Precast Bridge Deck Advancing via Modular Support Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for constructing load-bearing structures like bridges often cause significant disruption to surface facilities and require large excavation sites, expensive temporary diversions, and high jacking forces due to the need for large concrete box structures or incomplete canopy support systems.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the formation of a deck structure using precast slab or beam units supported by modular units that are advanced into position along tracks, with a shielded area for controlled excavation and reduced friction, allowing for efficient installation without surface disruption, using smaller jacking forces and less excavation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If large concrete box structures are used for deck structures, then structural strength is improved, but site area requirement and excavation volume increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The deck structure is divided into multiple precast segments or modules that can be manufactured separately in controlled environments and then assembled in situ. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for strength while reducing the overall site area needed for construction, as components are brought to site rather than formed on-site.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional horizontal construction approaches to vertical assembly methods. By erecting the deck structure vertically and then lowering it into position, the construction process utilizes the vertical dimension more effectively, reducing the horizontal site footprint and excavation volume required.
2Strength
If large concrete box structures are used, then structural strength is improved, but jacking forces required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the deck structure into smaller precast modules, the mass that needs to be jacked and moved is reduced. Each segment can be handled with smaller, more manageable jacking forces, while the overall structural strength is achieved through the assembled configuration and connection details.
Solution Approach 2:
The deck segments are pre-assembled and pre-stressed in controlled manufacturing environments before being transported to site. This preliminary action allows the structure to achieve its full strength characteristics before installation, eliminating the need for large jacking forces during the actual installation process.
3Ease of manufacture
If deck structure is constructed from surface using conventional techniques, then construction simplicity is improved, but surface facility disruption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deck structure components are manufactured and prepared in advance in controlled environments away from the construction site. This preliminary fabrication allows the actual on-site work to be limited to assembly operations that can be performed without disrupting surface facilities, as the heavy construction activities have already been completed elsewhere.
Solution Approach 2:
The construction approach moves from surface-level conventional methods to underground or subsurface assembly techniques. By constructing the deck structure below the surface and then raising it into position, or by assembling segments underground, the method eliminates disruption to surface facilities while maintaining construction simplicity through standardized procedures.
4Productivity
If slide path installation is performed in advance, then deck structure installation speed is improved, but surface facility disruption and reinstatement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The installation process is segmented so that only the specific areas where slide paths or guides are needed are prepared, rather than preparing entire surface facilities in advance. This localized preparation minimizes disruption to surface facilities while still providing the necessary guides for rapid deck structure installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide paths and support structures are moved from surface-level installation to subsurface or underground positioning systems. By using vertical guides and underground support mechanisms, the method enables rapid deck installation without requiring advance preparation of surface facilities, thus eliminating disruption to surface operations.
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
This method minimizes surface disruption, reduces excavation volume, and lowers construction costs by allowing precise control of the deck structure's line and level, enabling rapid installation with reduced jacking forces and smaller launch areas, while supporting both dead and live loads effectively.
Implementation Method 1
slab or beam units slide in a guided manner into position to form the deck structure and supporting the deck structure on the supports along which the same has been slid
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The invention relates to a load bearing construction such as a bridge in which there is provided a deck structure (8) which is supported by and spans at least two support portions (2,4). The invention provides for the advancement of the deck structure along said support portions and in advance of said structure excavation can occur to create the space into which the deck structure is to be advanced.