Modular Pier Bracket Assembly for Underpinning
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a new pier bracket assembly that can be easily secured to the shafts of structural pier devices, such as helical anchors and push piers, to effectively interconnect and support structures during underpinning processes in anchor assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A pier bracket assembly comprising a seat with a base plate and an orthogonal upper plate, a tubular member for slidably receiving structural piers, and side plates for secure attachment, allowing easy assembly and connection to the structure, with features like a sand plate for standing vertically and handhold openings for ease of handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional pier bracket assemblies are used to secure structural piers to structures, then the structure can be supported and interconnected, but the assembly process becomes complex and difficult to secure to shafts of structural pier devices
Solution Approach 1:
The pier bracket assembly is divided into multiple modular components including a seat portion, a bracket portion with collar, and a base plate. These segmented components can be separately manufactured and assembled in the field, simplifying the overall assembly process while maintaining structural integrity for supporting structures.
2Reliability
If pier brackets are designed for secure attachment to structural piers, then reliable support is achieved, but the assembly process becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The collar is pre-formed with an interference fit design that allows it to be pressed onto the structural pier shaft during installation. This preliminary preparation of the collar's fitting characteristics enables quick field assembly while ensuring reliable, secure attachment without requiring complex fastening procedures or extensive time.
3Ease of operation
If pier brackets are designed for easy handling and transportation, then ease of operation improves, but structural strength and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the pier bracket assembly into separate components (seat portion, bracket portion with collar, base plate), each component can be designed to be lightweight and easy to handle during transportation and installation. The segmented design allows workers to manage individual components more easily while the complete assembled structure maintains the required structural strength for supporting buildings and structures.
Data Source
AI summary
A pier bracket comprises a seat including a base plate and an upper plate extending orthogonally from the base plate wherein, when the base plate is positioned for supporting a structure, the upper plate is adjacent to the structure for securing the upper plate to the structure. A tubular member is mounted to the seat and adapted to slidably receive structural piers. A planar support plate is distally spaced from and parallel to the base plate. Each of a pair of side plates extend between an opposite side edge of the base plate and the support plate.