Asymmetric Cellular Steel Beams for Ultra-Shallow Floors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shallow steel floor systems face limitations in achieving ultra-shallow depths, accommodating service structures, and providing flexible beam depths due to constraints in standard H-sections and asymmetric beam designs, which restrict span lengths and increase construction weight.
Innovation Solution
The use of structural beams with openings in the web, known as cellular beams, allows for the construction of ultra-shallow floors by accommodating concrete units between the beams' flanges and enabling the integration of service structures within the floor system, with the beams being asymmetric and customizable in depth and opening configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standard H-section beams are used for shallow floor construction, then the concrete flooring unit cannot be safely lowered into place without fouling the top flange projection, but using asymmetric beams with narrower top flanges allows concrete units to be lowered safely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing steel beams with different top and bottom flange widths. The top flange is made narrower than the bottom flange, creating an asymmetric profile that allows concrete flooring units to be lowered safely without fouling the top flange projection, while the bottom flange maintains sufficient width to provide the required load carrying capacity and support the concrete units.
2Ease of operation
If asymmetric steel beams with narrower top flanges are used, then concrete units can be lowered safely, but the range of section sizes is very limited and the shallowest beam is too deep for ultra-shallow floors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the dimensions of the asymmetric steel beams, including depth, top flange width, bottom flange width, and web thickness. This allows the creation of multiple beam sizes with different depth-to-span ratios, providing a comprehensive range of section sizes that can accommodate various floor depth requirements from shallow to ultra-shallow configurations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If welded plate beams are used to achieve flexible beam depths, then depth can be customized, but automated welding systems cannot access beams less than 300 mm in depth and full strength butt welds are prohibitively expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the beam depth into manageable sections that can be welded by automated systems. The beam is constructed with a web and flanges that create accessible welding zones, allowing automated welding systems to effectively weld beams of various depths including those less than 300 mm, thereby achieving flexible beam depths while maintaining manufacturing accessibility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If service structures are located within the floor construction, then numerous services can be accommodated, but existing beam designs do not provide adequate space for service integration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the asymmetric steel beams to serve multiple purposes: structural support through the web and flanges, and service accommodation through integrated openings in the web. The web is designed with openings that allow passage of services such as electrical cables, plumbing, and HVAC ducts, enabling the beam to function both as a structural element and as a conduit for building services, thereby reducing the need for separate service pathways.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a floor construction method and system, and more particularly to a method for producing shallow and ultra shallow steel floor systems.