tension elements are fixed length, then structural stability is improved, but ease of adjustment to various surfaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed-length tension element system into a dynamic adjustable system. The sliding interfaces between compression elements enable the structure to dynamically reconfigure itself on irregular surfaces while maintaining stability through the persistent pre-stressed state, eliminating the need for manual adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure performs self-adjustment through the sliding mechanism of compression elements. When placed on an irregular surface, the structure automatically reconfigures itself by allowing compression elements to slide to appropriate positions, maintaining structural stability without external intervention or complex adjustment procedures.
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
The structure can adjust to various support surfaces, remaining strong and stable, suitable for use as furniture or a base for objects on inclined and irregular surfaces, enhancing usability and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
holding the compression elements and the at least one tension element in a pre-stressed static equilibrium position
Data Source
AI summary
A tension-compression base structure including tension elements (such as flexible cables or ropes) and compression elements (such as rigid legs) is provided with a slidably adjustable path for the tension elements around or within the compression elements, thereby enabling a degree of adaptability to support surfaces that may not be ideally flat, such as on outdoor terrain. Such a tension-compression base may be used to support a platform, a stool, or an item of equipment that may be desirably held in a preferred orientation irrespective of terrain irregularities, and as furniture may be configured to rock with a user's body as a form of active seating.