Modular Connector Assembly for Structural Force Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular building construction methods face challenges in resisting wind and seismic forces, particularly in tall or slender buildings, due to the limitations of conventional module connections, which lead to increased material usage, construction costs, and reduced usable floor area, while also being inefficient in handling non-orthogonal shapes and varying module configurations.
Innovation Solution
A connector assembly system comprising a frame, complementary column affixing pressure plates, joist plates, gusset plates, and a hoisting mechanism that allows for the accurate and efficient assembly of modular frame units, enabling the formation of structures with orthogonal, tapering, or curving shapes, while reducing the need for complex connections and precision cutting, and facilitating the transmission of loads through a network of interconnected components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional pinned connections between modules are used, then assembly is simple and quick, but the structure cannot effectively transmit large wind and seismic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple functional components: a main body portion that interfaces with the module frame, an extension portion that provides moment resistance, and integrated bracing elements. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in specific functions while maintaining overall structural integrity and force transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector integrates multiple structural functions into a single component: it combines pinned connection capabilities with moment-resisting features and bracing elements. This merging eliminates the need for separate bracing structures and complex connection assemblies, thereby maintaining assembly simplicity while significantly enhancing force transmission capacity.
2Strength
If large columns are used to resist compression loads, then load-bearing capacity increases, but the useful floor area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connector provides localized structural reinforcement at critical connection points where forces are transmitted between modules. By concentrating strength where needed rather than using large columns throughout, the design maintains load-bearing capacity while preserving maximum floor area in the habitable spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector extends in multiple directions from the module frame, providing structural support in three-dimensional space rather than requiring large vertical columns. The extension portions and bracing elements distribute loads through spatial geometry, enabling load-bearing capacity without sacrificing floor area.
3Strength
If secondary brace frames are constructed to transmit forces, then force transmission improves, but assembly time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates bracing functionality directly into the connection assembly, eliminating the need for separate secondary brace frames. The integrated bracing elements are installed simultaneously with the module connections, reducing assembly time and complexity while maintaining force transmission capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary pinned connection, resists moments, incorporates bracing elements, and transmits forces. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate structural components and assembly operations, thereby reducing both time and cost.
4Manufacturing precision
If precision cutting and assembly operations are performed to accurately locate and connect subassemblies, then manufacturing accuracy improves, but production time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with pre-configured geometry and integrated features that guide proper alignment and connection during assembly. The extension portions and bracing elements are positioned in advance to facilitate self-alignment, reducing the need for precision cutting and complex locating operations while maintaining assembly accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector that has a frame and a complementary column affixing pressure plate for coupling to the frame. The frame and the complementary column affixing pressure plate together forming a hollow body. The hollow body having a top end having an opening, a bottom end and side faces. The frame and complementary column affixing pressure plate having complementary apertures for receiving fasteners for affixing a column receivable within the hollow body from the top end. A joist plate coupled to the frame and a joist affixing pressure plate adapted for coupling to the joist plate. The joist plate and the joist affixing pressure plate having complementary apertures for receiving fasteners for affixing a joist. The connector can be used in construction of modular building and units.