Steel modular building and its semi-locking connection assembly, module and construction method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a steel structure modular building and its semi-locked connecting assembly, module and building method. The semi-locked connecting assembly comprises: a first connecting part, comprising: a first housing; an actuating mechanism having a fixed base, a movable first action member and a second action member, the first action member having an operation surface and being able to drive the second action member in a first direction; a biasing mechanism arranged in the first housing and biasing the second action member in a second direction, the second action member being able to be biased to a first posture in which a first part is locked with the base in response to the driving of the first action member, and being able to be biased to a second posture in which a second part is locked with the base in response to another driving of the first action member; a locking mechanism arranged in the first housing and comprising a fixed part and a movable locking part, the locking part being able to be extended from the fixed part in linkage with the second action member reaching the first posture, and being out of linkage during the second posture; and a second connecting part, comprising: a second housing; and a connecting member extended from the second housing and being able to be locked with the extended locking part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of steel structure modular building technology, and more particularly to steel structure modular buildings and their semi-self-locking connection components, modules and construction methods. Background Technology

[0002] Modular construction involves an assembly technology that uses prefabricated modular structures in a factory for on-site assembly. Prefabrication of modular structures in factories facilitates industrialized production, improves work efficiency, reduces material consumption, and is minimally affected by seasonality. Steel structure modular buildings are characterized by rapid construction, lightweight modules, simple construction, and flexible assembly, thus possessing high application value in urban construction.

[0003] The structural strength and stability of modular steel structure buildings are affected by many factors. Modular steel structure buildings are a common type of modular building, with bolted connections being the primary method of linking the modules. Bolted connections have several drawbacks, such as increased on-site workload, complex installation, difficult disassembly, and unsatisfactory vertical force transmission.

[0004] Therefore, there is a certain demand in the industry for a solution that can effectively improve the structural strength and construction efficiency of modular steel structure buildings. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a semi-self-locking connection assembly for modular units in steel structure modular buildings, which can at least solve some of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0006] The present invention also aims to provide a module for a steel structure modular building that utilizes the improved semi-self-locking connection component described above.

[0007] The present invention also aims to provide a steel structure modular building that applies the above-mentioned improved modules.

[0008] The present invention also aims to provide a construction method for the above-mentioned improved steel structure modular building.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, a semi-locking connection assembly for modular units is provided, wherein the modular units are adapted to be assembled together by means of the semi-locking connection assembly, the semi-locking connection assembly comprising: a first connection portion including: a first housing; an actuation mechanism including a base fixed relative to the first housing and a first actuating member and a second actuating member movably disposed on the base, wherein the first actuating member has an operable operating surface and is configured to drive the second actuating member in a first direction; a biasing mechanism disposed within the first housing and configured to apply a biasing force to the second actuating member in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the second actuating member is configured to move under the biasing force of the biasing mechanism in response to the actuation of the first actuating member to a position where a first portion is connected to... The base is locked in a first position and can move under the bias of the biasing mechanism in response to another drive of the first actuator to a second position where it is locked to the base at a second position different from the first position; a locking mechanism is disposed within the first housing and includes a fixing member fixed relative to the first housing and a locking member movably mounted on the fixing member, the locking member being configured to extend from the fixing member in conjunction with the second actuator moving to the first position, and during the second position, the linkage between the second actuator and the locking member is released; a second connecting portion includes: a second housing; a connecting member disposed in and extending from the second housing, the connecting member being configured to insert into the first housing and lock with the locking member extending from the fixing member.

[0010] The semi-self-locking connection components provided in this solution for assembling modular units in steel structure modular buildings achieve detachable semi-self-locking connections between building modular units using fewer components, significantly reducing on-site installation workload and improving installation convenience and disassembly capability. Simultaneously, this solution enhances the tensile strength of the connections between modular units, making their stress characteristics more consistent with the structural features of high-rise steel structure modular buildings, thereby improving the overall structure's resistance to wind loads and seismic forces. This solution can largely compensate for the shortcomings of existing modular unit connection methods in steel structure modular buildings.

[0011] In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism further includes a movable sleeve abutting between the second actuating member and the biasing mechanism, wherein the second actuating member is capable of driving the movable sleeve along the first direction, and the biasing mechanism applies a biasing force to the movable sleeve along the second direction, wherein during the first posture, the movable sleeve pushes the locking member of the locking mechanism to extend from the fixing member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first connecting portion further includes a first sleeve installed inside the first housing and supporting the locking mechanism, the biasing mechanism being sleeved on the first sleeve and abutting between the first sleeve and the movable sleeve, wherein the inner diameter of the movable sleeve is adapted to the outer diameter of the first sleeve.

[0013] In some embodiments, the second connecting portion further includes a second sleeve installed within the second housing, wherein the connecting member is inserted into the second sleeve and extends out from the second housing.

[0014] In some embodiments, the fastener is configured as an annular shape having an inner circumference and an outer circumference, and forms a plurality of orifices extending from the inner circumference to the outer circumference, wherein a plurality of locking members are movably disposed along these orifices to extend from the inner circumference of the fastener in conjunction with the second actuator being in the first posture, and the connector has a groove for receiving the extended locking members.

