EP0455850A1 - Rad1al expansion/retraction truss structures - Google Patents
Rad1al expansion/retraction truss structures Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0455850A1 EP0455850A1 EP90108694A EP90108694A EP0455850A1 EP 0455850 A1 EP0455850 A1 EP 0455850A1 EP 90108694 A EP90108694 A EP 90108694A EP 90108694 A EP90108694 A EP 90108694A EP 0455850 A1 EP0455850 A1 EP 0455850A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- loop
- pivot points
- assembly
- scissors
- pair
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/343—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport
- E04B1/344—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport with hinged parts
- E04B1/3441—Structures characterised by movable, separable, or collapsible parts, e.g. for transport with hinged parts with articulated bar-shaped elements
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/32—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures
- E04B1/3211—Structures with a vertical rotation axis or the like, e.g. semi-spherical structures
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/32—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures
- E04B2001/3235—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures having a grid frame
- E04B2001/3241—Frame connection details
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/32—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures
- E04B2001/3235—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures having a grid frame
- E04B2001/3252—Covering details
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/32—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures
- E04B2001/3294—Arched structures; Vaulted structures; Folded structures with a faceted surface
Abstract
two essentially identical rigid angulated strut elements (211),(212), each having a central and two terminal pivot points (213) which do not lie in a straight line, each strut being pivotally joined to the other of its pair by their central pivot points,
each pair being pivotally joined by two terminal pivot points (213),(214) to two terminal pivot points (223),(224) of another pair such that both scissors pairs lie essentially in the same plane, or
each pair being pivotally joined by two terminal pivot points (213),(214) to two terminal pivot points (223),(224) of another pair in that the terminal points of a scissors-pair are each pivotally joined to a hub element (240),(245), and these hub elements are in turn joined to the terminal pivot points of another scissors-pair,
whereby a closed loop-assembly (200) is thus formed of scissors pairs, and this loop-assembly can fold and unfold, and
a line (270) that intersects and is perpendicular to the axes of any two terminal pivot points is non-parallel with at least two other similarly formed lines (280),(290) in the assembly,
the angles formed between said lines remaining constant as the loop assembly is folded and unfolded.
Description
- Numerous folding truss-structure systems exist. Most of these allow for either trusses with no curvature, or single curvature (i.e. cylindrical). Those that are specifically addressed to double curvature, are in general limited to spherical geometries and are complex in operation and construction. None allow for more varied geometries, such as toruses, ellipsoids, helical surfaces, faceted polyhedra and irregular three dimensional geometries.
- I have discovered a method for constructing reversibly expandible truss- structures that provides for an extremely wide variety of geometries. Trusses formed by this method will collapse and expand in a controlled, smooth and synchronized manner. Such structures require no complex joints. Connections are limited to simple pivots.
- A significant characteristic of previous systems for folding truss-structures of curved geometry is that the overall shape of the truss changes during the folding process. Thus, a spherical or cylindrical shape will tend to flatten as the truss is folded, or change is some other manner.
- As the overall shape changes, a high level of complexity is introduced into the relations between truss elements during folding. This will in general lead to:
- a. Bending and distortion of truss elements during folding. The result of this bending is the existence of 'hard points' in the folding process where forces must be overcome to open or close the structure. Thus the truss must be constructed from flexible materials, which is not desired for most structures.
- b. Requiring complex joints with more than one degree of freedom, such as sliding joints, ball joints, etc. These connections are more expensive to manufacture than simple pivot connections and not as structurally sound.
- c. The structure tends to be weak or 'floppy' when in a partially folded condition. The reason is that the favorable strutural characteristics that are possessed by the truss largely come from its overall geometry. Since that geometry changes during the folding process, it tends to pass through configurations that are not structurally sound.
- d. Severe limitations exist on the types of overall shapes that such systems can handle. Since even relatively simple shapes (such as a sphere) introduce high degrees of complexity, more complex geometries become impracticable.
