Modular Walkway Frames with Staggered Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current walkway structures in construction environments lack modularity and versatility, with existing methods being non-bolted and non-modular, limiting their ability to efficiently span long distances while maintaining high strength-to-weight ratios and economic manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A walkway structure composed of primary box frame modules and auxiliary modules with staggered joints, allowing for bolted assembly and increased strength through staggered connections, enabling longer spans and improved bending, torsional, and shear resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional truss or space frame structures are used, then long spans can be achieved, but the structures lack modularity and versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into discrete modular units (primary frames and auxiliary modules) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each primary frame module contains standardized connection points, allowing the structure to be segmented into repeatable units that maintain structural integrity while enabling modular configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The primary frames and auxiliary modules are designed with universal connection interfaces that allow the same components to serve multiple functions - forming primary structural elements, creating secondary bracing, and enabling various span configurations. This universality allows a single set of modular components to adapt to different span requirements and structural configurations.
2Strength
If non-modular fabricated beams are used, then structural strength is achieved, but manufacturing economy and versatility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing one large custom beam, the structure is segmented into standardized primary frames and auxiliary modules that can be manufactured using identical or similar processes. This segmentation allows for economies of scale in manufacturing while maintaining the required structural strength through proper connection design.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular components are designed with adjustable parameters - the number of auxiliary modules, their positioning, and connection configurations can be varied to achieve different span lengths and strength requirements without changing the fundamental component design, allowing standardized manufacturing processes to serve multiple structural requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular bolted assembly is used, then versatility and modularity are improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection complexity is localized to standardized interface regions between modules, while the majority of each module remains simple in form. The primary frames and auxiliary modules have simplified geometries with all complexity concentrated at the connection points, where standardized bolted interfaces handle the complexity rather than the overall structural form.
Solution Approach 2:
All connections between modules use the same standardized bolted interface design, creating homogeneity in the connection system. This uniform connection approach across all module interfaces reduces the types of connections that must be designed and manufactured, simplifying the overall system despite the modular nature.
4Stability of the object's composition
If staggered joints are used in auxiliary modules, then structural integrity is enhanced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The staggered joint configuration is implemented only in specific local regions where auxiliary modules connect to primary frames, rather than requiring precision throughout the entire structure. The staggered arrangement is concentrated at connection zones where it provides maximum structural benefit, while other regions maintain simpler geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The staggered joint design uses standardized offset distances and positioning parameters that can be incorporated into routine manufacturing processes. By establishing fixed staggered intervals as design parameters, the precision requirement becomes a repeatable manufacturing specification rather than a complex alignment challenge.
Data Source
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AI summary
A building module for use in construction of a structure incorporating a plurality of said modules which together form at least part of the structure. Each building module comprises a first peripheral frame of a first size defining a space which receives a layer of barrier material, a second peripheral frame of a second size defining a space which receives a layer of barrier material and which is joined at a first junction to the first peripheral frame of the first size in abutting end to end relationship to form a first auxiliary module. A third peripheral frame has the same size as the first peripheral frame and which defines a space which receives a layer of barrier material. A fourth peripheral frame has the same size as the second peripheral frame and which defines a space which receives a layer of barrier material and which is joined at a second junction to the third peripheral frame of the first size in abutting end to end relationship to form a second auxiliary module. The first and second auxiliary modules are attached side by side to form said building module; wherein the first and second auxiliary modules are attached to each other so that the first and second junctions are staggered along the length of the structure.