Modular Deck Panel Tensioning Mechanism Prevents Gap Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional modular composite deck systems face issues with gap opening and disconnection under loading, leading to structural safety concerns and reduced riding comfort due to adhesive bonding weaknesses and lack of mechanical stability, making repair and reuse difficult.
Innovation Solution
A modular paneled structure using a main panel with symmetric profiles, a cover panel, and a tensioning member, connected via stud-bolts, web-bolts, interlocking snap-fits, and lock-bolts, forming structurally stable closed-sectional shapes without adhesive bonding, preventing gap opening and enhancing safety, maintainability, and reusability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If adhesive bonding is used to connect modular composite decks, then assembly is simplified, but structural reliability and gap prevention deteriorate under loading
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into multiple independent mechanical connection elements: snap-fit connections for vertical interlocking, shear studs for longitudinal connection, and transverse connectors for lateral stability. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function reliably without depending on adhesive bonding, resolving the contradiction between assembly simplicity and connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the chemical adhesive bonding system with a mechanical connection system comprising snap-fit connections, shear studs, and transverse connectors. This substitution provides reliable, reversible mechanical interlocking that maintains structural integrity under loading while simplifying assembly through tool-free snap-fit engagement, simultaneously improving both ease of manufacture and reliability.
2Productivity
If horizontal adhesive connection is used between modular decks, then construction is simplified, but durability and structural performance worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The snap-fit connections and shear studs are pre-installed on the deck panels during manufacturing before shipment to the construction site. This preliminary action allows for rapid assembly through simple engagement operations, maintaining high construction speed. Simultaneously, the pre-installed mechanical connections provide durable, long-lasting structural performance that replaces unreliable adhesive bonding, resolving the contradiction between construction speed and service life.
3Ease of operation
If snap-fit connection is used vertically between decks, then assembly is simplified, but gap opening and disconnection occur under bending moment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges three complementary connection mechanisms into a unified system: vertical snap-fit connections provide easy assembly and initial interlocking, shear studs provide longitudinal shear resistance and prevent sliding, and transverse connectors provide lateral stability and prevent gap opening. This combination maintains the assembly ease of snap-fit connections while adding the stability needed to prevent disconnection under bending moments, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and connection stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular paneled structure, comprising a main panel with a symmetric profile which has a closed-sectional portion in the middle and open-sectional portions at each end; and further comprising a cover panel which interconnects two side-by-side main panels, where the cover panel closes the open-sectional portions of the two side-by-side main panels forming a closed-sectional shape together with main panels; and further comprising a tensioning member which interconnects and pre-tensions the main panels that are placed side by side; and consequently, forms an assembled paneled structure with all these connective means, which is used to construct a paneled ground structures.