Thus, it is an object of the present invention to provide a three-dimensional folding truss whose overall shape and geometry is constant and unchanging during the entire folding process. The reasons are the converse of the above: - e. Rigid materials may be employed, and a smooth effortless deployment process occurs.
- f. All joints are simple pivots which are simple, compact, structurally favorable and inexpensive.
- g. The structure retains its structural soundness during folding or unfolding. All movement in the struture is the actual deployment process, not floppiness.
- h. A virtually unlimited range of geometries may be handled.
- The net result of these characteristics is a system that allows for a wide range of possible uses, ranging from tents, pavilions, gazebos and the like to novelty items, entertainment decor, etc. to folding furniture, partitions and home furnishings.
- Due to the combination of structural integrity and smooth deployment, large structures are practicable and may be deployed automatically if desired. Such applications may include stadium covers, temporary industrial warehouses, and temporary housing or shelters.
- There are times when, rather than desiring a portable shelter, one wishes to have a structure that remains fixed to a site, but that can open and close. An example is a retractable roof over a stadium, swimming pool, theater or pavilion.
- An alternate embodiment of the present invention provides reversibly retractable structures than open up from the center outwards, but maintain an essentially fixed perimeter. The kind of motion exhibited by such structures may be described as an iris-type motion.
- This embodiment is a truss consisting of links joined by simple pivots. Coverings may be provided in various ways, such as attaching shingled plates or a flexible membrane to the truss.
- In addition to retractable roofs, numerous other uses exist for this embodiment of the invention. Novel window shades, toys and special irises for lighting are examples.
- The present invention allows for self-supporting structures that maintain their overall curved geometry as they expand or collapse in a synchronized manner. An alternate embodiment of the invention allows for iris-type retractable structures, where the center of the structure retracts towards its perimeter. In this embodiment the perimeter maintains a nearly constant size.
- Structures of either embodiment are comprised by special mechanisms hereinafter referred to as loop-assemblies. These assemblies are in part comprised by angulated strut elements that have been simply pivotally joined to other similar elements to form scissors-pairs. These scissors-pairs are in turn simply pivotally joined to other similar pairs or to hub elements forming a closed loop.
- When this loop is folded and unfolded certain critical angles are constant and unchanging. These unchanging angles allow for the overall geometry of structure to remain constant as it expands or collapses.
- The invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- Fig. 1 is a plan view showing the basic angulated strut element that largely comprises the structure;
- Figs. 1A-1C are plan views of alternate configurations of the basic element, also being angulated with regards to their pivot points if not their outer shape;
- Fig. 2 is a plan view of two angulated strut elements pivotally joined intermediate to their ends, also called a scissors-pair;
- Fig. 2A is a perspective view of the scissors-pair;
- Fig. 3 is a view of the scissors pair in a different position. Also illustrated is a critical angle that remains constant for all positions of the scissors-pair.
- Fig. 4 is a plan view of an illustrative polygon;
- Fig. 5 is a plan view of a closed loop-assembly of scissors-pairs that approximates the polygon of Fig. 4;
- Fig. 6 is a plan view of the closed loop-assembly of Fig. 5 in a different position;
- Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a different embodiment of the invention, being a three-dimensional loop-assembly comprised of three scissors-pairs and six hub elements;
- Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the loop-assembly of Fig. 7 in a different position;
- Figs. 9-10 are perspective views of a different embodiment of the invention in two positions;
- Figs. 11-12 are perspective views of a different embodiment of the invention in two positions;
- Figs. 13-16 show a sequence of perspective views of a complete spherical structure which is comprised of loop-assemblies, as it expands;
- Figs. 17-20 show a sequence of perspective views of a complete faceted icosahedral structure which is comprised of loop-assemblies, as it expands;
- Figs. 21-23 show a sequence of views of an alternate embodiment of the invention which is a planar retractable structure with an iris-type motion;
- Figs. 24-27 show a sequence of views of another iris-type retractable structure that has a domed form;
- Figs. 28-30 show a sequence of views of the structure illustrated in Figs. 24-27 with a covering attached to it, to be used as a retractable roof;
- Figs. 31-33 show a sequence of views of an iris-type retractable structure having an oval-shaped perimeter and a covering attached to it.
