Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

Livingstone MCS Ltd. is a private Canadian corporation in Kelowna, British Columbia, that is researching and developing an innovative prefabricated and expandable shelter/housing system using nontraditional materials and tools. The company's Modular Composite Structure (MCS) system will help meet growing demand in Canada and around the world for portable shelters that are safe, affordable, energy efficient and rapidly deployable to any site or location for a variety of uses. The MCS represents a paradigm shift in the evolution of shelters and features a dome-like shape that provides great structural strength and optimizes the use of space with the least amount of materials and waste. Potential uses include residential housing, emergency stations, hospitals, remote fire command/military outposts, construction staff housing and equipment storage. The structures can also be used to shelter families displaced from their homes due to natural disasters. A technical challenge in developing the MCS is the need to determine how to mechanically connect the component panels that make up the structure in a simple and reliable manner. This research project involves the exploration of potential panel connection methods and development of a mockup of an optimal panel connection system. A solution to the connection issue will allow the company to move ahead with further development and testing and bring them one step closer to mass production and commercialization of the MCS. Research knowledge and expertise gained from this project can be directly used by the company to support their goal of becoming a leader in the global prefabricated/modular structure manufacturing industry. The project will be conducted in partnership with Okanagan College researchers who will use the new knowledge and technology for future teaching and applied research purposes.