Modular Parking Lot Structure for Dual-Use Space Generation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Undeveloped or partially developed land, especially in urban and suburban areas, is often used as surface parking, leading to underutilization of space and missed income opportunities due to the configuration of parking lots, with a need for flexible, low-cost space that can adapt to various uses without compromising existing site usage.
Innovation Solution
A modular structure comprising a support assembly, a removable module, and an access system that allows vertical movement, enabling the creation of additional usable space above parking lots or vacant land, which can be used for diverse purposes like apartments, storage, or offices, without permanently altering the site, allowing for future redevelopment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If surface parking is used for undeveloped or partially developed land, then the site provides income for the land owner, but the space is underutilized and income generation is not maximized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vertical development by placing modules above the parking lot surface. Modules are supported by support assemblies that elevate them above the parking spaces, allowing the same land area to serve dual purposes: ground-level parking and elevated habitable or storage space. This dimensional transition from 2D surface parking to 3D multi-level utilization resolves the contradiction by maximizing both income generation and space utilization simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing modules vertically above parking spaces. The modules are positioned and supported such that they occupy the vertical space above the parking lot without interfering with ground-level vehicle access and parking. This nested arrangement allows the parking function to be embedded beneath the elevated modules, enabling both parking and additional space utilization from the same site.
2Area of stationary object
If corner sections or center islands of parking lots are left unutilized due to configuration, then parking spaces are maintained, but usable space is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent addresses underutilized corner sections and center islands by placing modules in these specific locations above the parking lot. The support assemblies are positioned in these previously wasted spaces, allowing modules to be erected in corner sections or over center islands without disrupting the parking grid below. This converts non-revenue-generating areas into productive space while preserving the existing parking configuration.
3Productivity
If a permanent structure is built to increase usable space, then income generation is maximized, but flexibility for future redevelopment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability through removable and reconfigurable modules. The modules are not permanently fixed but can be detached from the support assemblies and relocated. This dynamic system allows the site to adapt to changing market conditions or development opportunities - modules can be removed when permanent development is desired or reconfigured for different uses, maintaining flexibility while currently maximizing income generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the structure into separate, modular components that can be independently removed and relocated. Each module is a discrete unit supported by its own support assembly, allowing selective removal or reconfiguration rather than demolishing an entire permanent structure. This segmentation enables flexible adaptation to future development needs while maintaining current income-generating functionality.
4Reliability
If modules are permanently joined to support assemblies, then structural stability is improved, but reusability at different sites is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic connection systems that provide stable support during use but allow for easy detachment. The modules are removably supported by the support assemblies through connection mechanisms that maintain structural integrity while enabling relocation. This dynamic connection approach resolves the contradiction by providing sufficient stability for normal operation while preserving the ability to move modules to different sites for reuse.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of increasing usable space in a parking lot. A support assembly and an access system are erected. A module is placed on the support assembly in one piece or section-by-section. There is an accessible volume of space below the module that is sufficient to allow an automobile to park in a parking space below the module or to allow an automobile to drive in a drive aisle below the module. The module is removably connected to the support assembly. The module may include a frame and a covering coupled to the frame. The support assembly may include portions positioned between adjacent parking spaces of the parking lot. One portion of the support assembly may be positioned on one side of a drive aisle with another portion of the support assembly positioned on the opposite side of the drive aisle.