Modular Ledger for Integrated Construction Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional formwork and shoring systems require large inventories of components, leading to inefficiencies in assembly and high loss rates, and lack the versatility to handle both vertical and horizontal concrete construction, as well as provide safe worker access and heavy-duty access solutions.
Innovation Solution
The integrated construction system utilizes modular, non-welded aluminum components with mechanical fasteners, allowing for configuration as both formwork and shoring systems, including a multipurpose ledger that can act as a bracing, load-bearing member, and provides safe worker access and heavy-duty access solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional formwork and shoring systems use large inventories of components, then they can handle various configurations, but assembly efficiency decreases and component loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized component that can serve multiple functions: the component acts as both formwork and shoring elements, and can be configured for various structural applications including walls, columns, slabs, and beams. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function, thereby reducing inventory requirements while maintaining configuration versatility and improving assembly efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the construction system into modular standardized components that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for standardized production processes, reduced inventory complexity, and efficient assembly through pre-fabricated modules, directly addressing the contradiction between versatility and assembly efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional systems use large inventories of components, then they can accommodate various project types, but the number of component types increases leading to higher loss rates
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized component is designed to be universal across all project types and applications. A single component design can be used for formwork, shoring, and various structural configurations, dramatically reducing the total number of different component types needed. This universality directly reduces component loss by minimizing the variety of parts that can be misplaced or lost during construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves versatility through parameter changes rather than different component designs. By varying parameters such as length, width, and configuration of the standardized component, the system can accommodate different project types and structural requirements. This approach maintains a single base component design while achieving diversity through dimensional variations, thereby reducing overall component loss.
3Reliability
If independent formwork and shoring systems are used, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of formwork and shoring into a single integrated system using standardized components. Instead of maintaining separate independent systems, the same components serve both formwork and shoring functions, thereby reducing overall system complexity while preserving the functional optimization benefits through proper component configuration and design.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized component is designed with multi-functionality to perform both formwork and shoring operations. This universality simplifies the overall system architecture by eliminating the need for separate specialized systems, reducing the number of different component types, and lowering inventory requirements while maintaining reliable functional performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations described herein are directed to a modular ledger of an integrated construction system. In one implementation, the modular ledger includes a rail, having a first end and a second end. Each end of the rail is configured to receive a coupling component. The rail has a plurality of holes configured to couple to bracing components of the integrated construction system.