Modular Tube and Node Building System with Continuous Cavities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building systems lack flexibility in configuration and structural stability, often requiring extensive manpower and fixed solutions, with modular systems being limited to single-level structures and offering design and structural constraints.
Innovation Solution
A building system comprising interconnected tubes and connection nodes with fluid-tight seals, allowing for the formation of frames with continuous cavities to accommodate tensile elements and panels, enabling adaptable configurations and enhanced structural stability through a modular framework.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If modular systems are used to form building shells, then assembly efficiency is improved, but structural stability and adaptability deteriorate due to single-level structural limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The building system is divided into modular nodes and tubes that can be assembled in various configurations. Each node contains internal cavities that provide structural reinforcement while maintaining modular assembly, resolving the contradiction between assembly efficiency and structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from single-level modular structures to multi-level three-dimensional configurations. Nodes and tubes can be arranged vertically and horizontally to create stable multi-story buildings, overcoming the single-level structural limitation while preserving modular assembly benefits.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional bricks and mortar systems are used, then structural stability is improved, but labor requirements and construction time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the building into pre-fabricated nodes and tubes that provide structural stability through their interconnected design, eliminating the need for time-consuming bricklaying while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Nodes and tubes are pre-designed and pre-fabricated with integrated structural features, allowing rapid assembly on-site. The structural stability is built into the components before assembly, reducing construction time while preserving structural performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed configuration modular systems are used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but design flexibility and adaptability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The nodes and tubes are designed as universal components that can serve multiple functions and be configured in various arrangements. Each node contains cavities that can accommodate different elements (tensile elements, panels, utilities), providing design flexibility while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables dynamic reconfiguration of building layouts by allowing nodes and tubes to be assembled in different patterns. The universal node design permits adaptation to various architectural requirements while keeping the base components standardized for simple manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
A building system comprising a plurality of tubes, a plurality of connection nodes comprising tubular sections for connection to the tubes, wherein the tubes are arranged to connect between the connection nodes to form a frame for a building, wherein at least one continuous cavity is formed through at least a portion of the nodes and tubes when the nodes and tubes are connected, the building system further comprising fluid tight seals between the tubes and connection nodes to enable fluid to flow through the at least one continuous cavity.