Modular Building Unit Locking Assembly for Rapid Stacking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building construction methods lack efficient and secure methods for rapidly stacking and connecting modular building units without the need for threaded connections, which can be time-consuming and require additional tools.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a locking assembly on each modular building unit, featuring a guide sleeve, key box, and locking extension, allows for the stacking and secure connection of units through a non-threaded engagement mechanism, enabling quick and stable assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If threaded connections are used to connect modular building units, then connection strength is improved, but assembly time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: locking bodies mounted on one unit and locking extensions on adjacent units. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates rapid assembly without threaded connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional threaded mechanical connections with a direct engagement system using locking bodies and extensions. This substitution eliminates the need for threads, nuts, and bolts, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining connection strength through geometric interlocking.
2Reliability
If threaded connections are used to connect modular building units, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: locking bodies mounted on one unit and locking extensions on adjacent units. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates rapid assembly without threaded connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the locking bodies and extensions to achieve reliable connections. The tapered surfaces and interlocking geometries are designed with specific angle and dimension parameters that ensure stable engagement without requiring threaded fasteners.
3Productivity
If rapid stacking method is used to assemble modular building units, then productivity is improved, but connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking bodies and extensions are pre-mounted on the modular building units during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when units are stacked rapidly on-site, the connection components are already in position and require only simple engagement, maintaining both speed and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking system combines multiple geometric features (tapered surfaces, interlocking shapes, and engagement surfaces) into a composite connection structure. This composite design provides both rapid assembly capability and lateral stability through the combined effect of multiple geometric constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking assembly for use in building construction includes a locking body configured to be mounted on a first modular building unit and extend in a first direction away from the first modular building unit. The locking body is configured to receive and engage another locking assembly of a second modular building unit for locating the first modular building unit and the second modular building unit with respect to each other. A locking extension is configured to be mounted on the first modular building unit and extend in a second direction, opposite the first direction, away from the first modular building unit. The locking extension is configured to engage another locking body on a third modular building unit to lock the first modular building unit to the third modular building unit.