Modular Building Connection Node for Weatherproof Module Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection systems for prefabricated building modules require disturbing the weatherproofing layer, leading to potential water damage and increased installation complexity due to limited access and alignment challenges.
Innovation Solution
A connection node system integrated within the vertical supports of modular building units, featuring a bolted configuration that allows for secure connections without disturbing the weatherproofing, and includes a diaphragm plate for horizontal connections, enabling accurate alignment and secure fastening from above.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If large joining plates are used to connect modules, then vertical and horizontal continuity is achieved, but the weatherproofing layer must be peeled back exposing a large area and increasing water damage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is nested within the vertical support members themselves. The joining plates are positioned inside the hollow vertical supports rather than extending outward, allowing connections to be made without peeling back the weatherproofing layer. This nested configuration maintains continuity while preserving the weatherproofing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection function is extracted from the external joining plates and integrated into the vertical support members. By moving the connection mechanism inside the vertical supports, the system eliminates the need to expose the weatherproofing layer while still achieving the required continuity between modules.
2Ease of operation
If construction personnel are positioned at the base of the module for connections, then access to connection points is possible, but visual and physical access is limited making alignment difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having personnel access connection points from the base of the module, the system is designed to be accessed from the top. Bolts are inserted from the upper module downward, and connection operations are performed from above, reversing the traditional approach and providing much better visual and physical access for precise alignment.
3Ease of manufacture
If modules are connected with standard tolerance ranges, then installation is more flexible, but misalignments exceed facade system tolerances requiring manual adjustment and delaying construction
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates preliminary alignment features including tapered sections and guiding surfaces that automatically align modules as they are being connected. This preliminary action ensures proper alignment is achieved during the connection process itself, eliminating the need for subsequent manual adjustments and keeping the construction schedule on track.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C~1D
AI summary
A connection node assembly for use in connecting an upper prefabricated building module to a lower module. Hollow vertical edge supports of the building modules have top and bottom connection parts. A connecting bolt can be passed through the top part of an upper vertical support in the upper building module and seated within the bottom part of that vertical support with the shank extending downward. The shank engages a threaded aperture in a connecting nut secured within the top part of a corresponding lower vertical support in the lower building module. Diaphragm plates sandwiched between the upper and lower vertical supports are used to tie horizontally placed modules together.