Foam Modular Structure With Floating Assembly and Waterproof Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing structures that provide living spaces do not offer the capability to float on water and require complex assembly or foundations.
Innovation Solution
A structure comprising foam ceiling, wall, and floor members with specific joint edges, allowing for assembly without a frame and enabling floating on water, with optional expansion capabilities and a waterproof coating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional structures (extruded polystyrene foam or FRP) are used to provide living space, then the structure can be assembled by combining parts, but the structure cannot float on water and requires concrete foundation slabs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter by using foam material with specific density and buoyancy characteristics, transforming the structure from non-floating to floating capability. The foam material's inherent buoyancy eliminates the need for concrete foundation slabs, directly resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If foam material is used for all members (ceiling, wall, floor), then the structure can float on water, but the joint sections may be vulnerable to water infiltration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a waterproof coating (thin film) over the joint sections of foam members. This coating layer protects the porous foam material from water infiltration while maintaining the overall floating capability. The coating acts as a barrier that preserves both buoyancy and water resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structure by combining foam material with waterproof coating material. The foam provides buoyancy and structural form, while the coating provides water infiltration resistance. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between floating capability and water resistance.
3Ease of operation
If multiple foam members are joined together to form a structure, then the structure provides internal space and can be assembled, but the joint sections create potential weak points for water penetration
Solution Approach 1:
The waterproof coating is specifically applied to joint sections where multiple foam members connect. This targeted application protects the most vulnerable areas (joints) from water infiltration while maintaining the ease of assembly provided by the modular foam member design.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the structure is designed to float on water, then it can be installed without foundations, but the structure must prevent water infiltration to maintain buoyancy
Solution Approach 1:
The waterproof coating forms a protective shell over the foam structure, particularly at joint sections. This shell prevents water from penetrating into the porous foam material, thereby maintaining the structure's buoyancy while allowing flexible installation without foundations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The structure can support weights on water while preventing water infiltration, allowing installation on various surfaces without foundations, and can be expanded for increased space.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) A structure comprising: at least one ceiling member; at least four wall members; and at least one floor member; wherein each of the at least four wall members has: a first joint edge that is joined to the at least one ceiling member; a second joint edge that is joined to the at least one floor member; a third joint edge that is joined to one of the at least four wall members adjacent to each of the at least four wall members; and a fourth joint edge that is joined to the other one of the at least four wall members adjacent to each of the at least four wall members; wherein each of the at least one ceiling member, the at least four wall members, and the at least one floor member is made of foam.
Data Source
AI summary
This structure 100 of the present invention comprises two ceiling members 110a, 110b, four wall members 120a-120d, and two floor members 130a, 130b, wherein each of the four wall members has a first joint edge joined to the two ceiling members, a second joint edge joined to the two floor members, a third joint edge joined to one among the four wall members adjacent to the respective four wall members, and a fourth joint edge joined to another one among the four wall members adjacent to the respective four wall members, and wherein the two ceiling members, the four wall members, and the two floor members are each formed of a foamed body.