ES2555635B2 - Connection node for deployable structures - Google Patents

Abstract

Connection node for a deployable structure configured to agglutinate two or more bars (12) and receive a plurality of cables (18, 19), comprising: # - A central core (11) formed by at least one axial symmetry module, where each axial symmetry module comprises: a core (111) and two lateral wings (112); # - As many mechanical fasteners (13) as bars (12); # - So many female fasteners (14) as mechanical fasteners (13); # - A central mechanical joint (15) configured to attach a cylindrical connector (16) to the central core (11); # - A cylindrical connector (16) configured to prevent the central mechanical joint (15, 35) from leaving its housing and to guide and / or muzzle several radial cables (18); # - A mechanical stop (17) configured to prevent the radial cables (18) from leaving the cylindrical connector (16) and to muzzle them.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Connection node for deployable structures.

Field of the invention 5

The present invention belongs to the field of construction and light and / or folding structures, and more specifically to the field of connection nodes for deployable structures, and in particular connection nodes for three-dimensional Tensegrity deployable structures. 10

Background of the invention

In the field of construction, articulated or lattice structures are reticular structures of straight bars interconnected in nodes forming flat triangles (in 15 flat lattices) or three-dimensional pyramids (in spatial lattices), so that in each node several can converge bars.

Within the latter, are the spatial structures, composed of linear elements joined in such a way that the forces are transferred in a three-dimensional way. They can take any type of both flat and curved. Its elements are prefabricated and do not require for the assembly of joining means other than purely mechanical ones (that is, it is not necessary to weld them on site, for example).

Classified within the spatial structures are those of Tensegrity, which employ isolated compressed components that are within a continuous traction network, so that the compression members (usually bars) do not touch each other and are joined only by means of tensioned elements (usually cables) which are those that spatially delimit said system, which is in equilibrium and is stable by itself. 30

Any of these types of construction (two-dimensional or three-dimensional) may be capable of encompassing deployable variants. The deployable structures allow the system to move from an extended configuration (in service) to a compact configuration through a folding process. This folded state is most appropriate for storage or transport to other locations where they can be deployed and put back into service. In all these cases, the bars that make up the structure are joined by knots, which are extremely important, since they are the ones that ensure the stability of the joints and the functionality of the system. There are great diversity of nodes (spherical, cylindrical, prismatic, flat, etc.) but few of them allow the folding and unfolding of the structure.

More particular are the nodes of the Tensegrity structures, because in addition to joining bars they have to anchor the prestressed cables that make up and stabilize the system. In any case, it is important to note that these cables are essential 45 in the Tensegrity structures, but not they are exclusive of them; that is, there are other types of structures that also use them.

In general, a Tensegrity mesh can be classified by its class (k), where k is the number of compression elements (bars) that converge in a knot. A large part 50 of the existing knots are currently designed only for Tensegrity structures of class 1 (k = 1), that is, those in which each node reaches a maximum of one bar. However, these nodes are not valid for class structures.

2 or higher (k ≥ 2), in which there are at least 2 bars that meet at each node. Examples of these class 1 nodes are detailed in the following documents:

[1]: Folding Tensegrity Systems -Six Strut Modules and Their Assemblies by Bouderbala, Motro. pg. 33. Motro, R. (2003). Tensegrity: Structural systems for the future. London 5 (UK): Kogan Page Science.

[2]: Hanaor, A. (1993). Double-layer tensegrity grids as deployable structures. International Journal of Space Structures, 8 (1-2), 135-143., Pg. 139, 140.

 10

[3]: Path Planning For the Deployment of Tensegrity Structures by Pinaud, Masic, Skelton, SPIE's 10th Annual International Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, San Diego, CA, March 2003, pg. eleven.

[4]: "Tensegrity unit, structure and method for construction". Liapi, K. A. Issue of 15 publication US 20030009974 A1. Application date: 05/29/2002.

[5]: "Connection node for connecting tension elements and pressure elements of bigger supporting structures, has base portion which has connecting section for connecting connection node with pressure element". Christian Kögel, Andreas Rupp. Issue 20 publication DE 102012003371 A1. Priority Date 02/22/2012.

[6]: "Connection and front team node for tensegrity structures, has hollow cylindrical terminal element, which is open at end and is provided with detour ring ''. Universitat Kassel. Publication number DE 102010005461 A1. Priority date 21101/2010 .25

[7]: "Disconnectable node joint for integrally tensioned (Tensigry) structure systems. Miodrag Nestorovic. YU37398 A. 10/24/2006.

However, knots with more than one bar are also known in the prior art. Examples of these class nodes k> 1 are detailed in the following documents:

[8]: "Strut assembly node for reticular space frame structure". Fest, Etienne. Publication number EP1443153 A1. Deposit date 01/29/2003. 35

[9]: A Self-Stress Maintening Folding Tensegrity System by Finite Mechanism Activation by Smaili, Motro, pg. 92. Motro, R. (2003). Tensegrity: Structural systems for the future. London (UK): Kogan Page Science.

 40

[10]: Project of the University of Montpellier shown in Motro, R. (2003). Tensegrity: Structural systems for the future. London (UK): Kogan Page Science. pg 79, 80.

