Modular Building Connector Assembly for Flexion-Resistant Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Expanding the footprint of pre-existing modular buildings by connecting additional modular units is challenging due to difficulties in maintaining structural strength and avoiding flexion at the interface between existing and new modules, especially when connecting corner connectors across multiple floors.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly comprising upper and lower connectors with gusset plates, featuring arms and bosses for secure fastening, and a method for coupling these components to form a stable and strong connection between modular units, allowing for expansion while maintaining structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If modular units are connected to expand building footprint, then building area increases, but structural strength and stability deteriorate due to flexion at interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple functional segments: upper and lower connector bodies for receiving column frames, multiple arms extending in different directions for connecting beam frames, and a gusset plate sandwiched between connectors. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function optimally while working together to maintain overall structural strength during building expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly merges multiple connection functions into a single integrated component. The upper and lower connectors are coupled together with the gusset plate sandwiched between them, forming a unified assembly that simultaneously connects multiple column frames and beam frames, eliminating weak interfaces and enhancing structural stability during footprint expansion.
2Length of stationary object
If corner connectors are connected across multiple floors, then building height increases, but structural stability deteriorates due to connection difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design provides multi-functionality to address vertical connections across multiple floors. The upper and lower connectors can receive column frames at different heights, while the multiple arms can connect beam frames at various levels. This universal design enables consistent connection methods whether connecting adjacent floors or spanning multiple floors, maintaining structural stability throughout the vertical expansion.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector extends connections into the vertical dimension through its upper and lower bodies that receive column frames at different elevations. The arms extend horizontally to connect beam frames while the overall assembly spans vertically between floors. This three-dimensional connection approach stabilizes multi-floor connections by distributing loads across vertical and horizontal dimensions simultaneously.
3Strength
If additional bracing frames are added to maintain structural strength, then structural stability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector merges the functions of multiple bracing and connection elements into a single integrated assembly. The upper and lower connectors coupled with the gusset plate between them create a unified structural element that provides both vertical and horizontal stability, eliminating the need for separate bracing frames and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining structural strength.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly, having an upper connector coupled to a lower connector and a gusset plate sandwiched between the upper and lower connectors. The upper and lower connectors allow for coupling to adjacent upper and lower connectors, respectively, allowing for addition of a modular unit to a pre-existing modular structure. Also, ways of coupling adjacent upper connectors and coupling of adjacent lower connectors when coupling a modular unit to a pre-existing modular structure are provided.