Modular Pod Anchoring for Seismic Site Conditions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for premanufactured modular building structures, or 'pods,' fail to account for site-specific environmental conditions such as seismic activity, leading to a lack of customization and reduced safety and quality in finished structures.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for evaluating a project location's seismic activity and other site-specific conditions to determine structural design requirements, including anchorage needs, and modifying pod structures accordingly, such as by using anchoring systems that secure pods to substrates without direct wall anchorage, ensuring stability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If premanufactured modular building structures are used without site-specific customization, then construction time and on-site work are reduced, but safety and quality under specific environmental conditions deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by customizing pod structures according to specific site conditions. Different pods are designed with different structural characteristics based on their installation locations' seismic activity, soil conditions, and environmental factors. This allows each pod to have the specific quality needed for its location while maintaining the overall benefits of premanufactured modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying structural parameters of pods based on site-specific evaluations. Seismic evaluations, soil bearing capacity assessments, and environmental condition analyses result in adjusted structural parameters such as foundation design, anchorage systems, and structural reinforcement levels, optimizing both safety and construction efficiency.
2Reliability
If pod structures are customized for site-specific conditions, then safety and quality are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the customization process into distinct phases: site evaluation, structural analysis, pod design, and installation. This segmented approach allows complex site-specific requirements to be managed through systematic breakdown into manageable components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining safety standards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by conducting site evaluations and determining structural requirements before pod manufacturing begins. All necessary structural customizations are planned and specified in advance based on site assessments, allowing pods to be manufactured with predetermined specifications rather than requiring complex on-site modifications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If anchoring systems are designed for restricted access environments, then installation flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the traditional anchoring approach. Instead of anchoring pods from the interior or requiring access to all sides, the system uses anchors that extend through the pod and are secured from the exterior or through limited access points. This inverted approach enables installation in restricted access environments while managing complexity through standardized anchor designs.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for providing modular building unit or “pods” are provided. In various embodiments, site-specific conditions and risk factors are evaluated and identified. The conditions and risk factors are used to inform decisions and design requirements for one or more pods and to modify or reinforce a pod prior to installation if needed. Methods and systems of securing the pods are also provided.