Modular space dividing systems and methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular and temporary sleeping and living spaces in crowded conditions, such as homeless shelters and disaster relief areas, are not reproducible, efficient, sturdy, or private, and lack efficient setup, teardown, and storage capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular, unitized space dividing system that collapses to a small footprint for efficient storage and shipping, comprising individual construction units with integrated furnishings and storage, which can be easily transitioned between deployed and collapsed configurations, reducing the need for loose elements and minimizing loss during storage and use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional temporary sleeping spaces are constructed using piecemeal components, then setup and teardown can be performed, but the system is not reproducible, not efficient, not sturdy, and components are prone to loss
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular units that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each module contains integrated components (bed, storage, privacy elements) that function as a complete unit, eliminating the need for separate piecemeal components while maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions (sleeping, storage, privacy, seating) are merged into single integrated modules. This consolidation reduces the number of separate components needed, improves structural stability, and ensures all necessary elements are contained within each module to prevent loss.
2Ease of operation
If traditional temporary spaces use loose connection materials, then assembly is possible, but elements become lost or unusable during storage and transportation
Solution Approach 1:
Connection materials and fastening mechanisms are integrated into the module structures themselves rather than being separate loose elements. This ensures all connection components remain attached to their respective modules during storage and transportation, eliminating loss while maintaining ease of assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Smaller components and connection elements are nested within or attached to larger module structures. This nesting approach ensures that all small parts have designated locations within the modules, preventing them from becoming lost during storage and handling.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional temporary spaces are constructed in crowded conditions, then housing capacity is achieved, but privacy and efficiency are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the crowded space into discrete, self-contained modules that provide individual privacy boundaries. Each module acts as an independent living unit, allowing high-density housing while maintaining personal privacy spaces through the modular configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
Each module is designed as a universal unit that can be configured in various arrangements to accommodate different housing densities and privacy requirements. The multi-functional design allows the same module to provide sleeping, storage, and privacy functions regardless of its position in the overall housing configuration.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional temporary spaces lack modular design, then construction is possible, but the system is not reproducible and storage is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into standardized modules that can be manufactured using the same processes and then assembled in various configurations. This segmentation enables reproducible manufacturing while maintaining ease of construction through consistent module interfaces and assembly procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular system for creating a temporary plurality of individual living spaces, may include a plurality of anchors, where pairs of anchors create opposing sides of a personal space. A frame may be positioned between the pairs of anchors to create a bedding structure. The anchors may also provide storage space, lights, power source, among other features of a living area. A covering may be used between the pairs of anchors to separate the living space from the rest of the space to improve individual privacy.