Prefabricated Panel Attachment Interface for Scaffolding-Free Stair Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing prefabricated structures for stairwells and similar applications face high production costs and time inefficiencies due to the need for scaffolding, which occupies limited space and increases expenses.

Innovation Solution

A prefabricated structure with multilayer panels comprising concrete inner and outer layers, an intermediate insulation layer, and detachable attachment interfaces allows for on-site assembly of steps without scaffolding, using threaded couplings and pins for secure attachment, enabling direct assembly from the bottom upwards.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If scaffolding is used for assembling stairs in known prefabricated structures, then the structure provides support during assembly, but the production time and costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural support during assemblyVSAvoidproduction time and cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment means are pre-integrated into the panel structure during manufacturing, with attachment zones prepared in advance. This allows workers to directly attach stairs to panels without needing external scaffolding, as the panel itself provides the attachment infrastructure from the start

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The panel serves multiple functions: it acts as both the structural wall element and the assembly support system. The attachment means integrated into the panel enable the panel to function as both a building component and a temporary support structure during assembly operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If scaffolding is deployed in limited space stairwells, then assembly support is provided, but the available space is further reduced and expenses increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly support availabilityVSAvoidavailable space in stairwell
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The scaffolding system is extracted and replaced by integrating attachment capabilities directly into the panel. This removes the need for separate external support structures that would occupy valuable stairwell space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The support function previously provided by separate scaffolding is merged with the panel itself. The attachment means are combined with the panel structure, eliminating the need for distinct scaffolding elements in the limited space

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Strength

If traditional panel assembly methods are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but assembly complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment system is segmented into distinct components: attachment means with attachment zones, and corresponding attachment elements. This segmentation allows for simpler, more modular assembly operations while maintaining structural integrity through dedicated attachment interfaces

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment means act as an intermediary between the panel and the stair. This intermediate component simplifies the connection process by providing prepared attachment zones and corresponding elements, reducing assembly complexity while ensuring structural integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This method significantly reduces production time and costs by eliminating the need for scaffolding, allowing for faster and more economical construction of stairs while providing heat and noise insulation through the multilayer panels.

Implementation Method 1

an intermediate layer 20 comprising for example wood and/or material for heat and noise insulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

an intermediate layer 20 comprising for example wood and/or material for heat and noise insulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic insulation: Acoustic Absorption

Implementation Method 3

the first means of attachment 36 are detachable means of attachment which form a threaded coupling between the attachment interface 32 and the panel 8

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded coupling: Screw

Implementation Method 4

the second means of attachment 40 comprises at least one pin 48 inserted in the step 24 at said first extremity 28 by means of a forced coupling

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForced coupling: Mechanical Fastener

Implementation Method 5

the pin 48 is inserted in a seat 52 lodged in the first extremity 28 of the step 24 and is fixed to this by means of an interposed binder, such as a resin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectChemical bonding: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentEP2184419B1Prefabricated structure for stairwells, lifts, goods lifts and similar, and assembly method of the prefabricated structure
Publication Date: 2011.06.08 SPATTI GIOVANNI
  • EP2184419B1 patent drawingFigure 1~4
  • EP2184419B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2184419B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A prefabricated structure (4) for stairwells, lifts, goods lifts and similar, comprising at least one prefabricated panel (8) having an inner layer (12) which faces the inside of the structure (4) and an outer layer (16), opposite said inner layer (12) and having at least one step (24) joined to the inner layer (12) of the panel at a first extremity (28) of the step (24). Advantageously, an attachment interface (32) is positioned between the inner layer (12) of the panel (8) and the first extremity (28) of the step (24) which is mechanically separate from the panel (8) and from the step (24) and which comprises first means of attachment (36) of the interface (32) to the panel (8) and second means of attachment (40) of the interface (32) to the step (24). The step (24) can be attached to the panel (8) on site, during assembly of the structure, without the use of scaffolding.