U.S. patent application number 11/531878 was filed with the patent office on 2008-03-20 for instant, pre-tensioned, tool free, polyhedral, enclosure construction system.
Invention is credited to Bradford Tyler Sorensen.
Application Number | 20080066393 11/531878 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39187102 |
Filed Date | 2008-03-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080066393 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sorensen; Bradford Tyler |
March 20, 2008 |
INSTANT, PRE-TENSIONED, TOOL FREE, POLYHEDRAL, ENCLOSURE
CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM
Abstract
A modular construction system consisting of a plurality of
multifunction connectors or multifunction hinges joining together a
plurality of polyhedral panel components having edge connector
engaging means resulting in a spring tensioned, automatic
parabolic, self-aligning, perpendicular snap-in, parallel slide
out, planar angle tolerant, rotational angle tolerant, toe-in angle
tolerant, toe-out angle tolerant, easy-in/hard-out, dual reverse
curl linear barb, multi-planar, centerline pivoting, centerline
friction, dual edge sealing, pre-stressed assembly creating groups
of connected polyhedron modules forming a virtually unlimited
variety of domes, arches, spheres, cylinders, cubes, trusses,
walls, roofs, hinges, doors, windows, columns, beams, bridges,
frames, vaults, fixtures, enclosures, shelters, partitions, toys,
covers, sculptures, containers, stairs or other polyhedral
structures, by hand, without the use of tools using only seconds of
construction time per module. When the first built structure
becomes obsolete, the components can be disassembled by hand,
without the use of tools, and then reassembled to create other
structures at will.
Inventors: |
Sorensen; Bradford Tyler;
(Manhattan Beach, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BRADFORD T. SORENSEN
515 13TH STREET
MANHATTAN BEACH
CA
90266
US
|
Family ID: |
39187102 |
Appl. No.: |
11/531878 |
Filed: |
September 14, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/81.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 33/101 20130101;
E04B 1/34315 20130101; E04B 2001/3276 20130101; E04B 2001/3294
20130101; E04B 1/3211 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/81.1 |
International
Class: |
E04B 7/08 20060101
E04B007/08 |
Claims
1. A polygon structural building system consisting of a plurality
of linear barb connectors and linear barb hinges joining together a
plurality of polyhedral panel components having linear barb edge
connector engaging means allowing groups of polyhedrons to be
joined forming a virtually unlimited variety of geodesic and
multi-polyhedral structures; (a) said connectors having polygon
edge connector engaging means to allow perpendicular
snap-in/parallel slide-out, assembly and disassembly functions
respectively allowing the polyhedral panels to be assembled or
disassembled with connectors by hand without the use of tools; (b)
said hinges having polygon edge connector engaging means to allow
perpendicular snap-in/parallel slide-out, assembly and disassembly
functions respectively allowing the polyhedral panels to be
assembled or disassembled with hinges by hand without the use of
tools; (c) said polyhedral panel components having polygon edge
connector engaging means to allow perpendicular snap-in/parallel
slide-out, assembly and disassembly functions respectively allowing
the polyhedral panels to be assembled or disassembled with
connectors or hinges by hand without the use of tools.
2. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector includes a spring tensioned, oblique angle, connection
between polyhedral panels utilizing a molded or extruded
elastimeric material which would provide a controlled connector
elasticity between polyhedral panels which would create the spring
loaded variation in angle of adjacent polyhedrons necessary to form
a wide variety of parabolic radius dimensions of geodesic domes,
arches, spheres, cylinders, ovals or other faceted or radiused
polyhedral structures, enclosures or objects.
3. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector system includes a spring tensioned, elastimeric
polyhedron connector to provide an automatic parabolic dome forming
connector option wherein the connector is provided with a pair of
opposite polyhedral edge engaging means which are formed at an
angle other than flat which place two adjacent polyhedrons into a
peak or an oblique angle in relationship to each other causing
spring tensioned angles to form at the apexes of the intersections
of multiple groups of polyhedrons to automatically form the overall
shape of the groups of polyhedrons into a convex or dome like shape
causing the spring tension angles of these oblique connection
angles between polyhedrons to cooperate with one another to spring
into a more parabolic, more spherical structure which adds more
structural strength to the exterior surface of the assembly to
improve wind resistance and snow load performance in a shelter
application.
4. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector and hinge connector system includes an automatic, self
aligning function wherein the connectors are provided with
elastimeric, self centering means with which to automatically align
the edges of the polyhedron components with the ideal connector
location in order to make the construction of the connectors with
the polyhedral elements simple, convenient and relatively
effortless.
5. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
polyhedral panels are provided with connector engagement means in
the form of a linear edge barbs with which to engage the spring
tensioned elastimeric polyhedron connector or hinge in a manner
which allows the edge of the polyhedron to be forced into the
multifunction slot of the connector or hinge in a perpendicular
snap-in fashion, which once engaged, into the slot of the connector
or hinge, the linear barb edge would be difficult, if not
impossible, with reasonable force, to pull out the same way as it
went in causing a positive lock that can be disassembled by
utilizing a parallel slide-out method.
6. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector and hinge connector system includes an automatic angle
variation tolerance and angle averaging elastimeric connection
between structural polygons consisting of a dual conical, dual
reverse curl, linear elastimeric barb system which functions by
allowing the linear barb means on the edge of the polyhedrons to
slide perpendicularly into the dual conical, dual reverse curl,
linear elastimeric barbs on the connector or hinge which spread
open the multifunction slots on the connector allowing the edge of
the polyhedron to enter and become trapped inside the dual conical,
dual reverse curl, linear elastimeric barbs which automatically
unfold spring tension dual sealing edges against the linear barb
engagement means on the polyhedron panel edges forming a spring
loaded connection that automatically averages the variations in
angles of adjacent polyhedrons forming building system
components.
7. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector and hinge connector system consists of an
easy-in/hard-out/slide-out method of polyhedron assembly, retention
and disassembly respectively, wherein, when the edge of a
polyhedron with linear barb engaging means is pressed into the
spring tensioned, elastimeric polyhedron connector, the dual
conical, dual reverse curl, linear elastimeric barb system spreads
open along the inclined plane wedge features of the polyhedron
linear barb engaging means allowing the polyhedron barbs to enter
the elastimeric spring tension trap, wherein, the dual reverse
curl, linear elastimeric barbs snap closed behind the polyhedron
barbs locking the connector and polyhedron together, wherein, the
harder the pull on the polyhedron, the tighter the dual reverse
curl, linear elastimeric barbs engage the connection, wherein, the
connection is very strong in a perpendicular direction for
structural strength, wherein, the connection is very weak in a
parallel direction allowing the easy disassembly of components for
knock down, transport and compact storage.
8. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein two or
more polyhedrons share a single connector wherein this multi planar
system of connectors allows for the construction of truss braces
and multiple layer composite structures or containers or conduits
within the overall structure of a building construction.
9. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector and hinge connectors consist of a spring tensioned,
elastimeric polyhedron connector and provides connector midpoint
pivoting and friction points which are coincident with the
centerline of the edge of each polyhedron engaged in the connector,
wherein, by providing pivot and friction points coincident in the
centerlines of both the connectors and the polyhedrons, the
polyhedron angle variations may be divided exactly in half
resulting in the highest geometric dimensional accuracy in domes
involving hundreds of components, wherein, placing the pivot and
friction points on the centerline of the connector, the polyhedron
edges are substantially centerline fixed, locked and controlled
while the polyhedron edge ends are allowed to move within a spring
tensioned angle tolerance and averaging system that uses each
polyhedron's position to effect the location and spring tension of
adjacent polyhedrons automatically.
10. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector and hinge system is comprised of a dual conical, dual
reverse curl, linear elastomeric barb system which provides a dual
edge sealing function between the connectors and the polyhedrons to
provide a weather seal and a trapped air insulation function
between the inner and outer seal, wherein, if the structure is to
be semi-permanent and rain protection is important, wherein the
connectors may be pre filled with a silicone weather sealing
caulking material before assembly of the polyhedrons, wherein, the
dual conical, dual reverse curl, linear elastimeric barb system is
an ideal container for the caulk sealant because the pressure of
insertion of the polyhedron into the connector would cause
backpressure to form on the linear barb edge engagement system
which would cause an excellent seal as soon as the caulk sealant
solidified in the gap between the connector and the polyhedron,
wherein, additional sealant material applied at the corner
intersections of the polyhedrons and connectors would provide a
completely waterproof enclosure shelter.
11. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector and hinge system are securely attached to the ground or
to other structures with anchors, bolts, foundations, stakes, pins,
or other connections provide a secure enclosure, shelter or
structure or to enlarge and enclose additional cubic space within a
structure to provide wind, rain and other element protection.
12. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
polyhedral panels are multi-walled or inflated polyhedral panel
sections made up of transparent, translucent or opaque material
with linear barb edge means for engaging multifunction, elastimeric
or plastic, snap-in/slide-out, connectors which result in an
insulated sealed enclosure.
13. The polygon connector building system of claim 1 wherein the
connector and hinge connectors are provided with a hollow linear
tube or conduit for the enclosure of wiring, plumbing, cables,
struts, beams, pins, bolts, insulation, arched rods, lighting,
bulbs, I-beams, fiber optics, data lines, communications lines,
sound insulation, partial vacuum, electrical conduit, neon lighting
tubes, florescent lighting tubes or other items to be enclosed.
14. A polygon structural building system consisting of a plurality
of connectors and hinges joining together a plurality of polyhedral
panel components having edge connector engaging means allowing
groups of polyhedrons to be joined forming a virtually unlimited
variety of multi-polyhedral structures; (a) said connectors having
polygon edge connector engaging means to allow/parallel slide-out,
assembly and disassembly functions respectively allowing the
polyhedral panels to be assembled or disassembled with parallel
slide-in connectors by hand without the use of tools; (b) Said
hinges having polygon edge connector engaging means to allow
parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out, assembly and disassembly
functions respectively allowing the polyhedral panels to be
assembled or disassembled with hinges by hand without the use of
tools; (c) Said polyhedral panel components having polygon edge
connector engaging means to allow parallel slide-in/parallel
slide-out, assembly and disassembly functions respectively allowing
the polyhedral panels to be assembled or disassembled with
connectors or hinges by hand without the use of tools.
15. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector includes a spring tensioned oblique angle connection
between polyhedral panels utilizing a molded or extruded
elastomeric material which would provide a controlled connector
elasticity between polyhedral panels which would provide for the
spring loaded variation in angle of adjacent polyhedrons necessary
to form a wide variety of parabolic radius dimensions of geodesic
domes, arches, spheres, cylinders, ovals or other faceted or
radiused polyhedral structures, enclosures or objects.
16. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector system includes a spring tensioned, elastomeric
polyhedron connector to provide an automatic parabolic dome forming
connector option wherein the connector is provided with a pair of
opposite polyhedral edge engaging means which are formed at an
angle other than flat which place two adjacent polyhedrons into a
peak or an oblique angle in relationship to each other causing
spring tensioned angles to form at the apexes of the intersections
of multiple groups of polyhedrons to automatically form the overall
shape of the groups of polyhedrons into a convex or dome like
shape, wherein, the spring tension angles of these oblique
connection angles between polyhedrons causes the faceted
polyhedrons to cooperate with one another to spring into a more
parabolic, more spherical structure which adds more structural
strength to the exterior surface to improve wind resistance and
snow load performance.
17. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector system includes a spring tensioned, elastomeric
polyhedron connector to provide an automatic parabolic dome forming
connector option wherein the connector is provided with a pair of
opposite polyhedral edge engaging means which are formed at an
angle other than flat which place two adjacent polyhedrons into a
peak or an oblique angle in relationship to each other causing
spring tensioned angles to form at the apexes of the intersections
of multiple groups of polyhedrons to automatically form the overall
shape of the groups of polyhedrons into a convex or dome like shape
causing the spring tension angles of these oblique connection
angles between polyhedrons to cooperate with one another to spring
into a more parabolic, more spherical structure which adds more
structural strength to the exterior surface of the assembly to
improve wind resistance and snow load performance in a shelter
application.
18. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector and hinge connector system includes an automatic, self
aligning function wherein the connectors are provided with
elastomeric, self centering means with which to automatically align
the edges of the polyhedron components with the ideal connector
location in order to make the construction of the connectors with
the polyhedral elements simple, convenient and relatively
effortless.
19. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
polyhedral panels are provided with connector engagement means in
the form of a linear edge barbs with which to engage the spring
tensioned elastomeric polyhedron connector or hinge in a manner
which allows the edge of the polyhedron to be slid into the
multifunction slot of the connector or hinge in a parallel slide-in
fashion, which once engaged, into the multifunction slot of the
connector or hinge, the linear barb edge would be difficult, if not
impossible, with reasonable force, to pull out perpendicularly
causing a positive lock. This positive lock is disassembled by
utilizing a parallel slide-out method.
20. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector and hinge connector system includes an automatic angle
variation tolerance and angle averaging elastomeric connection
between structural polygons consisting of a dual conical, dual
reverse curl, linear elastomeric barb system which functions by
allowing the linear barb means on the edge of the polyhedrons to
slide in a parallel manner into the dual conical, dual reverse
curl, linear elastomeric barbs on the connector or hinge which
become trapped inside the dual conical, dual reverse curl, linear
elastomeric barbs which automatically unfold spring tension dual
sealing edges against the linear barb engagement means on the
polyhedron panel edges forming a spring loaded connection that
automatically averages the variations in angles of adjacent
polyhedrons forming building system components.
21. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector and hinge connector system consists of an
easy-parallel-slide-in/hard-perpendicular-out/easy-parallel-slide-out
method of polyhedron assembly, retention and disassembly
respectively. When the edge of a polyhedron with linear barb
engaging means is slid into the spring tensioned, elastomeric
polyhedron connector, the dual conical, dual reverse curl, linear
elastomeric barb system allows the polyhedron barbs to enter the
elastomeric spring tension trap, wherein, once inside the trap, the
dual reverse curl, linear elastomeric barbs trap the polyhedron
barbs locking the connector and polyhedron together, wherein, the
harder the pull on the polyhedron, the tighter the dual reverse
curl, linear elastomeric barbs engage the connection, wherein, this
connection is very strong in a perpendicular direction for
structural strength, wherein, this connection is very weak in a
parallel direction allowing the easy disassembly of components for
knock down transport and compact storage.
22. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein two
or more polyhedrons share a single connector wherein this multi
planar system of connectors allows for the construction of truss
braces and multiple layer composite structures or containers or
conduits within the overall structure of a building
construction.
23. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector and hinge connectors consist of a spring tensioned,
elastomeric polyhedron connector and provides connector midpoint
pivoting and friction points which are coincident with the
centerline of the edge of each polyhedron engaged in the connector,
wherein, by providing pivot and friction points coincident in the
centerlines of both the connectors and the polyhedrons, the
polyhedron angle variations may be divided exactly in half
resulting in the highest geometric dimensional accuracy in domes
involving hundreds of components, wherein, by placing the pivot and
friction points on the centerline of the connector, the polyhedron
edges are substantially centerline fixed, locked and controlled
while the polyhedron edge ends are allowed to move within a spring
tensioned angle tolerance and averaging system that uses each
polyhedron's position to effect the location and spring tension of
adjacent polyhedrons automatically.
24. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector and hinge system is comprised of a dual conical, dual
reverse curl, linear elastomeric barb system which provides a dual
edge sealing function between the connectors and the polyhedrons to
provide a weather seal and a trapped air insulation function
between the inner and outer seal, wherein, if the structure is to
be semi-permanent and rain protection is important, the connectors
may be pre filled with a silicone weather sealing caulking material
before assembly of the polyhedrons, wherein, the dual conical, dual
reverse curl, linear elastomeric barb system is an ideal container
for the caulk sealant which would cause an excellent seal as soon
as the caulk sealant solidified in the gap between the connector
and the polyhedron, wherein, additional sealant material applied at
the corner intersections of the polyhedrons and connectors would
provide a completely waterproof enclosure shelter.
25. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
connector and hinge system are securely attached to the ground or
to other structures with anchors, bolts, foundations, stakes, pins,
or other connections provide a secure enclosure, shelter or
structure or to enlarge and enclose additional cubic space within a
structure to provide wind, rain and other element protection.
26. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
polyhedral panels are multi-walled or inflated polyhedral panel
sections made up of transparent, translucent or opaque material
with linear barb edge means for engaging multifunction, elastomeric
or plastic, slide-in/slide-out, connectors which result in an
insulated sealed enclosure.
27. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
multifunction connector and hinge connectors are provided with a
hollow linear tube or conduit for the enclosure of wiring,
plumbing, cables, struts, beams, pins, bolts, insulation, arched
rods, lighting, bulbs, I-beams, fiber optics, data lines,
communications lines, sound insulation, partial vacuum, electrical
conduit, neon lighting tubes, florescent lighting tubes or other
items to be enclosed.
28. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein the
construction system can be assembled and disassembled using a
parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out method which does not rely on
the elastomeric flexibility of the connector to allow entry into
the multifunction slot, wherein, with the parallel
slide-in/parallel slide-out method of assembly and disassembly, the
connector can be formed of stiffer or extremely stiff material for
greater strength load bearing connections made of metals,
composites, woods, glass, concrete, stone, acrylic or other stiff
material.
29. The polygon connector building system of claim 14 wherein each
end of the connector or hinge is provided with a tapered or conical
and or overlapping or interlocking or snap fit or sealed
intersection tip, wherein, these intersection tips are shaped to
intersect or overlap or connect or interlock or seal with other
intersection tips in order to provide a watertight or airtight or
ventilated or perforated or semi-permeable or permeable
onion-permeable or flexible or rigid or bearing intersection.
30. A polygon structural building system consisting of a plurality
of connectors and hinges joining together a plurality of polyhedral
panels having edge connector engaging means allowing groups of
polyhedrons to be joined by hand, without the use of tools,
resulting in edge sealed enclosures, forming a virtually unlimited
variety of geodesic and multi-polyhedral structures.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] This invention relates to improvements in the quick,
inexpensive, lightweight and strong, construction of large
enclosures from relatively small, thin, stackable, polyhedral
parts, connectors and hinges to result in a virtually unlimited
variety of shapes, sizes, and functions of instant, polyhedral
enclosure assemblies, by hand, without the use of tools.
[0002] More specifically, the present invention relates to an
innovation in the way clear, translucent and opaque polyhedral
construction elements can be instantly connected together resulting
in assemblies of infinite shapes, sizes and functions. The present
invention provides the means for assemblies of connectors and
polygons which can be hand assembled without tools within a few
seconds per module. Additionally, in a variety of applications, the
polyhedral elements can be connected together in a hinged manner in
order to allow entry and exit into and out of structures and
enclosures created with the components of the system. Additionally,
in a variety of applications, the polyhedral elements can be
connected together with anchors, bolts, foundations, stakes, pins,
or other connections to the ground to provide a secure enclosure,
shelter or structure with wind, rain and other element protection.
Additionally, in a variety of applications, the polyhedral elements
can be connected together with other existing structures to enlarge
and enclose additional cubic space.
[0003] When the first built structure becomes obsolete, the
components can be disassembled by hand, without the use of tools,
and then reassembled to create other structures at will.
BRIEF HISTORY
[0004] The building industry of today comprises substantially
conventional site grading, concrete foundation, wood frame or steel
frame, nails, Plywood, drywall, screws, stucco, shingles, tiles,
glass, paint and finish construction practices. All of these
building techniques are very time consuming, require large numbers
of skilled tradesmen, are generally very expensive, require large
numbers of expensive tools, and are generally considered permanent
until the building is torn down.
[0005] With the innovation contained in this patent, it is now
possible to construct instant polygon structures such as geodesic
domes, spheres, polyhedrons, pyramids, cubes, trapezoids, arches,
columns, walls, roofs, ceilings, conduits, tunnels, vents, windows,
doors, or any combination thereof in order to construct buildings,
houses, enclosures, swimming pool covers, furniture, partitions,
tables, counters, railings, tents, exhibits, cabinets, toys, sheds,
barns, aircraft hangars or other types of enclosures or shelters by
hand, without the use of tools, inexpensively and quickly without
skilled labor. Polyhedron Structures such as those created
utilizing the geodesic dome invention of Richard Buckminster Fuller
as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 2,682,235 in 1954 have enclosed more
cubic space, using less building material, than any other
architecture in history according to the Fuller web site in 2001.
The entirety of Richard Buckminster Fuller's expired U.S. Pat. No.
2,682,235 is hereby incorporated by reference into this
specification. R. Buckminster Fuller was one of my instructors at
the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena Calif. in 1978-79.
Even though his invention of the geodesic dome was truly an
astounding innovation, he often complained of how difficult,
expensive and time consuming it was to build geodesic structures to
the tight tolerance angles and exacting beam length dimensions
needed to execute a symmetrical and accurate structure as planned.
