The Structural Performance of Large Joint-Less Reinforced Concrete Five-Sided Box Modules

A new technology in reinforced concrete is seamless large five-sided box modules. The advantages of this type of structural form are discussed in the context of its application to the construction of complete housing units built in a single day. These modules are cast integrally with large window and door frames and MEP systems. They are linked with each other, both horizontally and vertically, to develop complex buildings which may increase the freedom of forms of future buildings. The speed of erection and the high quality finishes result in potentially financing cost reductions and increased safety for workers building tall buildings. This technology is currently being used in schools and multi-family housing in Florida. Finite element analysis of the larger boxes (24 feet wide x 48 feet long x 10 feet high and weighing 60-tons each) shows the highest stresses occurring during the form-releasing and hoisting phases. The paper discusses deformations typical of these large modules and their solutions.