Modular Housing Assembly for Fast Code-Compliant Expansion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of affordable and quality multiple unit dwellings due to limited developable land, high land prices, expensive construction costs, and difficulty in renovating or modifying existing buildings to meet current needs.
Innovation Solution
A modular housing system comprising prefabricated modules that are vertically aligned and joined with fasteners to form a central system module, including MEP, elevator, and housing modules, allowing for easy modification and expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional construction methods are used to build multiple unit dwellings, then the buildings can be constructed to meet building codes, but the construction process causes significant delays and increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure is divided into separate modular units (first housing unit, second housing unit, third housing unit) that can be constructed independently and then assembled together. Each module can be pre-built and inspected separately before final assembly, reducing overall construction time while maintaining code compliance through standardized connection designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular housing units are designed to be pre-contracted and pre-assembled before final installation at the site. This preliminary construction allows for quality control and code compliance to be verified during manufacturing rather than during site construction, reducing delays and improving efficiency.
2Reliability
If traditional construction methods are used, then housing can be built, but the construction cost is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the housing into modular units, the patent reduces material waste and optimizes supply chain logistics. Standardized connection mechanisms between modules reduce the need for specialized labor and complex construction processes, lowering overall construction costs while maintaining quality through repetitive, controlled manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular housing units are designed with universal connection interfaces that can be assembled in various configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same basic module design to serve multiple purposes and locations, reducing the need for custom-designed constructions and lowering overall project costs through economies of scale.
3Stability of the object's composition
If housing is constructed as permanent structures, then the buildings are stable, but they are difficult to renovate and modify based on current needs
Solution Approach 1:
The housing structure uses reversible connection mechanisms between modular units that allow the building to transition between fixed and reconfigurable states. This dynamic connection system enables the building to maintain structural stability during occupancy while allowing for future renovation and reconfiguration by simply disconnecting and reconfiguring the modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented modular design allows individual units to be added, removed, or repositioned without affecting the structural integrity of the entire building. This segmentation provides adaptability for renovation while maintaining overall stability, as each module is designed to bear its own loads and can be independently modified.
4Productivity
If developable land is used for construction, then housing can be built, but land prices are high due to limited supply and future development potential
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal land-based construction to vertical modular assembly. By building housing units stacked vertically and connecting them through standardized interfaces, the system maximizes land utilization efficiency and enables higher density housing without requiring additional developable land, thereby reducing pressure on land prices.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular housing system and methods for using the same are provided. In accordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the modular housing system comprises: a plurality of prefabricated system modules that are vertically aligned with each other and joined with a first fastener assembly to form a central system module having a front perimeter portion and a rear perimeter portion; a mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) module that is connected to the rear perimeter portion of the central system module; an elevator module that is connected to the front perimeter portion of the central system module; and a plurality of prefabricated housing modules that are connected to the central system module, the MEP module, and the elevator module, wherein each of the plurality of prefabricated housing modules is vertically aligned with each other to form a stacked housing unit and joined to the central system module and the elevator module with a second fastener assembly.