Modular Elevated Flooring System With Interlocking Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular flooring systems fail to provide customizable and stable elevated platforms for events, as they only cover the ground and do not address raised areas or furniture stability, leading to safety issues due to shifting and sliding.
Innovation Solution
A modular elevated flooring system comprising interlocking floor modules and blocks that can be stacked to create customizable elevated sections of varying heights, providing stability and versatility for both indoor and outdoor events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If traditional raised platforms are used for events, then a stage or elevated area is provided, but the platform becomes unstable and cannot be secured to the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The platform is divided into multiple interlocking modular units that can be assembled together. Each module contains connection features that engage with adjacent modules, creating a segmented yet stable structure that resists movement and maintains stability without requiring ground anchoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular units are designed with nested connection features where one module fits within or interlocks with another. The connection members extend between modules and engage with receiving features, creating a nested arrangement that locks the modules together into a stable elevated surface.
2Shape
If traditional raised platforms are used, then elevation is achieved, but the platforms are limited to predetermined sizes and heights
Solution Approach 1:
The platform system is segmented into standardized modular units that can be assembled in various configurations. By combining multiple modules laterally and vertically, users can create platforms of custom sizes and heights to match specific event requirements, eliminating the limitation of predetermined dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows the platform structure to be dynamically adjusted and reconfigured. Modules can be added or removed, and connection members can be positioned at different locations, enabling the platform to adapt to different spatial requirements and elevation needs for various events.
3Stability of the object's composition
If modular flooring systems are used to cover the floor, then stability is provided, but they do not address raised areas or platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The modular units serve multiple functions: they can be used as individual floor tiles for ground-level coverage, or combined with connection members to form elevated platforms and raised areas. The same basic module design supports both flat flooring and vertical elevation applications, eliminating the need for separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional floor covering to three-dimensional elevated structures by adding vertical dimension through stacked modules and connection members. This dimensional extension allows the same modular components to create both flat surfaces and raised platforms, addressing both flooring and elevation needs.
4Ease of operation
If the flooring system is made smooth for unimpeded locomotion, then ease of movement is achieved, but furniture may shift or slide during use
Solution Approach 1:
The module surfaces are designed with differentiated local qualities: the top walking surfaces are smooth for easy locomotion, while the bottom surfaces or connection interfaces incorporate friction-enhancing features such as textured patterns or rubberized materials. This local differentiation allows smooth movement for pedestrians while providing high friction to prevent furniture sliding.
Data Source
AI summary
An elevated flooring system includes floor modules each having first and second module surfaces and module ribs. First module surfaces may be solid or include holes for drainage. Module ribs provide structural support and define at least one module receiving space accessible from the second module surface. Block(s) include extensions protruding from a first block surface and are dimensioned to fit within a corresponding module receiving space. Each block includes block ribs providing support and defining at least one block receiving space accessible from a second block surface. Interfacing member(s) include a body correspondingly dimensioned to fit within a block receiving space and leg(s) extending from the body and dimensioned to fit within a hole on a first module surface. Floor modules may be joined adjacently and interfacing members, blocks and floor modules are stackable to provide a modular and customizable flooring system of different and varying heights.