Concrete Panel Ribs with Triangular Reinforcement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing concrete panel construction methods lack efficient and versatile solutions for creating load-bearing structures with integrated reinforcement and easy assembly, particularly in varying building applications.

Innovation Solution

The use of concrete panels with integrated ribs and beams reinforced by triangularly shaped reinforcement trusses and wire mesh, along with a forming apparatus that allows for the creation of panels with horizontal and vertical holes for attachment and insulation, enabling flexible and strong panel connections and thermal breaks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional concrete panel construction methods are used, then structural strength is achieved, but assembly efficiency and versatility are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly efficiencyVSAvoidstructural versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The concrete panel is segmented into distinct functional components: ribs for structural support, beams for load distribution, and integrated reinforcement elements. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall structural integrity and enabling efficient assembly through modular construction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The panel design integrates multiple functions into single elements: ribs serve both structural support and reinforcement anchorage, beams provide load bearing and connection interfaces, and the integrated reinforcement system delivers both strength and adaptability. This multi-functionality enables the same panel type to be used across various building applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Strength

If integrated reinforcement is used in concrete panels, then structural strength is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcement system is merged with the concrete panel manufacturing process itself. Reinforcing bars are positioned within the formwork before concrete pouring, and connection elements are integrated into the panel design, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement installation steps and reducing overall manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Reinforcement elements are pre-positioned and secured within the formwork before concrete is poured. This preliminary action ensures proper reinforcement placement and alignment, simplifying the manufacturing process while guaranteeing structural strength requirements are met

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If holes are created in ribs for load bearing, then panel connectivity is improved, but reinforcement effectiveness may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepanel connectivityVSAvoidreinforcement effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The reinforcement configuration is locally optimized around each hole in the ribs. Triangular reinforcement patterns are strategically positioned to provide maximum strength where the holes create potential weak points, while maintaining connectivity functionality. This local quality adjustment ensures both connectivity and structural effectiveness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS7828544B2Concrete panel construction system and method of making panels
Publication Date: 2010.11.09 BRENTMUIR DEV 1993
  • US7828544B2 patent drawing
  • US7828544B2 patent drawing
  • US7828544B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A concrete building panel has a slab and a plurality of ribs and beams. A series of horizontal holes in the end ribs are spaced at a selected constant spacing such that adjacent panels may be fastened together through them. In one type of panel, the slab is separated from the ribs to provide an air gap. Connections between holes in two adjacent concrete wall panels are made by a hollow conduit having an abutment at either end to engage the concrete wall panels. Other connections between adjacent panels involve a stitch with legs which extend through holes in the beams. Other connections involve a space made by vertical channels of horizontally adjacent panels. A plate fitted into the space aligns the adjacent panels and may extend upwards to align upper panels. Load bearing horizontal holes through the ribs are reinforced with reinforcing bar in the concrete arranged in generally triangular shapes. The concrete panels are formed vertically in a gang form. Connections between a roof panel and another roof panel or a wall panel are described.