Self-Closing Hinge Expansion Joint for Stadiums
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional expansion joint control systems in structures like stadiums face challenges in accommodating multi-directional movements due to seismic and thermal events while allowing egress across the expansion joint gap, often requiring manual repositioning of cover plates after events.
Innovation Solution
An expansion joint system featuring a self-closing hinge mechanism that connects two plates, allowing the movable plate to shift during events and automatically return to its original position, enabling multi-directional movement without structural deformity and eliminating the need for manual repositioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional expansion joint control systems are used, then the gap can accommodate dimensional changes, but manual repositioning of cover plates is required after seismic or thermal events
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion joint control system automatically returns the movable cover plate to its original position after displacement during seismic or thermal events, eliminating the need for manual repositioning. The system serves itself by incorporating a hinge mechanism with a spring that provides the restoring force, making the system self-correcting without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism with spring is pre-configured in the expansion joint control system to provide automatic restoring force. The spring is pre-loaded to exert force that returns the movable cover plate to its original position, so the system is prepared in advance to counteract displacement without requiring manual intervention after events occur.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the expansion joint control system accommodates multi-directional movement, then seismic and thermal events are handled, but structural deformity may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion joint control system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic hinged connection. The hinge allows the movable cover plate to rotate and move in multiple directions in response to seismic and thermal forces, while the spring provides a restoring force that maintains structural integrity. This dynamic mechanism accommodates multi-directional movement without causing permanent deformation.
3Extent of automation
If a self-closing hinge mechanism is added, then automatic return position is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge mechanism acts as an intermediary between the fixed and movable cover plates, providing a controlled connection that allows movement while maintaining structural integrity. The spring within the hinge serves as a mediator that stores and releases energy to return the plate to its original position, adding automation without requiring complex external systems.
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 system effectively accommodates thermal and seismic movements, ensuring egress across the joint gap while maintaining structural integrity and automating the return process, reducing manual labor and potential damage.
Implementation Method 1
the movable plate can move out of its normal position in response to a seismic or thermal event and can automatically return to its normal position following the event
Data Source
AI summary
An expansion joint system for bridging an expansion joint gap between two spaced-apart underlying stair structures. The expansion joint system includes a movable plate that is connected to a fixed plate through a hinge. The hinge connection permits the movable plate to move in response to thermal movements and seismic events that causes the width of the expansion joint to open to a greater width or close to a smaller width. Following the seismic or thermal event, the hinge connection automatically returns the movable plate to its original position.