Modular Steel Reinforcement Panels for Faster Safer On-Site Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Constructing reinforcing steel frameworks on-site is time-consuming and poses safety risks due to the need for skilled labor and loose components that create trip hazards.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the assembly of modular preformed skeletal steel panels with interlocking splice bars and covered by steel mesh mats to form a composite reinforcing steel skeletal framework, which is prefabricated off-site and assembled on-site for faster and safer construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If reinforcing steel bars are assembled into a framework on site, then the framework can be customized to fit the building structure, but the construction process is time-consuming and requires skilled steel workers
Solution Approach 1:
The steel framework is pre-assembled into modular panels at a fabrication facility before being transported to the building site. This preliminary action allows complex assembly work to be performed in advance under controlled conditions, eliminating time-consuming on-site assembly while maintaining adaptability through modular design that can be configured to fit different building structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing steel framework is divided into multiple modular panels that can be independently fabricated and then assembled on-site. This segmentation allows for parallel production of multiple panels, reducing overall construction time while enabling flexible configuration to adapt to various building structures through standardized connection mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If reinforcing steel bars are assembled on site, then the framework can be constructed to match specific building requirements, but safety issues arise from workers moving about the incomplete framework
Solution Approach 1:
The complete steel framework assembly is performed in advance at a fabrication facility where workers can safely construct the framework on stable ground with proper safety equipment and protocols. The pre-assembled panels are then transported and lifted into position, eliminating the hazard of workers moving about incomplete frameworks at height during on-site construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The steel framework is fabricated as precise copies or replicas of the required final structure using templates and computer-controlled fabrication equipment. This allows the framework to be accurately customized to building requirements while being constructed in a safe, controlled environment rather than at the construction site.
3Productivity
If modular preformed skeletal steel panels are used, then construction time is reduced and safety is improved, but the device complexity increases due to interlocking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The modular panels use standardized, homogeneous connection mechanisms with uniform dimensions and attachment methods throughout the entire framework. This standardization simplifies the interlocking process despite the modular complexity, as workers only need to learn one type of connection procedure that can be repeatedly applied to all panels, maintaining high construction speed while managing complexity through consistency.
Data Source
AI summary
A number of modular preformed skeletal steel panels are mounted side by side in a row on a building structure to form a composite panel assembly on the building structure. Each modular preformed skeletal steel panel comprises two mesh layers, namely a bottom mesh layer and a top mesh layer supported spaced-apart in parallel planes by intermediate spacers extending between the layers. The bottom layer has a plurality of spaced-apart outwardly projecting splice bars for interengagement with an adjacent preformed skeletal steel panel in the panel assembly thus facilitating interengagement of the modular preformed skeletal steel panels in the composite panel assembly. Each spacer comprises a cross member engaged with the top layer and having outwardly extending legs at opposite ends of the cross member. A lower end of each leg terminates in a foot which engages with the bottom layer. The cross member, legs and feet are all mutually perpendicular.