The problem with geodesic structures as they existed before the
current invention is that small errors in each of the components of
a geodesic dome containing hundreds or thousands of components
results in multiple small errors adding up to large errors over a
large structure. The current invention eliminates these problems by
using a manufacturing process that results in hundreds or thousands
or millions of identical construction parts having little or no
errors in their dimensions and properties.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A modular construction system consisting of a plurality of
multifunction connectors or multifunction hinges joining together a
plurality of polyhedral panel components having edge connector
engaging means resulting in a spring tensioned, automatic
parabolic, self-aligning, perpendicular snap-in, parallel slide
out, planar angle tolerant, rotational angle tolerant, toe-in angle
tolerant, toe-out angle tolerant, easy-in/hard-out, dual reverse
curl linear barb, multi-planar, centerline pivoting, centerline
friction, dual edge sealing, pre-stressed assembly creating groups
of connected polyhedron modules forming a virtually unlimited
variety of domes, arches, spheres, cylinders, cubes, trusses,
walls, roofs, hinges, doors, windows, columns, beams, bridges,
frames, vaults, fixtures, enclosures, shelters, partitions, toys,
covers, sculptures, containers, stairs or other polyhedral
structures, by hand, without the use of tools using only seconds of
construction time per module. When the first built structure
becomes obsolete, the components can be disassembled by hand,
without the use of tools, and then reassembled to create other
structures at will.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION FUNCTION
[0007] The present invention functions as an instant enclosure
construction system for creating polyhedral structures of a
virtually unlimited number of sizes, shapes and uses.
[0008] The function of the current invention is easy enough for an
average child of three years old to assemble into simple
combinations. In fact, one embodiment of the invention function is
that of a child's construction kit toy. This toy would be made up
of hand sized, polyhedron shaped panels made of clear, translucent,
or opaque panels having edge engagement means for removably
attaching to each other with multifunction connectors and hinges to
result in polyhedral assemblies such as castles, forts, houses,
arches, pyramids, domes or a wide variety of other structures that
the kids themselves could move inside of for any variety of roll
playing games they could imagine. When the kids become bored with
the first structure, they can simply disassemble and create other
structures at will.
[0009] Larger modular sizes of the polyhedral construction kit
would be well suited for adults to quickly, inexpensively and
efficiently construct clear, translucent, or opaque panels having
edge engagement means for removably attaching to each other by
attaching multifunction connectors and hinges to result in
polyhedral assemblies such as storage sheds, patio enclosures,
swimming pool covers, greenhouses, garages, temporary shelters or
permanent shelters.
[0010] Extremely large modular sizes of the polyhedral construction
kit would be well suited for professional builders to quickly,
inexpensively and efficiently construct clear, translucent, or
opaque panels having edge engagement means for removably attaching
to each other with multifunction connectors and hinges to result in
polyhedral assemblies such as sports stadium domes, outdoor concert
venue covers, airport terminal covers or other temporary or
permanent large structures.
[0011] Although the present invention has been described in terms
of specific embodiments, it is anticipated that alterations and
modifications thereof will no doubt become apparent to those
skilled in the art. It is therefore intended that the teachings and
drawings that comprise the content of this patent application as
well as the following claims be interpreted as covering all such
alterations and modifications as fall within the true spirit and
scope of the teachings and drawings contained herein as well as the
true spirit and scope of the invention claims and the invention
itself.
OBJECTIVES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0012] The first objective of the present invention is to provide a
modular construction system consisting of a plurality of
multifunction connectors or multifunction hinges for permanently or
temporarily joining together a plurality of polyhedral panel
components having edge connector engaging means resulting in groups
of connected polyhedron modules forming a virtually unlimited
variety of polyhedral structures.
[0013] The second objective of the current invention is to provide
a spring tensioned connection between polyhedral panels comprising
a modular polyhedral structure construction system. In one
application, this spring tensioned connection could utilize a
molded or extruded elastimeric material which would provide a
controlled elasticity between polyhedral panels which would provide
for the variation in angles of adjacent polyhedrons necessary to
form a wide variety of parabolic radius, angular and edge length
dimensions of geodesic domes, arches, spheres, cylinders, ovals or
other faceted or radiused polyhedral structures, enclosures or
objects.
[0014] The third objective of the invention is to provide a spring
tensioned, elastimeric polyhedron connector function that creates
an automatic parabolic dome forming connector option wherein the
connector is provided with a pair of opposite polyhedral edge
engaging means which are formed at an angle other than flat which
place two adjacent polyhedrons into a peak or an oblique angle in
relationship to each other. This spring tensioned angle causes
multiple connected groups of polyhedrons to automatically form into
a convex or dome like shape. The spring tension angles of
connection causes the faceted polyhedrons to cooperate with one
another to spring into a more parabolic, more spherical structure
which adds more structural strength to the exterior surface to
improve wind resistance and snow load performance.
[0015] The fourth objective of the present invention is to provide
an automatic, self aligning function. The connectors are provided
with elastimeric, self centering means with which to automatically
align the edges of the polyhedron components with the ideal
connector location in order to make the construction of the
components of an application of the connectors with the polyhedral
elements simple, convenient, automatic and relatively
effortless.
[0016] The fifth objective of the spring tensioned, elastimeric
polyhedron connector is to provide a perpendicular snap-in/parallel
slide out, assembly and disassembly function. In the preferred
embodiment of the current invention, each edge of the polyhedrons
to be connected would be provided with linear barb means necessary
to engage the spring tensioned, elastimeric, polyhedron connector
in a manner which allows the edge to be forced into the
multifunction slot of the connector in a perpendicular snap-in
fashion. Once engaged, the edge would be difficult, if not
impossible with reasonable force limits, to pull out the same way
as it went in causing a positive lock. This positive lock could be
disassembled by utilizing a parallel slide out method. Both the
perpendicular snap-in/parallel slide out methods of assembly and
disassembly are simple, convenient and relatively effortless while
providing strong mechanical functions.
[0017] The sixth objective of the invention is to provide angle
variation tolerance between structural components. In the past,
large geodesic dome structures required exacting dimensional
polyhedral frame components in order to result in a single
parabola, symmetrical dome structure. In the past, any variation
from the planned geometry would result in small errors in each
component multiplied times the large number of components to result
in a potential for a large total error compilation which could
create asymmetrical or unplanned multiple parabola dome structures.
The current invention utilizes connectors with automatic angle
variation tolerance and averaging functions to effectively average
the angles between polyhedrons and spring tension to adjust the
polyhedrons into the optimal orientation to produce single parabola
and symmetrical dome structures. This spring tensioned, elastimeric
polyhedron connector provides planar angle tolerant averaging,
rotational angle tolerant averaging, toe-in angle tolerant
averaging, toe-out angle tolerant averaging, by automatically
placing balanced averaging forces on each component of a group of
components to result in structures with polyhedron components
spring tensioned into the optimal position for symmetrical and
single parabola dome structures.
