Modular Concrete Foundation Lifting Structure to Prevent Tension Fracture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular concrete foundation systems face challenges in being lifted and transported without experiencing tension failure due to the superior compressive strength and poor tensile strength of concrete, leading to transverse tension fractures during conventional lifting and transportation.
Innovation Solution
The integration of pre-tensioned wire cables embedded in side beams and safety tension bars within the foundation system, along with tension and compression bolster systems, allows for the application of controlled lifting and transporting forces that mitigate tension failure, using a combination of tensioned wire ropes and hydraulic pistons to lift and move the foundations safely.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional lifting and transportation methods are used on modular concrete foundations, then the foundation can be moved, but transverse tension fractures occur due to concrete's poor tensile strength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding pre-tensioned wire cables and safety tension bars into the foundation system before transportation. These tension components are pre-installed and configured to activate during lifting, creating compressive forces that counteract tensile stresses before they can cause fractures. The reaction columns are also positioned in advance at critical junctions to provide structural support during the transportation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediary elements including wire cables, tension bars, and reaction columns that act as mediators between the lifting forces and the concrete foundation. These intermediaries transfer and distribute lifting forces through the foundation structure, converting tensile stresses into compressive forces that the concrete can withstand, thereby preventing direct tension fractures in the concrete panels.
2Reliability
If tension components are added to prevent tension failure, then transportation safety improves, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into integrated structural elements. The wire cables and tension bars are embedded within the foundation structure itself, combining the transportation reinforcement function with the foundation's structural framework. The reaction columns are positioned at beam junctions where they serve both as structural connectors and as anchor points for tension components, reducing the need for separate dedicated reinforcement elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The tension components and reaction columns serve multiple functions: they provide tensile reinforcement during transportation, act as structural connectors between foundation elements, and distribute lifting forces throughout the foundation system. This multi-functionality reduces the overall complexity by eliminating the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
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
Enables the repeated lifting and transportation of modular concrete foundations without tension failure, allowing for secure and efficient movement over various terrains, including roadways and obstacles, while minimizing additional structural components exposed during transport.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of pre-tensioned wire cables embedded in the foundation system along each side beam spanning between the reaction columns associated with each side beam
Implementation Method 2
using a combination of tensioned wire ropes and hydraulic pistons to lift and move the foundations safely
Implementation Method 3
superior compressive strength and poor tensile strength of concrete
Data Source
AI summary
A modular foundation system comprises a concrete reinforced matrix having embedded pre-tensioned components and a recessed tension bolster region adjacent the lower surface of the foundation at each end, and a pair of lifting safety bars partially embedded in the foundation within the recess and terminating at the end of the foundation.