Modular Concrete Foundation With Integrated Cable Passages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular concrete foundation systems for telecommunication masts are cumbersome to transport, assemble, and dismantle, and they do not efficiently support structures subjected to high forces while also facilitating the connection of cables.
Innovation Solution
A modular foundation system comprising prefabricated concrete modules with internal passages that allow for the easy connection of cables and the formation of a global internal passage for cable networks, enabling rapid installation and dismantling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a monolithic block of concrete is used for the foundation, then the foundation can support high forces, but it requires transporting construction materials and assembly materials to the site, as well as labor to accomplish the task, which can take a long time and prove costly
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation is divided into multiple prefabricated concrete modules that can be manufactured separately and then assembled on-site. Each module is produced in a controlled factory environment and transported to the installation site, where they are quickly assembled using connection elements. This segmentation allows parallel production of multiple modules, significantly reducing on-site installation time while maintaining the overall load-bearing capacity through proper structural design and connection mechanisms.
2Strength
If a monolithic block of concrete is used for the foundation, then the foundation can support high forces, but it necessitates transporting both construction materials and assembly materials to the site, as well as the labour necessary to accomplish this task
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation structure is segmented into standardized modules that can be manufactured using conventional concrete production techniques in controlled factory settings. Each module is designed with standardized connection interfaces that simplify the assembly process. This approach maintains the required load-bearing capacity through proper module sizing and arrangement while dramatically simplifying the overall manufacturing process compared to casting a large monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
All manufacturing activities, including concrete production, reinforcement placement, and module fabrication, are completed in advance in controlled factory environments. The modules are produced, cured, and prepared for assembly before being transported to the installation site. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex on-site construction activities, reducing both manufacturing complexity and installation time while maintaining structural integrity.
3Ease of operation
If existing modular foundation systems are used, then the foundation can be assembled from prefabricated blocks, but the assembly is cumbersome and does not efficiently facilitate the connection of cables
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation modules are designed to combine structural support functions with cable routing functions. Each module incorporates integrated cable channels and passage ways that align when modules are assembled, creating continuous pathways for cables throughout the foundation structure. This merging of structural and utility functions simplifies cable installation and connection while maintaining assembly ease through standardized module interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation modules are designed as multi-functional elements that simultaneously provide structural support, facilitate cable routing, and enable easy assembly. Each module incorporates standardized connection interfaces for both mechanical assembly and cable passage, allowing the same component to serve multiple purposes. This universality reduces overall system complexity by eliminating the need for separate cable management structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular foundation including plurality of prefabricated concrete modules defining an upper layer of modules including at least one internal passage opening onto at least its upper and lower faces, at least one lower layer of modules on which the upper layer at least partially rests, including at least one internal passage opening onto at least one of its sides and onto at least its upper face, this internal passage communicating at the level of the interface between the upper layer and the lower layer(s) with the internal passage of the upper layer in such a manner as to form at least one global internal passage in the foundation opening onto at least one side and onto at least the upper face of the foundation.