Post Support System for Continuous Construction Progress
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current footing methods in construction projects are inefficient as they require halting work for inspections and concrete placement, leading to valuable time loss, as they do not allow for continuous project advancement during the inspection and concrete placement processes.
Innovation Solution
A post support system comprising a base with side walls and legs that can be inserted into an open hole to support posts and loads, enabling construction to continue during inspections and concrete placement, with the system remaining in place and being buried once the hole is filled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional footing methods are used where holes are excavated and concrete is poured before post installation, then structural integrity is ensured, but construction progress is halted during inspection and concrete placement
Solution Approach 1:
The post support system is installed in the excavated hole before concrete is poured, allowing the post to be positioned and supported immediately. This preliminary action enables construction activities to continue above ground while the concrete cures, eliminating the halt in construction progress that occurs with traditional methods where waiting for concrete placement and curing stops all subsequent work.
Solution Approach 2:
The post support acts as an intermediary device between the post and the concrete footing. It provides temporary support to the post during the inspection and concrete placement process, allowing construction to continue without compromising structural integrity. The intermediary support is later removed or remains embedded in the concrete, transferring the load to the permanent footing.
2Reliability
If construction is halted to wait for inspection and concrete placement, then proper footing installation is ensured, but valuable project time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The post support system enables continuous construction activity by allowing workers to proceed with framing and other construction tasks above ground while the footing inspection and concrete placement occur below. The useful action of construction continues uninterrupted in the above-ground portions of the project, eliminating idle time and maintaining project momentum.
Solution Approach 2:
By installing the post support structure before concrete placement, the system allows inspection and concrete pouring to occur without delaying subsequent construction activities. The preliminary installation of the support system ensures that when concrete is placed, the post is already properly positioned and supported, eliminating the need to halt construction for waiting.
3Productivity
If a post support system is installed to allow continuous construction, then productivity is improved, but additional device complexity is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The post support system is divided into separate components including the support structure, the post mounting mechanism, and the base elements. This segmentation allows for easier installation, inspection, and removal of individual components. The modular design reduces the complexity of installing and managing the entire system, as each segment can be handled independently and assembled in a straightforward sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The post support system is designed as a temporary, disposable structure that serves its purpose during construction and inspection, then is removed or remains embedded in the concrete. Using a temporary rather than permanent solution reduces the complexity requirements for long-term durability and maintenance. The system is designed for single-use functionality, simplifying its structural requirements compared to permanent fixtures.
Data Source
AI summary
A post support system is provided that is useful for construction projects where supports are placed in the ground and the supports and their placement in the ground can be inspected at any time during construction. This allows for construction to continue on the project without being held up for inspection purposes. Provided is a post support system comprising: a post support with a base; at least two walls opposing one another on one side of the base; a plate with apertures on an opposing side of the base; and at least three legs, each with a first end disposed in communication with one of the apertures of the plate; and a support mount with a lip; wherein each leg has a second end disposed in communication with the lip of the support mount.