Composite Deck System with Upturned Flange Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite deck systems face limitations in achieving ideal composite action between metal decks and concrete, leading to reduced flexibility in construction applications and potential structural weaknesses.
Innovation Solution
The use of deck sections with upturned flanges and openings, such as notches or perforations, that enhance interaction with poured-in place concrete, allowing for improved vertical and horizontal locking, thereby increasing the structural integrity and flexibility of composite decks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If embossments, altered deck profiles, or welded steel wires are used to enhance composite action, then composite action between metal deck and concrete is improved, but construction design flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The deck is divided into modular sections with standardized upturned flanges that can be configured in different patterns (openings, notches, perforations) to achieve composite action without requiring complex welded wires or permanent embossments, thereby maintaining construction flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The geometry of the upturned flanges (height, width, opening size, pattern) can be varied to optimize composite action for different concrete loads and span requirements, allowing the same basic deck design to adapt to multiple construction scenarios
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional deck designs are used, then construction design flexibility is maintained, but composite action between deck and concrete is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The upturned flanges with openings automatically engage with the concrete during pouring and curing, creating mechanical interlocking without requiring additional fasteners, welds, or complex installation procedures, thus maintaining construction simplicity while improving composite action
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a true composite structure by integrating the metal deck with upturned flanges and concrete through mechanical interlocking, allowing the two materials to work together as a unified structural element with enhanced load-bearing capacity
3Strength
If composite action is improved through additional devices, then structural strength is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The upturned flanges serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural rigidity to the deck, create mechanical interlocking with concrete, and define the composite action interface, eliminating the need for separate strengthening devices
Solution Approach 2:
The composite action mechanism is extracted from the concrete (no need for embedded wires or anchors) and integrated into the deck itself through the upturned flange geometry, simplifying the overall system while maintaining strength
Data Source
AI summary
A composite a deck system having a deck component and a concrete component. The deck component of the present invention includes deck sections, each having a longitudinally-extending rib with spaced apart sidewalls connected to a top wall. At the opposing ends of the sidewalls can be included side edges or webs having upturned flanges with an opening or openings along the flanges that are dimensioned to facilitate composite action between the deck sections and the concrete. The system includes a first deck section, as described, adjacent to a second deck section, wherein the side edges of the first and second deck sections are in juxtaposed relation. These deck sections can be combined with concrete to form a composite deck.