[0015] In some embodiments, the base and the second actuator are each provided with teeth, and the teeth of the second actuator have two adjacent tooth protrusions, the teeth of the base have an inclined surface, wherein the second actuator can move along the inclined surface of the teeth of the base with one tooth protrusion under the bias of the biasing mechanism until it is in the first posture, and the second actuator can move along the inclined surface of the teeth of the base with the other tooth protrusion under the bias of the biasing mechanism until it is in the second posture.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first actuator has teeth and is configured to push one of the two toothed protrusions of the second actuator along the first direction with its own teeth to drive the toothed protrusion of the second actuator into the inclined surface of the teeth of the base.

[0017] In some embodiments, the base has an axially extending guide protrusion, and the first and second actuators each form a groove between their adjacent teeth, the guide protrusion being movable relative to the groove and able to be embedded in the groove.

[0018] According to another aspect of the present invention, a module for a steel structure modular building is provided, the module comprising a module unit, the module unit comprising: a pair of beams arranged opposite to each other; a column connected between the pair of beams; a semi-self-locking connection assembly, which is the aforementioned semi-self-locking connection assembly, wherein a first housing of the first connection portion serves as a node connecting the column to one of the pair of beams, and a second housing of the second connection portion serves as a node connecting the column to the other of the pair of beams.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first housing and the second housing are pre-connected at the factory between the respective beams and columns.

[0020] In some embodiments, the module further includes a kit consisting of a plurality of connectors, each connector being adapted to be pressed between the first housing and the second housing of two adjacent module units, the connectors having a different number of openings to accommodate the number of single-layer module units.

[0021] According to another aspect of the present invention, a steel structure modular building is provided, comprising the aforementioned modules.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for constructing a steel structure modular building is provided, wherein the steel structure modular building is the aforementioned steel structure modular building, the method comprising: providing the modules; positioning a first-layer module unit with a beam connected to a first outer shell located below and a beam connected to a second outer shell located above; selecting connectors having a suitable number of openings according to the number of the first-layer module units, and fitting the connectors to corresponding connectors of the first-layer module units through the openings; and aligning a second-layer module unit with a beam connected to the first outer shell located below and a beam connected to the second outer shell located above. Positioned above the first layer unit module; lower the second layer module unit until the connector of the first layer module unit extends into the corresponding first outer shell of the second layer module unit and is inserted into the fixing member; insert the operating member from the second outer shell of the second layer module unit connected to the upper beam, through the column connected to the beam, until it contacts the operating surface of the first actuating member near the lower part of the column; press the first actuating member with the operating member so that the first actuating member drives the second actuating member along the first direction until the second actuating member enters the first posture, and a lock is formed between the locking member of the first connection part and the connector of the second connection part.

[0023] Other features and advantages of the present invention will partly become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this application, and partly will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the detailed description below. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the disassembly of four modular units and their semi-self-locking connection components in a steel structure modular building according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of four modular units assembled together by a semi-self-locking connection component according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the first connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the actuation mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figures 5A-5G This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of the actuation mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the second connecting portion according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figures 8-11 This is a schematic diagram of the connection process of a semi-self-locking connection assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of different types of semi-self-locking connection components by means of an operating element according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figures 14A-14D This is a schematic diagram of an assembly with a different number of openings according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figures 15A-15D This is a schematic diagram of assembling different numbers of module units together according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0037] 1-Module unit; 2-Column; 3-Beam; 4-First connecting part; 41-First outer shell; 412-First hole; 413-Second hole; 42-First sleeve; 43-Biasing mechanism; 44-Actuation mechanism; 441-First actuating element; 4411-Operating surface; 4412-First slide groove; 4413-Second tooth; 442-Base; 4421-Guide protrusion; 4422-First tooth; 4423-Inner hole; 443-Second actuating element; 4431-Second slide groove; 4432-Third tooth; 4433-First tooth protrusion; 44 34- Inclined surface; 4435- Second toothed protrusion; 444- Movable sleeve; 45- Locking mechanism; 451- Fixing member; 4511- Inner circumference; 4512- Outer circumference; 4513- Ring; 4514- Stop; 4515- Orifice; 452- Locking member; 4521- Support leg; 4522- Groove; 4523- Inner circumferential surface; 5- Second connecting part; 51- Second outer shell; 511- Third hole; 512- Fourth hole; 52- Second sleeve; 53- Connecting member; 531- Groove; 6- Assembly part; 61- Opening; 7- Operating part Detailed Implementation

[0038] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, a schematic representation of the steel structure modular building and its semi-self-locking connection components, modules, and construction method disclosed in this invention is described in detail. Although the drawings are provided to illustrate some embodiments of the invention, they are not necessarily drawn to the dimensions of the specific embodiments, and certain features may be enlarged, removed, or partially sectioned to better illustrate and explain the disclosure of the invention. Some components in the drawings may be repositioned according to actual needs without affecting the technical effect. The phrase "in the drawings" or similar expressions appearing in the specification do not necessarily refer to all drawings or examples.

