A fine adjustment device and method for installing a large pier-side bracket in place

Abstract

This invention discloses a fine-tuning device and method for installing and positioning large pier-side brackets, belonging to the field of bridge construction technology. The device includes a fixed-end assembly on the pier-side bracket, a tensioning-end assembly on the bridge pier tower structure, a flexible tensioning member, and a tensioning actuation mechanism. The method includes the following steps: S1 coarse positioning; S2 temporary anchoring, using steel wire ropes to temporarily connect the pier-side bracket to the lower crossbeam or bearing pad; S3 installing the fine-tuning device; S4 fine-tuning positioning, activating the tensioning actuation mechanism, and precisely adjusting the bracket position to the design coordinates by tightening or loosening the flexible tensioning member; S5 final fixing. This invention, through a system combining temporary anchoring and flexible tensioning fine-tuning, effectively solves the problems of large swaying and difficult precision control during the overall hoisting and positioning of large-tonnage pier-side brackets at sea, significantly improving construction efficiency and safety, and reducing operational risks.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of bridge construction technology, specifically relating to a fine-tuning device and method for installing and positioning large pier-side brackets. Background Technology

[0002] In the construction of large-scale cross-sea bridges, pier-side brackets serve as crucial temporary support structures, and their installation accuracy and efficiency directly impact the progress and safety of the main bridge project. These brackets are typically characterized by their large size, heavy weight, and irregular structure.

[0003] Currently, in offshore operations, the most common construction method is segmented hoisting and assembly. This method first divides the support frame into multiple components, hoisting them one by one to the pier, and then positioning and connecting them at high altitude. This operation mode has significant drawbacks: the construction process is cumbersome and the operation time is long, resulting in high labor and machinery costs, and exposing construction personnel to high-risk high-altitude and sea conditions. Although hoisting large-tonnage support frames as a whole has potential advantages in efficiency, stability control and millimeter-level precise positioning during the placement process remain technical challenges. Uncertain factors such as waves and wind can easily cause the hoisted structure to sway, and traditional coarse adjustment methods such as guy ropes are difficult to achieve precise fine adjustments, which greatly restricts the reliable application of this technology.

[0004] Therefore, the present invention proposes a fine-tuning device and method for installing and positioning large pier-side brackets to at least partially solve the above-mentioned problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems in the existing technology, this invention provides a fine-tuning device and method for the installation and positioning of large pier-side brackets, solving the technical difficulties of controlling positioning accuracy and stability during the overall hoisting of large pier-side brackets at sea.

[0006] The objective of this invention can be achieved through the following technical solution: a fine-tuning device for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket, the pier-side bracket being installed beside a bridge pier / tower structure, comprising a fixed end assembly, a tensioning end assembly, a tensioning actuation mechanism, and at least one flexible tensioning member; the fixed end assembly is disposed on the pier-side bracket, and the fixed end assembly is provided with at least one fixed anchor point for connecting the flexible tensioning member; the tensioning end assembly is disposed on the bridge pier / tower structure, and the tensioning end assembly includes a reaction seat; one end of the flexible tensioning member is connected to the fixed anchor point, and the other end passes through the reaction seat; the tensioning actuation mechanism is disposed at the tensioning end assembly, and is used to apply or release tension force to the flexible tensioning member passing through the reaction seat, thereby controlling the relative position of the pier-side bracket relative to the bridge pier / tower structure.

[0007] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fixed end assembly includes a fixed end pad beam, and a crescent plate is provided at the connection between the fixed end pad beam and the steel pipe column of the pier bracket, wherein the arc-shaped surface of the crescent plate is adapted to the outer wall of the steel pipe column.

[0008] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tensioning end assembly includes a tensioning end pad beam, the reaction seat is welded to the tensioning end pad beam, and the two ends of the tensioning end pad beam are provided with vertical supports that are tightly attached to the structural wall of the bridge pier tower.

[0009] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flexible tensioning member is a steel strand.