[11]: Nimes Project shown in Motro, R. (2003). Tensegrity: Structural systems for the future. London (UK): Kogan Page Science. pg 199. 45

[12]: Pedretti & Plfug project shown in Motro, R. (2003). Tensegrity: Structural systems for the future. London (UK): Kogan Page Science. Pg 211.

[13]: An Active Deployable Tensegrity Structure (PhD). Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale De Lausanne, Laussanne (Switzerland). RHODE-BARBARIGOS, L.-G.-A. (2012). Pg 97-98. fifty

[14]: Deployment of a Class 2 Tensegrity Boom by Pinaud, Solari, Skelton, SPIE's 11th Annual International Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, San Diego, CA, March 2004, fig. 5.

[15]: Structural Design of a Foldable Tensegrity Footbridge by Averseng, Quirant, Dube, Joumal ofSEWC 5.

[16]: "Joint for folding tensegrity structure" BANDO TAKAAK.I; NAKAl MASATAKE; 5 HAYASHI SHUICH. JP2004298520 (A). 10/28/2004.

In these situations with more than one bar coming together at each node ([8], [9], [10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16]), if you want to get the structure to fold and unfold easily, it is necessary to design the knots in such a way that they allow a relative rotation of said bars with respect to the knot. However, this is only possible in one of the examples found ([8], [9], [13], [14], [15], [16]).

On the other hand, an additional disadvantage of all these nodes ([8], [9], [10], [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [16]), is that the directions of the cables that converge on them 15 are not very versatile and are quite conditioned. In addition, among all these nodes, some of them are very limited because they can fix few cables (cases [8], [9], [14], [16]). Another important limitation of the node described in [8] is that it needs a minimum of 3 bars to be stable.

 twenty

In addition, practically none of the nodes with more than one bar converging on it described in the prior art, allows the cables to slide through it, so that the cable is guided but not gagged and thus allows it to run or flow inside the fastener. The only case that contemplates this possibility is the node [13], but it only allows one of the cables to be sliding, in one direction, and not the rest of the cables that reach the node in the plane perpendicular to it. However, this knot [13] stands out for its great complexity, high weight, manufacturing difficulty and excessive price. In addition, almost none of the nodes found in the literature (except for the nodes [8] and [16], which suffer from other important deficiencies already described) provides a solution that allows the folding of their bars when they are an odd number of 30 them (k = 3, 5, 7, etc.)

In short, in the state of the art there is no node that binds two or more bars that can rotate and fold in volume, which allows receiving a high number of cables from different directions and angles, which allows said cables 35 to flow or slide through the knot to facilitate the folding of the structure and make it light, manageable, economical and easy to manufacture and assemble.

Summary of the Invention

 40

The present invention tries to solve the aforementioned drawbacks by means of a connection node for deployable structures, light, manageable, economical and simple to manufacture and assemble, which allows two or more bars that can be rotated and folded in volume to be bonded thereto; receive a high number of cables from different directions and angles; and that said cables can flow or slide knot to facilitate the folding of the structure.

Specifically, in a first aspect of the present invention, a connection node is provided for a deployable structure configured to bind two or more bars that can be rotated and folded thereon; receive a plurality of cables from 50 different directions and angles; and that said cables can slide through said knot to facilitate the folding of the structure, comprising:

- A central core formed by at least one axial symmetry module, where each at least one axial symmetry module comprises: a core with a perforation configured to accommodate a central mechanical joint; and two lateral wings with mechanical fixation perforations and cable perforations configured to house mechanical fasteners and wing cables respectively, and where the sides of the core and the two lateral wings are attached;

- So many mechanical fasteners such as bars bind the connection node, said mechanical fasteners being configured to join the rods to the central core such that in each at least one axial symmetry module, each mechanical fastener passes through a first mechanical fastening hole of a wing lateral, the perforation of a bar and a second mechanical fixing perforation of the other lateral wing;

- As many female fixings as mechanical fixings, configured to prevent said mechanical fixations from leaving their housing; fifteen

- A central mechanical joint that crosses the perforation of the at least one core core core, configured to connect a cylindrical connector to the core core;

- A cylindrical connector configured to prevent the central mechanical union from leaving its housing and to guide and / or muzzle several radial cables at the same time, and whose longitudinal axis coincides with the longitudinal axis of the central mechanical union;

- A mechanical stop that is fixed to the end of the cylindrical connector that is not in contact with said surface of the at least one core, and that is configured to prevent the radial cables from leaving said cylindrical connector and to, additionally, gag these cables and prevent their sliding along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical connector;

In one possible embodiment, in each at least one axial symmetry module, the two lateral wings 30 are substantially flat, substantially perpendicular to the soul, which in turn is substantially flat, and substantially parallel to each other, such that each of them is It is attached to the opposite side of the soul. In addition, in a possible embodiment, in each at least one axial symmetry module, the three perforations pierced by each mechanical fixation M first mechanical fixation perforation of a side wing, bar perforation and second mechanical fixation perforation of the other wing lateral - they are aligned on the same axis, this being parallel to the soul, and each mechanical fixation is located with its two ends outside the space formed between the two lateral wings.

