FRP Channel Formwork for Self-Supporting Concrete Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction methods for building and civil engineering works require temporary support structures, leading to complex on-site processes, long construction times, and reduced quality due to the need for specialized personnel and improvisation, while prefabricated systems often have complex connections and long construction times.
Innovation Solution
A two-way structural system using fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) panels with longitudinal and transverse channels and stiffening parts, which form a self-supporting assembly when filled with fibre-reinforced concrete, eliminating the need for temporary support structures and allowing for quicker, simpler construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If temporary support structures are used in on-site construction, then construction can be performed with conventional materials, but construction time is extended and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-manufacturing structural elements with integrated formwork and support features before arrival at the construction site. The formwork includes pre-configured channels and stiffening parts that provide temporary support during construction, eliminating the need for separate temporary support structures and reducing overall construction time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated component. The formwork structure combines temporary support functions, concrete containment, and final structural elements into one unified assembly. The stiffening parts and channels are integrated into the formwork itself, providing both temporary support and eventual structural function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional on-site construction methods are used, then material flexibility is maintained, but specialized personnel and improvisation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the construction system into modular, pre-manufactured elements that can be independently produced and then assembled. Each component (formwork, stiffening parts, channels) is designed as a discrete unit with standardized connection methods, reducing the need for specialized skills and improvisation while maintaining adaptability through modular configuration.
3Productivity
If prefabricated systems are used, then industrialisation is achieved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connection complexity from the overall system by designing simple, standardized connection interfaces between modular elements. The formwork and structural elements are designed with straightforward connection methods that eliminate complex joining procedures, allowing for rapid assembly while maintaining industrialisation benefits.
4Device complexity
If temporary support structures are eliminated, then construction simplicity improves, but structural strength during construction may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials and hybrid structures where the formwork itself is designed to provide temporary structural strength while maintaining simplicity. The integrated stiffening parts and channels create a composite system that combines the strengths of different materials and structural elements to provide adequate strength without complex temporary support structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A two-way structural system for construction, comprising a base part (1) with a plurality of longitudinal channels (1.1) and a plurality of transverse channels (1.2) that are evenly 5 distributed, a stiffening part (2) with a plurality of holes (2.3) along the sheets (2.1, 2.2); wherein both parts (1 and 2) are made of FRP material, and wherein the stiffening part (2), in an operational position, is connected by resting on the base part (1) and fitting into the corresponding channels (1.1, 1.2), defining a cavity in the channels (1.1, 1.2) between both parts (1, 2) to be filled with fibre-reinforced concrete, the assembly forming an integral structure once the concrete has set, and both parts (1.1, 1.2) being configured as a self-supporting structure against the pouring of the concrete. A building method for constructing bridges, tunnels and underground works, with the two-way structural system.