EP3455433A1

EP3455433A1 - Assembly of foldable tensegrity modules

Info

Publication number: EP3455433A1
Application number: EP17728779.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Frédéric JAMIN; Jérôme QUIRANT; Julien AVERSENG; Stéphan DEVIC
Original assignee: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique CNRS; Universite de Montpellier I; Universite de Montpellier; AxLR SATT du Languedoc Roussillon SAS
Current assignee: Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique CNRS; Universite de Montpellier I; Universite de Montpellier; AxLR SATT du Languedoc Roussillon SAS
Priority date: 2016-05-12
Filing date: 2017-05-12
Publication date: 2019-03-20
Anticipated expiration: 2037-05-12
Also published as: ES2787381T3; US20190234089A1; EP3455433B1; FR3051207A1; WO2017194775A1; FR3051207B1; CA3023781A1

Abstract

The invention concerns a method for assembling a set of foldable/unfoldable tensegrity modules, each comprising a plurality of bars (10), a plurality of nodes (40) allowing the articulation of the bars (10), the method being characterised in that it comprises: - juxtaposing the modules such that two adjacent modules comprise nodes positioned one over the other in a vertical plane; - linking said nodes of the two adjacent modules by means of a tension cable and support beam link; - positioning cover elements extending between successive modules.

Description

ASSEMBLY OF FOLDABLE TENSEGRITY MODULES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to the field of tensegrity structures.

It proposes in particular a mechanical assembly forming a support (platform for example) of the type with foldable tensegrity structure.

It finds particular advantage in the development of temporary structures for access to sites such as tourist sites or bathing places. STATE OF THE ART

Despite an awareness of public authorities to improve the adaptation of tourist sites to people with reduced mobility, we note that in some regions, the seacoast is still difficult to access for this type of user. Indeed, many tourist sites do not offer a structure allowing access to bathing independently.

Currently, access to the sea for a person with reduced mobility can be done through the use of a specific floating wheelchair that requires outside help.

For autonomous access, there are fixed structures

(www.unfauteuilalamer.com), but by definition they impact the installation site.

In some areas subject to environmental obligations, non-temporary facilities are not viable solutions. For example, some laws aiming at the protection of the coast impose demountable and transportable structures that do not include any durable anchoring elements on the ground, and that must allow a return of the site to the initial state at the end of the concession.

Temporary structures such as floating floating pontoons exist (www.belrive.fr/), but these remain unsuitable for maritime coasts for reasons of stability, because they require important anchoring. In addition, the load capacity is relatively low compared to the volume occupied in the disassembled state, limiting their versatility.

Removable modular solutions for making platforms from scaffolding components are also known. Systems Modular scaffolding makes it possible to realize any type of platform that can support heavy loads, on occasional support. The components must however be adapted to not represent a significant overweight. One-off supports can be numerous and must be adjusted individually. The assembly of a structure implements separate components requiring a large number of operations, such solutions are therefore constraining in installation time and manpower.

There is therefore a need for installation of lightweight, modular, versatile, low environmental impact, easily deployable, and intended for temporary uses.

WO2005 / 1143 describes a deployable structure that can be assembled with other similar structures to form a facility such as a platform. However, such installations, based on the assembly of identical elementary cells, do not offer flexibility in terms of assembly, thus, the cells can not be of different sizes. In addition, the installation of facilities requires a large number of cell assemblies.

Installations based on tensegrity structures are also known.

Tensegrity is the ability of a structure to stabilize by the play of the forces of tension and compression that are distributed and balanced. The structures established in tensegrity state are thus stabilized, not by the strength of each of their constituents, but by the distribution and the balance of the mechanical stresses in the totality of the structure.

Thus, a mechanical system comprising a discontinuous set of compressed components within a continuum of tense components may be in a stable equilibrium state. This means, for example, that by connecting bars by cables, without directly connecting the bars together, one can build a rigid system.

Therefore, a tensegrity structure is a cross-linked space system whose rigidity and stability come from the combination of compression in the bars and traction in the cables.

The publication FR 2823287 describes a tensegrity system in the form of a cross-linked structure with self-stressing of its various components, for producing light structures of the frame, panel or similar type of construction. However, this publication does not describe a concept of modularity, assembly of tensegrity structures to form including temporary platforms in inaccessible areas.

