Dome Formwork Tube Coupling for Stable Ventilated Crawl Spaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional systems for constructing ventilated crawl spaces and elevated platforms face static issues due to inadequate coupling of the upper floor slab to a bracing structure, unusual load conditions, and potential differential subsidences, necessitating expensive and complicated on-site operations like chemical adhesive fixation of reinforcement bars.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising dome-shaped formwork elements connected via overlapping side edges with vertically arranged tubular elements, utilizing interconnection means to form a channeled receptacle for reinforcement, allowing easy assembly of a trellis-like concrete structure with excellent static characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional systems use simple tube support without coupling mechanisms, then the installation is simpler and cost-effective, but the structure experiences static instability under unusual load conditions and differential subsidences
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate components: a coupling element that attaches to the tube support and reinforcement bars, and a bracing structure that provides lateral stability. This segmentation allows for simpler installation while maintaining structural integrity through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is pre-designed with integrated features for attaching reinforcement bars and connecting to bracing structures. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex on-site operations like chemical adhesive fixation, as the coupling mechanism is ready for immediate assembly with standard mechanical connections.
2Reliability
If chemical adhesive fixation is used to anchor reinforcement, then the static stability is improved, but the on-site operation becomes very expensive and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the chemical adhesive fixation system with a mechanical coupling system. The coupling element uses physical interlocking features such as recesses and protrusions to secure reinforcement bars and connect to bracing structures, eliminating the need for chemical adhesives and their associated complex on-site application procedures.
3Length of moving object
If the height of the system is particularly high, then the ventilated crawl space functionality is improved, but the free inflexion height increases causing static problems
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element acts as an intermediary between the tube support and the bracing structure. It provides a mechanical connection point that allows bracing elements to be attached at optimal locations along the height of the system, enabling lateral support to be provided without compromising the overall height required for ventilated crawl space functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for forming ventilated crawl spaces or interspaces or elevated platforms which comprise dome-shaped formwork elements supported on supporting tubes; the ventilated crawl space or interspace or elevated platform comprises first, second and third interconnection elements, which communicate with a lower end of the supporting tubes, which are adapted to form a channeled receptacle, which rests on a foundation or surface, for reinforcements; such channeled receptacle is adapted to receive a concrete casting to form a connecting beam between the supporting tubes.