Dynamic Wedge Foundation for Seismic Arch Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foundation designs for arch structures in earthquake-prone areas are unstable and prone to collapse during catastrophic events, as they lack the ability to increase rigidity and strength under pressure, and do not allow for movement within the arch structure and foundation.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic wedge foundation system comprising movable wedge structures connected with flexible members that convert from a semi-rigid to a rigid state upon increased pressure, utilizing a stacked wedge configuration with bracing elements to stabilize the structure by redirecting force vectors and maintaining stability during earthquakes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid arch support systems are used, then structural stability is improved, but the structure collapses when put under pressure far beyond its intended purpose
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system transitions from a rigid state during normal conditions to a dynamic, movable state during earthquakes. The wedge-shaped foundations are designed to move relative to each other and to the ground, allowing the structure to adapt to seismic forces rather than resisting them statically. This dynamic behavior prevents collapse by dissipating energy through controlled movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its mechanical parameters (rigidity, friction coefficients) in response to applied forces. During normal conditions, the foundations maintain high friction and rigid positioning for stability. During earthquakes, the increased forces cause the foundations to overcome friction thresholds and move, changing the system's effective rigidity and allowing it to survive catastrophic loads.
2Reliability
If movable wedge foundations are used, then the structure becomes more stable under pressure, but the foundation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system is divided into discrete wedge-shaped modules that can move independently relative to each other. Each wedge is a simple geometric form, but their collective arrangement creates the complex earthquake-resistant behavior. This segmentation allows the system to achieve sophisticated functionality through simple, repeatable units.
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation system is passive and self-activating during earthquakes. The wedges automatically move in response to seismic forces without requiring external control systems, sensors, or power sources. The friction-based mechanism naturally transitions the system from rigid to movable state based on the applied forces, eliminating the need for complex active control.
3Loss of energy
If the arch structure is made flexible to allow movement, then shock absorption is improved, but structural strength under normal loads decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The arch structure maintains rigid connections during normal conditions to provide full load-bearing capacity. During earthquakes, the flexibility comes from the foundation-wedge movements rather than arch deformation. The arch itself remains structurally rigid while the foundation system provides the necessary movement and shock absorption capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge foundations act as an intermediary between the rigid arch structure and the moving ground during earthquakes. They absorb and dissipate seismic energy through their movement, protecting the arch from direct seismic forces. This intermediary mechanism allows the arch to remain rigid and strong while the system as a whole exhibits flexible, shock-absorbing behavior.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The dynamic wedge foundation system effectively stabilizes arch structures by converting from a semi-rigid to a rigid state, preventing collapse and maintaining structural integrity during earthquakes, while allowing for movement and shock absorption, thus enhancing the stability and safety of buildings in seismic zones.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible member between the opposing wedges becomes more rigid, thereby stabilizing the arch
Implementation Method 2
Forces of pressure can be countered using a 'stacked dynamic wedge' foundation beneath semi-rigid arches
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is an arch/building support system comprising two (or more) opposing wedges, at least one located at the base of each side of the arch, with the bases of the opposing wedges facing each other, the opposing wedges connected to each other by a semi-rigid flexible rod or rods. In a building structure, the flexible member could be rebar(s) made of one or various materials (metal, plastic, nylon etc.) with various degree of elasticity. The rebars could envelop the structure (around the outside or shell) or reside within it, and may also incorporate some sort of spring mechanism. The rebar(s) are anchored to the upper wedge on each side of the arch, but need not be, and could instead be anchored to the ground.