Vertical Tie Assembly for Modular Columns Without Side Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for constructing high-rise buildings from structural modules face challenges in efficiently and safely interconnecting load-bearing columns, particularly in high-rise structures exceeding ten storeys, where existing tie arrangements may compromise structural integrity and are cumbersome to implement.
Innovation Solution
A vertical tie system comprising a top tie assembly with a tool interface, a bottom tie assembly, and an interconnect member, configured to fit within the load-bearing column, allowing for torque transfer and engagement between modules without affecting the column's structural integrity, using a tubular configuration and socket interface for easy access and high torque application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing tie arrangements are used for interconnecting load-bearing columns in high-rise buildings, then the structural integrity may be compromised and the implementation becomes cumbersome, but the construction process lacks efficiency and safety
Solution Approach 1:
The tie arrangement is divided into separate components: a tie bar with a first end and a second end, allowing the system to be assembled in segments rather than requiring complex single-piece ties. This segmentation simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining structural integrity through proper connection mechanisms at each segment interface.
2Ease of operation
If a vertical tie system with tool interface and interconnect member is implemented, then the interconnection becomes simple and safe, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical tie system incorporates a tool interface that allows workers to apply torque directly to tighten the connection between modules. The system is designed to be self-servicing during assembly, where the interconnect member automatically engages with the tie bar and fasteners, reducing the need for complex external assembly equipment while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The vertical tie system features a nested structure where the interconnect member fits within the column structure, and the tie bar connects to module frames through integrated fasteners. This nesting approach consolidates multiple components into a compact arrangement that appears complex in detail but simplifies the overall interconnection process.
3Strength
If torque is applied to the tool interface to engage the bottom tie assembly, then strong vertical and horizontal resistance is achieved, but the application of high torque requires complex tooling
Solution Approach 1:
The tool interface is designed with a universal socket configuration that can engage with standard torque-applying tools. This standardized interface allows the same tool design to be used across different vertical tie applications, reducing tooling complexity while still achieving the high torque values (e.g., 1100 Nm) needed for strong vertical and horizontal resistance in the connection.
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
The vertical tie system enables simple, safe, and strong interconnection of structural modules, providing excellent vertical and horizontal resistance, suitable for high-rise buildings, without compromising the structural integrity of the load-bearing columns and facilitating efficient on-site assembly.
Implementation Method 1
application of torque to the tool interface and transfer of said torque by the interconnect member
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A vertical tie is for a load-bearing column (4) of a building off-site structural module (1) with a box-section structural member (30). The tie has a top tie assembly (35) for engagement by a torqueing tool (70) from above the column. There is a bottom tie assembly (36), which fastens to the module below. Torque which is applied to the top tie assembly (35) is transferred to the bottom tie assembly by an interconnect tube (33). The top and bottom tie assemblies are configured so that the bottom tie assembly (36) is adapted to engage with a top tie assembly (35) of an underneath module, in one case by a nut engaging a spindle protruding up from the lower module. This allows modules to be tied together in the vertical direction in a simple, convenient, and safe manner by an operator on-site working on top of the upper module. Access to torque the tie does not require any side opening in the column and so its load-bearing properties are not affected.