INSTANT, PRE-TENSIONED, TOOL FREE, POLYHEDRAL, ENCLOSURE CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM
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.
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.
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.
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 HISTORYThe 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.
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 INVENTIONA 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 FUNCTIONThe present invention functions as an instant enclosure construction system for creating polyhedral structures of a virtually unlimited number of sizes, shapes and uses.
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.
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.
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.
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 INVENTIONThe 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Type: Application
Filed: Sep 14, 2006
Publication Date: Mar 20, 2008
Inventor: Bradford Tyler Sorensen (Manhattan Beach, CA)
Application Number: 11/531,878
