Adjustable Form Traveller for Arch Bridge Construction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current construction methods for arch bridges require complex modifications and are limited in adapting section dimensions, as formworks are typically supported by the last concreted section, making it difficult to vary the arch section configuration during construction.

Innovation Solution

A traveller system comprising a securing structure and a working structure, where the securing structure is coupled to the already built arch section, allowing for adjustable formwork configurations through hydraulic systems and modular components, enabling the construction of arches with varying dimensions by modifying the exterior and interior formwork.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If formworks are supported by the last concreted arch section and use fixed configuration, then construction simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying arch section dimensions is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to varying arch section dimensionsVSAvoidformwork configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The formwork system is divided into multiple adjustable segments including exterior formwork panels, interior formwork panels, and support structures that can be independently positioned and configured. This segmentation allows the formwork to adapt to different arch section dimensions while maintaining construction simplicity through modular assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The formwork configuration is made dynamic through adjustable support legs, movable panels, and reconfigurable bracing systems that can be modified during construction. This enables the same formwork system to accommodate varying arch section dimensions without requiring complete redesign or additional support elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If traditional formwork systems are used for arch construction, then construction methodology is simplified, but construction time increases due to complex modifications required for section variations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconstruction speedVSAvoidtime for formwork modifications
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The formwork system is pre-configured with adjustable components and multiple positioning options that allow rapid adaptation to different arch section dimensions. Support legs, panels, and bracing elements are designed for quick adjustment without requiring time-consuming modifications or complete dismantling during construction progression.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed configuration formworks are used, then structural stability is maintained, but ability to embrace half concreted arch section and vary dimensions is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecapability to embrace half concreted arch sectionVSAvoidformwork stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The formwork system incorporates different levels of adjustability in different regions - the securing structure provides stable anchorage to the already built arch section, while the working structure allows local adjustments to embrace half-concreted sections and accommodate dimension variations. This localized adaptability maintains overall structural stability while enabling the required versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS9683338B2Form traveller for the construction of engineering works
Publication Date: 2017.06.20 RUBRICA ING Y ARQUITECTURA
  • US9683338B2 patent drawing
  • US9683338B2 patent drawing
  • US9683338B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a traveller (1) for the construction of engineering works, comprising two structures, namely: a securing structure (2) for securing to the already built engineering work, and a working structure (3) on which construction of the work advances. The traveller is characterized in that the securing structure (2) comprises: a first end ring (6) and a second middle ring (7), both of said rings (6, 7) being coupled to the periphery of the section (27) of the already built work; at least one transom bar (9) that joins the end ring (6) and the middle ring (7) on the side of the carriage (1); and connecting elements between the end ring (6) and the middle ring (7). The working structure (3) comprises exterior formwork (25) and floor formwork (23).