Tensegrity Keel Tensioning Method for Precise Shape Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods fail to achieve precise loading control of the final shape and tensile state of a tensegrity keel, which is crucial for its design and functionality as a supporting structure.
Innovation Solution
A tensioning method involving determining target values, successively placing and fixing stiffening rings and central trusses, tensioning the keel in stages, and adjusting initial positions to achieve self-equilibrium and precise tensile forces, using iterative methods to optimize the process and ensure convergence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a tensegrity keel is designed with determined final shape and tensile state, then the structure achieves high rigidity and stable equilibrium, but precise loading control of final shape and tensile state cannot be achieved through reasonable loading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and determining target values for tensile forces in longitudinal ties and final coordinates of bisection points, ends, and other key nodes before actual tensioning. This allows the structure to be tensioned to a predetermined final shape and tensile state, achieving precise loading control. The method involves determining initial coordinates of bisection points and ends, calculating target tensile forces, and then tensioning the structure to reach these predetermined targets.
2Strength
If telescopic rods are stretched to cause large tensile stresses on longitudinal ties and large compressive stresses on central truss, then the keel attains self-equilibrium state with great rigidity, but precise control of tensile state cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by establishing a closed-loop control system where target tensile forces are calculated based on desired final shape, the actual tensioning process is monitored, and adjustments are made to achieve the predetermined target values. The method involves determining target values, tensioning the structure, measuring actual tensile forces, comparing with targets, and iteratively adjusting until precise control is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying tensioning parameters (such as telescopic rod lengths, cable tensions, and node positions) to achieve the desired final shape and tensile state. The method involves calculating target values for multiple parameters simultaneously and coordinating their changes to reach the predetermined equilibrium state with precise control.
Data Source
AI summary
A tensioning method for a tensegrity keel is provided. The method includes the step of determining target values at an attainment of tensegrity. An outline of the integral keel is formed. A middle stiffening ring is tensioned through stretching a hub shaft, thereby attaining a self-equilibrium state. Telescopic rods are provided between stiffening rings and central trusses so that the stiffening rings and the central trusses are connected together. Longitudinal ties are mounted and constraints on bisection points and the central trusses are released and the integral keel is tensioned by stretching the telescopic rods, thereby introducing tension to the longitudinal ties. The lateral stiffening rings are tensioned by stretching the hub shaft, thereby attaining a self-equilibrium state. Adjustments are made using iterative methods so that target values at the attainment of tensegrity will be reached.