 40

In a possible embodiment, the connection node comprises a single axial symmetry module, where the sides of the core and the two lateral wings that are joined have the same length, and where the core has a hole in its center configured to accommodate the central mechanical union.

 Four. Five

Alternatively, the connection node comprises at least two axial symmetry modules, where in each axial symmetry module the sides of the core and the two lateral wings that are joined have different lengths, said length being greater in the case of the sides of the soul, and where said at least two axial symmetry modules are located in a central axis, said axis being perpendicular to the at least two souls, such that in each axial symmetry module, the section belonging to the soul formed by that surface whose sides are not attached to the side wings, has a perforation configured to house the central mechanical joint, such that said sections and their corresponding perforations are superimposed,

thus joining the at least two axial symmetry modules that make up the central core. Preferably, said at least two axial symmetry modules are the same, thus allowing to standardize their design, manufacture and assembly.

Alternatively, the connection node comprises at least two axial symmetry modules 5 that form a single piece, where the part comprising the at least two axial symmetry modules has a perforation in its center, such that said center is equivalent to the intersection of the at least two souls, said perforation being configured to house the central mechanical joint.

 10

In one possible embodiment, the mechanical fasteners and the central mechanical joint are cylindrical.

In a possible embodiment, the mechanical fasteners are screws with eyes configured to allow the anchoring of various cables or their sliding through the ring that forms the head of the screw.

In one possible embodiment, the female fasteners are internally threaded eyebolts configured to allow the anchoring of various cables or their sliding through the eyelet that forms the head of the eyebolt. twenty

In a possible embodiment, the central mechanical joint is a screw with an eye, such that the ring that forms the head of the roll is located at the opposite end where the cylindrical connector is located, and such that said screw is configured to allow the anchoring of various axial cables or their sliding through said ring. 25

In a possible embodiment, the cylindrical connector is threaded, and has vertical grooves to allow free passage of the radial cables.

In a possible embodiment, the material of the elements comprises the connection node 30 is steel.

In a possible embodiment, the drop-down structure in which the connection node is installed is spatial and Tensegrity.

 35

In a possible embodiment, once the connection node is installed and operative in a certain deployable structure, each core comprised in the at least one axial symmetry module that forms the central core is positioned substantially horizontally.

Brief description of figures 40

In order to help a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, in accordance with a preferred example of practical realization thereof, and to complement this description, a set of drawings is attached as an integral part thereof, whose character is Illustrative and not limiting. In these drawings: 45

Figure 1 shows a scheme of a deployed class 2 node, according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 shows a diagram of the sectional view of a deployed class 2 50 node, according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 3 shows a scheme of a deployed class 2 knot, according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 4 shows a schematic of a folded class 2 knot, according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 5 shows a scheme of a deployed class 3 knot, according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein one of the bars is not illustrated to visualize well the geometry of the knot.

Figure 6 shows a diagram of a folded class 3 knot, according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein one of the bars is not illustrated to visualize well the geometry of the knot.

Figure 7 shows a scheme of a deployed class 4 knot, according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein one of the bars is not illustrated to visualize well the geometry of the knot. fifteen

Figure 8 shows a diagram of a folded class 4 knot, according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein one of the bars is not illustrated to visualize well the geometry of the knot.

 twenty

Figure 9 shows an example of a concrete embodiment of an axial symmetry module.

Figure 10 shows a schematic of a central core formed by two axial symmetry modules.

 25

Figure 11 shows a schematic of a central core formed by three axial symmetry modules.

Figure 12 shows a schematic of a central core formed by four axial symmetry modules. 30

Figure 13 shows a schematic of a deployed tensegritic double layer mesh.

Figure 14 shows a diagram of a folded tensegritic double layer mesh.

 35

Detailed description of the invention

In this text, the term "comprises" and its variants should not be understood in an exclusive sense, that is, these terms are not intended to exclude other technical characteristics, additives, components or steps.

In addition, the terms "approximately", "substantially", "around", "" ones ", etc. they should be understood as indicating values close to which these terms accompany, since due to calculation or measurement errors, it is impossible to achieve those values with total accuracy.

In addition, continuous cables are understood to be those cables that are not anchored to the node of the invention, but that slide between the grooves and / or perforations of said node. fifty

In addition, discontinuous cables or non-continuous cables are understood as those cables that are anchored to the node of the invention by, for example, a carabiner or a shackle.

The characteristics of the node of the invention, as well as the advantages derived therefrom, can be better understood with the following description, made with reference to the drawings listed above.

 5

The following preferred embodiments are provided by way of illustration, and are not intended to be limiting of the present invention. In addition, the present invention covers all possible combinations of particular and preferred embodiments indicated herein. For those skilled in the art, other objects, advantages and characteristics of the invention will be derived partly from the description and partly from the practice of the invention.

The connection node for deployable structures of the invention is described below, which is light, manageable, economical and simple to manufacture and assemble, and allows two or more bars that can rotate and fold around it to be bonded; receiving a plurality of cables from different directions and angles; and that said cables can slide through said knot to facilitate the folding of the structure.

