Embedded Steel Connector for Precast Panel Foundation Bolting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for anchoring concrete panels to foundations involve welding metal connectors or fabricated steel assemblies, which are inefficient and require external bolting, lacking a seamless integration with precast concrete wall panels.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece stamped steel connector is embedded in the concrete wall panel during casting, accompanied by a plastic block-out that forms a void to allow for optimal bolting, ensuring the connector is positioned correctly and accessible for secure attachment to the foundation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding metal connectors between concrete panel and foundation is used, then secure attachment is achieved, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The steel connector is merged with the concrete panel by embedding it during the casting process, creating a unified component. The block-out material is also merged into the connector, forming an integrated assembly that eliminates separate welding operations and simplifies the overall connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The steel connector and block-out are pre-positioned and integrated into the concrete panel during manufacturing before installation. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex field assembly operations such as welding, reducing both complexity and installation time while maintaining secure attachment.
2Strength
If fabricated steel assemblies are used for embedding, then connection strength is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple components (steel connector, block-out, and concrete) are merged into a single integrated unit during the casting process. This eliminates the need for separate fabrication and assembly operations, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining the structural strength required for secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The steel connector and block-out are pre-assembled and positioned within the concrete panel during manufacturing. This preliminary integration simplifies the manufacturing process by eliminating complex field assembly operations while ensuring the connection meets required strength specifications.
3Reliability
If external bolting is used, then attachment is achieved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The steel connector with integrated block-out is pre-positioned and embedded in the concrete panel during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming field operations such as positioning and welding, allowing for rapid installation while maintaining secure attachment through the pre-configured bolting system.
Data Source
AI summary
A steel connector is embedded in the concrete wall panel when the wall is cast. A block-out forms a void in the wall panel and keeps the poured concrete from filling the inside of the steel connector during the casting process. The angle at which the base of the steel connector is disposed within the concrete wall panel provides the proper angle for a fastening bolt to be inserted through the steel connector and into the foundation. The fastening bolt passes the base of the steel connector into the concrete foundation to securely attach the wall panel to the foundation.