Triangular Prism Connection Unit for Multi-Directional Structural Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting units for building structures are limited in flexibility and directionality, often requiring multiple shapes to achieve versatility, which restricts creative expression and structural diversity.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical connection unit comprising four joined members, including isosceles right triangular prisms and truncated isosceles right triangular prisms, allowing for removably joined configurations with itself, mirror-image counterparts, and varying sizes to facilitate stability and multiple directional growth in structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional connecting units are used, then the structure can be built, but the flexibility and directional versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection unit is designed with multiple engagement surfaces and geometries (flat surfaces, angled surfaces, curved surfaces) that allow a single piece type to connect in multiple directions and configurations. This universal design enables the same unit to function as a connector in various orientations without requiring specialized pieces for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection unit extends connectivity into three-dimensional space by incorporating surfaces that engage at different angles and orientations. The unit can connect pieces not only vertically but also horizontally and at diagonal angles, adding dimensional versatility to the construction system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more different shapes are provided to increase flexibility, then building versatility improves, but the number of pieces required in the set increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single connection unit design incorporates multiple connection modes within one piece geometry, eliminating the need for separate specialized pieces for different connection types. The unit can engage with other units through flat surfaces for orthogonal connections, angled surfaces for diagonal connections, and curved surfaces for rounded connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges multiple connection geometries that would traditionally require separate pieces into a single integrated unit. By combining flat, angled, and curved engagement surfaces in one piece, the design reduces the total number of different piece types needed in the set.
3Ease of manufacture
If connection units are designed for single-direction stacking, then manufacturing is simplified, but structural diversity is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The connection unit is manufactured as a single standardized piece geometry that can be produced using conventional molding techniques, yet the geometry itself provides multiple connection capabilities. The unit maintains manufacturing simplicity while enabling diverse structures through its multi-functional engagement surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection unit is designed with distinct engagement zones (flat surfaces, angled surfaces, curved surfaces) that are segmented within the single piece. Each zone can engage with corresponding zones on other units, allowing the standardized piece to create varied structural configurations without requiring complex manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanical connection unit may create a structure when removably joined with copies of itself, copies of minor-image counterparts of itself, or both. A connection unit may be made of four joined members, two of the members having the shape of isosceles right triangular prisms with right triangles as bases, and two of the members having the shape of truncated isosceles right triangular prisms with right triangles as bases. Two of the members are joined substantially parallel to each other and substantially at a right angle to the other two members.Sets of units and minor-image counterpart units may be provided, e.g., as toys, and units and counterparts may be provided in multiple sizes.