Fragmented Slab Lifting Apparatus with Expandable Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing damaged concrete slabs from roads often result in edge damage to adjacent slabs and require significant labor, as they lack efficient stabilization and lifting mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A slab lifting apparatus with expandable securement pins and jacks that stabilize and lift fragmented slabs, minimizing edge damage and reducing labor through controlled lifting and securement of the slabs using a planar support and hydraulic actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fragmented slabs are lifted using a harness connected to locking pins, then the slabs can be removed from the road, but the edges of adjacent sections are damaged due to load shifting
Solution Approach 1:
A steel frame acts as an intermediary device between the fragmented slabs and the lifting mechanism. The frame provides a stable structure that distributes the lifting load evenly across multiple pins, preventing load shifting that causes edge damage to adjacent slabs. The frame serves as a mediator that transforms the uncontrolled lifting process into a controlled operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting system transitions from a static harness arrangement to a dynamic, controlled lifting process. The frame is designed to accommodate movement and adjustment during lifting, allowing operators to control the lifting speed and position to prevent damage to adjacent slab edges while maintaining productivity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If fragmented slabs are stabilized with a frame before lifting, then edge damage is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting apparatus is segmented into modular components: a steel frame structure, multiple locking pins, and connection points for lifting equipment. This segmentation allows the system to be assembled and configured for different slab sizes and shapes while maintaining simplicity. Each component performs a specific function, reducing overall system complexity through functional decomposition.
3Stability of the object's composition
If multiple pins are used to secure fragmented slabs to a frame, then stabilization is improved, but the time required for pin insertion and expansion increases
Solution Approach 1:
Holes are pre-drilled into the fragmented slabs at appropriate locations before the lifting operation begins. This preliminary action eliminates the need to drill holes during the lifting process, significantly reducing the time required for pin installation. The pins are then quickly inserted into the pre-drilled holes and expanded to secure the fragments to the frame.
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 apparatus effectively stabilizes and lifts fragmented concrete slabs without damaging adjacent edges, reducing labor costs and improving the efficiency of road repair processes.
Implementation Method 1
At least two expandable securement pins mounted on the planar support are insertable into holes bored in the plurality of fragments in the fragmented slab and expandable within the holes to secure the plurality of fragments to the planar support
Implementation Method 2
The first and second jacks are then operable to lift the planar support and the plurality of fragments secured thereto upward relative to the concrete slab
Data Source
AI summary
A slab jack assembly for raising a fragmented slab from between sections of a concrete slab from which the fragmented slab is cut comprises a planar support positionable on top of the fragmented slab. Jacks are mounted on opposite sides of the planar support to engage an upper surface of the concrete slab. Securement pins mounted on the planar support are insertable into holes bored in the plurality of fragments in the fragmented slab and expandable within the holes to secure the fragments to the planar support. The first and second jacks are then operable to lift the planar support and fragments upward relative to the concrete slab.