Universal Structural Connector with Bipolar Perforations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing building systems lack modularity and scalability, limiting their ability to create structures of infinite size and varying designs, and require specialized labor for assembly, which increases costs and risks.

Innovation Solution

A universal structural connector system using bipolar elements with out-of-phase perforations and universal fastening elements allows for infinite modular assembly, reducing the need for specialized labor and enhancing manufacturing and assembly speed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional building systems are used, then assembly requires specialized labor, but this increases costs and reduces assembly speed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly speedVSAvoidlabor specialization requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is designed with multiple identical perforations distributed along its length, allowing it to connect with structural elements at various positions and orientations. This universal design enables any connector to function in multiple locations and roles within the structure, eliminating the need for specialized components and reducing labor specialization requirements while maintaining high assembly speed

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

Solution Approach 2:

The connector features multiple discrete perforations spaced along its length, dividing the connection capability into separate, standardized segments. Each perforation represents a modular connection point that can be independently used, allowing flexible assembly without requiring specialized labor for different connection types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If building systems lack modularity, then structures of infinite size and varying designs cannot be created, but this limits scalability

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemodularityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector employs identical perforations distributed along its entire length, creating a universal connection interface that works at any position. This universality enables unlimited modular assembly and structural variation without increasing system complexity, as the same connector design serves all connection needs across structures of any size or configuration

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

Solution Approach 2:

The connector's geometry is optimized with specific perforation spacing and positioning parameters that enable modular assembly. By carefully controlling these geometric parameters, the system achieves high adaptability for infinite structural configurations while maintaining simple, repeatable manufacturing and assembly processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If connectors have non-uniform perforation spacing, then specific connection configurations are achieved, but this reduces manufacturing efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing efficiencyVSAvoidconnection flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The connector features uniformly spaced identical perforations along its length, creating a homogeneous pattern that simplifies manufacturing while maintaining connection flexibility. This homogeneous design allows standardized production processes and enables the connector to adapt to various structural configurations through the repetition of the same modular unit

Inventive Principle:
Principle #33Homogeneity

Data Source

PatentUS20240093480A1Polyfunctional structural connector and its universal fastening components making a system
Publication Date: 2024.03.21 SOLARI MONICA ROSANA
  • US20240093480A1 patent drawing
  • US20240093480A1 patent drawing
  • US20240093480A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A building system for building modular structures, based on the use of universal structural elements, and their universal fasteners, where all elements are of opposite ends or bipolar elements, where each end refers to the distance from the intersection point of two connectors to the center of the holes at the time of assembly.