Modular Frame Connectors for Wind-Resistant Building Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modular building construction methods face challenges in resisting wind and seismic forces, particularly in tall or slender buildings, due to limitations in force transmission and material efficiency, which increases costs and reduces usable floor area. Additionally, existing systems struggle with non-orthogonal shapes and precise assembly requirements, leading to increased complexity and labor costs.
Innovation Solution
A system of load-bearing connector blocks, gusset plates, and standardized reinforcing members that facilitate the assembly and connection of modular frames, allowing for efficient force transmission and adaptable shapes, reducing the need for complex connections and precision cutting, while enabling quick and accurate hoisting and assembly of modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional pinned connections between modules are used, then assembly is simple and quick, but the structure cannot effectively resist and transmit large wind and seismic forces in tall or slender buildings
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple functional components: connector blocks integrated into module frames, gusset plates for reinforcement, and diagonal bracing elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while collectively providing moment-resisting capability without requiring complete redesign of the entire modular system.
Solution Approach 2:
Connector blocks and reinforcement features are pre-integrated into module frames during factory fabrication before shipping to the construction site. This preliminary action ensures that moment-resisting connections are already prepared and positioned correctly, eliminating the need for complex现场 assembly operations and maintaining the speed advantages of modular construction.
2Strength
If large columns or secondary brace frames are added to resist forces, then structural strength improves, but usable floor area decreases and construction cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Reinforcement is applied locally at critical connection points between modules using gusset plates and diagonal bracing, rather than adding large columns throughout the entire structure. This localized reinforcement provides the necessary moment-resisting capability while minimizing interference with usable floor area and maintaining aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector blocks serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide the primary mechanical connection between modules, integrate reinforcement features, and serve as anchor points for diagonal bracing. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate large columns or secondary brace frames, preserving floor area while achieving required structural strength.
3Adaptability or versatility
If non-orthogonal shapes are incorporated into modular frames, then architectural versatility improves, but manufacturing precision and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector block design incorporates universal features that can accommodate both orthogonal and non-orthogonal frame configurations. Standardized mounting surfaces and adjustment mechanisms allow the same connector block to work with various frame geometries, maintaining manufacturing precision while enabling architectural versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates adjustable elements that can be configured for different angular relationships between modules. This dynamic adjustability allows precise alignment for non-orthogonal shapes while maintaining the simplicity and speed of modular assembly through standardized connection procedures.
4Strength
If reinforced modules are used to resist forces, then structural strength improves, but material usage and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Reinforcement is concentrated locally at connection points between modules using gusset plates and diagonal bracing, rather than reinforcing entire module volumes. This localized approach provides the necessary moment-resisting capability while minimizing additional material usage compared to uniformly reinforced modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system combines different materials and structural elements (connector blocks, gusset plates, diagonal bracing members) to create a composite connection assembly that achieves high moment-resisting capability through the synergistic interaction of its components, rather than requiring excessive material in any single element.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly, which in one embodiment has an upper connector and in another embodiment has a lower connector. The assembly can have a gusset plate sandwiched between the upper and lower connectors. Also, disclosed is a hoistable connector assembly, a lifting frame assembly, a coupling system for modular frame units, a method for assembling a module unit using the connector assembly, and a modular frame unit and building having the connector assembly. Also, a system for coupling adjacent modular frame units for forming a modular building and a method for coupling modular frame units for forming a modular building are provided.