- Referring now more particularly to the drawings, in FIG. 1 there is shown an essentially planar
rigid strut element 10 which contains acentral pivot point 12 and two terminal pivot points 14 and 16 through which pass three parallel axes. The centers of the aforesaid three pivot points do not lie in a straight line; the element is angulated. The distance betweenpoints line joining points line joining points - In Fig. 1A there is shown another
configuration 17 of a basic strut element. It is similar in all essential aspects to that shown in Fig. 1, save that it has a triangular rather than angulated outer shape. Figs. 1B and 1C show respectively strutelements - In FIG. 2 the
scissors pair 30 is shown. It is comprised ofelement 10 and an essentiallyidentical element 20 which containscentral pivot point 22 and two terminal pivot points 26 and 24.Element 10 is pivotally joined toelement 20 by their respective central pivot points 12 and 22. All pivot connections described herein are simple pivot connections with one degree of freedom. - The
elements pair 30 may be rotated such thatpivot point 14 will lie directly overpivot point 24. Two pivot points in a scissors pair that can line up each other in this way are hereinafter referred to as paired terminal pivot points. Thus, points 14 and 24 are paired terminal pivot points. Likewise points 16 and 26 are paired terminal pivot points. - Also shown in FIG. 2 is the
line 40 which is drawn through the center of paired terminal pivot points 14,24 andline 50 which is drawn through the center of paired terminal pivot points 16,26.Lines - In FIG. 2A a perspective view of the
scissors pair 30 is shown. Passing throughpivot point 14 is theaxis 15. Similarly, axes 13,25 and 23 pass through pivot points 16,24 and 26 respectively. A normal-line 40 is constructed that intersectsaxes line 50 is constructed that intersectsaxes - In FIG. 3 the
scissors pair 30 is shown where theelements 10band 20 are shown rotated relative to each other. Also shown in FIG. 3 is theline 60 which is drawn through the center of paired terminal pivot points 14,24 andline 70 which is drawn through the center of paired terminal pivot points 16,26. Normal-lines lines elements - FIG. 4 shows an
illustrative polygon 80 where the number of sides, their relative lengths and the angles between them have been arbitrarily chosen. - In FIG. 5 is shown a closed loop-assembly 100 of nine scissors pairs 110,120,130,140,150,160,170,180,190 where each scissors-pair is pivotally joined by its two pairs of terminal pivot points to the terminal pivot points of its two adjacent scissors-pairs. This loop-assembly is an approximation of the
polygon 80 in the sense that the distances between adjacent central pivot points are equal to the corresponding lengths of the sides of thepolygon 80. Further, the angles between the lines joining adjacent central pivot points with other similarly formed lines in the assembly are equal to the corresponding angles in thepolygon 80. - Also shown in FIG. 5 are the normal-lines 112,122,132,142,152, 162,172,182 and 192 that pass through the paired terminal pivot points of the nine scissors-pairs. Note that adjacent scissors-pairs share a normal-line.
- FIG. 6 shows the loop-
assembly 90 folded to a different configuration without bending or distortion of any of its elements. It may be demonstrated that loop-assembly 90 is a mechanism with a degree-of-freedom equal to zero. Thus kinematics predicts such a mechanism would not be free to move. It is due to the special proportions of the links that allows it to move. - Also shown are the normal-lines 114,124,134,144,154,164, 174,184 and 194. The angle between 112 and 122 is equal to the angle between 114 and 124. Likewise the respective angle between any two lines among 112,122,132,142,152, 162,172,182 and 192 is identical to the corresponding angle between any two lines among 114,124,134, 144,154, 164,174,184 and 194.
