Modular Foundation System Using Box Bar Joists and Steel Columns

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional foundation systems for modular construction require extensive site preparation, heavy equipment, and significant time and cost, and are not adaptable for emergency or temporary structures.

Innovation Solution

A modular foundation system using box bar joists supported by steel tube columns, which can be easily assembled and dismantled, requiring minimal site preparation and no heavy equipment, allowing for quick construction and adaptability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional concrete foundation walls are used, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but construction time and site preparation requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefoundation strengthVSAvoidconstruction time

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The foundation system is divided into discrete modular units (steel columns and pre-fabricated bar joists) that can be independently manufactured and assembled on-site, eliminating the need for continuous concrete pouring and curing processes while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection nodes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The bar joists and steel columns are pre-fabricated off-site with precise dimensions and connection details, allowing for rapid assembly on-site without the need for extensive on-site construction activities such as formwork installation and concrete curing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If conventional concrete foundation walls are used, then structural reliability is improved, but device complexity and equipment requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefoundation reliabilityVSAvoidconstruction complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The foundation system is divided into discrete modular units (steel columns and pre-fabricated bar joists) that can be independently manufactured and assembled on-site, eliminating the need for continuous concrete pouring and curing processes while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection nodes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the complex mechanical process of concrete formwork installation, pouring, and curing with a simpler steel assembly process using pre-fabricated components and standardized bolted connections, eliminating the need for heavy concrete mixing and pouring equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Strength

If conventional concrete foundation walls are used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability and ease of modification decrease

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefoundation strengthVSAvoidfoundation adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The foundation system transitions from a static, permanent concrete structure to a dynamic, reconfigurable steel framework that can be easily assembled, disassembled, and reconfigured to accommodate changing building requirements or emergency response needs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The foundation system is divided into discrete modular units (steel columns and pre-fabricated bar joists) that can be independently manufactured and assembled on-site, eliminating the need for continuous concrete pouring and curing processes while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection nodes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8966855B1Foundation system for modular system smart buildings

Publication Date: 2015.03.03 MILLER MARTIN P

AI summary

A modular structure foundation system that requires no heavy equipment, minimal site preparation, bag concrete and crushed rock, and can be easily assembled by a small crew. The foundation consists of a number of box bar joists that are square units which are assembled based on a grid layout. The box bar joists are supported by foundation steel columns that are embedded into the ground. No forms or other complex structures are needed for the installation. Once the columns are installed, the box bar joists are installed using a unique leveling system. Once the box bar joists are level and secured to the columns, the foundation is complete. The use of the box bar joists also allows for expansion or contraction as additional box bar joists can easily be added or removed from the foundation. Once the box bar joists are in place, the foundation is ready for building.