Prefabricated Concrete Beam-Column Node With Welded Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction methods for prefabricated concrete buildings are inefficient, wasteful, and environmentally harmful, with complex and costly connection methods that slow down the construction process and compromise quality control.
Innovation Solution
A construction method for a prefabricated concrete beam-column node that simplifies the connection process by assembling node connectors, welding reinforcing plates, mounting rebars, and performing step-by-step concrete pouring, reducing the complexity and time required for welding and concrete placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If dry connection (welding or bolt connection) is used to connect prefabricated concrete components, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and construction time increase due to complicated welding steps or multiple bolt holes
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into modular components: node connectors with integrated welding plates are pre-assembled at component ends, and corresponding welding plates are prepared on structural columns. This segmentation allows each part to be independently prepared and then quickly connected through welding, reducing on-site construction complexity while maintaining strong connections.
Solution Approach 2:
Node connectors and welding plates are prepared in advance during component manufacturing, rather than being assembled on-site. This preliminary action transfers complexity from the construction phase to the manufacturing phase, where work can be done more efficiently and quality controlled more precisely, thereby simplifying the actual construction process.
2Strength
If wet connection (pouring concrete afterward) is used to connect prefabricated concrete components, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and construction time increase due to formwork requirements and complicated pouring procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The connection process is segmented into two independent stages: first, node connectors are mechanically connected to components; second, concrete is poured into designated cavities within the node connectors to create permanent bonds. This segmentation eliminates the need for external formwork while maintaining the strength benefits of wet connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The node connector serves as an intermediary element that provides both mechanical connection points (welding plates) and concrete pouring cavities. This intermediary structure integrates the functions of both dry and wet connection methods, allowing the concrete to be poured directly into the connector's internal cavity without requiring external formwork.
3Productivity
If traditional prefabricated concrete construction methods are used, then the production efficiency is improved through prefabrication, but the loss of time increases due to complex node connection procedures
Solution Approach 1:
All connection-related components (node connectors, welding plates, rebars) are prepared during the prefabrication process at the factory. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex on-site assembly operations, allowing components to be quickly connected using simple welding and concrete pouring, thereby reducing construction time while maintaining high production efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The node connector merges multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural connection, houses welding plates for steel-to-concrete attachment, contains rebars for reinforcement, and includes cavities for concrete pouring. This merging reduces the number of separate operations and components needed, streamlining the construction process.
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 construction difficulty and time, enhances structural strength, and makes the process more economical and efficient by minimizing the volume of concrete poured and simplifying the welding process, while maintaining high connection strength and bending resistance.
Implementation Method 1
welding a circumferential reinforcing plate with a groove hole in the center to a middle-rear section of each node connector; welding each node connector to the corresponding structural column
Implementation Method 2
pouring a concrete beam between two circumferential reinforcing plates; pouring the concrete beam between the circumferential reinforcing plates and the structural columns
Implementation Method 3
welding a hidden corbel to a side flange of each of structural columns
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to a prefabricated concrete beam-column node and a construction method thereof. The construction method of the prefabricated concrete beam-column node includes: assembling node connectors, and mounting studs on each node connector; welding a circumferential reinforcing plate with a groove hole in the center to a middle-rear section of each node connector; mounting a longitudinal rebar on each circumferential reinforcing plate; pouring a concrete beam between two circumferential reinforcing plates; welding a hidden corbel to a side flange of each of structural columns; hoisting the concrete beam, and overlapping each node connector with the corresponding hidden corbel; welding each node connector to the corresponding structural column; and pouring the concrete beam between the circumferential reinforcing plates and the structural columns.