Such structures have the advantage of being particularly light and therefore easy to set up. They are particularly suitable for environments that we want to preserve.

The document "Deployable tensegrity systems: application to the accessibility of swimming at sea" (J.Averseng, F.Jamin, J.Quirant - University Meetings in Civil Engineering, May 2015 - https: //hal.archives- open.fr/hal- 01 167613 / document) discloses a tensegrity, foldable and unfoldable grid structure consisting of a set of bars and nodes connected to each other. The different nodes and bars of this structure are in one piece.

This structure has the advantage of being deployable on site and allow the realization of stable, lightweight and reusable platforms.

It is nevertheless complicated handling and implementation when one seeks to realize large platforms.

There is therefore a need for a mechanical assembly forming a support (platform for example) of the foldable tensegrity structure type which allows the realization of large structures and which is easy to assemble or disassemble.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

A general object of the invention is to provide a mechanical support assembly of the foldable tensegrity structure type which does not have the disadvantages of tensegrity sets of the prior art.

Another object of the invention is to provide a mechanical assembly with foldable tensegrity structure which is particularly suitable for producing large structures.

Yet another object is to provide a mechanical assembly with foldable tensegrity structure that is easy to assemble or disassemble and particularly inexpensive in labor and installation time. Another object of the invention is furthermore to provide a mechanical assembly forming a support of the foldable tensegrity structure type which is versatile, easy to assemble and disassemble and easy to transport.

Another aim is also to provide a structure which - while having excellent mechanical properties - does not require a durable anchoring element on the ground, is light and has a low environmental impact.

According to one aspect, the invention proposes a mechanical assembly with a tensegrity structure,

characterized in that

It comprises at least two foldable / unfoldable tensegrity structure modules each comprising a plurality of bars and a plurality of nodes on which the bars are hinged;

Nodes of the same module being, when said module is deployed, distributed in two parallel planes and connected in pairs by a voltage link element perpendicular to said planes, each module comprising at least one assembly edge node located in one of the two planes and without vis-à-vis in said module in the other plane, this node being adapted to be positioned at the right of an assembly edge node of another adjacent module and to be connected thereto by a connecting element in tension or in compression perpendicular to the planes of the nodes of these two modules, and in that nodes of the upper plane of the modules comprise fastening elements adapted for fixing,

on a plurality of assembly edge nodes positioned along the same assembly edge and belonging alternately to one and the other of the two adjacent modules,

decking elements, or support elements for supporting said decking elements.

According to another aspect, it also proposes a support structure which comprises a mechanical assembly of the aforementioned type, several modules of which are deployed and arranged so as to be adjacent, each of these modules comprising at least one assembly edge node which is positioned to the right of an assembly edge node of another adjacent module and which is connected thereto by a voltage link element perpendicular to the node planes of these two modules, said structure further comprising decking elements extending between successive modules.

Such mechanical assemblies and structures are particularly suitable for the realization of temporary structures, such as scenic space type, gateway.

The invention further provides a method of mounting such a support structure.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Other characteristics, objects and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended figures, given by way of non-limiting examples and in which:

Figure 1 schematically shows a foldable-unfoldable structural module of a mechanical assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figures 2A and 2B schematically show the arrangement of the nodes respectively in an upper and lower layer of a structural module.

Figure 3 illustrates the detail of a tensioning element

- Figure 4 illustrates the detail of a node of an upper sheet.

Figure 5 shows a structural module in the folded state.

Figure 6 illustrates a seat adjustment means at the node of a module.

Figure 7 illustrates a decking fastening means on a node through support beams.

Figure 8 illustrates a solution for the achievements of the decking formed of floorboards on support beams, a railing system and access by stairs.

Figure 9 schematically shows a module and its view from above. FIGS. 10a and 10b are representations respectively:

o on the one hand (FIG. 10a) nodes of the upper layer of an example of an elementary structural module with 4x4 meshes and an associated set of bars o on the other hand (FIG. 10b) of a mechanical assembly according to one embodiment of the invention, assembling different structural modules of the type of those illustrated in FIG. 10a, with a platform whose decking is formed of floor supported by two sides on beams fixed to the knots;

Figures 10c and 10d are representations illustrating other examples of structural modules and a mechanical assembly made by assembling these modules.