- FIG. 7 shows a loop-
assembly 200 comprised of three angulated scissors-pairs 210,220,230 and six hub elements 240,245,250, 255,260 and 265. Scissors-pair 210 is comprised of angulatedstrut elements elements elements - Scissors-
pair 210 is is pivotally joined tohub elements Hub elements pair 220. Scissors-pair 220 is in turn pivotally joined tohub elements pair 230 which is similarly joined tohub elements pair 210, thereby closing the loop. - Also shown in FIG. 7 are three normal-lines, 270,280 and 290.
Line 270 intersects and is perpendicular to the axes that pass through paired terminal pivot points 213 and 214. Likewise,line 270 intersects and is perpendicular to the axes that pass through paired terminal pivot points 223 and 224. In this manner, normal-line 270 is shared by the scissors-pairs 210 and 220. Similarly, normal-line 280 is shared by the scissors-pairs 220 and 230, and normal-line 290 is shared by the scissors-pairs 230 and 210. - FIG. 8 shows the loop-
assembly 200 folded to a different configuration. The angulated strut-elements elements assembly 200 is accomplished without bending or distortion of any of its elements . Also shown are three normal-lines 300,310 and 320. Normal-line 300 is shared by the scissors-pairs 210 and 220 in the manner described above. In the same manner, normal-line 310 is shared by scissors-pair line 320 is shared by scissors-pair - The angle between normal-
lines lines lines lines lines lines - In FIG. 9 is shown loop-
assembly 400 which is comprised of two angulated scissors-pairs 410 and 430, two straight scissors-pairs 420 and 440, as well as eight hub elements 450,452,454,456,458,460,462 and 464. Also shown are normal-lines 470,480,490 and 500. Scissors-pair 410 is pivotally joined tohub elements pair 420. Similarly, 420 is connected to 430 byelements elements elements - Also shown in FIG. 9 is normal line 470 which intersects and is perpendicular to the axes passing through paired terminal pivot points 413 and 414 as well as terminal pivot points 426 and 428. Thus, normal-line 470 is shared by scissors-pairs 410 and 420. Similarly normal-
line 480 is shared by scissors-pairs 420 and 430, normal-line 490 is shared by scissors-pairs 430 and 440 and normal-line 500 is shared by scissors-pairs 440 and 410. - FIG.. 10 shows the loop-
assembly 400 folded to a different configuration. The strut-elements elements assembly 400 is accomplished without bending or distortion of any of its elements. Also shown are four normal-lines 510,520,530 and 540. Normal-line 510 is shared by the scissors-pairs 410 and 420, in the sense that has been described above. Similarly, normal-line 520 is shared by the scissors-pairs 420 and 430, normal-line 530 is shared by the scissors-pairs 430 and 440, and normal-line 540 is shared by the scissors-pairs 440 and 410. - The angle between normal-
lines lines 470 and 480. Similarly, the angle between normal-lines lines lines lines lines lines 500 and 470. As above, when the relative rotation between two strut elements of any scissors-pair in the loop-assembly is changed, all angles between the normal-lines in the loop-assembly remain constant. - In FIG. 11 is shown the loop-
assembly 600 which is comprised by 12 scissors-pairs and 12 hub elements. The loop is connected as follows: scissors-pair 610 joined to scissors-pair 620, by joining the paired terminal pivot points of one directly to the paired terminal pivot points to the other. Connections of this type are hereinafter referred to as a type 1 connection. - Scissors-
pair 620 is pivotally joined tohub elements pair 640. Thus, scissors-pair 620 is joined to 640 via hub elements, 630 and 635 by what is hereinafter referred to as a type 2 connection. - Scissors-
pair 640 has a type 1 connection to 650; 650 has a type 2 connection to 670 viaelements elements elements elements 750 and 755; 760 has a type 1 connection to 770; 770 has a type 2 connection to 610 viaelements - Also shown in FIG. 11 are twelve normal-lines 602,612,632,642, 662,672,692,702,722,732,752,762 that intersect and are perpendicular to the axes of the joined terminal pivot points of adjacent scissors-pairs.
