Modular Tension-Compression Structural Components for Lighter Assembly
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing structural components, such as steel beams, are heavy and require substantial mechanical lifting and power handling resources, limiting design freedom and load-bearing capacity, and there is a need for improved modular components that reduce these requirements while maintaining structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
Modular structural components comprising a tension element made from materials suited for tension forces and compression elements made from materials suited for compression forces, combined with a mesh of through-apertures and complementary stud patterns, allowing for lighter weight and enhanced load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If integral steel components are used, then structural strength and rigidity are improved, but weight increases substantially requiring heavy lifting equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The structural component is divided into separate tension and compression elements that can be manufactured and transported independently, then assembled on-site. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific function while reducing individual weights compared to a solid integral component.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses different materials for tension and compression elements, selecting materials with optimal properties for each stress type. This composite approach allows lighter materials to be used where appropriate while maintaining overall structural strength.
2Strength
If heavier steel components are used, then load bearing capacity is improved, but mechanical lifting and power handling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the structure into modular tension and compression elements, the load bearing capacity is distributed across multiple lighter components rather than requiring a single heavy element, reducing power handling requirements for lifting and installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters and cross-sectional properties of individual elements to optimize the strength-to-weight ratio, achieving required load bearing capacity with lighter components that have lower power handling requirements.
3Ease of operation
If modular design is used, then ease of assembly is improved, but structural integrity compared to integral construction deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tension and compression elements are combined through carefully designed connection details that integrate the modular components into a unified structural system, achieving both ease of assembly and structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection elements and interface details act as intermediaries between the modular components, ensuring proper force transfer and maintaining structural integrity while enabling straightforward assembly and disassembly.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A modular structural system is disclosed, including modular structural components as columns and/or beams interfaced by bridging members. Each modular structural component consist of at least one elongate tension element comprising opposed faces and a mesh of through-apertures, and at least a first pair of elongate compression elements, each compression element for securing to a respective face of the or each tension element. A face of each compression element comprises a pattern of studs, and each pattern is formed and each stud thereof is shaped for engaging a respective through-aperture of the mesh. The bridging member comprises a set of longitudinally-opposed mounting sections, wherein either mounting section is securable to an end portion of a modular structural component in use.