Modular in-wall functional conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular wall and partition systems do not provide fluid delivery or removal options for individual spaces, limiting user control over environment conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air quality, and are challenging to reconfigure to align with existing fluid distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A modular conduit system integrated within modular wall segments that allows for the delivery and removal of air, water, or other fluids to and from individual spaces, enabling users to control environmental conditions and reconfigure the system as needed by positioning modular conduit systems within the wall modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular wall and partition systems are used to create individual spaces, then the spaces can be easily configured and reconfigured, but fluid delivery and removal options are not provided, limiting user control over environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the wall module structure with integrated conduit systems, merging the partition function with fluid delivery and removal capabilities into a single unified module that can be easily installed and reconfigured
Solution Approach 2:
The wall modules are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing spatial division, fluid delivery, fluid removal, and environmental control, allowing a single component to serve several purposes
2Ease of manufacture
If existing fluid distribution systems are reconfigured to align with modular wall positions, then fluid delivery can be achieved, but prohibitive costs are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the fluid distribution into modular segments that can be independently installed and positioned, allowing wall modules to be placed without requiring extensive reconfiguration of the building's existing fluid distribution infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated conduits within the wall modules act as intermediaries between the building's existing fluid distribution system and the individual spaces, providing a cost-effective connection method that avoids expensive reconfiguration of the main distribution system
3Ease of operation
If modular wall modules are positioned independently of existing fluid distribution systems, then installation flexibility is improved, but alignment with fluid delivery points becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit systems are pre-integrated into the wall modules during manufacturing, allowing the modules to be positioned flexibly without requiring precise alignment with existing fluid distribution points during installation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the conduit system from the building's fixed infrastructure and embeds it within the movable modular wall modules, allowing fluid delivery capability to move with the partitions rather than being fixed to the building structure
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for delivering and/or removing fluid from a discrete location within a building. In particular, the present invention involves a modular conduit system that can supply or remove air, water, gas, or other fluids to/from an individual space created by modular walls.