Hollow Extrusion Stadium Riser System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional tiered seating structures made of concrete are heavy and time-consuming to install, while metal structures are cost-ineffective for large-scale applications, necessitating a more efficient and cost-effective solution for constructing modular seating systems.
Innovation Solution
The use of hollow extrusions made from materials like aluminum, joined by welding, to form modular runner and riser sections that can be easily assembled and connected to support structures, with optional features such as electrical conduits and sound deadening materials, allowing for quicker and more cost-effective installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If concrete modules are used for tiered seating structures, then structural strength and stability are improved, but weight and installation time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The seating structure is divided into modular units (runners and risers) that can be manufactured separately and assembled on-site. This segmentation allows for lighter individual modules compared to large concrete structures, while maintaining overall structural integrity through standardized connection points and welding joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining metal extrusions (for structural framework) with concrete or masonry infill materials. This creates hybrid modules that leverage the high strength-to-weight ratio of metal for the structural skeleton while using denser materials for non-structural portions, optimizing both weight and strength characteristics.
2Reliability
If precast concrete modules are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but installation time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The metal extrusion frameworks and connection points are pre-manufactured with precise dimensions and integrated attachment features before shipment to the installation site. This preliminary preparation of modular units with built-in connection mechanisms enables rapid on-site assembly through straightforward welding and bolting operations, significantly reducing installation time while preserving structural integrity.
3Weight of moving object
If metal structures are used for seating, then weight is reduced and installation is faster, but cost-effectiveness decreases for large-scale applications
Solution Approach 1:
The metal extrusion modules are designed as universal, standardized units that can be repeated across multiple seating sections and configured for various stadium sizes and layouts. This universality allows for economies of scale in manufacturing, where the same basic module design can be produced in large quantities, reducing per-unit costs and improving cost-effectiveness for large-scale installations.
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 approach reduces the weight and installation time of tiered seating structures, enabling larger-scale metal structures to be more cost-effective while maintaining structural integrity and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The module includes a runner portion made from hollow extrusions that are joined by welding
Implementation Method 2
the intermediate extrusions of the runner portion are filled with a sound deadening material
Implementation Method 3
Drain openings in the rear end extrusion allow water to be removed from the top surface of the runner portion by draining the water into the hollow interior of the rear end extrusion
Data Source
AI summary
An L-shaped module for construction of tiered stadium seating is provided. The module is formed from a plurality of hollow extrusions that are longitudinally welded to form a riser portion and a runner portion. The riser portion rises vertically from a connection to the runner portion. The interior of the extrusions may be used as concealment spaces for hardware or to aid in fluid drainage. Connections to a support structure may be spaced at distances of 20 feet or greater.