Replaceable Screw Foundations for Building Element Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building structures lack the ability to effectively check and replace foundations without removing the base element from the ground, posing a risk to structural integrity and stability over time due to material degradation and changes in soil conditions.
Innovation Solution
A building element with primary screw foundations that can be inserted and replaced without removing the base member from the ground, equipped with sensors and signal sources for monitoring stability and integrity, allowing for periodic inspection and replacement of both primary and secondary screw foundations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional concrete foundations or piles are used, then the structure achieves initial stability and load-bearing capacity, but the foundations cannot be checked or replaced without removing the base element from the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system is segmented into replaceable screw foundations that can be independently accessed through openings in the base element. This allows individual foundation inspection and replacement without removing the entire base element, resolving the contradiction between maintaining structural integrity and enabling foundation accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Openings in the base element serve as intermediaries that provide access to the foundations. These openings allow inspection tools and replacement components to reach the foundations while the base element remains in place, enabling foundation maintenance without complete structure removal.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If foundations are permanently embedded in the ground, then the structure achieves long-term stability, but material degradation and soil changes cannot be addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system transitions from a static, permanent embedding to a dynamic, replaceable configuration. Screw foundations can be removed and reinstalled, allowing the structure to adapt to material degradation or soil changes over time, thus extending service life through periodic maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw foundations can be discarded (removed) and recovered (reinstalled or replaced) when degradation occurs. This allows continuation of structure service life by replacing degraded foundations rather than removing the entire structure.
3Ease of manufacture
If screw foundations are used, then immediate load-bearing capacity and ease of installation are achieved, but the ability to monitor foundation condition over time is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Sensors are integrated into the screw foundations to provide continuous feedback on foundation condition, including load, movement, and integrity. This monitoring capability complements the easy installation of screw foundations by enabling ongoing assessment of their performance and condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw foundations serve multiple functions: providing immediate load-bearing capacity, enabling easy installation, and housing sensors for condition monitoring. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction between installation simplicity and monitoring capability.
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 continuous monitoring of foundation integrity and extends the life cycle of structures by allowing for timely replacement of foundations, reducing the risk of failure and maintaining structural safety and economic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
at least two primary screw foundations (12) which can be inserted into the ground through insertion openings (16) in the base element (11) and by means of which a non-positive connection can be created between the base element (11) and the ground
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a structural element comprising a base element, wherein the structural element includes at least two primary screw foundations which can be inserted into the ground through insertion openings of the base element and by means of which a force-fit connection between the base element and the ground can be established, and wherein the primary screw foundations are replaceable without having to remove the base element from the ground. The present invention also relates to a structure comprising at least one such structural element.