Deployable Bearing Extender Assembly for Eccentricity-Free Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load transfer systems in structural design face challenges such as eccentricity-induced flexural stresses, limited constructability in constrained environments, lack of deployability, no reinforcement integration, and difficult access for installation, which complicate design and construction.
Innovation Solution
A deployable extender assembly with a strut-and-tie mechanism that allows for adjustable load transfer, reduces eccentricity, and includes features for remote deployment and reinforcement integration, enhancing constructability and structural efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed bearing connections are used, then structural stability is maintained, but constructability is limited in tight or geometrically constrained environments and the system lacks deployability
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing connection system transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic deployable system. The extender assembly can be inserted through formwork and deployed to extend the bearing surface outward, allowing the connection to adapt its position and configuration during construction while maintaining structural stability once deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing connection system is divided into separate functional components: the anchor assembly embedded in the support member, the extender assembly that bridges the gap, and the bearing plate that provides the load transfer surface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates deployability through formwork.
2Ease of operation
If the bearing surface centroid is offset from the support member centroid to accommodate spatial constraints, then installation becomes easier, but undesired flexural stresses are introduced in the support member
Solution Approach 1:
The extender assembly acts as an intermediary element between the support member and the bearing plate. It transfers loads axially through its length, allowing the bearing plate to be positioned at an optimal location for load transfer while the anchor assembly remains properly aligned with the support member centroid, thus eliminating flexural stresses.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves the bearing surface outward in the spatial dimension perpendicular to the support member face. This dimensional extension allows the bearing plate to be positioned optimally for load transfer without requiring the anchor assembly to be offset, maintaining centroid alignment and avoiding flexural stresses.
3Manufacturing precision
If direct manual access is required for installation, then installation precision can be maintained, but access becomes difficult when connection points are located deep within structural systems or behind formwork
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor assembly is pre-positioned and embedded in the support member during formwork construction, before the actual bearing connection is needed. This preliminary action allows the anchor to be precisely located while easy access is available, and the extender assembly can later be deployed through the formwork opening to complete the connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The extender assembly is designed to be inserted through the formwork opening and nested within the structural system. The assembly can be fed through the formwork in a compact state and then deployed to its extended position, allowing installation in locations that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable extender assembly is provided for the edge of a load-carrying member in a structural system to improve performance and constructability. The assembly includes a strut-and-tie system movable between a stowed position and an extended position. In the extended position, the strut-and-tie system transfers load from the load-carrying member to a support member through a bearing surface. The bearing surface is configured to align its centroid with that of the support member to eliminate or reduce eccentricity and the resulting undesired flexural stresses. The assembly may include mechanical integration with internal reinforcement, such as prestressing strands or steel bars, and may incorporate bearing plates, elastomeric pads, or a combination thereof. A cavity in the support member accommodates the assembly in its extended position and allows movement between positions. The system enhances installation in constrained spaces and may be actuated remotely to facilitate deployment where access is limited.