[0039] Certain directional terms used in the description of the accompanying drawings below, such as “inner,” “outer,” “above,” “below,” and other directional terms, will be understood to have their normal meaning and refer to those directions as normally viewed in the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the directional terms used in this specification are generally in accordance with the conventional directions understood by those skilled in the art.

[0040] The terms “first,” “first,” “second,” “second,” and similar terms used in this invention do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are used to distinguish one component from others.

[0041] This invention aims to provide a semi-self-locking connection assembly for modular units in modular buildings, particularly suitable for steel structure modular buildings. The semi-self-locking connection assembly includes two detachably connected connecting parts. One connecting part has a driveable moving part that also bears a biasing force from a biasing member. By driving the moving part, and under the reverse compression of the biasing member, the moving part rotates and rises along a preset track, eventually reaching a first locked position. The movement of the moving part also causes a locking member (lock tongue) in the connecting part to extend. The extended locking member engages with a connecting member in the other connecting part, thereby connecting the two connecting parts. Two modular units are combined together by means of the connection between the two connecting parts. When the moving part is driven again, under the reverse compression of the biasing member, the moving part rotates and rises again along the preset track, eventually reaching a second locked position. At this time, the constraint of the moving part on the locking member is released, allowing the locking member to separate from the connecting member. The entire process, except for the driving operation of the moving part, is automatically completed by the semi-self-locking connection assembly itself, requiring no manual intervention. The semi-self-locking connection assembly of this invention is applied to the construction of modular steel structure buildings. While ensuring reliable structural force transmission, it adopts a detachable connection, reducing the workload of manual operations (such as welding), and features simple operation and flexible assembly. Furthermore, the construction process is minimally affected by factors such as weather, operator experience, and skill, ensuring consistent quality.

[0042] Figure 1 The diagram shows a modular unit 1 used in a steel structure modular building, which includes four separate modular units 1 that will be spliced ​​together by means of a semi-self-locking connection assembly to form two upper and lower floors. Figure 2 A simplified diagram showing the combination of four modular units 1 is provided. As shown, modular unit 1 includes horizontal beams 3 and vertical columns 2, wherein each column 2 is connected between a pair of beams 3 arranged vertically opposite each other. Figure 1 For clarity, other components of module unit 1, such as the top wall, bottom wall, and side walls, as well as any possible interior finishes, have been omitted. In fact, these components, along with beams 3 and columns 2, are pre-assembled in the factory.

[0043] The semi-self-locking connection assembly is installed at the joint between column 2 and beam 3. The manufacturing of the semi-self-locking connection assembly and its connection to beam 3 and column 2 can be pre-completed in the factory where modular unit 1 is produced. Compared to the construction site, the factory provides a better assembly environment, making it easier to ensure the precision of structural components and the accuracy of connections. Since modular unit 1 eliminates the need for additional welding work on the construction site, it avoids additional structural stress caused by poor local welding quality in steel structure buildings.

[0044] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the semi-self-locking connection assembly includes a detachably connected first connecting part 4 and a second connecting part 5. In each module unit 1, based on the installation orientation of the module unit 1, the first connecting part 4 is installed as a lower node at the joint between the column 2 and the lower beam 3 of a pair of beams 3 arranged vertically opposite each other, while the second connecting part 5 is installed as an upper node at the joint between the column 2 and the upper beam 3 of the pair of beams 3. The first connecting parts 4 and the second connecting parts 5, belonging to different module units 1, are spliced ​​at corresponding positions to form a module unit assembly. The column 2, beam 3, first connecting part 4, and second connecting part 5 involved in this disclosure can be made of any suitable material, including but not limited to steel, aluminum, stainless steel, or other metal materials.

[0045] Figure 3A first connecting portion 4 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown, the first connecting portion 4 includes a first housing 41 serving as a mounting base and functional components mounted on the first housing 41. In this embodiment, as described above, based on the mounting orientation of the module unit 1, the first connecting portion 4 is located at the lower corner of the module unit 1, and the first housing 41 is correspondingly connected as a corner node between the column 2 and the beam 3 below. The first housing 41 is pre-connected (e.g., welded) to the column 2 and beam 3 during the factory processing stage of the module unit 1. The first housing 41 has a first hole 412 formed in one of its walls and a second hole 413 formed in the opposite wall, both of which communicate with the internal space of the first housing 41. An actuation mechanism 44 is mounted in one of the first holes 412 and the other is through which a connector of the second connecting portion 5 passes, which will be described in detail later.

[0046] Figure 4 An actuation mechanism 44 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown, the actuation mechanism 44 includes a base 442 fixedly mounted to a first housing 41 and a first actuating member 441 and a second actuating member 443 movably mounted to the base 442. The cylindrical base 442 is mounted to the first wall of the first housing 41 from the outside, and the inner hole 4423 of the base 442 is aligned with the first hole 412 on the first wall (see reference). Figure 8 A plurality of guide protrusions 4421 are formed on the inner periphery of the base 442. These guide protrusions 4421 are evenly spaced circumferentially, and each guide protrusion 4421 extends axially along the base 442. A first tooth 4422 is formed at the end of each guide protrusion 4421 near the first housing 41. The first tooth 4422 has a bevel facing the first housing 41. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 442 has three guide protrusions 4421.

