Facade-First High-Rise Construction Without Perimeter Scaffolding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for constructing multi-storey structures require the erection of scaffolding or perimeter screens to affix pre-fabricated facade elements, which are costly and time-consuming, and do not provide adequate safety during construction.
Innovation Solution
The method involves installing the facade before constructing the floors, using it as a safety barrier and scaffold, allowing subsequent floors to be erected within the facade envelope, eliminating the need for separate scaffolding and enabling faster construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If scaffolding or perimeter screen is erected to facilitate façade installation, then safety and accessibility for workers are improved, but construction time and material costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the safety barrier function and the permanent façade function into a single integrated structure. The façade panels are designed to serve dual purposes: providing the permanent external envelope of the building and simultaneously acting as safety barriers during construction, thereby eliminating the need for separate scaffolding or perimeter screens
Solution Approach 2:
The façade panels are designed with multi-functionality, serving both as the permanent architectural envelope and as temporary safety barriers during construction. This universal design allows the same structure to fulfill multiple roles across different construction phases, improving both safety and productivity
2Reliability
If scaffolding is erected for façade installation, then worker safety is improved, but material costs and construction time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the function of temporary safety barriers with the permanent façade structure, eliminating the need for separate scaffolding materials. The façade panels themselves are designed to provide safety functionality during construction, thereby reducing material costs
Solution Approach 2:
The façade panels are designed to serve multiple functions including permanent architectural envelope and temporary safety barriers. This multi-functionality reduces the total quantity of materials required by eliminating dedicated scaffolding materials
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional floor-first construction method is used, then structural stability is ensured, but construction time increases due to sequential installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional construction sequence by installing the façade panels before completing the floor structures. This reverse sequencing allows the façade to be erected as the building rises, with subsequent floors being constructed within the protective envelope already provided by the façade
Solution Approach 2:
The façade panels are installed in advance before the floor structures are completed. This preliminary action provides the safety envelope and structural framework early in the construction process, enabling parallel construction activities and improving overall construction speed
4Reliability
If separate safety barriers are installed during floor construction, then worker safety is improved, but construction complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the safety barrier function with the permanent façade structure, eliminating the need for separate temporary safety installations. The façade panels serve as both the permanent envelope and the safety barrier, simplifying the construction process
Solution Approach 2:
The façade panels are designed to perform multiple functions including permanent architectural envelope and temporary safety barriers. This multi-functionality reduces construction complexity by eliminating the need for separate safety barrier installations
Data Source
AI summary
A method of erecting a multi-storey structure is disclosed. During construction, at least a portion of a perimeter facade of the structure is disposed to extend at least two storeys height beyond an upper work area of the structure and forms at least part of a safety barrier for that work area and wherein in erecting the multi-story structure, at least one further floor of the structure is erected over the upper work area. The further floor forming a respective subsequent upper work area of the structure, and wherein at least a portion of the facade is disposed to extend at least one storey height beyond the uppermost of the subsequent work areas.