[0010] A fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket includes the following steps:

[0011] Step S1: Coarse positioning, using hoisting equipment to move the pier-side bracket to the vicinity of the design position;

[0012] Step S2: Temporary anchoring, using temporary fixing measures to connect the pier-side bracket to the preset anchoring points on the bridge pier tower structure;

[0013] Step S3: Install the fine-tuning device, connect the flexible tensioning member between the fixed end assembly and the tensioning end assembly, and install the tensioning actuation mechanism;

[0014] Step S4: Fine-tuning positioning, start the tensioning actuation mechanism, and precisely adjust the position of the pier-side bracket by tightening or loosening the flexible tensioning member until the pier-side bracket reaches the design coordinates;

[0015] Step S5: Final fixation. After the bracket beside the pier is precisely adjusted to the correct position, the connection between the bracket beside the pier and the bridge pier tower structure is completed.

[0016] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention, before step S1, a pre-installation step is also included: the fixed end assembly is pre-welded to the steel pipe column of the pier bracket, and one end of the flexible tensioning member is pre-anchored to the fixed end assembly.

[0017] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention, the temporary fixing measure uses multiple steel wire ropes to anchor the pier-side bracket from different directions, in order to limit the displacement and swing of the pier-side bracket in multiple directions in the horizontal plane.

[0018] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention, the temporary fixing measures in step S2 include: connecting the pier-side bracket to the bearing pad of the bridge pier tower structure with a steel wire rope; and setting a steel wire rope pad between the contact surfaces of the steel wire rope and the bearing pad.

[0019] As a preferred technical solution of the present invention, the fine-tuning and positioning in step S4 adopts staged tensioning: firstly, preliminary tensioning is performed to straighten the flexible tensioning member, and then micro-tensioning is performed to make the pier bracket accurately positioned.

[0020] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in step S4, the action of the tensioning actuation mechanism is controlled by combining real-time position measurement data; the position measurement data is acquired by a measuring instrument.

[0021] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: By setting up a fine-tuning device consisting of a fixed-end component, a tensioning-end component, a flexible tensioning member, and a tensioning actuation mechanism, and combining it with a construction method that includes pre-installation, temporary anchoring, and fine-tuning positioning, a complete construction system of anchoring before fine-tuning is formed. This system effectively suppresses the swaying of the bracket under wind and wave conditions through temporary anchoring with steel wire ropes, ensuring operational safety. Furthermore, by utilizing the flexible tensioning member in conjunction with the tensioning equipment, millimeter-level precise adjustments to the spatial position of the large bracket are achieved, significantly improving the positioning accuracy and efficiency of the overall offshore hoisting, while reducing the risks of high-altitude operations and construction costs. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art, the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the fine-tuning method of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the temporary fixed elevation in the fine-tuning device of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic elevation view of the fine-tuning measures in the fine-tuning device of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the fine-tuning and temporary fixing plane in the fine-tuning device of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the plan view of the bracket fixed end pad beam in the fine adjustment device of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the elevation of the tensioning end pad beam in the fine-tuning device of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the tensioning end pad beam in the fine-tuning device of the present invention.

[0030] In the diagram: 1. Wire rope limiter; 2. Operating platform; 3. Wire rope; 4. Wire rope pad; 5. Fixed end pad beam; 6. Crescent plate; 7. Steel strand; 8. Reaction seat; 9. Tensioning jack; 10. Tensioning end pad beam. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To further illustrate the technical means and effects of the present invention in achieving its intended purpose, the following detailed description of the specific implementation methods, structures, features, and effects of the present invention, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments, is provided. Example 1

[0032] Please see Figures 1-4 This embodiment details the composition, installation, and working principle of the temporary anchoring system in this invention. The temporary anchoring system is crucial for ensuring the stability of the pier-side bracket before and during fine-tuning. It consists of a wire rope 3, a wire rope limiter 1, a wire rope clip, and a wire rope pad 4.