[0018] The seventh objective of the spring tensioned, elastimeric
polyhedron connector is to provide a dual conical, dual reverse
curl, linear elastimeric barb system of polyhedron connection. This
system provides an easy-in/hard-out method of polyhedron assembly
and disassembly. When the edge of a polyhedron with linear barb
engaging means is pressed into the spring tensioned, elastimeric
polyhedron connector, the dual conical, dual reverse curl, linear
elastimeric barb system spreads open along the inclined plane wedge
features of the polyhedron linear barb engaging means allowing the
polyhedron barbs to enter the elastimeric spring tension trap. Once
inside the connector trap, the dual reverse curl, linear
elastimeric barbs snap closed behind the polyhedron barbs locking
the connector and polyhedron together. The harder the pull on the
polyhedron, the tighter the dual reverse curl, linear elastimeric
barbs engage the connection. This connection is very strong in a
perpendicular direction for structural strength. This connection is
very weak in a parallel direction allowing the easy disassembly of
components for knock down transport and compact storage.
Alternatively, the construction system can be assembled and
disassembled using a parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out method
which does not rely on the elastomeric flexibility of the connector
to allow entry into the multifunction slot. With the parallel
slide-in/parallel slide-out method of assembly and disassembly, the
connector can be formed of stiffer or extremely stiff material for
greater strength load bearing connections made of metals,
composites, woods, glass, concrete, stone, acrylic or other stiff
material.
[0019] The eighth objective of the invention is to provide multi
planar connection of two or more polyhedrons with a single
connector. The preferred embodiment connector provides for four
polyhedrons to share a common connector at a variety of angles.
Other embodiments may include a one, two, three, five, six or more
multi planar connector system. This multi planar system of
connectors allows for the construction of truss braces, multiple
layer composite structures and containers or conduits within the
overall structure of a building construction.
[0020] The ninth objective of the spring tensioned, elastimeric
polyhedron connector is to provide connector lengthwise centerline
pivoting and friction points which are coincident with the
centerline of the edge of each polyhedron. By providing pivot and
friction points coincident in the centerlines of both the
connectors and the polyhedrons, the polyhedron angle variations may
be divided exactly in half resulting in the highest geometric
dimensional accuracy in domes, arches or other polyhedral
structures involving hundreds of components. By placing the pivot
and friction points on the centerline of the connector, the
polyhedron edges are substantially centerline fixed, locked and
controlled while the polyhedron edge ends are allowed to move
within a spring tensioned angle tolerance and averaging system that
uses each polyhedron's position to effect the location and spring
tension of adjacent polyhedrons automatically.
[0021] The tenth objective of the present invention is to provide a
dual edge sealing function between the connectors and the
polyhedrons to provide a weather seal and trapped air insulation
function between the inner and outer seal. If the structure is to
be semi-permanent and rain protection is important, the
multifunction slots of the connectors may be pre-filled with a
silicone or elastomeric, weather sealing, caulking material before
assembly of the polyhedrons. The dual conical, dual reverse curl,
linear elastimeric barb system is an ideal container for the caulk
sealant because the pressure of insertion of the polyhedron into
the connector causes backpressure to form on the linear barb edge
engagement system which causes the caulk to immerse the entire
interface area between the connectors and the polyhedrons to form
an excellent seal when the caulk sealant solidifies. Additional
sealant material or an insert plug or screw applied or attached at
the corner intersections of the polyhedrons and connectors would
provide a completely waterproof enclosure shelter.
[0022] The eleventh objective of the present invention is to
provide a method of securely attaching the polyhedron constructions
to the ground or to other structures with anchors, bolts,
foundations, stakes, pins, or other connections provide a secure
enclosure, shelter or structure or to enlarge and enclose
additional cubic space within a structure or to provide wind, rain
and other element protection.
[0023] The twelfth objective of the spring tensioned, elastomeric
polyhedron connector system is to provide a parallel
slide-in/parallel slide-out, assembly and disassembly function. In
the preferred embodiment of the current invention, each edge of the
polyhedrons to be connected would be provided with linear barb
means necessary to engage the spring tensioned, elastomeric,
polyhedron connector in a manner which allows the edge to be slid
into the multifunction slot of the connector in a parallel slide-in
fashion. Once engaged, the edge would be difficult, if not
impossible with reasonable force limits, to pull out in a
perpendicular direction causing a positive lock. This positive lock
could be disassembled by utilizing a parallel slide-out method.
Both the parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out methods of assembly
and disassembly are simple, convenient and relatively effortless
while providing strong mechanical functions.
[0024] The thirteenth objective of the present invention
incorporates multi walled or inflated polyhedral panel sections
made up of transparent, translucent or opaque material with linear
barb edge means for engaging multifunction, elastomeric or plastic,
snap-in/slide-out or slide-in/parallel slide-out, connectors which
result in an insulated sealed enclosure.
[0025] The fourteenth objective of the present invention provides
the means for assemblies of connectors and polygons which can be
hand assembled without tools within a few seconds per module. This
construction system, which does not rely on tools to effectively
accomplish either the perpendicular snap-in/parallel slide-out or
the parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out, polyhedral construction
assembly and disassembly functions, adds a level of convenience
heretofore not possible with any other sealed, geodesic, polyhedral
construction system.
TABLE-US-00001 REFERENCES CITED U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 1773851 1930
Pantke 52/669 1883214 1932 Wilson 428/33 2682235 1954 Fuller,
Buckminster 52/81.3 2776521 1957 Zimmerman 446/115 3066436 1962
Schuh 446/115 3626632 1971 Bullock 446/125 3646781 1972 McKenna
52/79 3660952 1972 Wilson 52/81 3827177 1974 Wengel 46/31 4012872
1977 Stolpin 52/81 4050184 1977 Chiari 46/17 4309852 1982 Stolpin
52/81 4355781 1982 Stolpin 249/64 4422267 1983 Whitehouse 52/81
4621467 1986 Golden 52/81 4701131 1987 Hildebrandt 434/211 5236169
1993 Blankenburg 273/58 5430989 1995 Jones 52/655.1 5560151 1996
Roberts 52/81.1 5707268 1998 Outman 446/112 5916097 1999 Markuten
52/81.2 5906530 1999 Lindsey 446/85 6059631 2000 Maddock 446/127
6173538 2001 Fleishman 52/81.4
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
[0026] U.S. Pat. No. 1,773,851 discloses a non uniform, non
modular, asymmetrical, dome construction system. The present
invention teaches a universal, modular, spring tension connector
that joins polyhedrons to form a uniform, modular, symmetrical,
construction system that is capable of any combination of domes,
arches, columns, spheres cylinders, walls, doors, windows and other
polyhedral structures built by hand without the use of tools.
[0027] U.S. Pat. No. 1,773,851 discloses a slotted panel and
slotted tube construction system. The present invention teaches a
spring tension connector that joins polyhedrons in a sealed
manner.
[0028] U.S. Pat. No. 2,682,235 to R. Buckminster Fuller discloses a
geodesic building framework construction system to form spherical
or dome shaped structures. The present invention teaches an
elastimeric, spring tension, automatic parabolic, angle averaging,
snap-in/slide-out, modular, automatic weather sealing, edge
connector system which can be hand assembled within a few seconds
per module, that joins polyhedrons causing the polyhedrons to form
the structural components of the enclosures, not the framework. The
present invention teaches a system of weather sealed, single piece
polyhedrons joined by single piece, multifunction connectors that
eliminate the complexity of having to build a multi part framework
first and then having to add multi part coverings and connectors
between the voids in the framework to seal the structure.
