Vertical Slipform Apparatus for Variable Concrete Geometry
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a gap between architectural design and concrete construction technology, particularly in producing geometrically complex structures, as existing slipforming techniques are limited in efficiently casting complex shapes and forms.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for vertical slipforming that synchronizes concrete material setting and hardening rates with actuator adjustments to create complex shapes, using predictive models and real-time material property measurements to control the shaping and release rate, allowing for flexible reinforcement and reusable formwork.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional slipforming techniques are used, then construction process is simple, but geometrically complex structures cannot be efficiently produced
Solution Approach 1:
The formwork system is made dynamically adjustable through actuators that can modify the position and cross-section of mould walls in real-time during the slipforming process, enabling the production of complex geometries while maintaining a relatively simple base apparatus structure
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus enables continuous variation of geometric parameters (cross-section shape, diameter, form) by controlling actuator positions, allowing transition from simple to complex structures through parameter modification rather than requiring fundamentally different apparatus designs
2Manufacturing precision
If actuators adjust mould walls during vertical movement, then complex shapes can be created, but synchronization with material hardening becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
A control system continuously monitors the hardening state of concrete material and provides feedback to synchronize actuator adjustments with material property changes, ensuring shape accuracy while managing control complexity through automated coordination
Solution Approach 2:
Predictive models estimate future material hardening states in advance, allowing the control system to pre-position actuators optimally before the material reaches critical hardening points, thereby simplifying real-time control while maintaining precision
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed rectangular cavity form is used, then apparatus structure is simple, but geometrically complex structures cannot be produced
Solution Approach 1:
The cavity form transitions from a fixed rectangular structure to a dynamically adjustable configuration through actuators that can modify mould wall positions and cross-sections, enabling complex geometries while keeping the base formwork structure simple and reusable
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3F
Figure 4~5E
AI summary
An apparatus (10) for vertical (72) slip forming of concrete structures (55), especially walls and columns, comprises an attachment portion (23) for a frame; a slipform assembly inside the frame connected with the frame (30), wherein the slipform assembly comprises an extrusion form providing mould walls defining a cavity and actuators (20) adapted to adjust the position of the side walls forms essentially arranged along the longitudinal axis of the slipform assembly; concrete supply means (45) connected with the slipform assembly for delivering concrete (52, 53, 54) to that cavity through the top open surface; and means (20) for vertically displacing (72) that slipform assembly incrementally relative to the base thereby to continuously cast a concrete structure (55) having a vertical orientation. The actuators (20) are adapted to receive control signals from a control unit (70) to adjust the position of the side walls during the incremental vertical movement (72) of the slipform assembly to allow creation of new forms for such a column or wall with variable diameter, variable form and/or twisted as shown.