[0033] First, the pre-installation of the temporary anchoring system must be completed when the bracket is assembled on the ground or in the prefabrication yard. Construction personnel must pre-wrap one end of the wire rope 3 at a suitable height selected on the steel pipe column of the bracket. The wrapping operation must be tight and neat, ensuring full contact between the wire rope 3 and the surface of the steel pipe column. After wrapping, a sufficient number of wire rope clips of matching specifications must be used to firmly lock the end of the wire rope 3 to the main rope. The wire rope limiter 1 here can be a ring clamp or stop welded to the steel pipe column, its function being to prevent the wire rope 3 from slipping upwards or downwards under subsequent hoisting, wind load, or surge, ensuring the absolute reliability of the pre-fixed end. The other end of the wire rope 3, the free end, is allowed to hang naturally during pre-installation for easy lifting after subsequent hoisting.

[0034] Meanwhile, to facilitate high-altitude anchoring operations for construction personnel, a sturdy operating platform 2 needs to be pre-welded onto the steel pipe column. This operating platform 2 is typically constructed with a steel frame and covered with anti-slip steel plates or mesh. Temporary guardrails should be installed around the platform to ensure operational safety.

[0035] Once the pier-side support frame is hoisted to its approximate design position next to the pier or tower by large lifting equipment such as floating cranes, it will sway significantly under the influence of water flow and wind. Immediate fine-tuning at this point is both dangerous and inefficient. Therefore, the primary task is to complete temporary anchoring. Using the existing tower crane on site, the free end of the previously drooping steel wire rope 3 is pulled up to a pre-designated permanent or temporary anchoring point, such as the lower crossbeam or bearing pad. Construction workers stand on the operating platform 2, loop the pulled-up steel wire rope 3 around the bearing pad or special anchor bolt, and secure it using multiple steel wire rope clips to form a reliable figure-eight or V-shaped tie-down system.

[0036] To effectively distribute local stress, prevent the wire rope 3 from being cut by the sharp edges of the support pad, and slow down its fatigue failure process, a wire rope pad 4 must be placed between the wire rope 3 and the support pad or any hard contact surface. This wire rope pad 4 is typically an arc-shaped steel plate, its curvature matching that of the wire rope 3, increasing the contact area and protecting the wire rope 3. Such anchoring with multiple wire ropes 3 in at least two directions significantly limits the displacement and rotation of the pier-side support in both the longitudinal and transverse directions in the horizontal plane, creating a stable and safe working condition for subsequent high-precision tensioning adjustments. Example 2

[0037] Please see Figures 3-7 This invention provides a fine-tuning device for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket, which mainly includes a fixed end assembly, a tensioning end assembly, a flexible tensioning member, and a tensioning actuation mechanism.

[0038] The fixed-end assembly is a force transfer mechanism installed on the steel pipe column of the pier bracket. Its core is a fixed-end pad beam 5. In this embodiment, the pad beam is preferably made of double-section HW400×400 steel, rigidly connected to the steel pipe column by welding to provide sufficient structural strength to withstand the enormous tension during the fine-tuning process. A key design feature is the crescent plate 6 welded to the contact point between the fixed-end pad beam 5 and the arc-shaped outer wall of the steel pipe column. This crescent plate 6 is a precisely cut steel plate, with its inner side machined into an arc-shaped surface perfectly matching the radius of curvature of the outer wall of the steel pipe column. This transforms the original line-to-surface contact into a close fit between surfaces, enabling the concentrated tension force on the pad beam to be evenly transferred and distributed across the entire perimeter of the steel pipe column. This effectively avoids potential crushing or deformation of the steel pipe wall due to localized stress concentration, ensuring safe and efficient force transmission. At a specific location on the fixed end pad beam 5, holes are made according to design requirements and special anchor plates or anchors are welded to form fixed anchor points for anchoring one end of the steel strand 7.