Figure 1 1 illustrates the assembly area between two modules.

FIG. 12 illustrates the assembly of two modules of different heights. FIG. 13 represents a platform made from the assembly of four structural modules.

Figures 14 and 15 are representations in perspective and exploded view of another solution for producing the decking.

FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate the representation of a mechanical assembly according to another embodiment of the invention (FIG. 17), assembling different structural modules (FIG. 16 - column A) with a platform whose decking is formed of plates supported by their corners directly on the nodes (Figure 16 - Column C) and a set of crutches (Figure 16 - Column B) on the edge.

FIG. 18 illustrates in perspective view an example of assembly of two modules of the type of that of FIGS. 14 to 17

Figure 19 illustrates modules in perspective view corresponding to different possible sizes.

Figures 20a and 20b illustrate the method of fixing the decking plates on the nodes.

Figure 21 illustrates a solution for the achievements of the decking formed of plates, a railing system and access by stairs. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AT LEAST ONE EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a foldable-unfoldable structural module. Each module is made up of so-called "tensegrity" structures, that is to say a reticular structure formed of a discontinuous network of compressed bars interacting inside a continuous network of tensioned cables, the whole being stabilized by a state of initial constraints. This principle is similar to inflatable systems, formed of a compressed medium (air or other fluid) in equilibrium with a tension envelope.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, such a structural module comprises a set of bars 10 corresponding to the compressed elements, tensioned cables 20 and tensioners 30 connecting a set of nodes 40.

More generally, the cables and / or the tensioners can be replaced by any element allowing a voltage connection: chains, straps, etc.

The module comprises the assembly of two parallel horizontal plies of nodes 40. Thus, it is represented respectively by FIGS. 2A and 2B, the arrangement of the nodes 40 in a lower ply 2 and in an upper ply 3. In each of the plies, the nodes 40 are connected by a network of ribbon cables 20a.

The topology of the module, representing the assembly of plies 2 and 3, is inspired by weaving: a network of compressed elements, formed of subsets of bars 10 alternately connecting nodes 40 from one ply to the other, like the warp and weft threads that form the fabrics.

The peripheral cables 20b and 20c located at the periphery of the module also allow the connection of the two plies 2 and 3 by connecting the nodes 40 at the periphery of the module, alternately from one ply to the other.

The peripheral cables 20b are called edge cables, they connect nodes 40 of the lower layer 2 to the node 40 of the upper layer 3, said nodes being positioned on one side of the module.

The peripheral cables 20c are called corner cables, they connect nodes 40 of the lower layer 2 to the node 40 of the upper layer 3, said nodes being positioned on two consecutive sides of the module. The edge cables 20b and the corner cables 20c may have a different inclination.

With respect to the plane of the layers, the cables 20a generally have a horizontal orientation, the peripheral cables 20b and 20c, a diagonal orientation, and the cables with turnbuckles 30 in a vertical orientation.

The bars 10 may be made of a metallic material such as aluminum, or a metal alloy. Other types of materials are possible, such as wood, plastic (PVC for example), composite (fiberglass, carbon, fiber concrete, ...). Nodes 40 are preferably of a high strength material such as steel. The cables 20 and the tensioners 30 are also preferably made of steel, they can also be made from fiber materials.

The compressed assemblies 10 are also assembled using the so-called "tensioning" elements 30, crossing between the nodes 40 of each sheet 2 and 3, and which make it possible to stiffen the structure of the module. The "inner" tensioners 31, shown in FIG. 1, make it possible to introduce localized initial stresses while the "edge" elements 32 have an impact on all the peripheral elements.

Thus, with reference to FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B, the nodes 40a of a ply situated at the periphery of the module are connected by the ply cables 20a to an adjacent node 40b of the same ply and by the peripheral cables 20b and 20c to two other nodes 40b of the other layer.

The other types of nodes 40b, the inner nodes of a web, have a node 40b of the other web facing each other in the same vertical plane, orthogonal to the webs. Thus, these nodes are connected to 4 other nodes 40 of the same web by web cables 20a, and by a tensioner 30 has a node 40b vis-à-vis the other web.