Preferably, the deployable structures are spatial and Tensegrity, although not limited. twenty

Figure 1 shows a diagram of a basic embodiment of the node of the invention, and in Figure 2 a sectional view thereof can be seen. The present invention resolves the functional deficiencies found in the literature on knots of deployable structures and especially Tensegrity structures. 25

The node of the invention is composed of the following elements:

- A central core 11 formed by at least one axial symmetry module, such that each at least one axial symmetry module comprises a core 111 and two lateral wings 112. 30

Preferably, each at least one axial symmetry module has a U-shaped section, such that the two lateral wings 112 are substantially flat, substantially perpendicular to the core 111, which in turn is substantially flat, and substantially parallel to each other, such that each of them is attached to an opposite side 35 of the soul 111 by, for example, welded, folded, tongue and groove, extruded or screwed.

In addition, once the node of the invention is installed and operative in a particular deployable structure, each core 111 comprised in the at least one axial symmetry module that forms the central core 11, is preferably positioned substantially horizontally.

In another possible embodiment, the central core has a horseshoe-shaped section, so that the soul is curved. Another possible embodiment has a trough beam-shaped section, where the lateral wings are not completely parallel and at their free end they carry a short flap substantially parallel to the soul.

The two side wings 112 of each at least one axial symmetry module have mechanical fixing holes 214 and cable holes 215, configured to accommodate mechanical fasteners 13 and wing cables 19 respectively.

Each mechanical fixation 13 is placed through two mechanical fixation perforations 214 of the lateral wings 112, such that each mechanical fixation perforation 214 is

it is located on a side wing 112 different from the same axial symmetry module and such that preferably said two mechanical fixing perforations 214 are aligned on the same axis, this being parallel to the core 111. Thus, preferably each mechanical fixing part 13 , once installed, it is placed parallel to the soul 111 and with its two ends outside the space formed between the two lateral wings 112.

In addition, preferably each wing cable 19 passes through at least one cable hole 215, and more preferably two cable holes 215 of the side wings 112, such that each cable hole 215 is located on a different side wing 112 10 of the same module of axial symmetry. In this case, unlike mechanical fasteners 13, it is not necessary for said two cable perforations 215 to be aligned on a given axis, whereby the wing cable 19, when passing through the interior of the central core 11, can do so. at a certain angle with respect to the mechanical fixing parts 13. One skilled in the art will understand that the location of these 15 cable perforations 215 has to be such that the wing cable 19 that crosses said cable perforations 215 does not obstruct in any moment the rotation that, once installed, the bars 12 make in the space between the two lateral wings

112. In another possible embodiment, each wing cable 19 does not pass through said cable perforations 215 and is not continuous, but carries a fixation, such as a carabiner, a shackle or a ring, which allows anchoring to said perforations of 215 wire.

Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 show a node comprising a single axial symmetry module, which in turn comprises said axial symmetry module, the core 111 and the two lateral wings 25 112. In this case, it is possible Two bars 12 converge in the node. Preferably, when the node comprises a single axial symmetry module, the sides of the core 111 and the two lateral wings 112 that are joined together have the same length. In addition, the core 111 has a perforation 913, preferably in its center or in a place close to it, configured to house a central mechanical joint 30 15, which will be detailed below.

In the event that the number of axial symmetry modules is greater than one, the at least two axial symmetry modules may be a single piece, resulting from manufacturing, or be different parts that are joined by a clamping element. 35

In a possible embodiment, as shown in Figures 5-8, the at least two axial symmetry modules are a single piece, therefore the central core 11 is not modular. In this case, the part that forms the at least two axial symmetry modules, has a perforation 913, preferably in the center of said piece or in a place close to it, configured to house a central mechanical joint 15, which will be detailed later. One skilled in the art will understand that the center of the piece that makes up the at least two modules of axial symmetry is equivalent to the intersection of the at least two souls 112, comprised in the at least two modules and that form a single piece. Figures 5 and 6 show a node formed by three modules of axial symmetry that are a single piece, each comprising the core 111, and two lateral wings 112, three bars 12 being able to converge on said node. Figures 7 and 8 show a node formed by four axial symmetry modules that are a single piece, each comprising the core 111 and two lateral wings 112, being possible that four rods 12.

In another possible embodiment, as shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12, the central core 11 is formed by as many axial symmetry modules as the number of bars converge at each node (value k, in the case of Tensegrity structures), except that

two bars meet at the node, and in this case a single axial symmetry module may be necessary. In this way, it is not necessary to design or manufacture different central cores for each type of node, but can be obtained by joining axial symmetry modules. Figures 10, 11 and 12 show a node formed by two, three and four axial symmetry modules, respectively, each comprising the core 111 and two lateral wings 112, being possible to converge in said node two, three and four bars respectively. In this case, each of the axial symmetry modules is placed on a central axis; said axis being perpendicular to each core 111 comprised in the at least two modules of axial symmetry, and therefore perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the mechanical fasteners. 10

Preferably, in this case and as seen in Figure 9, the sides of the core 111 and the sides of the two lateral wings 112 that are joined in each axial symmetry module have different lengths, said length being greater in the case of the sides of the core 111, thus allowing the union of the at least two modules 15 of axial symmetry at its center; the relative rotation of some axial symmetry modules with respect to others, without interference or collisions; and angles and orientations arbitrarily. To do this, in each axial symmetry module, the section belonging to the core 111 formed by that surface whose sides are not attached to the lateral wings 112, has a perforation 913 configured to accommodate a central mechanical joint 20 which will be detailed below, of such that said sections and their corresponding perforations 913 are superimposed, thus joining the at least two axial symmetry modules that make up the central core 11.