[0039] In this embodiment, the flexible tensioning member uses high-strength, low-relaxation steel strand 7. Steel strand 7 has the advantages of high strength, good flexibility, and customizable length, making it very suitable for applications requiring large spans and fine-tuning. Before the bracket is hoisted, one end of the steel strand 7 is securely anchored to the anchoring point of the fixed end pad beam 5 using anchors, as per design requirements. The other end, like the steel wire rope 3, hangs naturally during the pre-installation stage.

[0040] The tensioning end assembly is a reaction support system installed on the bridge pier / tower structure (such as the tower body or lower crossbeam of a cable tower). Its core is the tensioning end bearing beam 10. This bearing beam also uses double-section HW400×400 steel to ensure sufficient rigidity. Unlike the fixed end assembly, the tensioning end bearing beam 10 needs to be tightly abutted against the concrete wall of the pier / tower by steel vertical supports at both ends, thereby effectively transferring the tension reaction force to the solid pier / tower structure itself. A reaction seat 8 is precisely welded onto the tensioning end bearing beam 10. The reaction seat 8 is a reinforced steel structural component with pre-drilled holes for the steel strands 7 to pass through, and provides a stable support backing for the tensioning jack 9.

[0041] In this embodiment, the tensioning actuation mechanism is a tensioning jack 9, preferably a 100-ton through-hole hydraulic jack. It is mounted on a reaction seat 8, with the free end of the steel strand 7 passing through the central hole of the jack. By driving the piston rod of the jack to extend through a hydraulic pump station, the steel strand 7 can be clamped and pulled, thereby applying a controllable tension force directed towards the pier tower to the pier bracket connected to the other end.

[0042] The working principle of the entire fine-tuning device is as follows: by tensioning or releasing the steel strand 7 through the tensioning jack 9, the hydraulic pressure is converted into a pulling force or a releasing force on the bracket next to the pier. Since most of the degrees of freedom of the bracket have been restricted by the temporary anchoring system, this tension force is mainly converted into a small, controllable linear displacement of the bracket, thereby achieving precise adjustment of it in one or more directions of the six degrees of freedom in space. Example 3

[0043] Please see Figures 1-7 The present invention also includes a fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket. This method is a logically rigorous and clearly defined construction process, specifically including the following steps:

[0044] Step S0: Pre-installation and preparation. This step is completed before the hoisting of the pier-side bracket. It mainly includes: 1) Welding the fixed-end bearing beam 5, along with the crescent plate 6 and operating platform 2, to the designed position of the steel pipe column of the bracket; 2) Installing anchors on the fixed-end bearing beam 5 and anchoring one end of the steel strand 7 to it, with the free end coiled for later use; 3) Locking one end of the wire rope 3 to the steel pipe column using a clip according to design requirements, and preventing slippage using the wire rope limiter 1; 4) Pre-assembling and inspecting the tensioning-end bearing beam 10 and the reaction seat 8 to ensure their dimensions match the predetermined installation position on the pier tower.

[0045] Step S1: Coarse Positioning. Using a large floating crane, the pre-installed pier-side bracket is lifted as a whole and slowly transported to the vicinity of its designed installation position next to the pier or tower. Preliminary alignment and positioning are performed using guiding devices (such as guide limit blocks) installed at the bottom of the pier or on the tower, ensuring the bracket is roughly within its theoretical projection range. At this stage, a certain amount of deviation is permissible.

[0046] Step S2: Temporary Anchoring. This operation is performed immediately after the initial positioning to quickly suppress bracket sway. Using a tower crane, the operator pulls the free end of the wire rope 3, pre-fixed to the bracket, to the lower crossbeam or support pad of the pier. Standing on the operating platform 2, the operator loops the wire rope 3 around the anchor point, places a wire rope pad 4 at the contact point, and finally secures it reliably with wire rope clips. This type of anchoring is typically performed from at least two different directions to quickly establish a stable suspension-pull system.

