| 摘要 |
Modular constructs are disclosed wherein a plurality of structural members, most often parallel to one another, form spaced-apart layers. Clamping force, applied in some embodiments approximately perpendicularly to a face of each structural member through use of one or more tension assembly comprising a cable, rope, wire, rod, or the like, in association with one or more tubular spacer, is used to draw the structural members into alignment and to provide structural integrity of the modular construct. The subject matter of the present disclosure further relates to processes for creating such layered modular constructs. The subject matter of the present disclosure may find particular application within modular structures, such as, but not limited to, those for aircraft, boats, and other means of transportation, buildings, storage spaces, furniture and cabinetry, modular support systems for electronic equipment, support structures, interfaces, prosthetics, rack systems, modular work partitions, and the like. |
| 主权项 |
1. A modular system comprising:
a support layer assembly, said support layer assembly comprising:
a plurality of structural members in parallel, spaced-apart relationship;a tension assembly configured to provide clamping force approximately perpendicularly to a face of each structural member;
said tension assembly comprising tension means passing through each said structural member;said tension assembly further passing through a plurality of spacers, each said spacer disposed between, and in endwise, abutting relationship with, two said structural members;terminating means incident an end one of said plurality of structural members, said terminating means receiving a first end of said tension means in cooperative engagement therewith;tension cap means incident another end one of said plurality of structural members, said tension cap means receiving a second end of said tension means in cooperative engagement therewith;said tension cap means operable with said tension means, said structural members, said spacers, and said terminating means to develop tensile force within said tension means and corresponding compression force within said spacers, whereupon said plurality of structural members are drawn into alignment and provide structural integrity of the modular system; and means for attaching the modular system to an adjacent structure. |
