Permeable Resin-Bound Paving Slab with Matrix Cavity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Resin-bonded paving slabs are difficult to secure to a surface and lack permeability, leading to issues with water drainage and pooling, especially on large areas or gradients.
Innovation Solution
A resin-bound slab with a cavity in its bottom surface featuring a matrix of voids, preferably a grid insert made from plastics material, and a non-slip upper surface, formed by mixing aggregate and resin, locating a matrix in a mould, and applying a non-slip covering during the curing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If resin-bonded slabs are formed using conventional methods, then the slabs have a smooth surface and uniform structure, but they are difficult to secure to a surface and lack permeability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a matrix comprising a plurality of voids into the slab structure, creating a porous configuration that enables both drainage functionality and improved mechanical interlocking with the supporting surface. The voids allow water to pass through while the matrix structure provides anchoring points for secure fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous solid structure of conventional slabs is segmented by introducing a matrix of voids, creating a divided structure that maintains structural integrity while enabling permeability and improving securing capability through increased surface area and interlocking potential.
2Reliability
If resin-bonded slabs are formed using conventional methods, then the slabs have uniform structure, but surface water cannot drain through the slab
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix of voids creates a porous structure that enables water to drain through the slab from the upper surface, through the voids in the matrix, and out through the lower surface. This porous configuration directly addresses the drainage requirement while maintaining structural coherence.
3Reliability
If the slab includes a matrix with voids for drainage, then permeability is improved, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix is prepared as a separate component before being integrated into the slab manufacturing process. This preliminary preparation allows for standardized production of the matrix element, which can then be easily incorporated into the mould during slab formation, simplifying the overall manufacturing process despite the added functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix comprising voids is nested within the slab structure during manufacturing, allowing the two components to be formed together in a single process. The matrix fits within the mould cavity and is surrounded by the resin-bonded aggregate mixture, enabling integrated production.
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
The permeable resin-bound slab provides secure fixation and effective drainage, preventing water pooling and run-off issues, while maintaining durability and ecological sustainability.
Implementation Method 1
floating the surface of the resin-coated aggregate mix, to spread the mix into the mould and provide a level upper surface
Implementation Method 2
Resin-bonded slabs formed from aggregate granules and resins
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to slabs. In particular, the present invention relates to paving slabs; more particularly resin-bound paving slabs. We describe a resin-bound slab (10) comprising an aggregate (11) and a resin, wherein the slab is permeable and comprises a cavity (12) in its bottom surface, and wherein the cavity includes a matrix (13). Preferably, the matrix (13) comprises a plurality of voids (9) and is formed from a plastics material. Preferably, the matrix has inner walls defining the grid, and thus the plurality of voids. Preferably, the matrix includes a plurality of apertures which allow a plug, such as an un-set cement, to flow therebetween to secure the slab in position. We also describe a method of forming a permeable resin-bound slab comprising an aggregate and a resin, which further comprises a cavity in its bottom surface, wherein the cavity includes a matrix, wherein the method comprises the steps of locating a matrix within in a mould; mixing an aggregate and suitable resin, to provide a resin-coated aggregate; pouring the resin-coated aggregate mix into the mould; floating the surface of the resin-coated aggregate mix, to spread the mix into the mould and provide a level upper surface; curing; and removing the slab from the mould.