[0047] Step S3: Install the fine-tuning device. After the temporary anchoring system takes effect and the bracket stabilizes, begin installing the fine-tuning tensioning system. Use a tower crane to lift the free end of the steel strand 7 to the already installed tensioning end support beam 10. Workers pass the steel strand 7 through the hole in the reaction seat 8 and the center hole of the tensioning jack 9, and temporarily anchor it to the anchor plate of the tensioning jack 9 using a tool anchor. Ensure the entire steel strand 7 is straight and free from twisting.

[0048] Step S4: Fine-tuning and positioning. This is one of the core steps of the entire method, aiming to achieve millimeter-level precise positioning of the bracket. This step employs a staged tensioning strategy:

[0049] Initial tensioning stage: Start tensioning jack 9 and slowly tension the steel strand 7, which may have been loose, to gradually straighten it and initially overcome the static friction between the bracket and the guide device. The purpose of this stage is to eliminate system gaps, establish initial tension, and bring the fine-tuning device into an effective working state.

[0050] Fine-tuning stage: After the steel strand 7 is taut, fine-tuning begins. Surveyors use precision instruments such as total stations to track and measure characteristic points on the support in real time, continuously providing feedback on the deviation data between the current coordinates and the design coordinates. Based on the deviation data, the commanding personnel instruct the operators to control the tensioning jack 9 to make micro-movements or slowly tighten the steel strand 7 to bring the support closer to the pier, or, under controllable conditions, slightly release the oil to loosen the steel strand 7 and adjust for over-adjustment. This process requires patience and meticulousness, and may involve multiple cycles of measurement-feedback-fine-tuning. The hydraulic system of the tensioning jack 9 is precise enough to achieve millimeter-level or even sub-millimeter-level displacement control.

[0051] Step S5: Final Fixing. Once the measurement data confirms that the pier-side bracket has accurately reached the design coordinate position and that all installation accuracy requirements are met, final fixing is immediately carried out. The pier-side bracket is permanently fixed to the connectors embedded in the pier structure using welding or high-strength bolts. After confirming that the final connection is secure and reliable, the fine-tuning device and temporary anchoring system can be released in sequence: first, the tensioning jack 9 is safely depressurized, and the anchoring of the steel strand 7 is removed; then, the wire rope clips are loosened, and the anchoring of the wire rope 3 is released. At this point, the entire installation and positioning of the pier-side bracket is complete. Example 4

[0052] This embodiment serves as a supplement and refinement to the aforementioned embodiments, further elaborating on some optimized designs, safety considerations, and possible workarounds.

[0053] Firstly, regarding the fixed-end support beam 5 and the tensioning-end support beam 10, double-section HW400×400 steel is an exemplary choice. In actual engineering, the specific specifications, steel type, and arrangement of reinforcing ribs of the support beams need to be determined through structural calculations based on the specific weight and size of the bracket, the expected maximum tension force, and the number of steel strands 7, to ensure that their rigidity and strength meet safety requirements.

[0054] Secondly, the manufacturing precision of the crescent plate 6 is crucial. CNC cutting or contour cutting should be used to ensure the fit between its arc and the outer wall of the steel pipe column. If necessary, high-strength filler such as epoxy mortar can be injected between the crescent plate 6 and the steel pipe wall to ensure uniform stress distribution.

[0055] Secondly, regarding the safety and synchronization of tensioning operations: When using multiple steel strands 7 to adjust the same bracket at multiple points, a synchronous tensioning system should be considered. This involves controlling multiple jacks simultaneously through a central control console to ensure the bracket does not experience uncontrollable twisting or tilting during adjustment. Furthermore, strict construction safety procedures must be established for all tensioning operations. Personnel must not stand directly in front of the steel strands 7 to prevent injury from anchor failure or breakage of the steel strands 7.

[0056] Finally, the flexible tensioning member is not limited to steel strand 7. High-strength steel wire bundles or other types of steel cables can also be used when the tensioning force requirement is not high or the adjustment stroke is short. The tensioning actuation mechanism is not limited to hydraulic jacks; under specific working conditions, mechanical tensioning equipment with precise control capabilities, such as electric hoists and screw tensioners, can also be used. The temporary anchoring points, in addition to the support pad stones, can also be special anchor rings or brackets pre-embedded on the pier.

