Movable Top Track Wall Frames for Faster Multi-Storey Construction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction methods for multi-storey buildings require waiting for load-bearing walls and columns to cure before proceeding to the next stage, leading to inefficiencies and delays, especially in systems using precast concrete or permanent formwork, and do not meet fire resistance requirements without using concrete or masonry.
Innovation Solution
A method using a structural steel frame that temporarily supports the building load during curing, allowing simultaneous construction of internal and external walls, with a transfer of load to cured concrete columns once they achieve sufficient strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional masonry or precast concrete methods are used to meet fire resistance requirements, then fire resistance is improved, but construction time increases due to required curing periods
Solution Approach 1:
The building structure is segmented into temporary steel frame components and permanent concrete column components. The steel frame provides immediate load-bearing capacity and fire resistance, while concrete columns are installed and cured in place to provide permanent structural support, allowing construction to proceed without waiting for full curing of load-bearing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
A temporary steel frame acts as an intermediary load-bearing structure during construction. This steel frame temporarily carries the building loads while concrete columns are being installed and cured, enabling continuous construction progress without compromising structural integrity or fire resistance requirements.
2Reliability
If load-bearing walls are constructed using concrete or masonry to meet fire resistance standards, then fire resistance is improved, but construction productivity decreases due to sequential storey construction requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The construction process is segmented into simultaneous activities: steel frame installation, concrete column pouring, and interior wall construction can all proceed concurrently on multiple storeys, eliminating the sequential curing wait times that traditionally limited productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The steel frame is installed preliminarily to provide immediate fire-resistant load-bearing capacity, allowing subsequent concrete column installation and interior wall construction to proceed without delay. This preliminary action eliminates the need to wait for concrete curing before continuing construction.
3Loss of time
If precast concrete panels are used to speed up construction, then construction time is reduced, but transport and handling costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into lightweight steel frame components that can be easily transported and assembled, eliminating the need to handle heavy precast concrete panels. This segmentation maintains construction speed while reducing transport and handling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The temporary steel frame components are relatively inexpensive and easy to install/remove compared to heavy precast panels. These components serve their temporary purpose during construction and can be easily replaced or adjusted, reducing overall project complexity.
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 rapid construction by allowing simultaneous work on multiple floors while columns cure, meeting fire resistance standards, and transitioning to concrete columns as the primary load-bearing elements upon completion.
Implementation Method 1
The channels are filled with a curable substance to form load bearing columns within the building frame. The transfer of load from the building frame to the cured columns is complete
Data Source
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AI summary
A building construction method uses wall frames having a moveable top track. The track is fixed in a raised position so as to be load-bearing during construction, allowing construction work to progress quickly. When supporting concrete columns have cured, the fixing can be released allowing the track to move into a lowered position and for the building load to transfer to the columns.