- In FIG. 12 the loop-
assembly 600 is shown folded to a different configuration where each of the two strut elements belonging to every scissors pair have been rotated relative to each other. As above, this folding takes place without bending or distortion of any of the elements in the assembly. Also shown in FIG. 12 are twelve normal-lines 604,614,634, 644, 664,674,694,704,724,734,754 and 764 that intersect and are perpendicular to the axes of the joined associated pivot points of adjacent scissors-pairs. - The angle between 602 and 612 is identical to the angle between 604 and 614. As above, when the relative rotation between two strut elements of any scissors-pair in the loop-assembly is changed, all angles between the normal-lines in the loop-assembly remain constant.
- In FIG. 13 a
spherical truss structure 1000, which is comprised of a multiplicity of loop-assemblies as described above, is shown in an entirely folded (collapsed) configuration. FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 each show partially folded configurations of thestructure 1000. FIG. 16 shows thestructure 1000 in an entirely unfolded (open) configuration. The folding of thestructure 1000 takes place without bending or distortion of any of its elements. As the structure is folded and unfolded, all angles between the normal-lines in the structure remain constant. - In Fig. 16 the centers of the central pivot points of all the scissors-pairs in the unfolded
structure 1000 lie on a common surface, in this case a sphere. In Fig. 13 the centers of the central pivot points of all the scissors-pairs in the structure lie on a common surface that is also spherical, but of a smaller scale than the surface of Fig. 16. Likewise, in Figs. 14-15 which show partially folded configurations of thestructure 1000, the centers of the central pivot points of all the scissors-pairs in the structure lie on a common spherical surface for each configuration. For any configuration of the structure, the centers of the central pivot points of all scissors-pairs will lie on a spherical surface. As the structure is folded and unfolded, only the scale of this surface changes, not its three-dimensional shape. - In FIG. 17 a
truss structure 1200, of icosahedral geometry, which is comprised of a multiplicity of loop-assemblies as described above, is shown in an entirely folded (collapsed) configuration. FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 each show partially folded configurations of thestructure 1200. FIG. 20 shows thestructure 1200 in an entirely unfolded (open) configuration. The folding takes place without bending or distortion of any of its elements. As the structure is folded and unfolded, all angles between the normal-lines in the structure remain constant. - In Fig. 20 the centers of the central pivot points of all the scissors-pairs in the unfolded
structure 1200 lie on a common surface, in this case an icosahedron. In Fig. 17 the centers of the central pivot points of all the scissors-pairs in the structure lie on a common surface that is also icosahedral but of a smaller scale than that surface of Fig. 20. Likewise, in Figs. 18-19 which show partially folded configurations of thestructure 1200, the centers of the central pivot points of all the scissors-pairs in the structure lie on common icosahedral surfaces. As the structure is folded and unfolded, only the scale of this icosahedral surface changes, not its three-dimensional shape. - In Fig. 21 a
planar structure 1500 is shown which is an alternate embodiment of the invention. It is comprised of four loop-assemblies, 1510, 1520, 1530 and 1540. The inner terminal pivot points of 1510 meet at the center of the structure. The outer terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 1510 are pivotally joined to the inner terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 1520. Similarly the outer terminal pivot points of 1520 are joined to the inner terminal pivot points of 1530. The outer terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 1530 are in turn joined to the inner terminal pivot points of 1540. - In Fig. 22, the
structure 1500 is shown in a partially retracted position, where the struts of all scissors pairs have undergone a relative rotation. The inner terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 1510 have moved outwards from their position in Fig. 21. The terminal pivot points of the loop-assembly 1540 have moved relatively little from their position in Fig. 21. Thus the size of the outer perimeter of thestructure 1500 has changed very little between the positions shown in Figs. 21 and 22. - In Fig. 23 the
