Expandable Tubular Element for Concrete Pre-compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pre-compression systems for concrete structures, such as those using tensioning supports or post-compression methods, are costly and impractical for smaller-scale projects like residential buildings due to space and installation complexities, limiting their application to larger structures.
Innovation Solution
A pre-compression system utilizing an expandable tubular element made of composite material, submerged in concrete during curing, which is pressurized with fluid to elongate and then contracted to induce compression, using compression heads to transmit the load and achieve pre-compression, thereby reducing costs and installation difficulties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional pre-compression systems using tensioning supports are used, then concrete structures can be pre-compressed to resist tensile loads, but the system becomes costly and complex for smaller-scale projects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hydraulic pressurization system where a pump introduces pressurized fluid into the tubular element, causing it to expand and elongate. This hydraulic mechanism replaces complex mechanical tensioning supports with a simpler fluid-pressure-based system that is easier to install and remove, directly addressing the device complexity issue while achieving the desired pre-compression effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a tubular element made of flexible composite material that can expand and contract. This flexible shell approach eliminates the need for rigid tensioning supports and anchors, significantly simplifying the installation process. The tubular element is simply placed within the concrete form, filled with fluid to expand, and then the fluid is removed to allow contraction, making the system much easier to install and remove compared to traditional methods.
2Strength
If traditional pre-compression systems are used, then concrete structures can be pre-compressed, but additional costs are incurred which are normally avoided in smaller works
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible tubular element made of composite material is significantly cheaper and easier to deploy than traditional tensioning support systems. It requires no complex anchoring mechanisms or specialized installation equipment, reducing both material and labor costs. The system can be easily removed after use, making it economically viable for smaller-scale projects like residential buildings.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic pressurization system uses a simple pump to introduce fluid into the tubular element, replacing expensive mechanical tensioning equipment. This approach significantly reduces the cost of implementation while achieving the same pre-compression effect, making the technology accessible for smaller works where cost is a critical factor.
3Strength
If tensioning supports are positioned for pre-compression, then concrete can be pre-compressed, but adequate space is required which is not always available
Solution Approach 1:
The tubular element is designed to be placed within the concrete form itself, utilizing the existing formwork space. It does not require external tensioning supports that need additional positioning space. The element expands internally within the confined space of the form, making the system suitable for locations where space is limited or access is difficult.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubular element is nested within the concrete form, with the fluid pressure system contained inside the tubular element. This nested configuration maximizes space utilization and eliminates the need for external equipment, allowing pre-compression to be achieved in confined spaces where traditional tensioning supports could not be positioned.
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
This system effectively reduces costs and operational complexity, enabling pre-compression in smaller concrete structures by using a pressurizable tubular element with composite materials to induce compression after curing, enhancing the concrete's resistance to tensile loads without the need for extensive space or high-cost tensioning systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first tubular element (31) that is expandable in a longitudinal direction... in which a pressurized fluid is placed inside the first tubular element (31) (thus determining its elongation)
Implementation Method 2
The first tubular element (31) has a resistance to radial expansion that is greater than its resistance to longitudinal elongation... made of composite material
Implementation Method 3
The passage from the elongated configuration to the contracted configuration brings about a compression of the concrete which at least partly envelops the first tubular element (31) (given that it tends to return to an undeformed configuration once the action of pressurization of the fluid ceases)
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
A pre-compression system for pre-compressing a concrete structure, the system comprising a first tubular element (31) that is expandable in a longitudinal direction and interposed between the first and the second head (21, 22). The first tubular element (31) is movable between a longitudinally elongated configuration, in which a pressurized fluid is placed inside the first tubular element (31), and a contracted configuration, in which said fluid is at least partly removed, the passage from the elongated configuration to the contracted configuration bringing about a compression on the concrete which at least partly envelops the first tubular element (31).