3D Translucent Frame Grid for Multi-Directional Light Transmission

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies for producing translucent components are limited in their ability to achieve transparency beyond two connected surfaces, leading to complex, costly, and labor-intensive manufacturing processes that are not suitable for larger installations like facades or walls.

Innovation Solution

A frame lattice with translucent frame elements that extend through the entire component in all directions, filled with non-translucent material or insulating material, allowing light transmission between all surfaces, rather than just opposite surfaces, using methods such as pouring, vibro-pouring, or direct insertion of materials.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Illumination intensity

If transparent elements are arranged only in parallel rows between two surfaces, then light transmission is achieved between these two surfaces, but transparency between other surfaces is lost and the solution becomes unsuitable for larger installations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight transmissionVSAvoidtransparency in multiple directions
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from 2D transparent elements (flat panels) to 3D transparent structures (spatial frameworks with beams, columns, and nodes) that extend in multiple dimensions. This allows light transmission not only between opposite surfaces but also between adjacent surfaces, enabling transparency effects in all directions throughout the structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The transparent spatial framework serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the building, enables light transmission between all surfaces, and creates aesthetic transparency effects. The framework acts as both load-bearing structure and optical element, eliminating the need for separate transparent infill panels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stability of the object's composition

If complex manufacturing processes with multiple components and reinforcements are used, then structural stability is ensured, but production becomes very complex and financially expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the transparent structural framework with the building's load-bearing structure into a single integrated system. The transparent beams and columns serve both aesthetic/optical functions and structural functions, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement elements and complex assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The transparent spatial framework is designed and manufactured as a complete, pre-assembled structure before being installed in the building. This preliminary preparation allows for quality control and simplifies on-site installation, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the intricate design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Illumination intensity

If transparent elements are used to create light transmission, then transparency effect is achieved, but the manufacturing process becomes labor-intensive and not suitable for larger installations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransparency effectVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The transparent spatial framework is divided into modular standard components (beams, columns, nodes) that can be manufactured independently and assembled systematically. This segmentation enables parallel production of multiple components and simplifies installation, significantly improving manufacturing efficiency for large-scale applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs standardized dimensions and geometric parameters for the transparent framework components, allowing for consistent manufacturing processes and mass production techniques. This standardization transforms the manufacturing from custom, labor-intensive work to efficient, repeatable production suitable for large installations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

This approach simplifies and economizes the manufacturing process while enhancing the transparency effect, enabling light transmission across all surfaces, making it more efficient and practical for larger applications.

Implementation Method 1

translucent frame elements, in order to transmit a light beam incident on one of the at least four boundary surfaces not only to the opposite boundary surface but to all other boundary surfaces

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Light

Data Source

PatentEP2692960B1Frame grid for the fabrication of a structural element with translucent properties
Publication Date: 2022.02.02 LICRETE SRO
  • EP2692960B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1c
  • EP2692960B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~3
  • EP2692960B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5c

AI summary

The light transmitting device (1) has four boundary surfaces, a frame-grid, which has two frame-elements (6) or a compact unit in a desired shape or multiple arrangements (21) of the frame-grid. A non-translucent material (7), insulation material (8) and solid material are formed in the openings. The terminal surfaces (14) of the frame-grid are provided in direct contact with four boundary surfaces of the light transmitting device.