Utility Building Module with Joist Openings for Container Utilities
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Solution Overview
Problem
Intermodal containers face challenges with limited living space due to utilities like wiring and plumbing taking up interior space and inadequate insulation, which also occupies valuable space.
Innovation Solution
A building module with parallel walls and joist structures incorporating openings for utilities and insulation, allowing additional space for wiring, plumbing, and insulation, while using corner fixtures for attachment to containers and adjustable stairs for efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If utilities (wiring, plumbing) are installed inside the intermodal container living area, then functional requirements are met, but living space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts utilities (wiring, plumbing, insulation) from the interior living space and relocates them to exterior mounting surfaces and raised floors. This allows the living area to remain clear while utilities are installed on the container's external structures, resolving the contradiction between utility installation capability and living space availability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves utilities from the two-dimensional interior floor plan to the three-dimensional exterior surfaces and peripheral areas of the container. By mounting utilities on external walls and using raised floors, the solution utilizes spatial dimensions outside the primary living area, thereby preserving interior space while maintaining utility functionality
2Temperature
If insulation is added to the intermodal container, then thermal performance is improved, but living space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the insulation layer from the interior space and positions it on exterior surfaces of the container walls and floors. This external insulation approach maintains thermal performance while preventing insulation material from occupying valuable living area within the container
3Adaptability or versatility
If the floor is raised to accommodate utilities, then utility installation is enabled, but living space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts utilities from the interior volume and relocates them to exterior mounting surfaces and peripheral channels. By doing so, the need for raising the floor is eliminated or minimized, preserving the maximum living volume within the container while still enabling comprehensive utility installation
Data Source
AI summary
A building module that can accommodate wiring, plumbing, insolation, stairs, and any other device or material desired in construction of structures involving intermodal containers. Embodiments of the building module contain spaces and joist structure, which can provide support for one or more intermodal containers. The joist structure can include several perpendicular beams in a grid formation. These beams can have openings for the purpose of lightening the structure, saving on materials, and allowing space for utility materials such as wiring, plumbing, and other implements used in the walls, floors, and ceilings of structure construction. Building module embodiments can also be used as a header to stabilize walls for the addition of doorways and windows.