Hybrid Volumetric Core Construction for Flexible Building Geometry

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular construction methods fail to accommodate specific geometric needs, architectural differentiation, and zoning requirements, limiting the use of volumetric modular construction in multifamily buildings.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid approach combining standardized, prefabricated volumetric modular 'core' modules with non-standardized exterior designs, allowing for prefabricated sub-components and vertical distribution of major building services, enabling adaptable building geometries and forms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If fully modular construction methods are used, then production speed and construction efficiency are improved, but design flexibility and geometric adaptability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction speedVSAvoidgeometric adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The building is divided into two distinct segments: a standardized modular core containing repetitive elements (elevators, stairs, mechanical rooms, corridors) and a customized perimeter portion accommodating unique geometric and architectural requirements. This segmentation allows the core to be produced efficiently through modular methods while the perimeter can be designed flexibly to meet specific project needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different construction approaches are applied to different parts of the building: the core uses standardized modular construction for efficiency, while the perimeter uses customized construction methods to achieve local geometric and architectural differentiation. This allows each portion of the building to have the quality and characteristics appropriate to its function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If completely site-built construction is used, then design flexibility and architectural differentiation are improved, but construction time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedesign flexibilityVSAvoidconstruction time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The building is divided into two distinct segments: a standardized modular core containing repetitive elements (elevators, stairs, mechanical rooms, corridors) and a customized perimeter portion accommodating unique geometric and architectural requirements. This segmentation allows the core to be produced efficiently through modular methods while the perimeter can be designed flexibly to meet specific project needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular core components are designed, manufactured, and prepared in advance in a controlled factory environment, allowing for parallel development of the perimeter design. This preliminary action on the standardized portions accelerates the overall construction process while maintaining design flexibility for the customized portions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of time

If standardized modular core modules are used, then construction cost and time are reduced, but ability to meet unique project requirements deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconstruction timeVSAvoidproject requirement adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The building is divided into two distinct segments: a standardized modular core containing repetitive elements (elevators, stairs, mechanical rooms, corridors) and a customized perimeter portion accommodating unique geometric and architectural requirements. This segmentation allows the core to be produced efficiently through modular methods while the perimeter can be designed flexibly to meet specific project needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular core is designed as a universal, reusable component that can be adapted to various project types and locations. The standardized core modules serve multiple functions (vertical circulation, mechanical housing, corridor access) while the customized perimeter adapts to specific project requirements, creating a multi-functional building system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20260055626A1Hybrid volumetric core modular construction

Publication Date: 2026.02.26 COREMOD INC

AI summary

A method for constructing a building includes the steps of constructing a building core and core subcomponents, constructing a perimeter of the building, and vertical distribution of major building services via connection to the core modules. Constructing the building core includes using a plurality of prefabricated volumetric modules, wherein the width of the modules is in the range of 7 to 17 feet wide and the core modules comprise greater than 50 percent of the structural capacity of the building and of the building services. The core sub-components include interior predefined arrangements for at least one of kitchens, bathrooms, mechanical closets or cabinets, laundry closets or headwalls, and distribution elements, fixtures, fittings, and appliances for building services. The arrangements can be installed prior to constructing the building core or after. The perimeter construction includes outer portions of residential units and building envelopes, including at least one of living rooms, bedrooms, dens, home offices, and other occupiable spaces and preferably includes varying geometries.