Cementitious Composite Support Prop With Edge Metal Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support components in underground excavations, such as those used in mines, are obtrusive, heavy, and pose logistical and fire hazards due to the use of timber slabs, which increase weight and present handling challenges.
Innovation Solution
A support component comprising a cementitious block with metallic plates on at least three minor faces, providing a stronger, lighter, and non-flammable alternative that can be used in composite support packs, with metallic plates optionally embedded in the cementitious material for enhanced bonding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If timber slabs are used to bound cementitious blocks, then the blocks can be kept in desired configuration and provide load-bearing capability, but the weight of each component increases materially and logistical problems arise during transport and handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the timber slabs from the support component, replacing them with cementitious material that is cast directly into the space previously occupied by the timber. This eliminates the need for separate timber bounding elements while maintaining the structural configuration and load-bearing capability of the support pack.
2Strength
If timber slabs are used to bound cementitious blocks, then the blocks can be kept in desired configuration and provide load-bearing capability, but the timber slabs are obtrusive and present logistical problems during transport and handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the timber bounding function with the cementitious block material itself. The cementitious material is cast to form both the structural blocks and the bounding configuration simultaneously, eliminating separate timber components. This integration simplifies the overall structure, making it less obtrusive and easier to transport and handle as a unified component.
3Strength
If timber slabs are used to bound cementitious blocks, then the blocks can be kept in desired configuration and provide load-bearing capability, but the timber slabs are flammable and can constitute a fire hazard in an underground installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from combustible timber to non-combustible cementitious material. By replacing the organic timber slabs with inorganic cement-based material, the fire hazard is eliminated while the structural and load-bearing functions are preserved through the rigid properties of the cementitious composition.
4Shape
If timber slabs are used to bound cementitious blocks, then the blocks can be kept in desired configuration, but the timber slabs increase the weight of each component
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the timber slabs from the support component, replacing them with cementitious material that is cast directly into the space previously occupied by the timber. This eliminates the need for separate timber bounding elements while maintaining the structural configuration and load-bearing capability of the support pack.
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 solution eliminates fire hazards, reduces weight and logistical issues, and enhances structural integrity by using metallic plates on cementitious blocks, creating a more efficient and safer support system.
Implementation Method 1
The steel strip may include formations or members which are configured to adhere to or to become embedded in the cementitious block, when it sets, thereby to ensure a firm bond between the steel plates and the block.
Data Source
AI summary
A support pack component which comprises a rectangular cementitious block with metal plates on three of its edges.