Modular Concrete Tower Formwork with Variable Cross-Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction of concrete towers with varying cross-sections requires a large number of formwork panels of different shapes and curvatures, leading to increased costs and complexity, as existing systems are not efficient in handling and storing these materials, and adjusting formwork panels with deformations is particularly difficult.
Innovation Solution
A modular formwork system using a limited number of equal groups of formwork pieces with intermediate and end pieces of constant curvature, allowing for the formation of sections with varying or constant cross-sections by varying the number and arrangement of pieces, which can be reused across successive sections, enabling the creation of towers with curved sides and non-geometrically continuous surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If formwork panels of different shapes and curvatures are used for each level of tower with varying cross-section, then the tower can be built with the required geometric precision, but the quantity of formwork panels and material handling increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing formwork panels with adjustable curvature mechanisms that allow the same panel to conform to different geometric requirements at various tower levels. The panels can be adjusted to match both constant and varying cross-sections, eliminating the need for separate panels for each geometric configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The formwork panels incorporate dynamic adjustment capabilities through mechanical or hydraulic systems that allow real-time modification of panel curvature and angle. This enables the panels to adapt to different geometric demands during construction, maintaining precision while using a reduced inventory of panels.
2Manufacturing precision
If formwork panels of different shapes and curvatures are used for each level of tower with varying cross-section, then the tower can be built with the required geometric precision, but the complexity of handling and storing materials increases
Solution Approach 1:
By making formwork panels universal through adjustable curvature mechanisms, the system reduces the variety of panel types that need to be handled and stored. The same panel can serve multiple geometric configurations, simplifying logistics and storage requirements while maintaining geometric precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If formwork panels with deformations are adjusted to change curvature, then the tower can accommodate varying cross-sections, but the difficulty of adjustment increases particularly when panels have undergone deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The formwork panels incorporate dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow for controlled modification of curvature and angle. These mechanisms include mechanical linkages and hydraulic systems that enable precise adjustment even when panels have been deformed during previous installations, maintaining ease of operation while achieving the required adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment system changes physical parameters of the formwork panels such as curvature radius, angle of inclination, and position. By systematically adjusting these parameters through controlled mechanisms, the panels can adapt to varying cross-sections while keeping the adjustment process manageable and repeatable.
4Manufacturing precision
If a large number of formwork panels are used to cover the entire surface of tower with varying cross-section, then complete coverage and geometric accuracy are achieved, but the cost of construction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces construction costs by implementing universal formwork panels that can be reused across multiple levels and configurations. This decreases the total number of panels required, reducing material costs, handling expenses, and storage requirements while maintaining the geometric accuracy needed for varying cross-sections.
Data Source
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AI summary
The system comprises a limited number of equal groups of formwork pieces, each group comprising: - intermediate pieces (1) of constant curvature and width along the entire length thereof and - end pieces (2) forming two symmetrical lateral corners of triangular or trapezoidal outline, with a curvature equal to that of the intermediate pieces. This system allows for forming, with the same groups of pieces, successive formwork sections of varying or constant cross-section for building towers. The invention also includes a building method and the tower thus obtained.