[0029] U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,682,235, 4,309,852 and 4,355,781 discloses
an inflexible, rotational, ball and socket connection system for
joining hinges on the edges of toy triangles in a non-sealed
manner. The present invention teaches a flexible, spring-loaded,
elastomeric polyhedron edge connector system for joining
polyhedrons in a sealed manner.
[0030] U.S. Pat. No. 3,066,436 discloses a slotted interlock panel
toy consisting of rectangular sheets die cut with slots and tabs
for interconnection of sheets one to another. The present invention
teaches an elastimeric, spring tension, automatic parabolic, angle
averaging, snap-in/slide-out or slide-in/slide-out, modular,
automatic weather sealing, edge connector system that joins
polyhedrons causing the polyhedrons to form structural components
of the enclosures, shelters, buildings, toys and other polyhedral
structures.
[0031] U.S. Pat. No. 3,626,632 discloses a rectangular toy block
system comprised of arrowhead shaped tabs and voids that form
interconnecting groups of blocks. U.S. Pat. No. 3,626,632 discloses
nothing about interconnection of polyhedrons. The present invention
teaches an elastimeric, spring tension, automatic parabolic, angle
averaging, snap-in/slide-out, modular, automatic weather sealing,
edge connector system that joins polyhedrons causing the
polyhedrons to form structural components of the enclosures,
shelters, buildings, toys and other polyhedral structures.
[0032] U.S. Pat. No. 3,626,632 discloses a multi faceted tower
consisting of 8 hexagons, 12 pentagons, 54 strait line elements and
36 vertices which lie on the surface of an imaginary sphere. The
current invention teaches infinitely variable construction
options.
[0033] U.S. Pat. No. 3,660,952 discloses a prefabricated modular
building constructed of identical triangular elements. The current
invention teaches infinitely variable construction options using
more than just triangular polyhedrons which can be hand assembled
without tools within a few seconds per module.
[0034] U.S. Pat. No. 3,827,177 discloses a slotted puck connector
system that joins polyhedron panels together leaving gaps between
the polyhedrons. The present invention teaches a weather sealing,
edge connector system that joins polyhedrons without gaps along the
edges.
[0035] U.S. Pat. No. 3,827,177 discloses a system of triangular
panels whose sides are defined by a plurality of elongated rods
with longitudinally spaced hinge plates perpendicular to the
elongated direction. Spindles pivotally interconnect the hinge
plates about the hinge plates of adjacent panels. The elongated
rods are welded to the hinge plates at intermediate locations along
the adjacent panels. These panels, rods, and hinge plates are
arranged into a dome structure. U.S. Pat. No. 3,827,177 discloses a
system that makes no attempt to create a weather seal. U.S. Pat.
No. 3,827,177 discloses a system that is complex, requires field
welding and relies on the structure of the frame, not the panels to
carry the loads. The present invention teaches a system of weather
sealed, single piece polyhedrons joined by single piece,
multifunction connectors and polyhedrons which can be hand
assembled without tools within a few seconds per module that
eliminate the complexity of having to build a multi part framework
first and then having to add multi part coverings and connectors
between the voids in the framework to seal the structure.
[0036] U.S. Pat. No. 4,050,184 discloses a system of spherical
quadrilateral plates joined together with H-shaped couplers to form
a ball shaped toy. The present invention teaches a system that has
a virtually infinite variety of polyhedron construction shapes
available to build, not just a sphere.
[0037] U.S. Pat. No. 4,422,267 discloses a dome shaped wood framed
house which specifies a central top hexagon unit surrounded by
alternating pentagon and trapezoid units. The present invention
teaches unlimited polygon combinations joined together by
elastimeric, snap-in/slide-out or slide-in/slide-out connectors and
polygons which can be hand assembled without tools within a few
seconds per module.
[0038] U.S. Pat. No. 4,621,467 discloses a building system of
rhombic and tricontahedral structures for the shelter roof and
elongated vertical panels for the walls all connected together at
the edges by hollow extruded aluminum electrical cord conduit
connectors which are partially buried in the ground for control of
heat loss. The present invention teaches unlimited polygon
combinations joined together by multifunction, elastimeric,
snap-in/slide-out connectors and polygons which can be hand
assembled without tools within a few seconds per module.
[0039] U.S. Pat. No. 4,701,131 discloses a system of spherical
geometric nodes having a variety of square, triangular, and
pentangular openings whose centerlines radiate from the center of
each node. A variety of shape coded elongated struts connect to the
nodes to form a wide variety of geometric space frames. The present
invention teaches polyhedral planes made up of transparent,
translucent or opaque material with linear barb edge means for
engaging multifunction, elastimeric or plastic, snap-in/slide-out,
connectors which result in a sealed enclosure, not a framework.
[0040] U.S. Pat. No. 5,236,169 discloses a toy ball made up of
abutting pentagon shape polygons which are convex in section. The
present invention teaches not only spherical but an unlimited
combination of polygons resulting in a virtually unlimited number
of enclosure shapes, sizes, functions and types.
[0041] U.S. Pat. No. 5,430,989 discloses a hinge like tri corner
connector in which elongated hinge pins join with other tri corner
connectors to form open space frames. The present invention teaches
an enclosure not an open frame.
[0042] U.S. Pat. No. 5,560,151 discloses hexagonal and pentagonal
building units made of triagonal building units joined together by
a plug. U.S. Pat. No. 5,560,151 uses the same geodesic dome making
structure created by R. Buckminster Fuller in U.S. Pat. No.
2,682,235 while adding the main novel improvement comprising the
use of a diamond shaped plug and a nut and bolt holding the
triangonal building blocks together at the approximate midpoints of
the adjacent sides of the triangonal building blocks. The present
invention teaches an edge and corner sealed, perpendicular
snap-in/parallel slide-out or parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out,
hand assembled within a few seconds per module, building
construction system. The present invention teaches an elastimeric,
spring tension, automatic parabolic, angle averaging, modular,
automatic weather sealing, edge connector system that joins
polyhedrons causing the polyhedrons to form structural components
of the enclosures, shelters, buildings, toys and other polyhedral
structures.
[0043] U.S. Pat. No. 5,707,268 discloses a geometric construction
set composed of triangles having three tines extending from each
triangle vertex and adjacent to each side of the triangle over
which a sleeve may be placed interlocking a tine to another tine of
an adjacent triangle forming abstract or figurative structures. The
current invention teaches not only triangular but many other
polygonal shape combinations joined together in a snap-in/slide-out
or parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out, weather sealed manner.
[0044] U.S. Pat. No. 5,916,097 discloses an igloo shaped child's
play shelter made up of non modular, radial t-bar and rib section
framework with non-modular, water tight, snap on elements. The
current invention teaches domes created without framework as well
as a virtually unlimited variety of other structural shapes created
in a modular, snap-in/slide-out or parallel slide-in/parallel
slide-out manner.