[0047] The first actuator 441 and the second actuator 443 each have a substantially circular outer periphery and are movably disposed within the circular inner hole 4423 of the base 442, arranged axially. The end of the first actuator 441 facing away from the second actuator 443 has an operating surface 4411 for operation, and the first actuator 441 also has a plurality of (three in this embodiment) second teeth 4413 arranged circumferentially, each second tooth 4413 protruding toward the second actuator 443. A first groove 4412 is formed between two adjacent second teeth 4413. The second actuator 443 has a plurality of (three in this embodiment) third teeth 4432 arranged circumferentially, and each third tooth 4432 has two protrusions protruding toward the second teeth 4413, including a first protrusion 4433 and a second protrusion 4435, wherein the first protrusion 4433 has an inclined surface 4434 facing the first actuator 441. A second groove 4431 is formed between two adjacent third teeth 4432. The first actuating member 441 can push the second actuating member 443 in a first direction (the direction shown in the figure closer to the first housing 41) so that the second actuating member 443 can at least partially extend into the first housing 41.

[0048] Figure 6 A locking mechanism 45 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein Figure 6 The left side shows a diagram of the locking mechanism 45. Figure 6The right side is an exploded view of the locking mechanism 45. As shown, the locking mechanism 45 includes a fixing member 451 fixed within the first housing 41 and a locking member 452 movably mounted on the fixing member 451. The fixing member 451 is generally ring-shaped, with its inner circumference 4511 aligned with a second hole 413 in the first housing 41 through which the connector of the second connecting portion 5 passes. In one embodiment, the fixing member 451 includes two rings 4513 stacked axially, and a plurality of connecting bridges, or stops 4514, are provided between the two rings 4513. These stops 4514 are evenly spaced along the circumference of the fixing member 451, thereby forming an opening 4515 between adjacent stops 4514 extending from the inner circumference 4511 to the outer circumference 4512 of the fixing member 451. The locking member 452 can move radially along the fixing member 451 within the orifice 4515, thereby extending out of the fixing member 451 to form a latch or retracting into the fixing member 451 to achieve locking and unlocking with the connecting member of the second connecting part 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking member 452 has two legs 4521, and a groove 4522 is formed at the connection of the two legs 4521. The locking member 452 extends into two adjacent orifices 4515 with its two legs 4521 crossing corresponding stops 4514. During the movement of the locking member 452 toward the outer periphery 4512 of the fixing member 451, the stops 4514 can engage in the groove 4522, thereby preventing the locking member 452 from disengaging from the fixing member 451. In other embodiments, the locking member 452 may also be inserted through a single opening 4515 and extend from the inner periphery 4511 or outer periphery 4512 of the fixing member 451 in conjunction with the movement of the second actuating member 443.

[0049] To facilitate the linkage between the second actuating member 443 and the locking member 452, a movable sleeve 444, serving as a transmission member, is arranged within the first housing 41. In the illustrated embodiment, this movable sleeve 444 is arranged as a separate component between the second actuating member 443 and the locking mechanism 45. After the second actuating member 443 is driven by the first actuating member 441, the movement of the second actuating member 443 will push the movable sleeve 444 within the first housing 41 until the movable sleeve 444 approaches the locking mechanism 45 and drives the locking member 452 to extend from the fixed member 451. The movable sleeve 444 may include two connected cylindrical sections, wherein the diameter (inner and outer diameter) of the first cylindrical section contacting the second actuating member 443 is smaller than the diameter (inner and outer diameter) of the second cylindrical section contacting the locking mechanism 45, thereby constructing a stepped shape in the axial direction for the movable sleeve 444. The inner diameter of the second cylindrical section of the movable sleeve 444 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the fixing member 451, thereby enabling it to surround the fixing member 451 from the outer periphery 4512 and push the locking member 452 out from the inner periphery 4511 of the fixing member 451 until the inner peripheral surface 4523 of the locking member 452 forms a locking engagement with the connector of the second connecting portion 5. Although the figure shows the locking member 452 being driven by the movable sleeve 444 to extend from the inner periphery 4511 of the fixing member 451, those skilled in the art will understand that the movable sleeve 444 can also drive the locking member 452 from the inner periphery 4511 to the outer periphery 4512 of the fixing member 451, thereby causing it to extend from the outer periphery 4512 of the fixing member 451. Furthermore, the movable sleeve 444 can exist as a separate piece, or it can be constructed as part of the second connecting portion 5, or it can be fixedly connected to the second connecting portion 5. The outer diameter of the first cylindrical section of the movable sleeve 444 is adapted to the diameter of the first hole 412 of the first housing 41, while the outer diameter of the allowable cylindrical section of the movable sleeve 444 is larger than the diameter of the first hole 412 of the first housing 41. Due to the stepped configuration of the movable sleeve 444, the fitted shape of the movable sleeve 444 to the first housing 41, and the obstruction of the second movable member 453, the movable sleeve 444 will not detach from the first housing 41.

[0050] A biasing mechanism 43 is also provided within the first housing 41. This biasing mechanism 43 consistently applies a biasing force to the second actuating member 443 in a second direction opposite to the first direction (shown in the figure as the direction away from the first housing 41). In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing mechanism 43 abuts against the end of the second cylindrical section of the movable sleeve 444 opposite to the first cylindrical section. The biasing mechanism 43 can be made of any suitable material or construction capable of applying force to the contacted component through elastic deformation. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing mechanism 43 is a spring.

