Pretensioned Chain Reinforcement Assembly for Seismic Concrete
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional concrete reinforcement methods face issues with inconsistent positioning of reinforcement mesh, weakness due to cutting for plumbing, and lack of flexibility during earthquakes or impacts, leading to potential structural failure.
Innovation Solution
A reinforcement assembly using pretensionable and resiliently deformable chains embedded within the concrete structure, with adjustable link members and mounting blocks to maintain tension and accommodate deformations, enhancing seismic and impact resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional reinforcement mesh is used with spacers or chairs, then the reinforcement can be positioned within the concrete structure, but the spacers or chairs are dislodged during pouring or when workers walk over the mesh, resulting in inconsistent positioning and areas of weakness
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement assembly is segmented into multiple functional components: chain links for reinforcement, mounting blocks for positioning, and tetherable ends for attachment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively, with mounting blocks providing stable positioning points that prevent dislodgement during concrete pouring
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement assembly is pre-assembled with mounting blocks and chains before concrete pouring. The mounting blocks are预先 positioned to maintain precise reinforcement placement, and the chains are pre-tensioned to ensure proper positioning is maintained throughout the pouring process and curing period
2Adaptability or versatility
If reinforcement mesh is cut to allow plumbing to pass through, then service access is enabled, but the overall structural strength is weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The chain link reinforcement provides inherent flexibility that allows plumbing services to pass through without cutting. The chain links can be locally opened and reconnected, maintaining the continuous reinforcement path and structural integrity while accommodating service penetrations
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement system transitions from a static, rigid mesh to a dynamic chain link structure that can adapt to service requirements. The tetherable ends and link connections allow the reinforcement to flex and reconfigure around plumbing penetrations while maintaining tensile strength
3Strength
If rigid reinforcement is used in concrete structures, then the structure gains strength, but the reinforcement cannot accommodate large deformations during earthquakes or impacts, leading to catastrophic failure
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement system changes its mechanical parameters under different loading conditions. The chain links maintain high tensile strength under normal conditions but can undergo large deformations during seismic events or impacts. The pretensioning creates an initial state that allows the system to absorb and dissipate energy through controlled deformation
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcement assembly combines multiple materials and mechanisms: metal chains for tensile strength, mounting blocks for positioning stability, and pretensioning elements for energy absorption. This composite approach creates a reinforcement system that exhibits both strength and ductility, accommodating large deformations without catastrophic failure
4Adaptability or versatility
If chain link mesh is used as reinforcement, then the structure gains flexibility, but the mesh needs to be cut for pipes which significantly affects the structure since each wire strand is held under tension
Solution Approach 1:
The chain link reinforcement serves multiple functions: providing tensile strength, accommodating service penetrations, and maintaining structural integrity. The tetherable ends and link connections allow the same reinforcement system to handle both structural and service requirements without compromising strength
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 provides improved resilience to earthquakes and impacts by maintaining structural integrity and minimizing damage, while allowing for optimal reinforcement positioning and service access without compromising strength.
Implementation Method 1
the first and second lengths of chain being pretensionable prior to forming the concrete structure
Implementation Method 2
The chains may be pretensionable and/or resiliently deformable
Data Source
AI summary
There is proposed a reinforced concrete structure comprising a reinforcement assembly embedded therein, the reinforcement assembly including first and second lengths of chain, wherein the first and second lengths of chain being pretensionable prior to forming the concrete structure. The reinforcement assembly includes pretensionable member/s and/or resiliently deformable member/s intermediate of at least one tetherable end of the lengths of chain and a mounting block or link member.