Modular Building Panels with Pivoting Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building systems are not easily constructible and require complex assembly processes, lacking in modularity and ease of installation, especially in forming structures that can accommodate various components like insulation, conduits, and services.
Innovation Solution
A modular building system featuring interlocking panels with pivoting connections, voids for conduits, and removable covers, along with a framework of interconnected posts and beams that allow for easy assembly and disassembly, incorporating pre-fabricated components with standardized connections and pultrusion manufacturing for efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional building systems are used, then structural strength and stability are achieved, but construction complexity and assembly time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The building system is divided into modular panels that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each panel is a self-contained unit with standardized connectors, allowing parallel assembly and reducing overall construction complexity while maintaining structural integrity through repeated modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
Panels are pre-assembled with connectors and internal components (insulation, conduits, fixtures) during manufacturing before delivery to the construction site. This preliminary preparation eliminates on-site assembly steps, reduces construction time, and maintains structural strength without increasing assembly complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If modular panels with internal compartments are used, then adaptability and ease of modification are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Internal compartments for insulation, conduits, and fixtures are integrated as standardized segments within each panel during manufacturing. This segmentation allows different panel types to be produced efficiently using the same base manufacturing process, maintaining ease of manufacture while providing configuration flexibility through standardized internal divisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel design incorporates universal features such as standardized voids, conduits, and mounting points that can accommodate multiple different configurations and uses. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single manufacturing process that creates adaptable panels without requiring complex custom manufacturing for each application.
3Ease of operation
If interconnected panels with standardized connections are used, then ease of assembly and disassembly is improved, but connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Connection elements such as bolts, screws, and locking mechanisms are pre-positioned and pre-aligned on panel edges during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that connections maintain high reliability through proper alignment and pre-tensioning, while the standardized interface design keeps assembly simple and tool-free for end users.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system incorporates self-aligning and self-locking features that automatically ensure proper connection strength without requiring skilled operators or complex adjustment procedures. This self-service capability maintains connection reliability while preserving ease of assembly and disassembly.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3d
AI summary
A building system that includes a modular panel with side members, at least one of the side members having an associated coupling for hooked connection with a corresponding shaped fixture of an adjacent structure, the coupling and fixture being adapted to be held together by a locking device that, when engaged, acts to lock the structure and the side member together and, when disengaged, allows for play between the panel and structure in order to free the panel from the structure.