The tensioners 30 between two nodes 40, illustrated in detail in FIGS. 3 and 4, consist of a set of cables attached to each node, with a turnbuckle 33 connecting the cables 34 and 35 of the nodes 40 facing each other.

The cable and turnbuckle assembly 30 advantageously makes it possible to control the tension of the cables. Compared to another element which could be for example a threaded rod, the cables with turnbuckle 30 allow to release the tension while keeping the tensioning elements attached to the nodes 40, thus facilitating the deployment of the module. In addition, these elements also make it possible to obtain a lighter structure. A node 40 may also include a fastening element 41 for fastening the tensioners 30. This element is advantageously a ring-type attachment means disposed on a lower face of a node 40 of the upper sheet 2 and on one side upper node 40 of the lower ply 3.

The nodes 40 of the lower and upper layers may be identical.

In this configuration, the nodes 40 of the lower ply 3 are turned 180 ° with respect to the nodes 40 of the upper ply 4.

The release of the tension by the turnbuckles 31, also allows during a folding of the module to control the orientation of the nodes 40 for an optimized storage of the bars in the folded state.

The connections between the bars 10 (nodes 40) allow the folding-unfolding of a module from a bundle, illustrated in FIG. 5, in one piece, lightweight, compact and easily transportable, thus facilitating assembly phases. and dismantling with little labor. In addition, the structure makes it possible to minimize the adjustment phases by setting up turnbuckles 31.

The folding / unfolding function of the structural module is enabled by the configuration of the nodes 40, which comprise articulated fixing means 46 of the bars 10, illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.

These means are typically 1 or 2 in number and may be of the pivot connection type, or ball type. The nodes 40 can combine the two types of articulation.

The lightness and foldability facilitate handling. In addition, the nodes 40 allow optimal storage in compactness (contiguous parallel bars 10).

Modules of all dimensions (shapes and heights) in space can be generated within the limit of their portability according to for example the standard NF X35-109 relating to the carrying of loads by workers in France. As a result, the weight limit to be handled during work actions for one person is 30 kg maximum.

Thus a typical structural module, as shown in Figure 1, has 30 nodes, connected by a set of 24 bars.

The dimensions, such as the height or the mesh (spacing between the nodes 40 of the same web) can be adjusted at will according to the dimensions of the elements which are chosen accordingly. For example, the dimensions of a module can typically be 4mx4m, the height being adjustable from 0.5 to 1.50 m depending on the chosen inclination of the bars 10.

Two modules with the same mesh can be distinguished by their height. Thus, for a given mesh, the height of the modules is determined by varying the length of the cables with turnbuckles 30, the length and inclination of the peripheral cables 20b and 20c, and bars 10.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the nodes 40 comprise a plurality of lateral openings 42 allowing the passage of the cables 20 connecting the nodes 40 of the same horizontal sheet. Typically, these lateral openings 42 are 4 in number, two first openings 42 being located in the same plane as the bars 10 connected to the node 40. The two other openings 42 are arranged in a plane orthogonal to the plane of the bars 10.

In one embodiment, each cable 20 is fixed between two nodes 40. In another embodiment, the cables 20 are through nodes 40, and said nodes 40 comprise a system, such as sleeves, to transmit a part of effort of the cables 20 to the nodes 40.

By using cables 20, 34 and 35 as tensioned elements, the structure naturally offers a certain visual transparency, but also vis-à-vis the actions that affect the elements, for example the swell, in a context of semi-immersion along the coast. The cables 20, 34 and 35 are further elements that make the system very light, optimizing the use of the constituent materials, and therefore the mass, the necessary minimum vis-à-vis the rigidity and strength.

The structural module has the option of not resting on the ground directly via the nodes.

Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 6, some nodes 40 of the lower ply may comprise seat elements 43. A seat element 43, for example an adjustable foot fixed to the underside of a knot 40, allows the adjustment the height of the structural module. It can provide a stable structure despite a limited number of ground support points (which remains a function of the operating load to be taken), and typically a module has 4 ground supports. Because of its lightness and rigidity, the installation on the ground requires a small number of support points, which disturbs the environment very little. Difficult and sensitive sites can be made accessible by a platform. The occupation of the site can be only temporary, disassembly allowing a return to the initial state.