structure 1500 is shown in a retracted position. The inner terminal pivot points ofloop assembly 1510, lie in and define the inner perimeter of the structure. This inner perimeter has changed substantially from the positions shown in Figs. 22 and 21. However the outer perimeter of thestructure 1500, which the outer terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 1540 lie in, has changed very little from the earlier positions. The essential motion of thestructure 1500 is that of the inner portion of the structure moving outwards towards the perimeter. In this sense it may be described as an iris-type retractable structure. - In Fig. 24 the
retractable structure 2000 is shown, which is comprised of sixloop assemblies loop assembly 2010 meet near the center of the structure. The outer hub elements of loop-assembly 2010 are joined to the inner hub elements of loop-assembly 2020. Similarly, the outer hub elements of loop-assembly 2010 are joined to the inner hub elements of loop-assembly 2020. In the same manner, loop-assemblies - In Fig. 25 the
structure 2000 is shown in a partially retracted position. The inner perimeter of the structure, which the inner terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 2010 lie in and define, has moved outwards from the center. The outer perimeter of the structure, which the outer terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 2060 lie in, has moved very little from its position in Fig. 24. - The
structure 2000 is shown in a further retracted position in Fig. 26. The loop-assemblies that make up the structure have moved further outwards towards the perimeter. - In Fig. 27 the
structure 2000 is shown in its fully retracted position. This inner perimeter has changed substantially from the positions shown in Figs. 24-26. However the outer perimeter of thestructure 2000, which the outer terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 2060 lie in, has changed very little from the earlier positions. Thus the structure has maintained a nearly constant diameter during the unfolding process. - Fig. 28 shows the
structure 2000 used as a retractable roof over astadium 3000. A covering is provided to give shelter (only half the roof is shown covered to make the illustration clear). A series ofplates 2110 have been attached to individual elements of the loop-assembly 2010. Similarly a series ofplates 2120 have been attached to loop-assembly 2020. In thismanner plate series assemblies - In Fig. 29 the
structure 2000 is shown in a partially retracted position, the inner perimeter of the structure having moved outwards towards the circumference. Theplates 2110 move outwards with the loop-assembly 2010 to which they are attached. They glide over adjacent plates without interfering with each other. Similarlyplate series - Fig. 30 shows the
structure 2000 in its fully retracted position. Theplate series - In Fig. 31 the
retractable structure 4000 is shown, which is comprised of sixloop assemblies loop assembly 4010 meet near the center of the structure. The outer hub elements of loop-assembly 4010 are joined to the inner hub elements of loop-assembly 4020. In this manner, the outer hub elements of loop-assemblies - Also shown in Fig. 31 is a covering over the
structure 4000, to provide shelter (only half the roof is shown covered to make the illustration clear). A series ofplates 4110 have been attached to individual elements of the loop-assembly 4010 in an alternate arrangement to the covered structure shown in Fig. 28. Similarly a series ofplates 4120 have been attached to loop-assembly 4020. In thismanner plate series assemblies - In Fig. 32 the
structure 4000 is shown in a partially retracted position. The inner perimeter of the structure, which the inner terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 4010 lie in and define, has moved outwards from the center. Theplates 4110 move outwards with the loop-assembly 4010 to which they are attached. They glide over adjacent plates without interfering with each other. Similarlyplate series assembly 4060 lie in, has moved very little from its position in Fig. 31. - In Fig. 33 the
