Reticulated Stereo Modular Element for Earthquake-Resistant Construction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular construction methods for buildings lack a simple and efficient way to create structures that are resistant to various loads and stresses, such as strong winds and earthquakes, while also allowing for flexible and extended floor plans both horizontally and vertically.
Innovation Solution
A reticulated stereo modular element composed of tetrahedral units with added tension members, which are anchored to the foundation and oriented vertically, combined with square floor and wall panels, allowing for the sequential assembly of rooms with alternating blocks to achieve a robust and adaptable structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional modular construction methods are used, then assembly simplicity is maintained, but structural resistance to loads and stresses (wind, earthquakes) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into standardized modular elements (cubes) that can be assembled in series horizontally and vertically. Each module contains a tetrahedral structural core that provides strength while maintaining modularity. This segmentation allows complex structural resistance to be achieved through repetition of simplified modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular elements combine multiple materials and structural components: tetrahedral metal or concrete frames, infill panels (glass, metal, or concrete), and standardized connecting joints. This composite approach creates modules with superior structural resistance to wind and seismic loads while maintaining assembly simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If simple modular elements are used, then manufacturing and assembly ease is improved, but adaptability for extended floor plans (horizontal and vertical) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The modular elements are designed as universal cubes that can serve multiple functions and be arranged in various configurations. Each module can be placed horizontally to extend floor plans or vertically to create multiple stories. The standardized tetrahedral core and connecting joints enable the same module type to adapt to different architectural requirements without increasing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular system enables three-dimensional adaptation by allowing modules to be stacked vertically and arranged horizontally in unlimited combinations. The tetrahedral structural core provides spatial rigidity in all directions, enabling the building to extend flexibly in both horizontal and vertical dimensions while maintaining structural integrity.
3Strength
If reinforced bars are added to all bars for structural resistance, then strength is improved, but material usage and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Reinforcement is applied selectively rather than uniformly to all bars. The tetrahedral structural core uses reinforced bars at critical load-bearing positions (vertical columns and diagonal bracing members), while non-critical elements use lighter materials. This localized reinforcement achieves maximum load-bearing capacity with minimum material consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The critical load-bearing bars are pre-reinforced during manufacturing of the modular elements, before assembly. This preliminary reinforcement of key structural members ensures adequate strength and load-bearing capacity is built into the module design, reducing the need for additional reinforcement materials during construction.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to the construction of buildings, especially a reticulated stereo modular element that, combined with other identical elements, enables the construction of quadrangular enclosures suitable for the construction of rooms.