Variable-Stiffness Structure Using Hydraulic Jamming Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rigid structures with uniform stiffness are unable to adapt to changing loads, offering inadequate support under low loads and collapsing under higher loads due to their inability to vary mechanical properties such as malleability, flexibility, and rigidity.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a structure with variable stiffness characteristics utilizing one or more actuators that apply hydraulic force against jamming materials, allowing for controlled stiffness adjustment through electrical inputs, which can harden the structure in response to changing demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid structure with uniform stiffness is used, then it can support high loads up to a maximum weight, but it cannot adapt to varying loads and may collapse under loads exceeding the maximum or be overly rigid under low loads
Solution Approach 1:
The structure transitions from a static rigid configuration to a dynamic system that can adjust its stiffness properties in real-time. The actuator actively modifies the mechanical properties of the structure, allowing it to adapt between rigid and flexible states based on load conditions, thereby resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of stiffness by introducing an actuator that can modify the mechanical properties of the structure. By altering the stiffness parameter dynamically, the structure can optimize its performance for different load conditions, enabling adaptability without requiring multiple separate structural configurations.
2Strength
If the structure is made rigid to support high loads, then it can withstand maximum weight, but it becomes unable to flex or adapt under lower loads
Solution Approach 1:
The structure employs dynamic control through an actuator that can adjust the stiffness in real-time. This allows the structure to exhibit high strength when needed for maximum load support while transitioning to a more flexible state under lower loads, thereby simultaneously achieving both strength and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator modifies the stiffness parameter of the structure dynamically. By changing this physical parameter, the structure can optimize its load-bearing capacity for high loads while maintaining the ability to flex appropriately under lower loads, resolving the contradiction between strength and flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the structure is made flexible to adapt to low loads, then it can maintain flexibility, but it collapses under higher loads exceeding its maximum weight capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic actuator system enables the structure to switch between flexible and rigid states based on real-time load conditions. Under low loads, the structure remains flexible for adaptability, while under high loads, the actuator activates to increase stiffness and prevent collapse, thereby achieving both flexibility and strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator dynamically adjusts the stiffness parameter of the structure. When loads are low, the structure maintains flexibility for adaptability. When loads approach the maximum capacity, the actuator increases the stiffness parameter to prevent collapse, thus resolving the contradiction between flexibility and maximum load capacity.
4Ease of manufacture
If a uniform stiffness structure is used, then the design is simple, but it cannot respond to changing demands or varying load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic actuator component that enables the structure to respond to changing load conditions. While this adds some complexity to the design, it provides the necessary adaptability to vary stiffness in response to different demands, resolving the contradiction between design simplicity and adaptability.
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
Enables the structure to maintain stability and support across varying loads by dynamically adjusting its stiffness, preventing collapse under higher loads while maintaining flexibility under lower loads, thus enhancing its load-bearing capacity and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator connected with an inner surface of the second plate and the jamming material, the soft hydraulic actuator configured to create a hydraulic force against the jamming material and the second plate
Implementation Method 2
a jamming material attached to an inner surface of the first plate... configured to create a hydraulic force against the jamming material
Data Source
AI summary
A stiffness control and systems for the same are disclosed herein. A first plate and a second plate can be connected with rigid support, a hydraulic actuator and a high roughness surface. Upon actuation, the actuator can force the high roughness surface against the first plate, thus increasing rigidity through hydraulic pressure against the first plate and the second plate. Thus, the stiffness of the surface can be altered in a variable and reversible fashion.