Segmented Sliding Support Columns for Easier Modular Plant Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support columns in modular plant construction are complicated to install and difficult to remove, causing inconvenience during assembly and disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A support column design comprising a first and second column segment with sliding contact and detachable connections, allowing easy installation and removal by sliding the segments together after disconnection from the ground and horizontal modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support column is used to connect and compress two adjacent modules during installation, then the modules can be stably supported and connected, but the support column becomes difficult to remove after assembly because it bears load and is complicated in structure
Solution Approach 1:
The support column is divided into multiple detachable segments (first column segment and second column segment) that can be separated from each other. Each segment can be independently connected and disconnected from the modules, allowing the support column to provide stable support when assembled while enabling easy removal by detaching the segments from the modules and sliding them together for compact storage or disposal.
Solution Approach 2:
The support column transitions from a static, fixed structure to a dynamic, adjustable system. The segments can be connected during installation to provide rigid support, and then disconnected during removal. The sliding contact mechanism allows the segments to move relative to each other, transforming the support column from a load-bearing state to a removable state without requiring forceful extraction.
2Reliability
If the support column structure is made complicated to provide stable support between modules, then the support reliability improves, but the installation and removal processes become more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than creating a single complex monolithic structure, the support column is segmented into simpler, standardized components (first column segment and second column segment). Each segment has a uniform structure with connecting portions and inclined plates that are easier to manufacture and assemble. The overall stability is achieved through the coordinated arrangement of these simple segments rather than through structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support column segments are designed with universal connecting portions that can attach to different modules in various configurations. The inclined plates provide both structural support and a mechanism for controlled movement during installation and removal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized complex structures for different operations.
3Strength
If the support column is designed to bear load after module assembly, then the modules remain securely supported, but the removal process becomes difficult and causes construction inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The support column segments are pre-equipped with inclined plates and connecting portions designed for easy attachment and detachment. During installation, the segments are connected to bear the load. Before removal, the connecting portions are disconnected from the modules, and the inclined plates enable the segments to slide together smoothly. This preliminary design of the connection mechanism eliminates the need for time-consuming manual disassembly or forceful removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support column system dynamically transitions between load-bearing and removable states. When the modules are assembled and supported, the segments maintain their load-bearing position. During removal, the segments are disconnected and can slide relative to each other along the inclined plates, transforming from a rigid load-bearing structure to a mobile, compact configuration. This dynamic capability allows rapid removal without compromising the strength during the support phase.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a support column, comprising a first column segment and a second column segment, the first column segment and the second column segment of the support column are configured to provide support between two adjacent horizontal modules of a process device module and/or between a horizontal module of a process device module and a ground; one end of the first column segment and one end of the second column segment are arranged in sliding contact and detachably connected; and a sum of a length of the first column segment, a length of the second column segment, and a sliding contact distance between the first column segment and the second column segment in a longitudinal direction is greater than a distance between the two adjacent horizontal modules in a longitudinal direction of the support column. When the horizontal module is assembled with other modules and the support columns need to be removed, the first column segment is disconnected from the ground below or from the installed horizontal module below, the second column segment is disconnected from the installed horizontal module above, the joint between the first column segment and the second column segment is loosened to make the first column segment and the second column segment come into sliding contact and get close to each other, such that the whole support column is removed, which is time saving and labor saving.