Triangular Modular Frames for Scalable Construction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional construction methods are labor-intensive, prone to errors, and wasteful, and existing modular systems lack scalability and effective integration of green technologies.
Innovation Solution
A modular building system utilizing triangular frames with equal-length structural segments forming bounded sections, allowing for easy assembly and scalability, and incorporating eco-friendly materials like Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) and engineered wood, enabling efficient construction of structures of various sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional construction methods are used with on-site material adjustment, then flexibility in design and adaptation to site conditions is improved, but labor intensity and construction time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into standardized modular units that can be pre-fabricated off-site and then assembled on-site. Each module contains complete functional elements (walls, floors, ceilings, utilities) that can be independently constructed and then combined to form the complete building, resolving the contradiction between design flexibility and construction speed
Solution Approach 2:
The modular system allows for dynamic configuration where standard modules can be arranged in different patterns and combinations to create varied building layouts and designs. The system can adapt to different site conditions and requirements while maintaining standardized construction processes, thereby achieving both flexibility and efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional construction methods are used with on-site material adjustment, then design customization is improved, but manufacturing precision and error rates worsen
Solution Approach 1:
All measurements, cuts, and adjustments are performed in advance during off-site module fabrication under controlled conditions. This preliminary action eliminates on-site measurement errors and ensures high manufacturing precision before modules are transported and assembled, while still allowing design customization through varied module configurations
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized module designs can be replicated multiple times with consistent precision. Once a module design is perfected and tested, it can be copied and reproduced across multiple buildings or within the same building, ensuring uniform quality and precision while maintaining the ability to customize through different combinations
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional construction methods are used with on-site material adjustment, then adaptability to site conditions is improved, but material waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the building into standardized modules, material usage can be precisely calculated and optimized for each module type. This reduces material waste through efficient nesting and utilization of standard dimensions, while the modular approach still allows adaptation to site conditions through flexible arrangement and combination of modules
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design facilitates easier disassembly, removal, and reuse of modules. If a module is damaged or needs replacement, only that specific module needs to be replaced rather than the entire structure, reducing material waste. Modules can also be recovered and reused in different locations or buildings
4Productivity
If existing modular systems are used with predetermined basic shapes, then construction speed is improved, but scalability to various building sizes worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The modular system uses universal, standardized modules that can serve multiple functions and be configured in various arrangements. The same basic module type can be used to create buildings of different sizes and configurations by varying the number and arrangement of modules, achieving both fast assembly and scalability
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves scalability not just by increasing module size but by adding modules in multiple dimensions (length, width, height). Standard modules can be stacked vertically to create multi-story buildings or arranged horizontally to expand footprint, allowing flexible scaling to various building sizes while maintaining standardized assembly processes
5Manufacturing precision
If existing modular systems are used with predetermined construction techniques, then construction consistency is improved, but integration of green technologies worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The modular system allows for standardized construction techniques to be applied consistently to the structural framework and envelope, ensuring construction consistency. Meanwhile, local variations can be incorporated within modules to integrate green technologies such as solar panels, green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient HVAC, achieving both consistency and adaptability
Data Source
AI summary
In certain embodiments, the inventive subject matter is directed to modular subunit based on a has a frame having three equal length structural segments joined at each end to form a triangular shape, and wherein the structural segments form a bounded section. The bounded section may be a load bearing structure. The bounded section may include three trapezoidal elements arranged to form a triangle. The bounded section may include one of the following: SIP, flooring system, a ceiling system, a roofing system, glass, drop panels, empty. A modular unit may be formed having two of the triangular frames separated by a perpendicular column at each corner to form a normal right pentahedral shape; and wherein the triangular frame further comprising three equal length structural segments joined at each end forming a triangular shape; wherein the structural segments form a bounded section.