Gusseted Modular Building Connector for Tall Moment Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular building construction methods face challenges in resisting and transmitting large moments, tension forces, and compression loads, especially in tall or slender buildings, due to the pinned nature of connections and lack of diagonal bracing, which limits the achievable height and increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A system of load-bearing corner blocks and gusset plates that facilitate moment-connected module frames, allowing for the efficient transmission of forces and enabling the construction of taller, wider structures with reduced material usage and increased precision, while accommodating non-orthogonal shapes and varying module configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pinned connections are used between modular building units, then ease of assembly is improved, but structural strength and ability to resist large moments and tension forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from pinned connections to moment-resisting connections by changing the mechanical parameters of the joint. The connector assembly includes rigid connection elements and positioning features that enable the transmission of bending moments and tensile forces between modules, fundamentally altering the connection behavior from hinged to fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly combines multiple materials and components including metal connectors, positioning elements, and fastening mechanisms to create a composite connection system that simultaneously provides moment resistance, tension capacity, and ease of assembly through integrated design.
2Stability of the object's composition
If diagonal bracing is added to resist lateral forces, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly merges the functions of connection, bracing, and positioning into a single integrated component. The rigid connectors provide both the moment-resisting capability and the lateral force resistance that would traditionally require separate diagonal bracing elements, thereby reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides moment-resisting connections, transmits lateral forces, positions modules accurately, and enables easy assembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate diagonal bracing systems while maintaining structural stability.
3Strength
If large columns are used to transmit compression loads, then load-bearing capacity is improved, but useful floor area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly segments the load transmission function into distributed connection points at each module interface rather than requiring large concentrated columns. The moment-resisting connectors distribute compression, tension, and lateral loads across multiple connection elements, eliminating the need for oversized columns that would reduce floor area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from vertical load transmission through large columns to a three-dimensional load distribution network using rigid connectors that transmit forces in multiple directions (compression, tension, shear) through the module joints, effectively utilizing the spatial arrangement of connections rather than relying on column size.
4Strength
If secondary frames are constructed to transmit forces, then force transmission effectiveness is improved, but assembly time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly merges the secondary frame function into the primary module connection system. The rigid connectors directly provide the force transmission capability that would traditionally require separate secondary framing, eliminating the need for additional assembly steps and reducing construction time.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly is pre-designed and pre-assembled as an integrated unit that provides all necessary force transmission capabilities. This preliminary integration of connection and bracing functions into a single assembly unit eliminates the need for on-site construction of secondary frames, significantly reducing assembly time and labor requirements.
Data Source
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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. Also, disclosed is a hoistable connector assembly, a lifting frame assembly, a coupling system for modular frame units, a method for assembling a module unit using the connector assembly, and a modular frame unit and building having the connector assembly.