In addition, the height-adjustable seat elements 43 make it possible to easily adjust the flatness of the system.

Referring to Figure 7, the design of the nodes 40 allows the introduction of decking elements, so as to form a platform structure. For this, the node 40 also comprises, in one embodiment, projecting hooking elements 44 adapted for fixing support beams 50 as illustrated in FIG. 7.

This fixing is done by an element having a groove slidably engaging, such as a rail mechanism, on the upper part of a node 40 of the upper web.

The fastening element 44 is for example in a cylindrical shape with a collar at the top on the upper part of a node 40 allowing an element, such as a support beam 50 having a groove of complementary shape, typically a "T" groove slidably engaging said upper portion of the node 40. The support beam member 50 is positioned on at least two adjacent nodes 40, or even three or more.

The support beam element 50 also has on its upper face a portion having a "T" profile for the engagement of an element having a complementary groove.

To allow the attachment of a decking, one can for example use a junction bar 51 which is embedded in the support beam element 50. The connecting bar 51 allows on either side of it fix the laying of floorboards 52. The latter engage their widths between the support beam 50 and the connecting bar 51.

In another embodiment, the characteristics of the support beams

50 and junction bars 51 may be combined into a single beam positioned on at least two adjacent nodes 40, or even three or more, and comprising a specific profile allowing, inter alia, decking attachment. The attachment element 44 therefore proposes the installation of deck elements 52 over their width between two rows of adjacent nodes 40 each having a connecting bar 51.

FIG. 8 shows a structural module used for producing a platform formed of floorboards 52 carried by the support beams 50. In this configuration, the support beam 50 can also be used for the attachment of edge beams 53 arranged at the ends of the decking. It is possible to superimpose on the edge beams 53, other elements, such as the guardrail 54, staircase 55, access ramp (not shown), canopy (not shown), thus allowing the realization of versatile structures .

Figure 9 illustrates a module and its schematic view from above.

As shown, the bars 10 are arranged in parallel rows 1 1, and parallel rows 12, perpendicular to said rows 1 January. The peripheral nodes 40a (having a single link to a bar 10) disposed at the ends of the rows of bars 11, define two sides 13 of the module.

Likewise at each end of rows of bars 12, two sides 14 of the module are defined.

The sides 13, 14 are therefore defined by a set of peripheral nodes 40a connected by cables 20, arranged in the same vertical plane, orthogonal to the rows of bars January 1, 12 to which these nodes 40a are connected.

In the lower part of the figure, the peripheral nodes 40a have been represented by solid circles (black nodes), while the interior nodes (nodes 40b) have been represented by empty circles (white nodes).

For each side 13,14, we determine the number of nodes 40a in the upper position, therefore belonging to the upper layer, and the number of nodes 40a in the lower position, therefore belonging to the lower layer.

When the number of nodes 40a in the high position is the majority, the side is called "+", in the opposite case, the side is called "-".

The elementary structural module illustrated in FIG. 10a is a 4x4 mesh structure module with the upper part at the top:

two nodes at the ends "+";

a single node at the ends "-". There is shown on the right side of the same figure a network of support beams 50 used on these nodes.

These beams are all parallel to each other and extend in the direction Δ1 connecting one and the other of the two nodes of the ends "-". In the figure, the direction Δ2 is perpendicular.

The assembly of modules of identical structures, as shown in Figure 10b, is made by juxtaposing edge to edge, a side "+" of a module, with a side "-" of another module. This assembly makes it possible to match the modules in a complementary manner, thus obtaining an edge-to-edge assembly where the nodes 40a of the upper and lower plies of a module are placed facing the nodes 40a of the lower plies and of the other structural module.