[0051] To facilitate the installation of the locking mechanism 45 and constrain the movement direction of the biasing mechanism 43 and the locking member 452, a first sleeve 42 can be installed inside the first housing 41 as the mounting base for the fixing member 451. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sleeve 42 is installed from the inside onto the second wall of the first housing 41 opposite to the first wall, and extends into the first housing 41, while the fixing member 451 is installed at the extended end of the first sleeve 42. The inner periphery 4511 of the fixing member 451 and the inner hole of the first sleeve 42 are aligned with the second hole 413 on the second wall (see reference). Figure 8 The inner diameter of the first sleeve 42 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the connector of the second connecting part 5. The biasing mechanism 45 is sleeved on the first sleeve 42 and is pressed between the circumferential flange of the first sleeve 42 and the movable sleeve 444.

[0052] The following is combined Figures 5A-5G The motion principle of the actuation mechanism 44 is explained in detail. Figures 5A-5D The first motion principle of the actuation mechanism 44 is shown. Figure 5A The initial state of the actuation mechanism 44 is shown, in which the first actuating member 441 and the second actuating member 443 are both placed in the base 442, and the guide protrusion 4421 of the base 442 is embedded in the first groove 4412 of the first actuating member 441 and the second groove 4431 of the second actuating member 443, thereby generating rotational constraints on the first actuating member 441 and the second actuating member 443. Figure 5B As shown, pressing the operating surface 4411 of the first actuating member 441 pushes the second actuating member 443 in the first direction (the downward direction shown in the figure). At this time, the first actuating member 441 and the second actuating member 443 cannot rotate due to the constraint of the guide protrusion 4421, and can only slide along the guide protrusion 4421. The second tooth 4413 of the first actuating member 441 pushes against the first tooth protrusion 4433 of the third tooth 4432 of the second actuating member 443 until the second actuating member 443 is pushed out of the constraint range of the guide protrusion 4421 (at this time, at least a part of the second actuating member 443 will extend into the first outer shell 41). Because the biasing mechanism 43 always presses the second actuating member 443 along a second direction opposite to the first direction (the upward direction shown in the figure), and the second tooth 4413 of the first actuating member 441 and the third tooth 4432 of the second actuating member 443 are interlocked (the second tooth 4413 abuts against the inclined surface 4434 of the first tooth protrusion 4433 of the third tooth 4432), once the rotational constraint of the guide protrusion 4421 on the second actuating member 443 disappears, the second actuating member 443 will rotate a small angle, for example, 15°, under the action of the biasing mechanism 43 until the first tooth protrusion 4433 abuts against the inclined surface of the first tooth 4422 of the guide protrusion 4421. During this process, the second actuating member 443 rotates upward, as shown in the figure. Figure 5CAs shown. Then, under the continuous compression of the biasing mechanism 43, the first tooth protrusion 4433 of the third tooth 4432 of the second actuating member 443 continues to rotate upward along the inclined surface of the first tooth 4422 of the guide protrusion 4421, rotating through a large angle, for example, 45°, until the first tooth 4422 of the guide protrusion 4421 engages with the third tooth 4432 of the second actuating member 443 (the first tooth 4422 engages between the first tooth protrusion 4433 and the second tooth protrusion 4435 of the third tooth 4432). At this point, the second actuating member 443 enters the first posture of locking with the base 442. During the entire movement of the second actuating member 443 described above, the movable sleeve 444 is synchronously pushed and approaches the outer periphery 4512 of the fixing member 451, thereby driving the locking member 452 to extend from the inner periphery 4511 of the fixing member 451. After the second actuating member 443 enters the first posture, the locking member 452 is also constrained and maintains the posture of extending from the fixing member 451.

[0053] Figures 5E-5G A second motion principle of the actuating mechanism 44 is illustrated. As shown in 5E, when the operating surface 4411 of the first actuating member 441 is pressed again, the first actuating member 441 drives the second actuating member 443 again along the first direction. At this time, the first actuating member 441 pushes the second tooth protrusion 4435 of the third tooth 4432 of the second actuating member 443 with the first tooth 4422 until the third tooth 4432 is pushed away from the state of engagement with the first tooth 4422 of the guide protrusion 4421. During this period, the biasing mechanism 43 always applies a biasing force along the second direction to the second actuating member 443. Under the pressure of the biasing mechanism 43, the second actuating member 443 rotates upward by a small angle, for example, 15°. Until the second tooth protrusion 4435 of the third tooth 4432 contacts the inclined surface of the first tooth 4422 of the guide protrusion 4421, as shown in 5E. Figure 5F As shown. Then as... Figure 5G As shown, the third tooth 4432 of the second actuating member 443 continues to rotate upward along the inclined surface of the first tooth 4422 by a large angle, such as 45°, until the guide protrusion 4421 re-engages with the second groove 4431 of the second actuating member 443, thus re-forming a rotational constraint on the second actuating member 443. At this time, the second actuating member 443 and the base 442 form a second locked posture. After the second actuating member 443 enters the second posture, since the second actuating member 443 retracts inward toward the base 442, the movable sleeve 444 is pushed open by the biasing mechanism 43 and avoids the locking mechanism 45, thereby eliminating the constraint on the locking member 452, and allowing the locking member 452 to retract inward toward the fixed member 451.

