Structural Module Tie Rod Assembly for Column Misalignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction industry faces challenges in efficiently constructing high-rise buildings in limited spaces with increasing labor costs, requiring improved load support and faster inter-connection of structural modules while minimizing the use of structural members.
Innovation Solution
The structural module design features a frame with box-section columns and braces that transfer vertical loads without assistance from wall studs, using a module-to-module tie system that accommodates misalignment, comprising a tie rod with sockets and spacers for secure horizontal linking of columns, allowing for efficient assembly and load transfer between modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If wall studs are used to support vertical loads in structural modules, then load support is provided, but the number of structural members increases and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes wall studs from the load-bearing function, extracting this structural element from the system. The columns and braces are configured to transfer vertical loads independently, eliminating the need for studs to provide structural support while they retain their function for non-structural purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the load-bearing function into the columns and braces, which already exist as primary structural elements. By configuring these existing members to handle vertical loads without stud assistance, the design consolidates structural functions into fewer elements.
2Ease of operation
If traditional module-to-module tying is used, then horizontal connection is achieved, but alignment tolerance is limited and assembly speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the tie connection by providing tapered sides on the tie plates. This tapering allows the tie rod to be inserted at various angles, accommodating misalignment between modules while maintaining a secure connection, thus relaxing alignment tolerance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The tie design incorporates dynamic adjustment capability through the tapered geometry, allowing the connection to adapt to varying alignment conditions during assembly. The tie rod can be inserted at different angles and positions within the tapered enclosure, providing flexibility in the assembly process.
3Quantity of substance
If fewer structural members are used, then material quantity and cost decrease, but load support capability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality enhancement by providing box-section configuration for columns and braces at critical load-bearing locations. This localized structural optimization ensures that the reduced number of members still provides adequate load support capacity where it is most needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining columns and braces in a integrated structural system where both elements work together to transfer vertical loads. This composite action of multiple structural members compensates for the reduced overall quantity of structural elements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances load support with fewer structural members, facilitates rapid and secure inter-connection of modules, and allows for efficient use of space, particularly suited for high-rise and large-scale building construction.
Implementation Method 1
a tie element configured to extend through the mouths and to engage the enclosures... the tie rod is threadably engaged with a receiver at each end
Implementation Method 2
the plate mouths are tapered to define a widening mouth towards an entrance, to allow variation in angle of entry of the tie rod into the enclosure to accommodate misalignment
Implementation Method 3
the columns and the braces are joined by welding
Data Source
AI summary
A structural module (1) has a structural frame having structural members forming floor plates (2), wall plates (3), vertical columns (4), braces (7) extending at angles from the columns to the floor plates, and wall studs. The columns and the braces are configured to transfer vertical loads without assistance from the studs. There may be a module-to-module tie (200) affixed to at least one column, and each tie may be affixed to a top surface of a column, to link columns of adjoining modules together in a horizontal plane, and to accommodate misalignment of the modules in the horizontal plane.