Embed Apparatus for Graphic Elements in Concrete
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Solution Overview
Problem
The fluid nature of liquid concrete makes it difficult to embed design elements during construction, as it is challenging to place and secure graphic elements within the concrete before it hardens.
Innovation Solution
An embed apparatus comprising a graphic element attached to frames with truss members and struts, designed to be embedded in construction materials like concrete, which allows for secure placement and retention of the graphic element within the concrete surface, utilizing thermal or mechanical fastening techniques and adjustable geometry to accommodate varying concrete flow and slump levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If graphic elements are placed in liquid concrete, then design elements can be embedded in concrete surfaces, but the fluid nature of liquid concrete makes it difficult to secure and position the graphic elements properly
Solution Approach 1:
The graphic elements are pre-attached to rigid frames before being placed in the concrete. This preliminary assembly ensures proper positioning and security is established before the concrete is poured, eliminating the difficulty of securing elements in fluid concrete while maintaining ease of embedding through a single-unit placement.
Solution Approach 2:
Rigid frames serve as an intermediary between the graphic elements and the liquid concrete. The frames provide a stable structure that secures the graphic elements in place while being embedded in the concrete, resolving the conflict between ease of embedding and security of placement.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid structure is used to secure graphic elements, then positioning stability is improved, but the structure may hinder the concrete's curing process
Solution Approach 1:
The embedding apparatus is divided into separate components: rigid frames for stability, truss members for structural support, and struts for spacing. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its function while minimizing interference with the concrete curing process, as the spaces between components permit concrete flow and heat dissipation.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus design accommodates the dynamic nature of concrete curing by allowing thermal expansion and movement during the curing process. The truss structure and strut configuration provide flexibility to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining graphic element positioning stability.
3Illumination intensity
If the graphic element is positioned close to the concrete surface, then visibility is improved, but the element may be lost or obscured as the concrete sets and shrinks
Solution Approach 1:
The desired final position of the graphic element is predetermined by designing the frame and strut dimensions in advance. The struts are sized to provide the exact spacing needed to achieve proper surface alignment after concrete curing, ensuring both visibility and positioning accuracy without requiring post-adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid frame structure provides a reference framework that maintains fixed spacing between graphic elements and the concrete surface. This structural feedback mechanism ensures that as the concrete cures and shrinks, the graphic elements remain at the correct distance from the surface for optimal visibility and alignment.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to an apparatus embeddable in a surface. Such surfaces may be formed from any material known in the art of construction, such as, but not limited to, concrete, asphalt, composite rubber, or mud. The apparatus may include a graphical element for display. The apparatus may include frames supporting the graphical element. The frames may include trusses disposed between and upper and a lower surface of the frames. The frame may further include one or more tabs at the upper surface to provide clearance between the upper surface and the graphic element.