[0054] Figure 7A second connecting portion 5 of a semi-self-locking connection assembly is illustrated exemplarily. As shown, the second connecting portion 5 includes a second housing 51 and functional elements mounted to the second housing 51. In this embodiment, as described above, based on the mounting orientation of the module unit 1, the second connecting portion 5 is located at the upper corner of the module unit 1, and the second housing 51 is correspondingly connected as a corner node between the column 2 and the upper beam 3. The second housing 51 is pre-connected (e.g., welded) to the column 2 and beam 3 during the factory processing stage of the module unit 1. The second housing 51 has a third hole 511 formed in one of its walls and a fourth hole 512 formed in the opposite wall, both of which communicate with the internal space of the second housing 51. One of the third hole 511 and the fourth hole 512 is used to mount the aforementioned connecting member 53, while the other is used for the operation member 7 (which operates the first actuating member 441). Figures 12-13 (As shown in the image) Passing through.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector 53 is columnar, with one end fixedly mounted to the second housing 51, for example, by a threaded connection or welding, and the other end extending from the third hole 511 of the second housing 51. A circumferentially extending groove 531 is formed at the protruding end of the connector 53 to accommodate the locking member 452 of the first connecting portion 4 extending from the fixing member 451, thereby forming a locking between the first connecting portion 4 and the second connecting portion 5. Adaptively, the inner circumferential surface 4523 of the locking member 452 may be protruding to fit into the groove 531 of the connector 53. When the second actuating member 443 is in the second posture, the locking member 452 can retract into the fixing member 451, thereby disengaging from the groove 531 of the connector 53, thus unlocking the first connecting portion 4 and the second connecting portion 5. When installing the upper and lower module units 1, the connector 53 of the lower module unit 1 is inserted into the corresponding first outer shell 41 through the second hole 413 of the upper module unit 1, and then inserted into the inner periphery 4511 of the fixing member 451, thereby receiving the locking member 452 with the groove 531 and completing the combination of the upper and lower module units 1. The connector 53 forms a stable and firm vertical connection between the upper and lower module units 1. In the assembly process of the upper and lower module units 1, the connector 53 not only plays a positioning role, but also plays a role in fixing the upper and lower adjacent module units 1. After the upper and lower module units 1 are assembled, the connector 53 can transmit vertical force, thereby greatly improving the connection strength between the upper and lower module units 1.

[0056] To facilitate the installation of the connector 53, a second sleeve 52 can be installed inside the second housing 51. In the illustrated embodiment, the second sleeve 52 is fixedly installed to the wall of the second housing 51 from the inside, and the inner hole of the second sleeve 52 is aligned with the third hole 511 on the wall so that the connector 53 can pass through.

[0057] As shown above, the upper and lower module units 1 can be firmly connected vertically using connector 53. Horizontal connections between adjacent module units can be achieved using assembly connector 6. Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, the connecting piece 6 can be plate-shaped and has an opening 61. When assembling multiple module units 1, the connecting piece 6 is fitted onto the connector 53 of the lower module unit 1 through the opening 61. After the upper and lower module units 1 are vertically connected by the connector 53, the connecting piece 6 is pressed between the first outer shell 41 of the upper module unit 1 and the second outer shell 51 of the lower module unit 1, while the module units 1 on the same layer are constrained by the connecting piece 6 to complete the horizontal connection.

[0058] Since the number of module units 1 on the same floor varies, there can be multiple connecting pieces 6, differing only in the number of openings 61. These connecting pieces 6 can form optional kits. On the construction site, connecting pieces 6 with an appropriate number of openings can be selected based on the number of module units 1. Figure 14A Figure 14D The assembly 6 with different numbers of openings is shown, while Figure 15A Figure 15D A schematic diagram showing different numbers of module units 1 assembled together is shown. For example, Figure 14A A connector 6 with an opening 61 is shown, while... Figure 15A As shown, the upper and lower module units 1 can be used with the help of Figure 14A Assemble the assembly shown in part 6. Figure 14B The assembly 6 is shown with two openings 61, while as Figure 15B As shown, the four module units 1 (divided into two layers, with two module units per layer) can be used with the help of Figure 14B Assemble the assembly shown in part 6. Figure 14C The assembly 6 is shown with three openings 61, while... Figure 15C As shown, the six module units 1 (divided into two layers, with three module units per layer) can be used with the help of Figure 14C Assemble the assembly shown in part 6. Figure 14D The assembly 6 is shown with four openings 61, while as Figure 15D As shown, the eight module units 1 (divided into two layers, with four module units per layer) can be used with the help of Figure 14D Assemble the assembly shown in part 6.

[0059] The following is combined Figures 8 to 13 A method for constructing a modular building using the module unit 1 and the connector 6 according to the present invention will be described in detail.

