Prefabricated Module Beam Connection for Seismic Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing prefabricated construction methods require load-bearing side walls and stacking of modules, limiting design flexibility and seismic resistance, and using external structural elements for support, which results in inefficiencies and aesthetic discontinuities.
Innovation Solution
A prefabricated structure where modules with integrated floors, side walls, and ceilings rest directly on beams, eliminating the need for stacking and using a beam-to-pillar connection system with a laying bed and ribs that distribute loads effectively, enhancing seismic resistance and design freedom.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If prefabricated modules are stacked on top of one another, then structural support is achieved, but design flexibility is limited and heavy load-bearing materials are required
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into separate functional components: a beam-to-pillar connection system handles structural support, while modules can be freely arranged for design purposes. This segmentation allows independent optimization of structural integrity and design flexibility without the need for stacking modules vertically.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam-to-pillar connection system acts as an intermediary structural element that provides support without requiring modules to bear loads. This mediator enables modules to be positioned freely for design purposes while the connection system independently handles the structural support function.
2Ease of manufacture
If dry connections with anchor pins are used, then assembly is simplified, but shear stress resistance is reduced and seismic performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The beam-to-pillar connection employs composite construction combining concrete beams and pillars with integrated reinforcement. This composite approach provides both simplified assembly and enhanced shear stress resistance, improving seismic performance while maintaining ease of manufacture through pre-fabricated connection elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection design changes the structural parameters by using monolithic concrete construction with embedded reinforcement rather than separate anchor pins. This parameter change increases shear stress resistance and seismic reliability while maintaining assembly simplicity through pre-fabricated integrated connections.
3Strength
If support brackets are used for beam connections, then connection is achieved, but aesthetic continuity is disrupted and spatial functionality is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection elements are merged into the beam and pillar structures themselves through integrated beam-to-pillar connections. This merging eliminates the need for separate support brackets, maintaining aesthetic continuity and spatial functionality while achieving secure structural connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate support bracket element is extracted from the design and replaced by an integrated connection system. This extraction eliminates the aesthetic disruption caused by visible brackets while maintaining the necessary connection capability through the beam-to-pillar system.
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
A prefabricated structure (1) comprising at least two prefabricated beams (3) each mainly extending in a first substantially horizontal beam direction (X-X), at least one prefabricated module (2) comprising a base (21) at least partially made of concrete or wood or combinations thereof, having a treadable surface defined by a first module direction (X'-X') and a second module direction (Z'-Z') that are substantially horizontal and orthogonal to each other. The prefabricated module (2) comprises a ceiling wall (22) and a module side wall (25) extending in height along a third substantially vertical module direction (Y'-Y') orthogonal to said first and second module directions (X'-X', Z'-Z') between said base (21) and said ceiling wall (22), wherein said prefabricated module (2) rests on said prefabricated beams (3). A prefabricated module (2) suitable for engaging the prefabricated beams (3) in a prefabricated structure (1), so as to unload the load thereof on said prefabricated beams (3).