In the case where structural modules of the type of those of FIG. 10a are used, the assembly is carried out under the following conditions:

- Condition C1: any border parallel to Δ1 corresponds to a type end "+" of its module and has 2 support nodes on its upper layer;

Condition C2: the link between two modules is done by alignment of 3 nodes: a node of one end "-" of one of the modules and two nodes of one end "+" of the other module; the establishment and fixing of a beam on the nodes thus aligned assures the assembly, as well as on the other nodes of the modules and the stiffening of the structure obtained;

Condition C3: a module whose ends "-" are parallel to Δ1, one of these ends at least constituting a border of the assembled structure, is conceivable since said module is framed by two other modules which allows to support said border. The nodes 40a of the different modules being identical (in principle) and under the condition that the modules have identical spatial geometry in the positioning of the nodes, the modules are connected together by means of the system with turnbuckle to connect the nodes 40a in vis-a-vis. On their assembly edges, at least one node 40a of the upper sheet of a first module is connected by the turnbuckle system with a node 40a of the lower sheet of a second module, the two nodes 40a being screwed together. -a-vis.

More generally, a module with a given mesh structure (spacing between the nodes 40 of a web) can assemble edge with edge with Another module having the same mesh structure, Thus, the two modules can be assembled along an edge having complementary nodes between the two modules (the nodes 40a of the upper and lower layers of a module being placed opposite each other). respectively screw nodes 40a of the lower and upper layers of the other structural module). In the case of Figures 10a and 10b "the assembled modules are all identical (in this case, modules 4x4 mesh). Different mesh modules can also be assembled between. This is illustrated in Figures 10c and 10d. The dimensions of the elementary structural modules can indeed be very varied in the limit of their weight, which must be compatible with portability.

The assembly of several edge-to-edge modules thus makes it possible, in a simplified and inexpensive manpower way, to create multiple architecture platforms (for example, FIGS. 10b and 10d).

In addition, modules of different heights can be combined to suit the morphology of the terrain. The structure of the module and the arrangement of the nodes 40 thus offer great flexibility as to the possibilities of realization (see for example FIGS. 10c and 10d).

The assembly between different modules can also be stabilized and reinforced by laying decking elements between the various structural modules.

Figure 1 1 shows the laying of deck member on the nodes 40a of two modules juxtaposed edge to edge.

Thus, a support beam 50, as described previously, is applied to the fastening elements 44 of the nodes 40a, preferably the support beam rests on at least 2 or even 3 nodes 40a.

The assembly side has in the same vertical plane an alternation of nodes 40a of the first and second modules, the support beam 50 thus rests at least on a node 40a of the upper layer of the first module and an adjacent node 40a of the first module. upper sheet of the second module, which has the advantage of stiffening the assembly.

Thus, the connection between different structural modules can be performed on the one hand thanks to the tensioners 30 between the complementary nodes 40a of the modules, and on the other hand, by the decking elements that strengthen and ensure stability of the assembly.

These connecting elements also make it possible to limit the number of supports on the ground of the assembled structure. FIG. 11 shows the possibility for the module M1 to rely on two ground points 43 which are specific to the module, and a third point by the junction with the adjacent module M2. The module M1 arriving at the junction with a single node 40a in the lower part is based on the adjacent module M2 by suspension using a turnbuckle. The module M2 which has two nodes 40a in the lower part at the junction can rest on the ground at four points 43, and supports the adjacent module M1 by its node 40a in the upper part. Said module M1 by the connection with turnbuckle 33 is therefore based on the module M2.

As a result, the assembly of two modules will be based on 6 ground supports, the assembly of three modules, 8 supports, etc. The number of ground supports of an assembled structure thus remains limited.

Figure 12 illustrates the assembly of modules M1 and M2 of different heights. The modules differ in the dimensions of the cables with turnbuckle 30, and in the dimensions and the inclination of the peripheral cables 20b, 20c and bars 10. The dimensions of the cables 20 are identical in the two modules. Thus, the assembly between the two modules is possible because they have the same mesh in the horizontal plane (spacing between the nodes 40 of a web). This identical mesh makes it possible to match on an assembly edge, the nodes 40a of the module M1 with the nodes 40a of the module M2.

Figure 13 illustrates the realization of a platform by assembling a plurality of modules M1 to M4. Said modules can be of different dimensions. Said platform comprises 10 ground supports by means of the seating elements 43.

Thus, the simple addition of elementary modules, which can be of any size in length, width and height, makes it possible to produce different spatial configurations.

