Modular Structural Element with Variable Density for Dry Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional building construction methods result in structures with discontinuities due to varied materials, leading to inefficiencies in mechanical and thermal stress responses, labor intensity, high costs, and difficulties in recycling and replacing structural elements, while also being complex and environmentally impactful.
Innovation Solution
A modular, self-supporting structural element with variable density and mechanical constraining means for dry connection, allowing for enhanced structural, seismic, and insulating properties, made from materials like brick, cement, and stone, with a density gradient that facilitates easy assembly and disassembly, and incorporates recycled materials for environmental compatibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional building construction methods use multiple materials (masonry, brick, metal frames, chemical sealants), then structural strength and stability are improved, but the structure develops discontinuities that worsen mechanical and thermal stress response
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional requirements into a single monolithic structural element made of one material. This eliminates the discontinuities between different materials (masonry, brick, metal, chemical sealants) that cause poor stress response, while maintaining structural strength through the integrated design of the element itself
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a single material throughout the entire structural element to ensure homogeneity. This eliminates the material discontinuities present in conventional multi-material construction, allowing uniform stress distribution and improved mechanical and thermal stress response across the entire structure
2Strength
If traditional coupling systems use mechanical clamping or chemical bonding, then structural elements are securely connected, but the construction process becomes labor-intensive and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the structural element with its connection function into a single integrated component. The monolithic element includes built-in connection features that eliminate the need for separate mechanical clamping systems or chemical bonding agents, simplifying the construction process while maintaining secure connections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the connection function from separate coupling systems and integrates it directly into the structural element itself. This eliminates the need for additional components like bolts, plates, or sealants, reducing construction complexity and labor requirements
3Strength
If self-supporting panel systems are entirely prefabricated and assembled on-site with in-situ casting, then structural integrity is improved, but the process requires specialized personnel and considerable economic effort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the prefabrication and on-site assembly processes into a single step by designing elements that can be directly assembled without requiring in-situ casting. This maintains structural integrity through precise factory manufacturing while eliminating the need for specialized on-site casting operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs all necessary structural preparation in advance during factory manufacturing. The monolithic elements are produced with precise dimensions and integrated connection features, eliminating the need for specialized on-site personnel to perform additional casting or assembly operations
4Duration of action of stationary object
If building structures use conventional materials and methods, then construction is completed, but the structural elements cannot be easily recycled or replaced at the end of the building's life cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the building structure into discrete, modular monolithic elements that can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation allows individual elements to be recycled or renewed without affecting the entire structure, improving end-of-life recyclability while maintaining overall structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic building system where monolithic elements can be easily added, removed, or replaced throughout the building's life cycle. The integrated connection design allows for straightforward disassembly and reassembly, enabling element renewal and recycling without specialized operations
Data Source
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AI summary
A modular, self-supporting structural element (1, 10) for house building construction is described, which is provided with mechanical constraining means (2, 3) for the dry mutual connection with at least one second modular structural element (1, 10). The modular structural element has a variable density along at least one reference direction (4). A building structure (17) comprising a plurality of structural elements (1, 10) which are constrained to each other by said constraining means (2, 3) and a process for the construction of the building structure (17) are also described.