Thesis College of Engineering University of Rizal System-Morong 2024

This undergraduate research study, entitled Design of an Earthquake and Flood-Resistant Modular Housing, was conducted throughout the 2023–2024 academic year. Baras, Rizal, was chosen as the research location due to its easy access and availability of resources relevant to the project's goals. The core objective of this research was to develop a design for modular houses that can withstand earthquakes and floods, specifically for communities at high risk for these disasters. The study aims to generate valuable insights to inform the creation of resilient housing solutions that can be applied in future disaster-prone areas. This study explored the possibilities and design of a modular house that can withstand the might of these natural disasters. Modular housing is no longer just a niche concept. Unlike traditional construction methods, modular homes offer inherent advantages. They are versatile by design, allowing for flexibility in both aesthetics and functionality to suit various needs. This innovation takes an even bolder step with the researchers' development of a flood-resistant modular housing system. The study produced a design that is not just built to withstand floods, but is specifically engineered to float above floodwaters, providing a safe haven during floods while also possessing some earthquake-resistant qualities. The researchers used a developmental type of research to come up with a design for earthquake- and flood-resistant modular housing. Three major outputs were produced: engineering plans, a miniature model focusing on the replication of the floating mechanism, and a computer simulation of the structure under seismic activity using ETABS. The study concluded that the Earthquake and Flood-Resistant Modular Housing proved to be a worthwhile endeavor. Aside from tackling natural disasters, mainly earthquakes and floods, it also demonstrated that modular housing has an advantage in terms of construction duration. The traditional house was estimated to be completed in approximately 38 days, while the modular housing required only about 25 days. While the initial cost may be slightly higher compared to traditional methods, the floating mechanism offers an invaluable layer of security and protection to the occupants. The modular design allows for flexibility and quicker construction. In addition, the structural design considered earthquake loadings, with values based on Manila standards. The design's functionality was validated through a computer simulation for earthquake resistance and a miniature model test for flood resistance. The study concluded that three interconnected shipping containers can provide a functional and comfortable living space for a family of four. The engineering designs were in line with Presidential Decree No. 1096, also known as the National Building Code of the Philippines. While the initial construction cost might be slightly higher compared to conventional housing, the added safety provided by its ability to float makes it a worthwhile investment. The researchers propose several recommendations for their flood-resistant modular housing design. They recommend incorporating dampeners and cross bracings to increase structural integrity, using more lightweight materials to further reduce costs, utilizing a shake table for more accurate assessment, applying 3D printing technology for more precise scaling of the model, and researching and developing earthquake-resistant connections between modules to improve stability during seismic activity and floods.