Modular Building Connections Using Thickened Concrete Edges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular building systems face challenges in reducing construction time and costs, minimizing on-site errors, and aligning engineering techniques with prefabricated modular building requirements, while ensuring structural integrity and weather protection.
Innovation Solution
The use of precast concrete modules with thickened edges, hollow structural section bars, and a roof attached to the frame, along with elastomeric bearing pads for alignment and support, to create a modular building system that simplifies construction and connections between modules, enhancing structural integrity and reducing exposure to severe weather.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional on-site construction methods are used, then flexibility in customization is improved, but construction time and labor costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into modular units that can be pre-assembled in factories and then transported to the site for quick assembly. Each module contains complete functional elements (walls, floors, ceilings, utilities) that are standardized yet adaptable through different configurations and combinations, resolving the contradiction between customization flexibility and construction speed.
2Ease of operation
If traditional on-site construction methods are used, then on-site adjustments are improved, but construction costs and error rates increase
Solution Approach 1:
Most construction activities are performed in advance during factory manufacturing, including precise cutting, assembly of structural elements, installation of utilities, and quality inspections. This preliminary action reduces on-site work to simple module assembly and connection, lowering costs and error rates while maintaining adjustability through standardized connection details.
3Ease of operation
If modules are exposed during transport and assembly, then weather protection is worsened, but construction accessibility is improved
Solution Approach 1:
Complete building modules including roof, walls, and flooring are manufactured and assembled in protected factory environments before transport. This preliminary assembly ensures that interior spaces are enclosed and protected from weather during transportation and crane lifting operations, while construction accessibility is maintained through the modular assembly process.
4Productivity
If precast concrete modules are used, then construction speed is improved, but structural connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system uses standardized parameters and dimensions for concrete modules, steel connections, and fastening elements. By establishing consistent parameters for module sizes, connection plate dimensions, bolt specifications, and grout depths, the system achieves rapid assembly despite the inherent complexity of connecting heavy precast concrete components.
Data Source
AI summary
The construction of buildings can be time consuming and error prone. Building modules constructed off-site and pre-furnished can be made more efficiently than building everything on-site. Building modules are disclosed with a reinforced, precast concrete floor with thickened edges, and a structural frame that defines the shape of the module. The frame is made from hollow structural section bars that are attached to the thickened edges of the floor. The module is made with a roof to protect the furnishings and fittings inside the module during storage, transportation and installation.