Modular Utilities Unit Structure with Vertical Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hybrid utilities systems lack a modular structure that maximizes density and cost-efficiency, particularly in high real estate value areas, and do not efficiently accommodate multiple levels of utilities units for transport and deployment.
Innovation Solution
A modular structure with a lifting subsystem, such as a top-mounted crane or elevator, that allows for the placement and extraction of utilities units in multiple levels within a scalable framework, using standard ISO shipping containers for transportation, and integrating centralized utilities for efficient resource management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If utilities units are deployed in standalone locations, then transportation flexibility is improved, but land area consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from horizontal dispersion of utilities units to vertical stacking, utilizing the third dimension (height) to reduce land area consumption while maintaining transportation flexibility through standardized container interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple utilities units are stacked vertically within a shared structural envelope, with each unit nested in its own bay, allowing dense packing while maintaining individual accessibility and transportability
2Quantity of substance
If utilities units are stacked vertically to maximize density, then real estate efficiency is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular bays, each capable of holding a standard utilities container, allowing vertical stacking while maintaining simple, repetitive structural elements that reduce overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The structural framework serves multiple functions: providing vertical support, defining bay boundaries, facilitating crane access, and enabling modular expansion, thereby reducing the need for specialized components
3Productivity
If standardized ISO containers are used, then transportation efficiency is improved, but manufacturing flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows dynamic configuration where standardized containers can be selectively placed, removed, or repositioned within the modular bay structure, maintaining manufacturing flexibility while leveraging standardization for transport
Solution Approach 2:
The structure separates the standardized container modules from the custom structural framework, allowing each to be optimized independently - containers for transport efficiency and framework for manufacturing flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
A structure for modular utilities units includes a skeletal frame forming multiple bays, each configured for receiving a respective utilities unit. A placement subassembly is mounted on the frame and includes a utilities unit connector configured for connecting to a respective utilities unit and a lifting device configured for attachment to the connector and raising and lowering a respective utilities unit. The utilities units can provide power, telecommunications, water, data processing and other utility functions. A logistics system includes vehicles for conveying the utilities units to and from the structure. The logistics system interfaces with ground, marine and air transportation resources.