Modular Beam Chambers for Internal Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular construction techniques require thicker external walls and longer assembly times due to the need for access to bolted connections, which obstructs access and necessitates post-processing of cladding, and result in a larger footprint compared to traditional structures.
Innovation Solution
A modular unit design featuring a structural frame with upper and lower beams and columns, where chambers in the beams allow for the introduction of building material to create connections between units, eliminating the need for external fixings and enabling thinner walls while maintaining structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If modular units are joined by bolts, then assembly is possible, but access to bolted connections is obstructed by adjacent units or structure parts
Solution Approach 1:
The connection method transitions from external bolting (requiring lateral access) to internal material injection (accessed from above through the roof). This dimensional change in access approach eliminates obstruction problems caused by adjacent units blocking side access to connection points.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection operation is extracted from the external interface between modules and moved inside the modular unit through the roof opening. The building material is injected into a chamber within the module, separating the connection process from the external cladding and structural surfaces.
2Ease of operation
If external cladding is left off during assembly, then access for bolting is provided, but assembly time is prolonged due to post-processing
Solution Approach 1:
The connection operation is performed preliminarily during the main assembly process through material injection, before any post-processing is needed. The building material hardens to form the connection, eliminating the need for subsequent bolting operations and allowing cladding to be installed immediately afterward without delay.
3Strength
If thicker external walls are used in modular units, then structural strength is maintained, but footprint area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection function is merged with the building material itself. The same material that provides structural strength when hardened also serves as the connection medium between modules, eliminating the need for separate thick wall structures and external fixing hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The state of the building material changes from liquid (for injection and flow) to solid (for structural strength and connection). This phase transition allows the material to be injected through narrow openings and then harden to provide the necessary structural integrity, reducing the need for thick walls.
4Strength
If building material is injected into chambers, then strong connections form, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The building material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural strength when hardened, acts as the connection medium between modules, and fills the chamber space. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate connection components and simplifies the overall system despite the injection process.
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
This design allows for rapid assembly with reduced site time, thinner external walls, and a more efficient use of space, as the building material hardens to form a strong connection between modular units, eliminating the need for external cladding during assembly and reducing the overall footprint.
Implementation Method 1
as the building material hardens to form a strong connection between modular units
Data Source
AI summary
A modular unit for constructing a modular structure is described. The modular unit comprises a structural frame, which includes at least one upper beam, at least one lower beam, and at least one column extending between said upper and lower beams and connected therebetween. At least one of said upper or lower beams is arranged to define at least one chamber for receiving a building material therein along at least a portion of its length, said column being connected to said portion of said beam. Part of said beam is removed along said portion of said beam to define at least one opening to said chamber.