Universal Built-in Elements for Accessible Multi-unit Space Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current design methods for accessible and usable spaces often fail to balance the needs of individuals with mental and physical disabilities with those of non-disabled individuals, lacking efficiency and cost-effectiveness while also not accommodating temporary challenges.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based system that utilizes a library of pre-designed universal built-in elements, including structural data for clear floor space, reach range, and operable parts compliance, integrated with a design engine to generate plans and CAD files, ensuring accessibility and usability for both physically challenged and non-challenged individuals, including those temporarily challenged, through collaboration among developers, contractors, and financial market participants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If spaces are designed to meet accessibility standards for individuals with disabilities, then accessibility and usability are improved, but design complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The design system segments accessibility requirements into discrete, pre-defined built-in elements (counters, cabinets, storage units) that each independently meet specific accessibility criteria. This allows complex accessibility requirements to be broken down into manageable, standardized components that can be selected and combined without requiring custom design for each element.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses parameterized design where built-in elements have adjustable parameters (heights, depths, positions) that can be modified to meet different accessibility standards while maintaining a consistent base design. This allows the same element family to serve both accessible and non-accessible requirements through parameter adjustment rather than creating entirely different designs.
2Ease of operation
If spaces are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, then accessibility is improved, but space usability for non-disabled individuals may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The built-in elements are designed with universal functionality, meaning each element (counter, cabinet, storage unit) is configured to be usable by both individuals with disabilities and non-disabled individuals. For example, counters have heights and clearances that accommodate wheelchair users while remaining functional for standing users, and storage units provide accessible storage for wheelchair users while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functionality for all users.
Solution Approach 2:
The design applies local quality adjustments to specific areas where accessibility is needed while maintaining standard design characteristics in other areas. This allows the space to have localized accessibility features (such as lowered counters or adjusted cabinet positions) without requiring the entire space to be redesigned, thus preserving overall versatility and usability for non-disabled individuals.
3Reliability
If custom accessible designs are created for each project, then specific accessibility needs are met, but design time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring built-in elements to meet accessibility standards before they are selected for a specific project. Each element in the library has already been designed and validated to comply with relevant accessibility requirements, so when selected, they automatically contribute to compliance without requiring time-consuming custom design or verification during the project execution phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copying by allowing designers to select and replicate pre-designed accessible elements from a library across multiple projects and within the same project. Once an accessible counter or cabinet configuration is designed and validated, it can be copied and reused in other locations or projects, eliminating the need to redesign accessible features from scratch for each new application.
4Reliability
If accessibility features are added to spaces, then accessibility compliance is improved, but manufacturing and construction complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The design system segments accessible spaces into standardized built-in elements (counters, cabinets, storage units, seating) that can be manufactured independently using standard fabrication processes. Each element is designed with dimensions and configurations that align with standard manufacturing capabilities, avoiding the need for custom fabrication while still meeting accessibility requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for designing accessible and usable spaces having built-in elements in multi-unit environments are disclosed. In one embodiment of the system for designing accessible spaces, the system includes a library storing multiple pre-designed universal built-in elements. Each of the pre-designed universal built-in elements includes structural data indicative of clear floor space compliance, reach range compliance, and operable parts compliance. Also, the structural data is indicative of anthropometric data compliance for non-physically challenged and physically challenged persons. A design engine configured to communicate with a user interface provides for design choices by a user and the generation of plan drawings.