Tensegrity Modular Floating Structure Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Very large floating structures (VLFS) face challenges such as high material requirements, localized stress concentrations, and increased costs due to the need for multiple anchors in harsh ocean environments, which can lead to reduced lifetime and increased expenses.
Innovation Solution
A modular VLFS design utilizing a closed loop tensegrity structure composed of beams and beam adapters, where n-strut tensegrity modules are coupled using pre-tensioned ropes, distributing loads across the entire structure and minimizing the need for anchors, thereby reducing material usage and costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional rigid VLFS designs are used, then structural strength is improved, but material requirements and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the VLFS from a rigid structure to a flexible tensegrity structure by changing the structural parameters. The tensegrity modules use pre-stressed cables and struts to achieve strength through tension-compression balance rather than rigid material resistance, significantly reducing material requirements while maintaining structural integrity under ocean loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensegrity structure combines different material properties by integrating flexible cables under tension with rigid struts under compression. This composite approach allows each component to work in its optimal stress state, achieving high structural efficiency with reduced material usage compared to traditional homogeneous rigid structures.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple anchors are deployed to secure VLFS in harsh ocean environments, then stability is improved, but costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic tensegrity modules that can adaptively respond to ocean environmental loads through controlled flexibility. The pre-stressed cable-strut system dynamically redistributes forces throughout the structure, allowing it to maintain stability under varying wave and current conditions without requiring multiple fixed anchors, thereby reducing anchor system complexity.
3Strength
If localized stress concentrations occur in VLFS, then structural integrity deteriorates, but reducing material to alleviate stress increases vulnerability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the VLFS into multiple discrete tensegrity modules, each capable of independently managing localized stresses. This segmentation prevents stress concentration from propagating through the entire structure, as each module acts as an isolated stress-management unit while collectively providing overall structural integrity with reduced total material requirements.
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 modular design effectively distributes environmental loads, reduces material requirements, and lowers the dependency on anchor locations, resulting in a more cost-effective and durable VLFS solution.
Implementation Method 1
n-strut tensegrity modules (each having a structure of a twisted prism) coupled using pre-tensioned ropes
Data Source
AI summary
A floating structure based on the tensegrity principle is described. A planar closed loop structure (1700) has a plurality of beams (300) and a plurality of beam adapters (700). Each of the plurality of beams (300) is formed by coupling multiple n-strut twisted prism units. Each of the multiple n-strut twisted prism units includes n-sided planar polygonal surfaces on opposite sides through which the respective n-strut twisted prism unit is coupled to another n-strut twisted prism unit or a beam adapter. Each of the plurality of beam adapters (700) is an m-strut twisted prism unit having planar polygonal side faces for coupling to an n-sided planar polygonal surface of a beam (300).