Modular Utility Splines for Plug-And-Play Building Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Installing utility infrastructure in indoor spaces is complex and costly, requiring separate technicians for fluid, electrical, and data connections, often necessitating site-specific measurements and modifications that disrupt existing structures.
Innovation Solution
The development of modular utility connection systems, including splines and appliance hubs, that provide a centralized, plug-and-play infrastructure for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and data connections, allowing for preconfigured installations and expansion, reducing the need for site-specific measurements and specialized labor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional separate utility connections are installed by certified technicians, then connection reliability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines fluid connections, electrical connections, data connections, and other utility infrastructure into a single integrated modular unit. This merging allows all connections to be installed simultaneously by a single technician rather than requiring multiple separate installations by different certified technicians, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining connection reliability through integrated design and testing
Solution Approach 2:
The modular utility connection unit is designed to provide multiple functions (fluid transport, electrical power, data communication) within a single standardized component. This universal design enables the same infrastructure to serve multiple purposes and allows installation by technicians with general skills rather than requiring specialized certified technicians for each utility type
2Manufacturing precision
If site-specific measurements and modifications are performed, then installation precision is improved, but installation time and disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The utility connection infrastructure is pre-configured and pre-assembled into modular units with all necessary connections, measurements, and modifications completed during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for site-specific measurements and modifications during installation, allowing for precise fit-and-finish installation without time-consuming on-site adjustments or structural disruptions
Solution Approach 2:
The utility infrastructure is divided into standardized modular segments that can be manufactured with precise connections already established. These segmented modules are designed to connect to each other and to existing structures through standardized interfaces, eliminating the need for custom site-specific modifications while maintaining precise alignment and connection integrity
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing infrastructure is modified, then adaptability is improved, but structural integrity and safety may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The modular utility connection units serve as intermediary components that interface with existing infrastructure through standardized connections. Rather than modifying existing structures directly, these modular units act as mediators that can be attached to or near existing infrastructure, providing adaptability while preserving the integrity of original structures through non-invasive connection methods
Data Source
AI summary
A utility connection system can include a primary utility spline having a length and a support frame. The utility connection system can include one or more utility conduits extending along at least a portion of the length of the primary utility spline and supported by the support frame. The system can include a sensor hub including one or more sensors; and one or more branch access interfaces having one or more ports in communication with the one or more utility conduits. The utility connection system can include a branch utility spline connected to the primary utility spline at the one or more branch access interfaces.