Wedge Construction Module for Gap-Free Dome Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building structures, particularly domes made from prefabricated modules, require additional elements to fill spaces between modules, limiting flexibility and efficiency in construction.
Innovation Solution
A single construction module with a plane-symmetrical, arched wedge shape featuring a rectilinear tube inner and outer surfaces, symmetric and antisymmetric recesses and protrusions for connection, allowing modules to be easily assembled without additional elements, prefabricated for high accuracy and repeatability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional elements are used to fill spaces between modules, then structural completeness is improved, but device complexity and construction cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The module is designed with a universal wedge shape that serves multiple functions: it forms the structural dome shape, creates self-interlocking connections through complementary surfaces, and eliminates the need for separate filling elements. The same module type can create various structures (domes, vaults, arches) without requiring additional specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the function of space-filling elements into the main module design itself. The wedge-shaped module incorporates both the structural form and the connection geometry within a single component, combining what would traditionally require separate elements into one integrated unit.
2Productivity
If prefabricated modules are used, then construction speed is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into standardized wedge-shaped modules that can be prefabricated with high precision in controlled environments. Each module is a discrete segment with standardized dimensions and connection surfaces, allowing for precise manufacturing and quick assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge shape with specific angular geometry creates inherent alignment features that guide module placement. The asymmetric wedge form with defined base and spike orientations provides self-aligning connection surfaces that tolerate minor manufacturing variations while maintaining structural integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single module type is used, then adaptability for different structures is improved, but geometric flexibility may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
A single wedge-shaped module design serves multiple structural purposes: it can form domes, vaults, arches, and other curved structures. The universal geometry allows the same module type to adapt to various configurations through different assembly patterns without requiring specialized module variants.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge module's three-dimensional geometry with specific angular relationships allows it to create complex curved surfaces through simple repetitive assembly. By arranging identical modules in different orientations and positions, the design achieves geometric complexity in the overall structure while maintaining module simplicity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The module is a plane-symmetrical solid (15), having a base (1), a spike (2), an inner surface (4), an outer surface (5), and a first (3') and a second (3") side wall. The inner surface (4) of the module is a wedge-shaped section (4) of the inner surface of the rectilinear tube (6), while its outer surface (5) is a wedge-shaped section (5) of the outer surface of the same tube (6). The boundaries of these two sections (4, 5) are defined by a first (11), a second (12) and a third (13) delimiting planes. The base (1) of the module, the bases (8, 10) of both mentioned wedge-shaped sections (4, 5) and an axis (14) of this tube (6) lie in the first delimiting plane (11). The plane of symmetry (15) of the module is perpendicular to the first delimiting plane (11) and to the axis (14) of the tube (6), while the second (12) and the third (13) delimiting planes are symmetrical with respect to the plane of symmetry (15), are perpendicular to the first delimiting plane (11) and intersect (16) each other. The line of intersection (16) of these planes lies in the plane of symmetry (15) of the module, is perpendicular to the first delimiting plane (11) and passes through the spikes (7, 9) of both wedge-shaped sections (4, 5) of the surface of the tube (6). On the first (3') and the second (3") side wall of the module there is a set of recesses (18) and protrusions (19), arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry (15) and antisymmetrically with respect to the plane of antisymmetry (17), in which lies the axis (14) of the tube (6) and which is inclined to the first delimiting plane (11) at an angle (β) of 45 degrees.