[0045] U.S. Pat. No. 5,906,530 discloses a system for connecting
elliptical balloons together at the apexes of their intersections
using a hook and loop fastener such as Velcro to form polyhedral
assemblies. The current invention teaches a sealed intersection of
polygons without the gaps in the structure suggested in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,906,530. The present invention polyhedral panels may be
modified to incorporate multi walled or inflated polyhedral panel
sections made up of transparent, translucent or opaque material
with linear edge connector means for engaging multifunction,
elastimeric or plastic, snap-in/slide-out or parallel
slide-in/parallel slide-out, connectors which result in a sealed
enclosure.
[0046] U.S. Pat. No. 6,059,631 discloses toy building pieces that
dovetail together to form dome shaped construction framework that
also incorporates apertures for receiving a craft sticks to form
polyhedral framework. The current invention teaches domes created
without framework as well as a virtually unlimited variety of other
structural shapes created in a modular, perpendicular
snap-in/parallel slide-out or parallel slide-in/parallel slide-out
manner.
[0047] U.S. Pat. No. 6,173,538 discloses a dodecahedral-based
building structure using alternating connector and receptor edges
to minimize the number of different panels required for producing a
complete structure. The current invention teaches dodecahedral as
well as a virtually unlimited number of other polyhedral shaped
enclosures or shelters made up of connectors and polygons which can
be hand assembled without tools within a few seconds per
module.
[0048] U.S. Pat. No. 6,173,547 discloses a modified-rhombic
tricontahedral structure building system consisting of panels and
edge connectors having 35, 126 or 144 degree angle geometry and an
asymmetrical rectangular u-shaped panel engaging bracket with one
leg of the asymmetrical rectangular u-shaped wall being 4 times the
length of the other asymmetrical rectangular u-shaped wall allowing
panels to be rotated into place and secured with Velcro hook and
loop connector material. The present invention teaches a dual
conical, dual reverse curl, linear elastimeric barb spring tension,
automatic parabolic, angle averaging, snap-in/slide-out or parallel
slide-in/parallel slide-out, modular, automatic weather sealing,
edge connector building system that joins polyhedron panels causing
the polyhedrons to form structural components of the buildings,
shelters, enclosures, toys and other polyhedral structures made up
of connectors and polygons which can be hand assembled without the
use of tools within a few seconds per module.
[0049] None of the previous art illustrates a multifunction modular
construction system consisting of a plurality of connectors or
hinges joining together a plurality of polyhedral panel components
having edge connector engaging means resulting in a spring
tensioned, automatic parabolic, self-aligning, perpendicular
snap-in, parallel friction controlled slide out, planar angle
tolerant, rotational angle tolerant, toe-in angle tolerant, toe-out
angle tolerant, perpendicular easy-in/perpendicular
hard-out/parallel slide-out or parallel easy-in/parallel easy-out,
dual reverse curl linear barb, multi-planar, centerline pivoting,
centerline friction, dual edge sealing, pre-stressed assemblies of
connectors and polygons which can be hand assembled without tools
within a few seconds per module creating groups of connected
polyhedron modules forming a virtually unlimited variety of domes,
arches, spheres, cylinders, cubes, trusses, walls, roofs, hinges,
doors, windows, columns, beams, bridges, frames, vaults, fixtures,
enclosures, shelters, partitions, toys, covers, sculptures,
containers, stairs or other polyhedral structures.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0050] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
triangle polyhedral panels joined by edge connectors to form a dome
shaped enclosure.
[0051] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
triangle, hinge, square, connector and pentagon showing the
disassembled aspect of the building system
[0052] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
triangle, hinge, square, connector and pentagon showing the
assembled aspect of the building system
[0053] FIG. 4a is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
two panel dome forming connector and polyhedral panel intersection
before insertion.
[0054] FIG. 4b is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
two panel dome forming connector and polyhedral panel intersection
during insertion.
[0055] FIG. 4c is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
two panel dome forming connector and polyhedral panel intersection
after insertion.
[0056] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
connector illustrating the four panel radial connector.
[0057] FIG. 6 is a section view of the preferred embodiment two
panel connector, three panel connector, four panel truss connector,
five panel connector and six panel connector.
[0058] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
triangle in combination with other triangles and connectors.
[0059] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
square in combination with other squares and connectors.
[0060] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
pentagon in combination with other pentagons and connectors.
[0061] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
hinge and its components.
[0062] FIG. 11a is a section view of the preferred embodiment
hinges in a closed position
[0063] FIG. 11b is a section view of the preferred embodiment
hinges in an unlatched position.
[0064] FIG. 11c is a section view of the preferred embodiment
hinges in an open position.
[0065] FIG. 12 is a section top view of the preferred embodiment
squares in combination with a connector.
[0066] FIG. 13A is a section end view of the preferred embodiment
squares in combination with a connector.
[0067] FIG. 13B is a section end view of the preferred embodiment
squares in combination with a connector.
[0068] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
squares, triangles and connectors in a multi-walled housing
construction application.
[0069] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
squares, triangles, pentagons, hinges and connectors in a toy
polyhedral construction kit application.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0070] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment
building system utilizing a plurality of 3 triangle polyhedral
panels joined together by a plurality of 12 two panel dome
connectors to form a geodesic dome structure having sealed edges
and intersections which automatically form during the assembly
process.
[0071] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 3
triangle polyhedral panel, 2 hinge polyhedral panel, 4 square
polyhedral panel, 14 four panel radial connector and 5 pentagon
polyhedral panel showing the disassembled aspects of the main
components of the building system.
[0072] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 3
triangle, 2 hinge, 4 square, 14 connector and 5 pentagon showing
the assembled aspects of the building system FIG. 4a is a section
view of the preferred embodiment connector showing the 12 two panel
dome connector and the edge of the 4 square polyhedral panel before
insertion. (The preferred embodiment shows a 12 two panel dome
angle connector, however the connector could be designed to accept
any number of polyhedral panels such as 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more.)
FIG. 4b is a section view of the preferred embodiment connector
showing the 12 connector and the edge of the 4 square polyhedral
panel during insertion. As the edge of the 4 square polyhedral
panel is pressed into any one of the 40 multifunction slots it
spreads the 30 dual conical, dual reverse curl, linear elastomeric
barbs open allowing the 60 polygon linear connector barb engagement
means on the edge of the 4 square polyhedral panel initiating the
entry of the 4 panel into the 12 connector.
[0073] FIG. 4c is a section view of the preferred embodiment
connector showing the 12 connector and the edge of the 4 square
polyhedral panel after insertion. Complete engagement of the
connection has occurred, illustrated by the position of the 60
polygon linear connector barb engagement means inside the 40
multifunctional slot while being retained in a spring loaded,
automatic aligning, fashion by the 30 dual conical, dual reverse
curl, linear elastomeric barbs which has the secondary function of
creating a spring loaded oblique angle orientation between one
polyhedral panel and another sharing a connector.
[0074] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 14
four panel radial connector illustrating the four 40 multifunction
slots for removably accepting the edges of a maximum of four
polyhedral panels.
