Modular Bracket System for High-Strength Moment-Resisting Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for constructing modular frame structures are not suitable for quickly and inexpensively building high-strength frames, particularly for large structures, as they lack the necessary strength and are not adaptable for modular construction.
Innovation Solution
A system using standardized brackets with multiple 90-degree attachment elements that allow structural members to be securely fastened, forming moment-resisting connections, enabling the construction of modular frames with varying configurations and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional woodworking joints or metal connectors are used to join structural members, then the construction can be performed with simple devices and methods, but the resulting structure lacks the necessary strength for large modular buildings and cannot be constructed quickly or inexpensively
Solution Approach 1:
The joining system is segmented into standardized brackets with multiple attachment elements extending from a central node. Each bracket is designed as an independent modular component that can join multiple structural members (typically three to six members) simultaneously. This segmentation allows the complex joining function to be distributed across multiple simple, standardized components rather than requiring a single complex joint, thereby achieving high strength through the collective action of multiple standardized elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The brackets are designed as universal connecting elements that can join multiple structural members (typically three to six members) simultaneously. Each bracket serves multiple functions: it provides moment-resisting connections, enables modular assembly, and accommodates various structural member configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single standardized bracket design to replace multiple different types of traditional joints, achieving both strength and construction efficiency.
2Productivity
If ad hoc joining devices and methods are used for constructing building frames, then the construction process can be flexible, but it is not suitable for quickly and inexpensively constructing modular frames
Solution Approach 1:
The brackets are manufactured in advance as standardized components with predetermined attachment element configurations. Structural members are also prepared with corresponding connection features (such as slots or holes) before assembly. This preliminary preparation of components allows for rapid on-site assembly without requiring complex custom fabrication during construction, thereby achieving high productivity while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket design incorporates standardized geometric parameters, particularly the 90-degree angles between attachment elements, which optimizes the connection geometry for common building frame configurations. By fixing these parameters in the standardized bracket design, the brackets can be mass-produced efficiently while enabling rapid assembly of modular frames with varying sizes and configurations through simple recombination of the standardized components.
3Reliability
If standardized brackets with multiple attachment elements are used to form moment resisting connections, then high-strength modular frames can be constructed quickly, but the brackets and structural members require precise manufacturing and cutting
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into the bracket component and the structural member connection features (slots or holes). By separating the complex moment-resisting connection function into a standardized bracket with pre-configured attachment elements and simpler structural member features, the manufacturing precision requirements are distributed. The bracket can be manufactured with precise geometric parameters (such as 90-degree angles between attachment elements) in a controlled factory setting, while the structural members require only simpler cutting and drilling operations that can be performed with standard equipment.
4Adaptability or versatility
If uniform brackets are used to construct modular frames of varying sizes and configurations, then flexibility in design is achieved, but the system requires a standardized set of brackets in different configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized bracket is designed as a universal component with multiple attachment elements (typically three to six elements) extending from a central node at standardized angles (such as 90 degrees). This universal design allows a single bracket type to accommodate multiple structural member configurations by simply changing which attachment elements are used and how structural members are connected to them. This reduces the need for multiple specialized bracket configurations while maintaining high adaptability for constructing modular frames of varying sizes and arrangements.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for constructing a modular frame structure is provided. The system includes brackets to which structural members can be fastened to form a building frame. Each bracket has between three and six attachment elements positioned at right angles to an adjacent attachment element. A structural member, such as a beam or post, can be fastened to each attachment element to form a moment resisting connection. The brackets are manufactured in standard sizes and configurations so that a set of brackets can be used to construct a modular frame structure of a desired size and configuration.