structure 4000 is shown in its fully retracted position. This inner perimeter has changed substantially from the positions shown in Figs. 31-32. However the outer perimeter of thestructure 4000, which the outer terminal pivot points of loop-assembly 4060 lie in, has changed very little from the earlier positions. Thus the structure has maintained a nearly constant perimeter during the retracting process. Theplate series - It will be appreciated that the instant specification and claims are set forth by way of illustration and not limitation, and that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims (8)
- A loop-assembly comprising:
at least three scissors-pairs, at least two of the pairs comprising:
two essentially identical rigid angulated strut elements, each having a central and two terminal pivot points which do not lie in a straight line, each strut being pivotally joined to the other of its pair by their central pivot points,
each pair being pivotally joined by two terminal pivot points to two terminal pivot points of another pair such that both scissors pairs lie essentially in the same plane, or
each pair being pivotally joined by two terminal pivot points to two terminal pivot points of another pair in that the terminal points of a scissors-pair are each pivotally joined to a hub element, and these hub elements are in turn joined to the terminal pivot points of another scissors-pair,
whereby a closed loop-assembly is thus formed of scissors pairs, and this loop-assembly can fold and unfold, and
a line that intersects and is perpendicular to the axes of any two terminal pivot points is non-parallel with at least two other similarly formed lines in the assembly,
the angles formed between said lines remaining constant as the loop assembly is folded and unfolded. - A reversibly expandable three dimensional truss structure that is in at least part comprised of a loop-assembly according to claim 1,
the angles formed between normal lines that intersect and are perpendicular to the axes of terminal pivot points with other similarly formed lines throughout the structure, remaining constant as it is folded and unfolded. - A reversibly expandable three dimensional truss structure that is in at least part comprised of a loop-assembly according to claim 1,
the central pivot points of all the scissors-pairs in the structure lying on a common first surface when the structure is in a folded condition, these same points lying on and defining a second surface that is identical except in scale, to the first surface when the structure is in an unfolded or partially folded condition. - A reversibly expandable three dimensional truss structure that is in at least part comprised of a loop-assembly according to claim 1,
wherein the three dimensional shape of the structure is unchanged as it is folded and unfolded. - A reversibly retractable truss structure that is in at least part comprised of a loop-assembly according to claim 1,
where the outer terminal pivot points of at least one loop-assembly are pivotally joined to the inner terminal pivot points of another loop assembly. - A reversibly retractable truss structure that is in at least part comprised of a loop-assembly according to claim 1,
where the outer hub elements of at least one loop-assembly are joined to the inner hub elements of another loop assembly. - A reversibly retractable truss structure that is in at least part comprised of a loop-assembly according to claim 1,
where the size of the inner perimeter of the structure changes substantially as the structure is folded and unfolded, but the size of the outer perimeter changes relatively little. - A reversibly retractable truss structure according to claim 7,
where a covering is provided by attaching plates to the elements of the loop-assemblies that comprise the structure.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE1990619818 DE69019818T2 (en) | 1990-05-09 | 1990-05-09 | Radially expandable-retractable truss girders. |
EP19900108694 EP0455850B1 (en) | 1990-05-09 | 1990-05-09 | Rad1al expansion/retraction truss structures |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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EP19900108694 EP0455850B1 (en) | 1990-05-09 | 1990-05-09 | Rad1al expansion/retraction truss structures |
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EP0455850A1 true EP0455850A1 (en) | 1991-11-13 |
EP0455850B1 EP0455850B1 (en) | 1995-05-31 |
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EP19900108694 Expired - Lifetime EP0455850B1 (en) | 1990-05-09 | 1990-05-09 | Rad1al expansion/retraction truss structures |