[0075] Within each of the 40 multifunction slots is a 30 dual
conical, dual reverse curl, linear elastomeric barb which has the
purpose of allowing the engagement means on the edge of a
polyhedral panel to enter the 40 multifunction slot and then to be
trapped inside the slot by the elastomeric, reverse curl, barbs
which do not allow the connection to be broken in a perpendicular
direction with reasonable force.
[0076] Each connector has a 50 intersection tip which is formed
into an angle oar conical shape, in this preferred embodiment, but
a 50 intersection tip may also have a flange shape or a ring shape
or a fin shape ore flap shape or a spiral shape or an overlapping
shape or an elongated shape or a shortened shape or a pin shape or
a snap shape or a screw shape or a threaded shape or a barbed shape
or other shape for intersecting or adjacency or sealing or
contacting or connecting to other connectors or other 50
intersection tip or tips at the intersections of the polyhedral
assemblies formed by groups of polyhedral panels, connectors or
hinges.
[0077] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 22
two panel connector, 23 three panel connector, 24 four panel truss
connector, 25 five panel connector and 26 six panel connector. Each
of the connectors comprises a plurality of 30 dual conical, dual
reverse curl, linear elastomeric barbs within a plurality of 40
multifunction slots. Each end of the connectors is provided with a
tapered or conical and or overlapping or interlocking or snap fit
or sealed 50 intersection tip. These intersection tips are shaped
to intersect or overlap or connect or interlock or seal with other
50 intersection tips in order to provide a watertight or airtight
or ventilated or perforated or semi-permeable or permeable or
non-permeable or flexible or rigid or bearing intersection.
[0078] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 3
triangle in combination with other 3 triangles and 14
connectors.
[0079] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 4
square in combination with other 3 triangles, 4 squares and 14
connectors.
[0080] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 5
pentagon in combination with other 5 pentagons and 14
connectors.
[0081] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 2
hinge illustrating a plurality of 40 multifunction slots and 30
dual conical, dual reverse curl, linear elastomeric barbs or 32
dual tapered, dual square barbed, linear elastomeric barbs forming
polyhedral panel retention slots that may utilize either the
perpendicular snap-in/parallel slide-out or the parallel
slide-in/parallel slide-out method of construction. The 2 hinge
includes a preferred embodiment 34 flexible spring loaded hinge and
a 36 door latch. When the 34 flexible spring loaded hinge is
actuated in a direction that causes the 38 hinge movement gap to be
contracted, the 36 door latch moves out of contact with the
polyhedral panel acting as a door and the door can be opened. When
the polyhedral panel acting as a door is closed, the entry of the
door into the 36 door latch causes the 38 hinge movement gap to be
contracted allowing the door to become seated in contact with the
34 flexible spring loaded hinge. In this position, the spring
loading on the hinge causes the 36 door latch to contact the
polyhedral panel acting as a door which effectively traps the door
and holds the door shut until pivotal pressure is applied to the 34
flexible spring loaded hinge causes the 38 hinge movement gap to be
contracted which opens the 36 door latch. When the 34 flexible
spring loaded hinge is actuated in a direction that causes the 38
hinge movement gap to be expanded, the 2 hinge opens. The preferred
embodiment 2 hinge shows an orientation where the hinge is
positioned above a pair of polyhedron edge connectors which allow a
double layer of polyhedron panels to be constructed wherein the
hinged panel may pivot away from a second adjacent polyhedral panel
without leaving a void in the overall structure made by the second
polyhedral panel in combination with other polyhedral panels and
connectors. Other hinge embodiments within the scope of the
invention include a hinge that leaves an open void in a group of
connected polyhedrons when the hinge is opened.
[0082] FIG. 11a is a section view of the preferred embodiment 2
hinge in combination with 4 square polyhedral panels illustrating
the closed door position. The 38 hinge movement gap at the pivot
hinge and at the opening hinge intersections are at the normal
positions.
[0083] FIG. 11b is a section view of the preferred embodiment 2
hinge in combination with 4 square polyhedral panels illustrating
the unlatched door position. The 38 hinge movement gap at the pivot
hinge intersection is expanding to allow the door to open and the
38 hinge movement gap at the opening hinge intersection is
contracted causing the 36 door latch to pivot open allowing the
door to open.
[0084] FIG. 11c is a section view of the preferred embodiment 2
hinge in combination with 4 square polyhedral panels illustrating
the open door position. The 38 hinge movement gap at the pivot
hinge intersection is expanded and the door is open and the 38
hinge movement gap at the opening hinge intersection is in the
normal position.
[0085] FIG. 12 is a top section view of the preferred embodiment 14
connector illustrating the spring loaded, angle tolerant, rotation
tolerant, toe-in toe-out misalignment tolerant functions of the
connectors in combination with polyhedral panels. The two 4
polyhedral panels are shown inserted into a 14 connector in a
non-parallel alignment. This non-parallel alignment illustrates the
ability of the connector to first allow unrestricted movement
within the 40 multifunction slots until the spring-loaded action of
the elastomeric connector snaps the polyhedral panels back into a
controlled relationship with each other. The preferred embodiment
14 connector has a section which is characterized by a thicker
section at the 45 connector longitudinal centerline than at the 50
intersection tip, this allows angular movement of the 60 panel
engagement means portion of the polyhedral panels within a spring
loaded angular tolerance area which provides elastomeric control of
the polyhedral angles in relationship to each other. The 45
connector longitudinal centerline is also the friction point of
contact and the pivot point for the 60 panel engagement means
portion of the polyhedral panels.
[0086] FIG. 13a is an end section view of the preferred embodiment
14 connector illustrating the straight in perpendicular engagement
orientation of four 4 polyhedral panels into each of four 40
multifunction slots including 30 dual conical, dual reverse curl,
linear elastomeric barbs providing spring loaded, angle tolerant,
rotation tolerant, out of plane misalignment tolerant functions of
the connectors in combination with polyhedral panels.
[0087] FIG. 13b is an end section view of the preferred embodiment
14 connector illustrating the rotated out of plane, angular
engagement orientation of the two lower 4 polyhedral panels into
the lower two 40 multifunction slots including 30 dual conical,
dual reverse curl, linear elastomeric barbs causing the elastomeric
connector material to flex, compress and bend in a spring loaded
fashion to accommodate angular movement of the polyhedral panels
without disconnecting the polyhedral panel from the connector.
[0088] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 3
triangles and 4 squares in combination with 24 four panel truss
connectors and 26 six panel connectors in the construction of a
multi-walled, insulated housing structure embodiment. Such a
structure could be constructed within a few hours by hand without
tools creating a permanent structure. If the structure were to be
temporary, it could be disassembled by hand without tools within a
few hours.
[0089] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment 3
triangles, 4 squares and 5 pentagons in combination with 12 two
panel dome forming connectors and 14 dome forming connectors and 24
four panel truss connectors and 22 two panel straight connectors
and 25 five panel radial connectors and 26 six panel radial
connectors and 2 hinges to form the construction of a small variety
of the virtually unlimited number of polyhedral toys that could be
created using the current invention in a toy polyhedral
construction kit application.
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