Modular Ring-and-Bracket Building Assembly for Remote Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Constructing buildings in remote areas is costly due to high transportation and labor costs, and existing building modules face challenges in efficient on-site assembly and adaptation to reduce transport dimensions.
Innovation Solution
A building system comprising ring members, channels, and brackets that allow for easy assembly and adaptation of modules, enabling efficient on-site construction and reducing transport dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If building modules are constructed with traditional connection methods, then structural stability is achieved, but on-site assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct functional components: a base portion for engagement with ring members, a connecting portion for attachment to cross members, and intermediate fasteners. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the assembly process by dividing the connection function into manageable parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket acts as an intermediary element between the ring members and cross members, providing a standardized interface that simplifies the connection process. The base portion engages with the ring member channel while the connecting portion attaches to cross members, mediating the connection between different structural elements and enabling faster on-site assembly.
2Quantity of substance
If module dimensions are increased to reduce transport frequency, then transport costs decrease, but transport difficulty and permit requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into modular segments that can be transported separately and assembled on-site. This segmentation allows each module to be sized to fit standard transport constraints while maintaining the ability to construct larger buildings by combining multiple modules, thereby avoiding transport restrictions on oversized individual pieces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system utilizes the dimensional space within the channel of the ring members to accommodate the base portion of the bracket. By utilizing the vertical and horizontal dimensions within the channel geometry, the connection system achieves robust engagement without requiring additional external support structures that would increase module dimensions.
3Reliability
If traditional construction methods are used in remote areas, then structural integrity is maintained, but construction cost increases due to transportation and labor
Solution Approach 1:
The building system is divided into pre-fabricated modular units that can be manufactured independently with controlled quality, then assembled on-site. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing processes that reduce costs while maintaining structural integrity through precise connection details designed into each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket connection system serves multiple functions: it provides structural connection between ring members and cross members, enables adjustable positioning, and facilitates rapid assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby lowering construction costs while maintaining structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A building system (10) comprising a first module (12) having a first and second ring members (14, 16). A channel (24) is provided around each of the ring members (14, 16) and brackets (20) are provided for engagement with the ring members (14, 16). Each bracket (20) comprises a base portion (36) receivable in the channel (24) and connecting portion (38) extending from the base portion (36). The base portion (36) comprises a planar central portion (42) and side portions (40, 41). When received in the channel (24), the side portions (40, 41) are located adjacent and secured to upper and lower walls (30, 31) of the ring members (14, 16). The connecting portion (38) comprises a planar wall portion extending from the central portion (36) to engage with cross members (26) of the building module to support a floor structure or a roof structure.