Channel Framing Member for Fast, Thermally Efficient Concrete Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction systems for floors and walls are costly, labor-intensive, time-consuming, and lack thermal efficiency, with issues such as high installation costs, lengthy erection times, unsafe site conditions, and inadequate insulation.
Innovation Solution
A framing member comprising first and second channels with flanges and a bent bar, coupled by fasteners, is used to create a construction panel with a concrete layer, allowing for quicker installation and improved thermal efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If steel joist and deck system is used, then structural strength is achieved, but installation cost and erection time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The framing member is divided into separate channel sections that are assembled together using fasteners, allowing for easier transport and faster on-site assembly compared to traditional steel joists that require complex welding and bolting operations
Solution Approach 2:
The channels and flanges are pre-assembled into framing members with integrated concrete attachment features before delivery to the site, eliminating the need for complex on-site assembly and reducing erection time
2Productivity
If precast concrete floor planks are used, then construction speed is improved, but equipment cost and weight handling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The floor system is segmented into lightweight framing members with integrated concrete attachment features, allowing concrete to be poured in-place rather than handling heavy precast planks, eliminating the need for expensive cranes while maintaining construction speed
Solution Approach 2:
The framing member acts as an intermediary between the concrete and the structural support system, providing attachment features that eliminate the need for heavy precast planks while enabling rapid construction through simple assembly
3Ease of manufacture
If foam form decks are used, then formwork simplicity is achieved, but floor span limitation and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The framing system uses modular channel sections that can be easily assembled and configured for different floor spans without requiring complex engineering calculations or specialized installation procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The channel-based framing member serves multiple functions including structural support, concrete attachment, and insulation integration, eliminating the need for separate formwork systems and reducing overall installation complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A construction panel includes a concrete layer and a plurality of framing members coupled to the concrete layer. Each framing member includes first and second channels having respective webs and flanges extending from the webs to form openings in first and second channels facing away from each other. Each framing member also includes a plurality of flanges positioned in and extending across a gap between the first and second channels. Each framing member further includes at least one bent bar including a first plurality of bar sections, with each bar section of the first plurality of bar sections positioned adjacent to at least one flange of the plurality of flanges and extending out from within the gap and into the concrete layer.