In addition, preferably, in the case that the node comprises at least two axial symmetry modules 25 and that these do not form a single piece, said at least two axial symmetry modules are equal, thus allowing to standardize their design, manufacture and mounting.

- As many mechanical fasteners 13 as bars 12 bind the connection node, said mechanical fasteners 13 being configured to join the rods 12 to the central core 11. That is, in each at least one axial symmetry module, each mechanical fastener 13 passes through a first mechanical fixing perforation 214 of a lateral wing 112, the perforation of a bar 12 and a second mechanical fixing perforation 214 of the other lateral wing 112, such that preferably said three perforations (the two mechanical fixing perforations 214 of the wings lateral and the perforation of the bar) are aligned on the same axis, this being parallel to the core 111. That is, each mechanical fixation 13 crosses a single bar 12.

Preferably said mechanical fasteners 13 are cylindrical, thus allowing rotation of the bar 12 they pass through, and furthermore, they are preferably eye screws. In another possible embodiment, mechanical fixation showers 13 are bolts. One skilled in the art will understand that in the case that the mechanical fasteners 13 are screws with eyes, in the ring that forms the head of said fixation, cables with different orientations can be joined. In a possible embodiment, these cables are continuous and pass through said ring. In another possible embodiment, the cables are not continuous but carry a fixation, such as a carabiner or a shackle, which allows their anchoring to the ring.

Each mechanical fixation 13 has a section of thickness less than the perforation of the bar 12 that crosses them. This clearance allows the rotation between the mechanical fixation 13 and the bar 12.

- So many female fixings 14 as mechanical fixings 13, configured to prevent said mechanical fixations 13 from leaving their housing. In one possible embodiment, as shown in Figures 3 and 5-8, the female fastener is a fastener without a ring (generally nuts that are threaded to the bolts or screws with eyes). In another possible embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 4, each female fastener is a female eyebolt with an internal thread, such that in the ring the connection of various cables with different orientations is allowed. In this case, in a first embodiment, the cables pass through said eyebolt. In a second embodiment, the cables are not continuous but carry a fixation, such as a carabiner or a shackle, which allows their anchoring to the eyebolt. 10

- A central mechanical joint 15, preferably cylindrical, that crosses the perforation 913 of the at least one core core core 11 (or of the piece, in the event that the node comprises at least two axial symmetry modules forming a single piece ), and which is configured to attach a cylindrical connector 16 to the central core 11. In a possible embodiment the central mechanical joint 15 is a screw with an eye, such that the ring that forms the head of the roll is located at the end opposite where the cylindrical connector 16 is located, and such that said screw allows to receive in its ring various axial cables (continuous if they cross the ring or discontinuous if they are anchored to it), so that the knot is more versatile. twenty

- A cylindrical connector 16, preferably threaded, whose longitudinal axis coincides with the longitudinal axis of the central mechanical joint 15, and where said cylindrical connector 16 is fixed to that end of the central mechanical joint 15 that allows contact between the cylindrical connector 16 and the surface of the at least one core (or the surface of the piece, 25 in the event that the knot comprises at least two axial symmetry modules forming a single piece) further away from the mechanical fasteners 13.

Preferably, once the node of the invention is installed and operative in a certain deployable structure, the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical connector 16, 30 is positioned substantially vertically, and therefore perpendicular to the at least one core 111.

The objective of this cylindrical connector 16 is twofold: on the one hand it prevents the central mechanical joint 15 from leaving its housing; and on the other hand said connector 16 guides 35 and / or gag to several radial cables 18 at the same time. Furthermore, and to achieve this last objective, preferably the cylindrical connector 16 is grooved; that is, it has vertical grooves to allow free passage of the radial cables 18.

- A mechanical stop 17 is fixed to the end of the cylindrical connector 16 which is not in contact with the core, and which is configured to prevent the radial cables 18 from slipping out of the grooves and to additionally muzzle said cables 18 and prevent its sliding along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical connector 16. This last application is appropriate to ensure that the relative distances of the radial cables 18 remain fixed (gagging them), or to allow them to be variable (without gagging, only guiding and letting the cables slide through the grooves of the cylindrical connector 16).

Preferably the material of each element included in the node of the invention (central core, mechanical fasteners, female fasteners, central mechanical joint, cylindrical connector and mechanical stop) is steel, although one skilled in the art will understand that the material can be any that meets a series of requirements such as: resistance, toughness, hardness and durability.

The characteristics and relative positions of the cables, radial 18, wing 19 and axial, and the bars 12 that make up the folding structure are described below. In any case, one skilled in the art will understand that said cables 18, 19 and bars 12 are outside the scope of the node of the present invention.

