Modular Utility Connector Assembly for Pre-Wall Pipe Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current construction methods require significant manpower and are costly due to the difficulty of setting utilities like electrical wiring and plumbing during wall construction, often necessitating multiple workers or partial disassembly of walls to install these materials.
Innovation Solution
A modular connector system comprising a base plate, adjustable vertical riser member, horizontal arms, and connection members that allow for the pre-installation of vertical or horizontal piping and prefab assemblies before wall construction, featuring adjustable height, leveling capabilities, and interchangeable clamps for various materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional methods are used to set utilities during wall construction, then utilities can be installed in walls, but significant manpower and time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system allows utilities to be positioned and secured before wall construction begins. The base plate is placed on the foundation, and utilities are attached to the connector system in advance, eliminating the need to hold or partially disassemble walls during utility installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system divides the utility support function into separate modular components (base plate, vertical members, horizontal members, connection members) that can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing single-person operation while maintaining installation speed.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple workers are used to hold utilities in place during wall construction, then utilities can be properly positioned, but labor costs and construction time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system is self-supporting through its base plate anchored to the foundation and its modular framework. The system automatically maintains utility positioning without requiring workers to physically hold components in place, eliminating time loss while preserving positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system provides three-dimensional adjustment capabilities through its modular design, allowing precise positioning of utilities in multiple directions (vertical, horizontal, and angular adjustments) while maintaining stability without additional manpower.
3Adaptability or versatility
If walls are partially disassembled to add utilities after assembly, then utilities can be installed, but construction efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector system enables all utility positioning and attachment operations to be completed before wall construction begins. The modular framework can be configured to accommodate various utility types and routing requirements in advance, providing both flexibility and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system serves multiple functions: supporting vertical utilities, horizontal utilities, providing adjustment capabilities for different utility configurations, and anchoring to the foundation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for wall disassembly while maintaining adaptability to different utility installation requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular connector system is designed and configured for setting various building material members in place prior to construction of a wall. The modular connector system includes a base plate, a vertical riser member, at least one horizontal arm, and a connection member for each of the at least one horizontal arms. The base plate is configured to support the modular connector system. The vertical riser member is affixed to the base plate in a vertical orientation. Each of the at least one horizontal arm is configured to be adjustably positioned along the vertical riser member. The connection member on each of the horizontal arms is configured to attach to one of the building material members. Wherein, the disclosed modular connector system is designed and configured for setting the building material members in place prior to construction of the wall.