Modular Elevator Shaft Structure for Faster Portable Assembly

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

The construction of elevator shaft support structures is laborious, time-consuming, and hampers aesthetics, while requiring skilled labor and portability is a concern.

Innovation Solution

A structure comprising a first column with 'L' shaped sections interconnected by a semicircular section, a second column for reinforcement, and beams with grooves for covering plates and right angled sections, allowing for modular assembly and reduced fasteners, using lightweight materials.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a reinforced cement concrete wall or masonry wall is used as support structure, then structural strength and stability are improved, but construction time and labor requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidconstruction time
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into multiple pre-fabricated modular components (vertical columns, horizontal beams, connection elements) that can be manufactured separately and assembled on-site. This segmentation enables parallel production of components while reducing on-site construction time and skilled labor requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Structural components are pre-fabricated off-site with predetermined connections and reinforcements before delivery to the installation location. This preliminary action allows complex structural elements to be prepared in advance, significantly reducing on-site assembly time and labor intensity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Stability of the object's composition

If a reinforced cement concrete wall or masonry wall is used as support structure, then structural stability is improved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidaesthetic appearance
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The structure is segmented into modular components that can be independently designed with aesthetic considerations. Each module can feature clean lines, uniform joints, and consistent finishes that contribute to overall aesthetic appeal while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection details.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different portions of the structure are designed with appropriate qualities - structural components provide strength and stability while surface finishes, joint designs, and material selections are optimized for aesthetic appearance in visible areas, creating a harmonious balance between form and function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Strength

If traditional support structure construction methods are used, then structural strength is improved, but portability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidportability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The support structure is divided into discrete, transportable modular units with standardized dimensions and connection interfaces. This segmentation enables the structure to be disassembled, transported to different locations, and reassembled, providing portability while maintaining structural strength through engineered connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The structure transitions from a fixed, permanent installation to a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Modular components can be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing the structure to adapt to different locations and configurations while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12384660B2Structure for constructing an elevator shaft
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 VISHAL RUPHAVATHY
  • US12384660B2 patent drawing
  • US12384660B2 patent drawing
  • US12384660B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A structure 10 for constructing an elevator shaft is provided. The structure includes a first column 20 to withstand stress. The first column is constructed by coupling a first groove 30 to ‘L’ shaped sections 40. The ‘L’ shaped sections are interconnected by a semicircular section 50 forming at least one slot 60 at a junction of coupling between the ‘L’ shaped sections and the semi-circular section. The structure includes a second column 70 to provide reinforcement to the first column. The structure includes a base plate 140 including projections to secure the second column to the base plate via fasteners. The structure includes beams including a corresponding third groove 170 and a corresponding fourth groove 180. The corresponding third groove and the corresponding fourth groove are to receive a corresponding covering plate 190 and a corresponding right angled section 200 respectively to mount a corresponding sheet 210.