 5

- The radial cables 18 are responsible for transmitting the tensile loads of the structure in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical connector 16, being guided or gagged by said cylindrical connector 16 and by the mechanical stop 17 and, therefore, , being fixed to the central core 11 in all its senses. Thanks to the node of the invention it is possible that in the construction phase of the deployable structure, the radial cables 18 can slide between the (continuous) grooves thus simplifying the construction; but once the knot is put into service, they remain fixed (discontinuous).

These radial cables 18, which can form various angles to each other, and which are in planes substantially perpendicular to the axis of the cylindrical connector 16, pass through the longitudinal grooves made therein. In the case of having more than one radial cable 18, the various cables 18 are stacked in contact with each other in consecutive planes.

 twenty

- the wing cables 19 are responsible for transmitting the tensile loads of the structure in a diagonal or parallel direction with respect to the lateral wings 112 that make up the knot, each of which is housed in at least one cable perforation 215 of a lateral wing 112, or in a fixation anchored to said lateral wing 112, as explained above. 25

Preferably, the wing cables 19 are continuous, that is, they are not anchored to the node of the invention. One of the disadvantages existing in some nodes described in the state of the art, and which is solved by this new proposal, is precisely the discontinuity in this type of cables. In deployable structures, and especially in deployable tensegritics, it is sometimes necessary that these cables are not completely fixed to each and every node; sometimes it is convenient that these cables can slide inside the node to be able to modify the relative distances between consecutive nodes; Of course, without the cable coming out of them and staying skewered, in order not to have to disassemble and reassemble the connection again. 35 Thanks to the continuity of the wing cables 19, it is possible to fold and unfold the structure.

- the axial cables (not shown in the figures), in the preferred embodiment of being able to join the node of the invention, are responsible for transmitting the tensile loads of the structure diagonally or parallel with respect to the lateral wings 112 which make up the knot, each of them being housed in the ring of the central mechanical joint, or in a fixation anchored to said ring.

In addition, and as mentioned above, the node of the invention allows the possibility of accommodating other cables both in mechanical fasteners 13 and in female fasteners 14.

In the preferred embodiment described, and with this new node, the radial cables 18 pass through a cylindrical connector 16 which allows its passage through the vertical grooves 50. If it is desired that the radial cables 18 slide through the knot, the mechanical stop 17 can be kept threaded to the cylindrical connector 16 but with sufficient clearance not to tighten the radial cables 18. If it is desired to fix the longitudinal position of the radial cables 18 , the mechanical stop 17 can be tightened inside the connector

cylindrical 16 until it gags at said cables 18 that pass through the grooves thereof.

The wing cables 19 can also pass freely through the node, easily transmitting the necessary forces but at the same time allowing, by means of their sliding, that said wing cables 19 adjust to the most appropriate position within the structure.

The axial cables can also pass freely through the ring of the central mechanical joint 15 of the knot, easily transmitting the necessary forces but 10 allowing at the same time, by sliding, that said axial cables adjust to the most appropriate position within the structure.

- the bars 12 are responsible for transmitting the compression forces to the node, the rigid linear elements that make up the structure. Each bar 12 is perforated at one of its ends, such that the perforation of a bar 12 and the mechanical fixing perforations 214 of the two lateral wings 112 are located on the same axis, this being parallel to the soul 111. in this way, as mentioned above, the perforation of each bar 12 and the mechanical fixing perforations 214 of the two lateral wings 112 that are located on the same axis, are traversed by a mechanical fixation 13.

The perforated end of a bar 12 is located, for each axial symmetry module, within the space that is formed between the two lateral wings 112 comprised in said axial symmetry module, such that by rotating the mechanical fasteners 25 13 do not interfere with each other, or with the core 111 of said axial symmetry module, or with the wing wires 19 that cross the central core 11.

One of the main functions offered by the node of the invention is foldability. The arrangement and way of joining the bars 12 to the central core 11 by means of a mechanical fixing 30, allows each at least one fixing 13 and its associated bar 12, to rotate freely with respect to the plane of the core core core 11 of the node , without restrictions or contacts between the different pieces. As shown in the images, thanks to the node of the invention, it is possible to achieve the transformation from figure 5 (unfolded) to figure 6 (folded) or from figure 7 (unfolded) to figure 8 35 (folded ).

As can be seen in the figures, the proposed solution is versatile for nodes of different kinds: for the union of 2 bars (figure 3 and figure 4), 3 bars (figure 5 and figure 6), 4 bars (figure 7 and figure 8), and so on indefinitely. 40

Finally, another great advantage of this solution is simplicity, lightness and economy. It is a design that takes advantage of elements or parts of commercial elements that, conveniently modified, allow its assembly for optimal operation. The use of commercialized components, duly transformed, favors the ease of construction and immediacy of obtaining it without having to manufacture everything from the beginning. Consequently, the final cost, both in terms of terms and monetary terms, is reduced and much lower than other more complex and sophisticated nodes. For the same reason, assembly of the assembly is simple and immediate. In addition, being a knot with a central core 11 eminently hollow, to which are added small pieces 50 marketed, it stands out for its lightness and lightness.