[0060] During the factory fabrication stage, prefabricated modular units 1 and semi-self-locking connection assemblies are manufactured as a whole, with the first connection portion 4 and the second connection portion 5 as part of each modular unit 1. The first outer shell 41 and the second outer shell 51 have been welded to the joint between the column 2 and the corresponding beam 3 of each modular unit 1. For each modular unit 1, the fourth hole 512 of the second outer shell 51 opens towards the first outer shell 41, while the second hole 413 of the first outer shell 41 opens away from the second outer shell 51.

[0061] The prefabricated module unit 1 was hoisted to the construction site.

[0062] The first-layer module unit 1 is positioned such that the beam 3 containing its second connecting part 5 is located above, while the beam 3 containing its first connecting part 4 is located below. In this orientation, the second hole 413 of the first outer shell 41 is open downwards, while the third hole 511 of the second outer shell 51 is open upwards.

[0063] The connector 53 is installed onto the positioned second housing 51 of the first-layer module unit 1. The connector 53 extends from the third hole 511 of the second housing 51. Alternatively, the connector 53 may be pre-installed onto the second housing 51 of the module unit 1 during the factory fabrication stage. The connector 53 may be welded or threaded onto the second housing 51.

[0064] Select a connector 6 with an appropriate number of openings according to the number of first-layer module units 1, and fit the connector 6 onto the protruding part of the connector 53 of the first-layer module unit 1.

[0065] The second-layer module unit 1 is positioned above the first-layer module unit 1, with the beam 3 containing its second connecting part 5 above it and the beam 3 containing the first connecting part 4 below it. In this orientation, the second hole 413 of the first outer shell 41 opens downwards, while the third hole 511 of the second outer shell 51 opens upwards. The state of the first connecting part 4 and the second connecting part 5 when not assembled can be referenced. Figure 8 .

[0066] Lower the second-layer module unit 1 until the connector 53 of the first-layer module unit 1 extends into the corresponding first outer shell 41 of the second-layer module unit 1 and is inserted into the inner periphery 4511 of the fixing member 451. The state when the actuation mechanism 44 of the first connecting part 4 is not operated can be referred to... Figure 9 .

[0067] The operating element 7 is used to press the first actuating element 441 of the actuation mechanism 44 of the first connecting part 4 of the upper module unit 1, thereby locking the upper module unit 1 and the lower module unit 1 together. The operation method of the operating element 7 varies depending on the size of the first outer shell 41 and the second outer shell 51. For example... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown. For Figure 12 In this embodiment, the dimensions of the first housing 41 and the second housing 51 are substantially adapted to the dimensions of the column 2 and the beam 3, and the actuation mechanism 44 is entirely housed within the column 2. Therefore, the operating member 7 can be inserted from the third hole 511 and the fourth hole 512 of the second housing 51 of the second layer module unit 1, which connects to the upper beam 3 (at this time, the upper layer module unit 1 has not yet installed the connector 53), through the column 2 connected to the beam 3, until it contacts the operating surface of the first actuating member 441 near the lower part of the column 2. For... Figure 13 In one embodiment, the first housing 41 and the second housing 51 are widened, larger than the size of the column 2. In this case, the actuation mechanism 44 may be located outside the column 2, so the operating member 7 can be inserted from the third hole 511 and the fourth hole 512 of the second housing 51 of the second layer module unit 1, which is connected to the upper beam 3, and directly press the first operating member 441 of the actuation mechanism 44 located outside the column.

[0068] By pressing the first actuating member 441 with the operating member 7, the first actuating member 441 drives the second actuating member 443 in a first direction until the second actuating member 443 enters a first posture that locks with the base 442. At this time, the locking member 452 of the first connecting part 4 is inserted into the groove 531 of the connecting member 53 of the second connecting part 5, forming a lock between the first connecting part 4 and the second connecting part 5. This is done in addition to operating the first actuating member 441.

[0069] It should be understood that although this specification describes various embodiments, not every embodiment contains only one independent technical solution. This way of describing the specification is only for clarity. Those skilled in the art should regard the specification as a whole. The technical solutions in each embodiment can also be appropriately combined to form other implementation methods that can be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0070] The above description is merely an illustrative embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Any equivalent changes, modifications, and combinations made by those skilled in the art without departing from the concept and principles of the present invention should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A semi-locking connection assembly for modular units, wherein the modular units are adapted to be assembled together by means of the semi-locking connection assembly, characterized in that, The semi-self-locking connection component includes: The first connecting part (4) includes: First outer shell (41); The actuation mechanism (44) includes a base (442) fixed relative to the first housing (41) and a first actuator (441) and a second actuator (443) movably arranged on the base (442), wherein the first actuator (441) has an operable operating surface (4411) and is configured to drive the second actuator (443) in a first direction. A biasing mechanism (43) is disposed within the first housing (41) and configured to apply a biasing force to the second actuating member (443) in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the second actuating member (443) is configured to move under the bias of the biasing mechanism (43) in response to a drive of the first actuating member (441) to a first posture in which a first portion is locked with the base (442), and to move under the bias of the biasing mechanism (43) in response to another drive of the first actuating member (441) to a second posture in which a second portion different from the first portion is locked with the base (442) in response to another drive of the first actuating member (441); A locking mechanism (45) is disposed within the first housing (41) and includes a fixing member (451) fixed relative to the first housing (41) and a locking member (452) movably mounted on the fixing member (451). The locking member (452) is configured to extend from the fixing member (451) in conjunction with the movement of the second actuating member (443) to the first posture, and during the second posture, the linkage between the second actuating member (443) and the locking member (452) is released. The second connecting part (5) includes: Second outer shell (51); A connector (53) is disposed in and extends from the second housing (51), the connector (53) being configured to be inserted into the first housing (41) and to engage with the locking member (452) extending from the fixing member (451).

