Concrete Shearwall Protrusion Connection for Lateral Load Resistance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current shearwall constructions in building structures face challenges in providing robust resistance to lateral loads such as wind and seismic forces, with complex stress distributions and potential weaknesses in internal connections.

Innovation Solution

The proposed shearwall assembly includes concrete columns with protrusions or recesses, paired with horizontal slab panels and reinforcement, allowing for concrete pouring between them to form a robust connection, enhancing stability and adjustability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If traditional shearwall construction methods are used, then the structure can provide basic lateral load resistance, but the internal connections and stress distribution become complex and potentially weak

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelateral load resistanceVSAvoidinternal connection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The shearwall is divided into modular segments with standardized connection details. The wall panels, floor diaphragms, and foundation connections are segmented into discrete, pre-engineered components that simplify the overall complex structure into manageable units with standardized connection protocols

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Connection details are pre-engineered and pre-planned during the design phase, with standardized reinforcement patterns, anchor bolt configurations, and panel connection methods established before construction begins. This preliminary design work simplifies the complex internal connections by providing ready-made solutions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If robust shearwall construction is implemented to resist combined loading conditions, then lateral load capacity improves, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveshearwall performance under combined loadingVSAvoidconstruction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different reinforcement ratios, concrete strengths, and panel dimensions based on specific loading conditions. By changing these parameters systematically rather than designing unique solutions for each case, the patent achieves reliable performance under various combined loading conditions while maintaining ease of manufacture through parameterized design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The shearwall design incorporates locally optimized reinforcement and connection details at critical locations (such as panel edges, connection zones, and stress concentration areas) while using simpler construction methods in non-critical areas. This local quality approach ensures reliability where needed without unnecessarily increasing overall construction complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS10577796B1Concrete shearwall and assemblies thereof, and related methods
Publication Date: 2020.03.03 SARDA NANDY
  • US10577796B1 patent drawing
  • US10577796B1 patent drawing
  • US10577796B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A shearwall assembly includes a first concrete and a second concrete column and a protrusion extending from a connection end of the respective concrete columns. Each protrusion has two side surfaces and a center surface. A pair of horizontal slab panels are positioned between the respective connecting ends of the first and second concrete columns and abutting the two side surfaces of the respective protrusions. A horizontal reinforcement extends from the center surface of the respective protrusions and between the respective trusses. Concrete is poured at a volume formed between the pair of horizontal slab panels and the first and second concrete columns.