Example

A concrete example of embodiment of the invention and the results obtained are shown below. The node of the invention is composed of the following elements:

- A central core formed by an axial symmetry module comprising a core and two two lateral wings, so that in this example of concrete embodiment it is possible that two bars converge in the node. Said axial symmetry module has a U-shaped section, such that the two lateral wings are flat, perpendicular to the soul (which in turn is flat) and parallel to each other, such that each of them joins an opposite side of the soul by soldier. The sides of the soul and the two lateral wings 10 that are joined, have the same length.

The two lateral wings of the axial symmetry module have perforations configured to accommodate mechanical fasteners and wing cables. In addition, the soul has a hole in its center, configured to house the central mechanical joint. fifteen

- Two mechanical fasteners (the same as bars bind the knot of the invention), said two mechanical fasteners being configured to join the rods to the central core. That is, each mechanical fixation crosses a first perforation of a lateral wing, the perforation of a bar and a second perforation of the other lateral wing, such that said three perforations are aligned on the same axis, this being perpendicular to said two wings lateral. Therefore, each mechanical fixation crosses a single bar and once installed, is placed parallel to the soul and with its two ends outside the space formed between the two lateral wings.

 25

Said mechanical fixings are cylindrical, thus allowing the rotation of the bar they pass through, and in particular they are screws with eyes, so that in the ring that forms the head of said fixation, various cables can be joined with different orientations.

Each mechanical fixation has a section of thickness less than the perforation of the bar that crosses them. This clearance allows the rotation between the mechanical fixation and the bar.

- Two female fixings (the same as mechanical fixings), configured to prevent the two mechanical fixings from leaving their housing. Each female fastener is a female eyebolt with an internal thread, so that the connection of various cables with different orientations is allowed in the ring.

- A cylindrical central mechanical joint, which crosses the perforation of the soul, and which is configured to connect the cylindrical connector to the central core. The central mechanical joint is a screw with an eye, such that the ring that forms the head of the screw is located at the opposite end where the cylindrical connector is located, and such that said screw allows to receive in its ring, the joint of various axial cables, so that the knot is versatile.

- A threaded and grooved cylindrical connector, whose longitudinal axis coincides with the longitudinal axis 45 of the central mechanical joint, and where said cylindrical connector is fixed to that end of the central mechanical joint that allows contact between the cylindrical connector and the surface, furthest from mechanical fixations, from the soul.

- A mechanical stop that is fixed to the end of the cylindrical connector that is not in contact with the core, and that is configured to prevent the radial cables from slipping out of the grooves and to, additionally, muzzle said cables and avoid their sliding along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical connector.

The material of each element included in the node of the invention (central core, mechanical fasteners, female fasteners, central mechanical joint, cylindrical connector and mechanical stop) is steel.

The radial cables, whose characteristics are outside the present invention, are located in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the cylindrical connector, and are guided or gagged by the cylindrical connector and the mechanical stop. That is, these radial cables pass through the longitudinal grooves made in the cylindrical connector. Thanks to the node of the invention, it is possible that in the construction phase of the deployable structure, the radial cables can slide between the grooves 10 (continuous); but once the knot has been put into service, they remain fixed by said stop (discontinuous).

On the other hand, the wing cables, whose characteristics are outside the present invention, are continuous and are housed in two perforations located on the lateral wings, such that each perforation is in a different lateral wing. In this case, unlike mechanical fasteners, it is not necessary for said two perforations to be aligned on a given axis.

In addition, the axial cables are discontinuous and are anchored by a carabiner 20 at its end, to the eye screw eye that forms the central mechanical joint. Similarly, the cables that are attached to the mechanical fasteners and female fasteners are discontinuous and are anchored to the eyelet of said fasteners by means of a carabiner at its end.

 25

Finally, the bars, whose characteristics are outside the present invention, are the rigid linear elements that make up the structure. Each bar is perforated at one of its ends, such that the perforation of a bar and the perforations of the two lateral wings are located on the same axis, this being perpendicular to said two wings, as explained above. 30

In this specific example, once the node of the invention is installed and operative in a certain drop-down structure, the soul is placed horizontally.

 35

In figures 13 and 14, a tensegritic and deployable double layer mesh, consisting of diagonal bars (in the intermediate layer), radial continuous cables (in the upper layer and lower layer) continuous wing cables (in the intermediate layer) ) and axial discontinuous cables (joining pairs of nodes that are aligned on the same vertical). This structure uses the node just described. 40

Each of the central nodes receives two compression bars, one or two continuous radial sliding cables (and then gagged), a sliding wing cable, a fixed axial cable and two eye screws that allow the bars to be fixed and an indefinite number of wing cables, the same as the female eyebolts to which they are associated. Four. Five

By means of the present invention, it is possible to proceed to the folding of the mesh in the service state (figure 13) until it is contracted so that all its bars are practically vertical, gathered in the center and in a much more compact and manageable, optimal configuration for transport or storage (figure 14). In both images, the bars are represented by the thickest segments, and the cables by thinner strokes. The nodes (which are the true object of the invention) are symbolically represented as the intersection between both types of elements.

