Adjustable Preloading Apparatus for Foundation Reinforcement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional preloading methods face challenges in maintaining preloading load efficiency during building extensions, leading to increased loads on existing piles and decreased axial loads on new piles due to loss of prestress and deformation, which limits economic feasibility in foundation reinforcement.

Innovation Solution

A preloading apparatus comprising a new footing separate from the existing footing, an upper supporting plate integrated with the existing slab and vertical part, and a loading unit that adjusts and applies preloading loads to new piles, allowing them to share existing and extension loads effectively, thereby securing the bearing capacity and economic feasibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional preloading method is used with a fixed preloading device, then the initial prestress can be applied to the new pile, but the preloading load cannot be adjusted or restored after loss occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepreloading load maintenanceVSAvoidpreloading load adjustability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The preloading device is designed with adjustable loading capacity, allowing the preloading load to be dynamically modified. The hydraulic jack system enables the load to be increased or decreased based on actual performance and loss conditions, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that can adapt to changing requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The preloading load parameter can be changed and adjusted during the operation. The device allows for modifying the magnitude of the preloading force applied to the new pile, enabling restoration of lost prestress or optimization of load distribution between existing and new piles based on monitoring data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If additional new piles are constructed to compensate for load loss, then the bearing capacity requirement can be met, but the construction cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebearing capacityVSAvoidpile construction quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A monitoring system is implemented to continuously track the load distribution between existing and new piles. This feedback mechanism provides real-time data on load loss, enabling timely adjustment of the preloading load on the new pile to maintain optimal load sharing and prevent the need for additional piles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The adjustable preloading device is configured in advance to allow for load restoration. By preparing the system with the capability to replenish lost prestress before critical load loss occurs, the need for additional corrective construction measures such as building more piles is avoided.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If the preloading load is increased to compensate for loss, then the bearing capacity is restored, but the existing structure may be overloaded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepreloading load restorationVSAvoidexisting structure load capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The monitoring system tracks not only the load on the new pile but also the overall load distribution in the structure. This feedback enables controlled adjustment of the preloading load to restore bearing capacity while preventing excessive loading on the existing structure by providing real-time visibility of load conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The preloading device allows for dynamic, incremental adjustment of the load rather than sudden increases. This enables the system to gradually restore the preloading load to appropriate levels while continuously monitoring the response of the existing structure, preventing overload conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The apparatus efficiently secures the bearing capacity of existing piles by adjusting preloading loads and increases the load-sharing rate of new piles, enhancing reinforcement efficiency and economic feasibility by minimizing new pile construction and restoring lost preloading loads.

Implementation Method 1

a loading unit installed between the new footing and the upper supporting plate. When the loading unit is operated, the upper supporting plate, which is connected with the existing vertical part and the existing slab, is used as an reaction bed so as to apply a preloading load to a new pile of the new footing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentUS10947694B2Preloading apparatus for adjusting load and method of reinforcing foundation using the same
Publication Date: 2021.03.16 KOREA INST OF CIVIL ENG & BUILDING TECH
  • US10947694B2 patent drawing
  • US10947694B2 patent drawing
  • US10947694B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a preloading apparatus and a method of reinforcing a foundation using the same, wherein, in a preloading method used for remodeling construction in which an extension of a building, such as an apartment, is required, the preloading apparatus allows adjustment of a preloading load, such as addition of a preloading load, to be performed when loss of the preloading load occurs and allows the new pile to effectively share a load applied before and after an extension of a building so that reinforcement efficiency is increased, and thus a load is adjustable economically.