The advantage of using modules is in the repetitiveness of the assembly by connection of nodes 40a complementary from one module to another. Unlike elementary cells whose monolithic structures are formed by adding in close proximity to structural elements, the system according to the invention produces a monolithic structure with a reduced number of assemblies of structurally independent modules, shapes and variable heights, and geometrically complementary.

The structure thus composed benefits from a certain advantage in terms of robustness since a local failure would remain limited to the module concerned.

Each module forms, in the folded state, a bundle of one piece, easily transportable and storable in a reduced volume and, in the deployed state, a rigid structure supporting a delimited deck and can receive many independent equipment (guard -body, stairs, ramps, etc.).

Depending on the dimensioning of the bars and cables, which can be justified by a simple calculation code, each module is limited to a mass of 40 kg and can take operating loads up to 500 kg / m ² , which is required, for example, in the case of removable stands.

Thus, the structure meets two often opposite constraints: lightness and mechanical performance.

The shape of the modules allows, by juxtaposition and connection, the constitution of a monolithic structure of paths of all lengths and various spatial configurations.

In the littoral zone, the supporting structure can be implanted in semi-immersion to constitute a platform of adapted height allowing the accessibility to bathing zones and the practice of nautical activities in all autonomy. The system being light, its impact on the environment of the implantation site is almost zero, it being restored to its original state after dismantling.

Figures 14 and 15 illustrate another possible solution for the realization of the decking, from the elementary module M foldable / unfoldable.

This structure consists of a tensegrity grid M of a set of crutches 101 and a set of decking plates 102 attached to the structure.

The tensegrity grid M is a conventional grid formed of bars 1 10 corresponding to the compressed elements, tensioning connecting elements (tensioning cables, etc.) 120 connecting a set of nodes 140 on which the bars 1 10 are hinged from foldable / unfoldable way.

The crutches 101 are of two types: crutches 101 have edge and crutches 101 b corner. The crutches 101 a are vertical crutches which extend between a node 103b of lower ribbon of the elementary module M and the corresponding upper ribbon node 140e of the same elementary module M, distinct from a corner node (Node 140c) of said structure.

The corner crutches 101b consist of two bars 104b and 105b which extend in V from the same corner node 103 in the lower layer.

This node 103 is vertically facing a node 140b immediately adjacent to a corner node 140c, these nodes being added to the upper layer to provide 4 support points to the decking plates in this area.

One of the bars (bar 104b) extends vertically between the node 103 and the node 140b.

The other bar (bar 105b) extends obliquely between the node 103 and the corner node 140c.

It thus ensures a recovery of vertical force with respect to the corner node 140c. Two cables 106a and 106b extend horizontally between the nodes 140b and 140c, and between 140b and 140d, ensuring the recovery of horizontal force with respect to the corner node 140c.

Different structural modules (support grids) are of course possible for plates of the plate type as shown in Figure 16. They must nevertheless be of a mesh equal to or greater than 3x3.

Column A) of Figure 16 provides several examples of modules, while Column B illustrates the addition of crutches and the addition of edge support nodes.

Column C illustrates the decking made using plates supported on the nodes by their four corners.

Figure 17 shows the edge-to-edge assembly on modules of minimum size (3x3), the upper nodes of each module complementing each other alternately. FIG. 18 illustrates an assembly made from two elementary modules M1 and M2 of the type of module M illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 16. In this assembly, the corner crutches of the two elementary modules

M1 and M2 are suppressed, only remaining in this plane crutches of edge 101 a. The corner crutches 101b are further maintained, at the corners of each of the two elementary modules M1 and M2, in the other planes of borders (perpendicular planes).

Figure 19 illustrates different types of mesh for the structural elemental module: 4x4 (M4x4), 3x3 (M3x3), 3x6 (M3x6) or variable mesh (Mv on a 3x6 structure).

In the structure just described, the support beams are not necessary. The decking elements - which are in this case plates - come directly on the nodes, which have fastening elements adapted for this purpose.

Figures 20a and 20b illustrate a method of fixing the decking plates on the nodes.