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Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0744575A1 (en) * | 1994-02-07 | 1996-11-27 | Aleph Co., Ltd. | Framed structure |
NL1036358C2 (en) * | 2008-12-23 | 2010-06-29 | Gerard Westendorp | HINGE SYSTEM FOR TRANSFORMABLE POLYEDERS. |
CN102172840A (en) * | 2011-03-07 | 2011-09-07 | 聊城华塑工业有限公司 | Concentric circle telescopic ring |
CN106151429A (en) * | 2015-04-15 | 2016-11-23 | 佛山市禾才科技服务有限公司 | A kind of mechanical deployable structure having radian |
CN112555371A (en) * | 2020-11-11 | 2021-03-26 | 北京交通大学 | Single-degree-of-freedom double-mode infinite overturning mechanism |
EP3909658A1 (en) * | 2020-05-15 | 2021-11-17 | Fujimiyaseisakusho Co., Ltd. | Variable shape structure having bend members |
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US7832488B2 (en) | 2005-11-15 | 2010-11-16 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | Anchoring system and method |
US8291781B2 (en) | 2007-12-21 | 2012-10-23 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | System and methods for actuating reversibly expandable structures |
US8733453B2 (en) | 2007-12-21 | 2014-05-27 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | Expandable structure for deployment in a well |
US7896088B2 (en) | 2007-12-21 | 2011-03-01 | Schlumberger Technology Corporation | Wellsite systems utilizing deployable structure |
DE202012008293U1 (en) | 2012-08-30 | 2012-09-20 | Rami Abu Fana | Foldable spherical structure made of colored plastic with lighting |
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FR2290542A1 (en) * | 1974-11-06 | 1976-06-04 | Zeigler Theodore | SELF-SUPPORTING STRUCTURE WITH FOLDING FRAME |
US4253284A (en) * | 1979-06-11 | 1981-03-03 | University Of Utah | Foldable and curvilinearly extensible structure |
US4290244A (en) * | 1976-07-13 | 1981-09-22 | Zeigler Theodore Richard | Collapsible self-supporting structures and panels and hub therefor |
US4587775A (en) * | 1984-07-18 | 1986-05-13 | Earl & Wright | Retractable closure for roof opening |
US4942700A (en) * | 1988-10-27 | 1990-07-24 | Charles Hoberman | Reversibly expandable doubly-curved truss structure |
-
1990
- 1990-05-09 DE DE1990619818 patent/DE69019818T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1990-05-09 EP EP19900108694 patent/EP0455850B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
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US3496687A (en) * | 1967-03-22 | 1970-02-24 | North American Rockwell | Extensible structure |
FR2290542A1 (en) * | 1974-11-06 | 1976-06-04 | Zeigler Theodore | SELF-SUPPORTING STRUCTURE WITH FOLDING FRAME |
US4290244A (en) * | 1976-07-13 | 1981-09-22 | Zeigler Theodore Richard | Collapsible self-supporting structures and panels and hub therefor |
US4253284A (en) * | 1979-06-11 | 1981-03-03 | University Of Utah | Foldable and curvilinearly extensible structure |
US4587775A (en) * | 1984-07-18 | 1986-05-13 | Earl & Wright | Retractable closure for roof opening |
US4942700A (en) * | 1988-10-27 | 1990-07-24 | Charles Hoberman | Reversibly expandable doubly-curved truss structure |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0744575A1 (en) * | 1994-02-07 | 1996-11-27 | Aleph Co., Ltd. | Framed structure |
EP0744575A4 (en) * | 1994-02-07 | 1998-04-01 | Aleph Co Ltd | Framed structure |
NL1036358C2 (en) * | 2008-12-23 | 2010-06-29 | Gerard Westendorp | HINGE SYSTEM FOR TRANSFORMABLE POLYEDERS. |
CN102172840A (en) * | 2011-03-07 | 2011-09-07 | 聊城华塑工业有限公司 | Concentric circle telescopic ring |
CN106151429A (en) * | 2015-04-15 | 2016-11-23 | 佛山市禾才科技服务有限公司 | A kind of mechanical deployable structure having radian |
EP3909658A1 (en) * | 2020-05-15 | 2021-11-17 | Fujimiyaseisakusho Co., Ltd. | Variable shape structure having bend members |
CN113669615A (en) * | 2020-05-15 | 2021-11-19 | 株式会社不二宫制作所 | Shape-variable structure provided with bending member |
US11884099B2 (en) | 2020-05-15 | 2024-01-30 | Fujimiyaseisakusho Co., Ltd. | Variable shape structure having bend members |
CN113669615B (en) * | 2020-05-15 | 2024-03-08 | 株式会社不二宫制作所 | Shape-changeable structure provided with bending member |
CN112555371A (en) * | 2020-11-11 | 2021-03-26 | 北京交通大学 | Single-degree-of-freedom double-mode infinite overturning mechanism |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE69019818D1 (en) | 1995-07-06 |
DE69019818T2 (en) | 1996-02-29 |
EP0455850B1 (en) | 1995-05-31 |
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