Rigid Cell Filling Module for Permeable Paving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hollow core slabs filled with gravel or sand are unsuitable for frequently used spaces due to gravel displacement and sand settling, while grassed pavings require maintenance and are limited by seasonal installation and drainage issues.
Innovation Solution
A rigid cell filling module with a transverse section smaller than the upper face, featuring a support face for vertical force transmission and immobilization via rigid blocking members, and a peripheral drainage opening for rainwater runoff, ensuring a stable and permeable surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hollow core slabs are filled with gravel, then drainage capacity is improved, but gravel is quickly moved and becomes unsuitable for regularly frequented spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the filling material from loose gravel to a rigid modular structure with specific geometric parameters. The module has a reduced transverse section compared to its upper face, creating interference fits with cell walls that prevent movement while maintaining drainage pathways.
2Ease of manufacture
If hollow core slabs are filled with sand, then ease of installation is improved, but sand settles and compacts quickly reducing drainage ability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transforms the filling from compactable sand to a rigid module with fixed geometric parameters. The module maintains permanent void spaces for drainage that cannot be eliminated by compaction, while the reduced transverse section ensures stable positioning without settling.
3Strength
If hollow core slabs are grassed, then aesthetic appearance and load-bearing capacity are improved, but maintenance requirements increase and drainage capacity decreases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces organic grass with an inorganic rigid module that provides comparable load-bearing capacity through its geometric structure and interference fit with cell walls. This eliminates biological maintenance needs while preserving structural strength and drainage functionality.
4Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid body module is inserted into the cell, then stability and load-bearing capacity are improved, but the module may become immobilized in position
Solution Approach 1:
The module features localized geometric variations with a reduced transverse section at specific positions, creating interference fits only at critical locations. This provides stable positioning and immobilization while allowing straightforward insertion during installation before the interference fit engages.
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 solution provides a stable, low-maintenance, and high-drainage paving suitable for vehicle traffic, immune to salting and watering needs, with improved rigidity and drainage capacity.
Implementation Method 1
a vertical force applied to the upper face of the body, and resulting in particular from a pedestrian walking on the module or a vehicle rolling on the module, is transmitted to the ground via the support face, without the body sinking further into the ground
Implementation Method 2
at least one peripheral drainage opening is formed between the periphery of the module and the cell so as to allow drainage of rainwater and/or runoff
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a module (1) for filling a cell in a paving slab, comprising a rigid body (4) intended to be press-fitted into the cell and having an upper face (4a) and an opposite bearing face intended to be placed on the ground. The body (4) has rigid locking elements (11) for press-fitting into the cell, the free ends of which project from said upper face (4a), thereby securing the module (1) in position once the body (4) is received into the cell, and at least one peripheral drainage opening is formed between the periphery of the module (1) and the cell to allow drainage of rainwater and/or runoff. The present invention also relates to a paving slab equipped with such modules (1).