2. The semi-self-locking connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The actuation mechanism (44) further includes a movable sleeve (444) abutting between the second actuating member (443) and the biasing mechanism (43), wherein the second actuating member (443) is capable of driving the movable sleeve (444) in the first direction, and the biasing mechanism (43) applies a biasing force to the movable sleeve (444) in the second direction, wherein during the first posture, the movable sleeve (444) pushes the locking member (452) of the locking mechanism (45) to extend from the fixing member (451).

3. The semi-self-locking connection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first connecting part (4) further includes a first sleeve (42) installed inside the first housing (41) and supporting the locking mechanism (45). The biasing mechanism (43) is sleeved on the first sleeve (42) and abuts between the first sleeve (42) and the movable sleeve (444), wherein the inner diameter of the movable sleeve (444) is adapted to the outer diameter of the first sleeve (42).

4. The semi-self-locking connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second connecting part (5) further includes a second sleeve (52) installed inside the second housing (51), wherein the connector (53) is inserted into the second sleeve (52) and extends out from the second housing (51).

5. The semi-self-locking connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The fastener (451) is configured as an annular shape having an inner periphery (4511) and an outer periphery (4512), and forms a plurality of openings (4515) extending from the inner periphery (4511) to the outer periphery (4512). A plurality of locking members (452) are movably disposed along these openings (4515) to be able to extend from the inner periphery (4511) of the fastener (451) in conjunction with the second actuating member (443) being in the first posture. The connector (53) has a groove (531) for accommodating the extended locking members (452).

6. The semi-self-locking connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The base (442) and the second actuator (443) are each provided with teeth, and the teeth of the second actuator (443) have two adjacent tooth protrusions. The teeth of the base (442) have an inclined surface. The second actuator (443) can move along the inclined surface of the teeth of the base (442) with one tooth protrusion under the bias of the biasing mechanism (43) until it is in the first posture. The second actuator (443) can also move along the inclined surface of the teeth of the base (442) with the other tooth protrusion under the bias of the biasing mechanism (43) until it is in the second posture.

7. The semi-self-locking connection assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first actuator (441) has teeth and is configured to push one of the two toothed protrusions of the second actuator (443) along the first direction with its own teeth to drive the toothed protrusion of the second actuator (443) into the inclined surface of the teeth of the base (442).

8. The semi-self-locking connection assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The base (442) has a guide protrusion (4421) extending axially, and the first actuating member (441) and the second actuating member (443) each form a groove between their adjacent teeth, and the guide protrusion (4421) can be inserted into the groove and moved relative to the groove.

9. A module for a steel structure modular building, characterized in that, The module includes a module unit (1), and the module unit (1) includes: A pair of beams arranged opposite each other (3); Column (2), connecting the pair of beams (3); A semi-self-locking connection assembly, as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first housing (41) of the first connection part (4) serves as a node connecting the column (2) to one of the pair of beams (3), and the second housing (51) of the second connection part (5) serves as a node connecting the column (2) to the other of the pair of beams (3).

10. The module according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first housing (41) and the second housing (51) are pre-connected at the factory between the corresponding beam (3) and column (2).

11. The module according to claim 9, characterized in that, The module also includes a kit consisting of a plurality of connectors (6), each connector (6) being adapted to be pressed between the first housing (41) and the second housing (51) of two adjacent module units (1), the connectors (6) having a different number of openings (61) to accommodate the number of single-layer module units (1).

12. A steel structure modular building, characterized in that, Includes the module according to any one of claims 9 to 11.

13. A method for constructing a modular building, characterized in that, The steel structure modular building is the steel structure modular building as described in claim 12, and the construction method includes: Provide the module; The first layer module unit is positioned with the beam connected to the first housing located below and the beam connected to the second housing located above. Select a connector with an appropriate number of openings according to the number of the first layer module units, and fit the connector into the corresponding connector of the first layer module unit through the openings; The second-layer module unit is positioned above the first-layer module unit with the beam connected to the first housing located below and the beam connected to the second housing located above. Lower the second-layer module unit until the connector of the first-layer module unit extends into the corresponding first outer shell of the second-layer module unit and is inserted into the fixing member; Insert the actuating element from the second housing of the second layer module unit, which is connected to the upper beam, through the column to which the beam is connected, until it contacts the operating surface of the first actuating element below the column; By pressing the first actuating member with the operating member, the first actuating member drives the second actuating member along the first direction until the second actuating member enters the first posture, and a lock is formed between the locking member of the first connecting part and the connecting member of the second connecting part.

Images