Integrated Fenestration Wall Assembly with Service Module Sockets
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction process of buildings is hindered by compatibility issues between various components such as fenestration assemblies, HVAC duct work, electrical wiring, and window treatments, leading to increased costs and time due to interference and aesthetic compromises.
Innovation Solution
A fenestration wall assembly with module sockets that can receive interchangeable service modules, allowing for the integration of HVAC conduit, electrical, and data conduits, screen modules, and trim modules, which are selected by architects and customers, providing a unified installation solution that minimizes labor-intensive build-outs and maintains a clean aesthetic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate installations of HVAC duct work, electrical wiring, and window treatments are performed, then each component can be installed independently, but the installation complexity and time increase significantly due to compatibility issues and interference between components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate installation tasks (HVAC duct work, electrical wiring, window treatments, fascia) into a single integrated fenestration wall assembly. The service modules are pre-integrated into the fenestration frame during manufacturing, allowing all components to be installed simultaneously as one unit rather than sequentially, thereby reducing installation time and resolving compatibility conflicts between trades.
Solution Approach 2:
The fenestration wall assembly is divided into modular service modules (HVAC module, electrical module, data module, window treatment module) that can be independently configured and selected. This segmentation allows architects and customers to choose specific modules while maintaining the benefit of integrated installation, reducing complexity by standardizing interfaces for each module type.
2Productivity
If various service modules are integrated into the fenestration wall assembly, then installation complexity is reduced and time is saved, but the device complexity increases due to the need for module sockets and interchangeable service modules
Solution Approach 1:
The fenestration frame is designed with universal module sockets that can accommodate multiple types of service modules (HVAC, electrical, data, window treatments). This multi-functional interface allows a single standardized socket design to serve multiple purposes, reducing the need for different socket types and simplifying the overall assembly process despite the variety of services provided.
Solution Approach 2:
Service modules are nested within the fenestration wall assembly structure, with each module fitting into a designated socket within the frame. This nesting approach consolidates multiple components into a hierarchical structure where the fenestration frame contains service modules, which in turn contain their respective components (ducts, wiring, treatments), reducing overall complexity by organizing components systematically.
3Shape
If service modules are installed within the fenestration wall assembly, then a clean minimalist aesthetic is maintained, but the manufacturing complexity increases due to the need for precise integration of multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
Service modules are pre-integrated into the fenestration wall assembly during the manufacturing process rather than being installed separately on-site. This preliminary action ensures precise alignment and positioning of all components before the assembly is shipped to the building site, maintaining aesthetic appearance while managing manufacturing precision requirements through factory-controlled conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The fenestration wall assembly is designed with localized service module sockets positioned at specific locations within the frame structure. This allows service components to be integrated only where needed, maintaining the clean aesthetic of the overall assembly while accommodating necessary services in discrete locations without requiring precision throughout the entire structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A fenestration wall assembly includes a fenestration frame extending along a perimeter of the fenestration wall assembly. The fenestration frame includes a socket core having a first module socket configured to interchangeably receive service modules therein, and a second module socket configured to interchangeably receive service modules therein. The interchangeably received service modules include at least first and second service modules. Each of the first and second modules includes respective first and second module profiles. A panel having a panel profile is surrounded by the fenestration frame. The panel profile is isolated from the first and second module profiles.