[0057] In summary, this invention, through the organic combination of temporary anchoring and fine-tuning tensioning, forms a complete, efficient, and safe solution for the installation and positioning of large pier-side brackets. It effectively overcomes the impact of harsh marine environments on the accuracy of hoisting and positioning large structures, demonstrating significant technological advancement and application value.

[0058] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way. Although the present invention has been disclosed above with reference to preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-disclosed technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A fine-tuning device for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket, the pier-side bracket being installed beside a bridge pier / tower structure, characterized in that, The system includes a fixed-end assembly, a tensioning-end assembly, a tensioning actuation mechanism, and at least one flexible tensioning member. The fixed-end assembly is mounted on the pier-side bracket and has at least one fixed anchor point for connecting the flexible tensioning member. The tensioning-end assembly is mounted on the bridge pier structure and includes a reaction seat. One end of the flexible tensioning member is connected to the fixed anchor point, and the other end passes through the reaction seat. The tensioning actuation mechanism is located at the tensioning-end assembly and is used to apply or release tension force to the flexible tensioning member passing through the reaction seat, thereby controlling the relative position of the pier-side bracket relative to the bridge pier structure. The fixed end assembly includes a fixed end pad beam, and a crescent plate is provided at the connection between the fixed end pad beam and the steel pipe column of the pier side bracket. The arc-shaped surface of the crescent plate is adapted to the outer wall of the steel pipe column. The tensioning end assembly includes a tensioning end pad beam, the reaction seat is welded to the tensioning end pad beam, and the two ends of the tensioning end pad beam are provided with vertical supports that are tightly attached to the wall of the bridge pier tower structure. The flexible tensioning member is a steel strand.

2. A fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket, applied to the fine-tuning device for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Step S1: Coarse positioning, using hoisting equipment to move the pier-side bracket to the vicinity of the design position; Step S2: Temporary anchoring, using temporary fixing measures to connect the pier-side bracket to the preset anchoring point on the bridge pier tower structure; Step S3: Install the fine-tuning device, connect the flexible tensioning member between the fixed end assembly and the tensioning end assembly, and install the tensioning actuation mechanism; Step S4: Fine-tuning positioning, start the tensioning actuation mechanism, and precisely adjust the position of the pier-side bracket by tightening or loosening the flexible tensioning member until the pier-side bracket reaches the design coordinates; Step S5: Final fixation. After the bracket beside the pier is precisely adjusted to the correct position, the connection between the bracket beside the pier and the bridge pier tower structure is completed.

3. The fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket according to claim 2, characterized in that, Before step S1, a pre-installation step is also included: the fixed end assembly is pre-welded to the steel pipe column of the pier bracket, and one end of the flexible tension member is pre-anchored to the fixed end assembly.

4. The fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket according to claim 3, characterized in that, The temporary fixing measures use multiple steel wire ropes to anchor the pier-side bracket from different directions, in order to limit the displacement and sway of the pier-side bracket in multiple directions in the horizontal plane.

5. The fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket according to claim 2, characterized in that, The temporary fixing measures in step S2 include: connecting the pier-side bracket to the bearing pad of the bridge pier tower structure with a steel wire rope; and setting a steel wire rope pad between the contact surfaces of the steel wire rope and the bearing pad.

6. The fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fine-tuning and positioning in step S4 adopts a phased tensioning method: first, preliminary tensioning is performed to straighten the flexible tensioning member, and then micro-tensioning is performed to accurately position the pier-side bracket.

7. The fine-tuning method for installing and positioning a large pier-side bracket according to claim 2, characterized in that, In step S4, the action of the tensioning actuation mechanism is controlled by combining real-time position measurement data; the position measurement data is acquired by a measuring instrument.

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