55

Claims (15)

1. Connection node for a deployable structure configured to agglutinate two or more bars (12) that can be rotated and folded in volume thereto; receive a plurality of cables (18, 19) from different directions and angles; and that said cables (18, 19) 5 can slide through said knot to facilitate the folding of the structure, comprising: - A central core (11) formed by at least one axial symmetry module, where each at least one axial symmetry module comprises: a core (111) with a perforation (913) 10 configured to accommodate a central mechanical joint (15) ; and two lateral wings (112) with mechanical fixation perforations (214) and cable perforations (215) configured to accommodate mechanical fasteners (13) and wing cables (19) respectively, and where the sides of the core (111) and of the two lateral wings (112) are united;  fifteen - As many mechanical fasteners (13) as bars (12) bind the connection node, said mechanical fasteners (13) being configured to join the rods (12) to the central core (11), such that in each at least one symmetry module axially, each mechanical fixation (13) passes through a first mechanical fixation perforation (214) of a lateral wing (112), the perforation of a bar (12) and a second mechanical fixation perforation 20 (214) of the other lateral wing ( 112); - So many female fixings (14) as mechanical fixings (13), configured to prevent said mechanical fixings (13) from leaving their housing;  25 - A central mechanical joint (1 5) that crosses the perforation (913) of the at least one core core core (11), configured to connect a cylindrical connector (16) to the core core (11); - A cylindrical connector (16) configured to prevent the central mechanical joint (15) from leaving its housing and to guide and / or muzzle several radial cables (18) at the same time, and whose longitudinal axis coincides with the axis longitudinal of the central mechanical joint (15); - A mechanical stop (17) that is fixed to the end of the cylindrical connector (16) that is not in contact with said surface of the at least one core (111), and that is configured to prevent radial cables (18 ) out of said cylindrical connector (16) and, additionally, to muzzle said cables (18) and prevent their sliding along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical connector (16).  40 2. The connection node of claim 1, wherein in each at least one axial symmetry module, the two lateral wings (112) are substantially flat, substantially perpendicular to the core (111), which in turn is substantially flat, and substantially parallel to each other, such that each of them is attached to an opposite side of the soul (111). Four. Five 3. The connection node of any of the preceding claims, wherein in each at least one axial symmetry module, the three perforations pierced by each mechanical fixation (13) - first mechanical fixation perforation of a lateral wing, rod perforation and second mechanical fixing perforation of the other lateral wing - 50 are aligned in the same axis, this being parallel to the soul (111), and where each mechanical fixing (13) is located with its two ends outside the space formed between the two lateral wings (112). 4. The connection node of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a single axial symmetry module, wherein the sides of the core (111) and the two lateral wings (112) that are joined have the same length, and where the core (111) has a hole (913) in its center configured to house the central mechanical joint (15). 5 5. The connection node of any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising at least two axial symmetry modules, wherein in each axial symmetry module the sides of the core (111) and the two lateral wings (112) that are they are joined have a different length, said length being greater in the case of the sides of the core (111), and where said at least two axial symmetry modules are located around a central axis, said axis being perpendicular to the at least two souls (111), such that in each axial symmetry module, the section belonging to the soul (111) formed by that surface whose sides are not attached to the lateral wings (112), has a perforation (913) configured to house the central mechanical union. in such a way that said sections and their corresponding perforations (913) are superimposed, thus joining the at least two axial symmetry modules that make up the central core (11). 6. The connection node of claim 5, wherein said at least two modules of axial symmetry are equal, thus allowing to standardize their design, manufacture and assembly. 7. The connection node of any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising at least two axial symmetry modules that form a single piece, and wherein the part that forms the at least two axial symmetry modules has a perforation (913 ) at its center, such that said center is equivalent to the intersection of the at least two souls (111), said perforation (913) being configured to house the central mechanical joint (15).  30 8. The connection node of any of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical fasteners (13) and the central mechanical joint (15) are cylindrical. 9. The connection node of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mechanical fasteners (13) are screws with eyes configured to allow the anchoring of various cables or their sliding through the ring that forms the screw head. 10. The connection node of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the female fasteners (14) are internal threaded eyebolts configured to allow the anchoring of various cables or their sliding through the eyelet that forms the head of the eyebolt. 11. The connection node of any of the preceding claims, wherein the central mechanical joint 15) is a screw with an eye, such that the ring that forms the head 45 of the roll is located at the opposite end where the cylindrical connector (16), and such that said screw is configured to allow the anchoring of various axial cables or their sliding through said ring. 12. The connection node of any of the preceding claims, wherein the cylindrical connector (16) is threaded, and has vertical grooves to allow free passage of the radial cables (18). 13. The connection node of any of the preceding claims, wherein the material of the elements comprising it is steel. 14. The connection node of any of the preceding claims, wherein the deployable structure in which it is installed is spatial and Tensegrity. 5 15. The connection node of any one of the preceding claims, wherein once it is installed and operative in a particular deployable structure, each core (111) comprised in the at least one axial symmetry module forming the central core (11 ), is situated in a substantially horizontal direction. 10