GEODESIC DOMES. SCAFFOLDS. TELESCOPES. TECHNOLOGY SUMMARY. The new mecano-like construction system com- prises a simple
T057
COST-EFFECTIVE CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM FOR LATTICE STRUCTURES
CONTEXT
TECHNOLOGY SUMMARY
Lattice structures are generally the most weight-efficient choice for load-bearing applications. Remarkable examples of their outstanding performance and economy are the metallic towers for electricity transport or wind power generation, and the carbon-fibre payload adaptors or inter-stages for modern space rockets.
The new mecano-like construction system comprises a simple node connector and a fast method for the assembly of lattice structures. It provides a general, fast, and cost-effective alternative to current fabrication methods because the bars, tubes, or profiles of the structure become self-clamped upon assembly while maintaining the maximum buckling performance.
These structures are mainly constructed by bolting or welding if metallic and by filament winding or fibre placement if carbon. Although such methods are reliable and well developed, the tools, infrastructures, and time required for assembly represent a high fraction of the total costs.
APPLICATIONS
BENEFITS
Faster
and versatile: Tools, bolts, welds, glue, or gusset plates are not required for assembly. Ideal for rapid in-orbit or submarine construction with any kind of bar, tube, or profile. Zero thermal expansion and vibrations attenuation structures are possible.
This general construction technology could be of interest in a wide range of sectors, for example:
Easy
Lattice towers and decks Aerospace primary structures Diagrid buildings Geodesic domes Scaffolds Telescopes
Maximum
to reinforce: Using tubes and hollow nodes, the whole structure can be reinforced by filling with concrete or resin. Additionally, the structure can be further secured by bolting, gluing, or welding. resistance: The bar ends effectively behave as clamped to achieve full buckling resistance, especially with high performance unidirectional composites.
THE KNOWLEDGE AGENTS ALLIANCE CONFIDENTIAL 2
T057
COST-EFFECTIVE CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM FOR LATTICE STRUCTURES IP STATUS Patent pending via PCT and EP with favorable search reports. The intellectual property rights can be yet extended to any the 152 PCT signing countries.
TECHNOLOGY READINESS LEVEL AND TIME TO MARKET TRL 3-4 The viability of the node part and its assembly method was assessed using 3D printed small-scale prototypes.
ORGANIZATION PROFILE This technology has been developed by an independent Spanish researcher with expertise in finite element analysis and structures.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Technology transfer via IP licensing or patent transference. Product co-development agreement.
KEYWORDS
Node
connectors Lattice towers
Anisogrid Oil
structures Diagrid buildings
platforms Scaffolding
Zero
thermal expansion
Vibrations
attenuation
Flammable
environments.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Andrea Marí project manager
more info in
SPACESOLUTIONS.ESA.INT
[email protected] +34 91 290 58 27
THE KNOWLEDGE AGENTS ALLIANCE CONFIDENTIAL 2