In this attachment mode - which is given here by way of example - the nodes 140 each comprise several pins (in this case four) to receive the corners of the plates 102. After placing the plates, a cover 106 is attached above the node 140 at the intersection of four plates, on the upper face thereof and is screwed on said node 140.

Such structures allow better connectivity at the level of the installation of the decking.

FIG. 21 represents a structural module used for the production of a platform formed of plates 102 carried by the nodes of upper layer. In this configuration, the edge and corner nodes can also be used for the attachment of other elements, such as railing type 54, stairs 55, access ramp (not shown), canopy (not shown), thus allowing the realization of polyvalent structures.

Claims

1. Mechanical assembly with tensegrity structure,

characterized in that

"It comprises at least two foldable / unfoldable tensegrity structure modules each comprising a plurality of bars (10) and a plurality of nodes (40) on which the bars (10) are hinged;

Nodes of the same module being, when said module is deployed, distributed in two parallel planes and connected in pairs by a voltage link element perpendicular to said planes, each module comprising at least one assembly edge node located in one of the two planes and without vis-à-vis in said module in the other plane, this node being adapted to be positioned at the right of an assembly edge node of another adjacent module and to be connected thereto by a connecting element in tension or in compression perpendicular to the planes of the nodes of these two modules, and in that nodes (40, 40a; 140) of the upper plane of the modules comprise fastening elements ( 44) adapted for attachment, on a plurality of assembly edge nodes positioned along the same assembly edge and alternately belonging to one and the other of the two adjacent modules,

decking members (102), or support members (50) for supporting said decking members.

2. An assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least one support beam for receiving a decking element, said beam being intended to be fixed on several successive nodes (40) belonging alternately to one and the other. other of the two adjacent modules, said nodes having projecting hooking elements (44) adapted for fixing said support beam (50).

3. The assembly of claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a set of crutches (101) intended to be set up under nodes of the upper plane of the modules.

Assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that a voltage connection (30) comprises a turnbuckle (33) connecting two cables (34,35) fixed by means of fixing rings (41) to nodes (40a). ) positioned at right one above the other.

Support structure characterized in that it comprises a mechanical assembly according to one of the preceding claims, several modules are deployed and arranged to be adjacent, each of these modules having at least one assembly edge node which is positioned at right of an assembly edge node of another adjacent module and which is connected thereto by a voltage link element perpendicular to the node planes of these two modules, said structure further comprising decking elements extending between successive modules.

Support structure according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises one or more support beams (50) slid on projecting hooking elements (44) carried by the nodes (40) of the modules.

Support structure according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises junction bars (51) of floorboards (52) fixed on the support beams (50).

Support structure according to the preceding claim, characterized in that a plurality of floor boards (52) is arranged between two parallel rows of successive nodes (40) and in that said floor boards (52) engage on each end lateral between a connecting bar (51) and a support beam (50) fixed on each of said parallel rows of successive nodes (40).

Support structure according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that it further comprises edge beams (53) fixed along at least one side of one or more module (s), on the elements knot hanging.

10. Support structure according to claim 5, characterized in that the decking elements are plates hung on the nodes of the modules.

1 1. Support structure according to claim 10, characterized in that it comprises a set of crutches intended to be placed under nodes of the upper plane of the modules.

12. Support structure according to claim 1 1, characterized in that it comprises edge crutches which extend vertically to the right of distinct nodes of the corner nodes of the module.

13. Support structure according to claim 1 1, characterized in that it comprises corner crutches, at least a portion of which extends between a corner node of the upper plane and a node of the lower plane vertically facing a node. immediately adjacent said corner node in said upper plane.

14. Support structure according to one of claims 5 to 13, characterized in that it further comprises guardrails (54) and / or ramps or access stairs (55) fixed on nodes (40).

15. A method of mounting a support structure according to one of claims 5 to 13, comprising the following steps:

- juxtaposition of foldable / unfoldable tensegrity modules each comprising a plurality of bars (10), a plurality of nodes (40) allowing the articulation of the bars (10), so that two adjacent modules comprise nodes (40a) of end positioned one above the other in a vertical plane;

setting up a voltage or compression link element between said end nodes (40a) of the two adjacent modules;

placing on the modules of decking elements or support elements for supporting said decking elements.