Modular Tower Construction with Lift Platform
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Solution Overview
Problem
Constructing large structures, such as heat exchange towers, that are too large to transport via typical methods poses challenges in minimizing downtime during replacement or integration into existing systems, as they often require on-site construction and dismantling, leading to significant operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the construction of a framework and internal components at a first location, using a lift platform with flexible lift members to lift and move the structure to a second location, allowing for concurrent dismantling of the old structure and assembly of the new one, thereby reducing downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the structure is constructed on-site at the desired location, then the structure can be assembled in its final position, but the construction time and operational downtime are significantly increased
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular components that can be assembled at a construction site adjacent to the desired location, then transported as complete modules to the final position. This segmentation allows parallel construction activities while minimizing downtime at the operational site.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure is constructed in advance at a nearby construction site while the desired location is being prepared or while the existing structure is being dismantled. This preliminary construction action eliminates waiting time and allows immediate installation when the final location is ready.
2Length of moving object
If the structure is constructed offsite and transported by rail or highway, then transportation is feasible, but the structure size is limited by transportation constraints
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of transporting the entire large structure horizontally via rail or highway, the structure is constructed in modular sections that can be lifted vertically by helicopter to the desired location. This dimensional change from horizontal to vertical transport bypasses transportation size constraints.
3Loss of time
If the structure is replaced quickly to minimize downtime, then operational continuity is improved, but the quality and precision of construction may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is constructed in advance at a nearby site with full attention to precision and quality control, then transported and installed in one operation. This preliminary construction allows meticulous assembly without time pressure, ensuring high manufacturing precision while minimizing operational downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The structure is built as a complete replica or copy at the construction site with all internal components and framework, then transported to the final location. This copying approach ensures that the structure can be assembled offsite with proper precision before installation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for constructing a structure to be lifted and moved from a first location to a second location includes (a) constructing, at the first location, a framework of the structure that includes braces to withstand lifting and moving the structure; (b) constructing, at the first location, at least some internal components of the structure; (c) providing a lift platform capable of supporting, balancing and lifting the structure below the lift platform by flexible lift members attachable to the lift platform and the framework; (d) attaching the flexible lift members to the lift platform and to a plurality of spaced portions of the framework; (e) lifting the lift platform to thereby lift the structure; and (f) while lifted, moving the lift platform and the structure to the second location, where the structure is lowered. A lift platform preferably made of subassemblies of beams and braces is used in the method.