Modular Configurable Unit System for Controlled Environment Creation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular unit systems are limited by their inability to create a controlled environment, lack of transportability, and inflexibility in configuration, which restricts their ability to efficiently expand services without predefined facilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular configurable multi-purpose system comprising transportable units that can be combined to create a controlled environment, allowing for flexible configuration and expansion without the need for locking mechanisms, and utilizing a variety of materials beyond metal structural beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If modular units are attached with a defined locking mechanism, then the units can be securely connected, but the possible orientations and layouts of the units are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a fixed locking system to a dynamic interface that accommodates multiple orientations. The electrical and environmental control connections are designed to flexibly adapt to different unit arrangements, enabling end-to-end, side-by-side, and angular configurations while maintaining secure electrical and environmental seals.
Solution Approach 2:
The unit connection interface is designed with universal compatibility across multiple functions: mechanical support, electrical power and data transmission, and environmental control sealing. This multi-functional interface allows the same connection point to serve various orientation requirements without needing orientation-specific locking mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If modular units are designed as self-contained units, then each unit is independent and transportable, but the ability to create a modular system with multiple units is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate functions into integrated unit designs: environmental control systems are merged with structural elements, electrical distribution is integrated into the mechanical connection interface, and support functions are combined with operational spaces. This allows units to remain transportable while seamlessly forming integrated modular systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular system is segmented into standardized units that can be independently manufactured and transported, yet designed with interface compatibility that enables systematic combination. Each unit contains segmented functional modules (environmental control, electrical systems, support facilities) that can be configured in various arrangements to create complete operational systems.
3Area of stationary object
If expandable areas are created to fulfill service demands, then more space is available for operations, but the cost and complexity of expansion increases
Solution Approach 1:
Units are pre-configured with standardized connection interfaces, environmental control systems, and electrical distributions during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows units to be rapidly deployed and connected on-site without requiring complex field installations, reducing expansion complexity while increasing operational space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables scalable expansion by changing the number of modular units rather than modifying individual unit parameters. Expansion is achieved by adding or removing complete functional units, each with standardized characteristics, allowing linear scaling of operational space without proportionally increasing system complexity.
4Strength
If traditional frame structures with metal structural beams are used, then structural strength is provided, but the system is limited in configuration flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible environmental seals and connection interfaces that can adapt to various unit orientations and configurations. These flexible elements maintain structural integrity while allowing the system to be arranged in different layouts, replacing rigid traditional framing with adaptable connection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The unit construction integrates multiple materials including metal structural elements for strength, composite materials for environmental sealing, and flexible polymers for connection interfaces. This composite approach combines the structural advantages of traditional metal framing with the configuration flexibility of modern materials.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular configurable multi-purpose system is provided. The system comprises at least one unit that has at least one room. The units are configured into at least one section, and arranged end to end or as called for in the application. A support section, having at least one support unit, may be provided for providing space for working, storage and other services for those working in the system. The system may be configured in numerous combinations to adapt to the immediate needs of the situation, and installed indoors and in the external environment. A method of operation of the system is provided.