Why the HabiTek System Is So Flexible:
Select any schematic for a larger view, as well as to read the complete caption and description.
Figures A1-A4 use a 90cm module. Other 30cm module increments (e.g., 120cm) could also be used. Maximum bay width would likely be set at 360cm (~11’-9 ¾”), primarily to achieve beams manageable by 2 able-bodied persons. Wider bay sizes are achievable in special cases such as school structures. The images all show a GABLE ROOF with a 27˚ SLOPE (6/12); one of many roof types available within HabiTek’s menu of components parts. Except for A-2, all three of these small structures are elevated on PIERS.
CONCRETE BLOCK infill is indicated between the steel posts. This option would work where flooding is not a major issue; therefore a concrete STEM WALL foundation could be used. HabiTek’s steel posts and beams surround the masonry construction on three sides, and thereby assist in “confining” the reinforced concrete blocks. This approach is a version of so-called “CONFINED MASONRY CONSTRUCTION”, used in many parts of the developing world with high seismic exposure.
Here prefabricated wood SHEAR PANELS are illustrated. These panels would be strengthened with steel straps to develop required rigidity, and bolted to the surrounding steel members. Shear panels can be supplied by HabiTek or fabricated locally.
Post-and-pier construction adapts well with SLOPING SITES. The same roof eave supporting OUTRIGGER is flipped to support the BALCONY, also included in the HabiTek kit-of-parts. The interchangeability of steel components for multiple uses is a hallmark of the our system. Prefabricated steel STRUTS would be used to brace the posts below floor level. Pre-punched holes in the steel beams marry with holes in the strut to create a simple bolted connection. HabiTek can supply railing BALUSTERS to fasten to pre-drilled holes in the beams.
Height necessarily increases the requirements for frame stiffening with either SHEAR PANELS or steel X-BRACING, as illustrated. Even three story structures are possible using the same MENU of HabiTek components.
The two-story framework is stiffened by SHEAR PANELS, an essential component, especially in locations facing high wind speeds. SHEAR PANELS can be made using a wood frame sheathed with plywood, as illustrated, or using sheet steel screwed to light gauge steel studs, as was employed in the Adapt 001 project. Other pre-engineered methods, such as cross-bracing steel bars, can also be employed.
A wider framework is illustrated, with a BALCONY added. Again, all components shown fall within HabiTek’s standard menu of pre-fabricated bolt-together parts.
Note here that a WOOD TRUSS type roof structure is indicated. Since HabiTek’s steel components are designed to accept dimensional wood framing, a prefabricated or site built WOOD TRUSS roof structure could be used. This approach would require extensive reinforcement with steel straps to resist hurricane force winds. Some loss of strength would occur, and more highly trained carpenters would be required.
This image illustrates the versatility of the HabiTek system. One new component is added to the kit-of-parts to create a VERANDA or porch, a steel BENT. Here BRICK INFILL is shown, another option available to enclose structures. Note that a concrete GRADE BEAM is indicated connecting the piers; for larger structures, grade beams will be required to strengthen foundations.