Segmented Column System with Sleeve Connections for Multistory Construction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multistory building construction methods are hindered by the need for heavy, long steel columns that require expensive lifting equipment and labor, leading to time delays and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A post-fit telescoping and non-telescoping column system that includes a base plate with a vertically extending sleeve and cap plates on the columns, allowing for adjustable and interlocking column configurations that reduce the need for extensive lifting equipment and labor, with a method involving the positioning, welding, and concrete pouring process to support multiple floors efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If long steel columns are used to span full building height, then structural strength is improved, but column weight increases requiring expensive lifting equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the full-height column into multiple shorter column members, each spanning only a portion of the building height (e.g., one column member per floor or per few floors). These segmented members are connected through floor assemblies, eliminating the need for single long columns while maintaining structural strength through the distributed connection system.
2Strength
If long steel columns are used to span full building height, then structural strength is improved, but construction time increases due to coordination difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting columns into shorter members that align with floor assemblies, the patent enables parallel construction of multiple floors. Each floor assembly can be constructed independently with its associated column members, eliminating the sequential coordination required for single long columns and reducing overall construction time.
Solution Approach 2:
The floor assemblies are constructed with column members pre-positioned and connected at each floor level before proceeding to the next floor. This preliminary assembly approach allows for standardized fabrication and reduces on-site coordination complexity, enabling faster construction progression.
3Ease of manufacture
If team of laborers is used to place columns, then lifting equipment costs are reduced, but labor time and coordination complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented column members are designed to be manageable sizes that can be handled by standard construction equipment and smaller labor teams, eliminating the need for expensive heavy-lifting cranes while maintaining construction efficiency through standardized connection procedures at each floor level.
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 system enables cost-effective, labor-saving, and structurally sound multistory building construction by allowing for the efficient placement and support of columns, reducing construction time and costs while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The sleeve of the base plate may extend into a bottom end of the at least one first-floor column
Implementation Method 2
The at least one first-floor column may be welded to the base plate according to engineering plans
Data Source
AI summary
A multistory building construction system comprising at least one base plate comprising a centrally disposed sleeve extending vertically from a top surface thereof and configured to engage an interior portion of a bottom end of at least one first-floor column comprising a cap plate disposed on a top end thereof with a centrally disposed sleeve extending vertically therefrom configured to engage an exterior portion of a bottom end of at least one upper-floor column and configured to support a decking for a concrete floor and configured so that a top end of the sleeve may be used as a benchmark for pouring the concrete floor, the first-floor column and the upper-floor column further comprising at least one sheer tab for attachment of beams for support of the decking.