Hinged Prefabricated Roof Segments for Faster On-Site Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prefabricated roof structures require separate assembly of elements on-site, which is time-consuming and inefficient, and they are difficult to transport due to their size and shape.
Innovation Solution
A prefabricated roof structure comprising hinged roof segments that can be connected and transported in a compact, flat state, allowing for simultaneous assembly on-site, with features like folding coupling plates, fixatives, and tensioning devices to ensure dimensional stability and ease of installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If roof segments are assembled separately on-site with a crane, then the roof structure can be customized and assembled, but the assembly process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The roof structure is divided into multiple prefabricated segments that are manufactured separately in a factory and then assembled on-site. Each segment is a complete, functional unit that can be produced independently, allowing parallel manufacturing and reducing overall assembly time.
Solution Approach 2:
All necessary assembly actions are performed in advance during factory manufacturing. The segments are pre-assembled, pre-insulated, and pre-finishing in a controlled factory environment, so that minimal assembly is required on-site - essentially just positioning and connecting the pre-prepared segments.
2Area of stationary object
If the roof structure is made large and complex to provide sufficient space, then usable space increases, but transportation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The large roof structure is segmented into smaller, manageable units that can be transported easily. These segments are then assembled on-site to form the complete large-scale roof, combining the benefits of easy transportation with sufficient total coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The roof segments are designed to fold or collapse into a compact, flat configuration for transportation, then expand to their full three-dimensional form during assembly. This dimensional transformation allows the same structure to occupy different spatial configurations - compact for transport, expanded for use.
3Area of stationary object
If the roof segments are hinged at an angle to provide headroom, then usable space under the roof increases, but the structure becomes more complex to manufacture and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The roof segments incorporate hinged joints that allow the structure to dynamically change its configuration. During transportation, the segments fold flat in a compact configuration. During assembly, the hinges are activated to create the angled, three-dimensional structure that provides headroom. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction between complexity and functionality.
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
Enables rapid on-site assembly and efficient transportation of prefabricated roof structures, providing a stable and insulating roof with increased usable space and compliance with building regulations.
Implementation Method 1
each of the roof segments is hinged with one or two other of the roof segments
Implementation Method 2
at least one tensioning device that is designed to tension, in the second state, one of the folding fixing plates at the folding line towards a hinge point of the two linked roof segments
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a prefabricated roof construction comprising a number of roof segments (1,2,3,4) in which each of the roof segments is hinged with one or two other of the roof segments. In a first state, the roof segments are in line with each other and in a second state, each of the roof segments is at a non-straight angle with the one or two other roof segments linked to it. In a version, the roof segments can be made dimensionally stable by means of clamping plates.