Slotted Channel Support Brackets for Settlement Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slot channels for surface drainage face issues with differential sinking of the road surface and channel arrangement due to traffic loads, leading to channel destruction and instability.
Innovation Solution
A slotted channel design with an inlet part and channel element, featuring support brackets that protrude over the channel element, allowing load dissipation into the floor without contact, and a compressible sealing strip for tightness and settlement accommodation, along with rigid struts and edge supports for high lateral load absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the inlet part is directly supported on the channel element, then the structure is simpler and easier to install, but the channel element is subjected to high traffic loads causing destruction and instability
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is segmented from the channel element by introducing separate support brackets that protrude over the channel element. These brackets are attached to the inlet part and rest on the floor structure, creating a distinct load-bearing component that isolates the channel element from traffic loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The support brackets act as intermediary elements between the inlet part and the floor structure. They transfer loads from the inlet part to the floor without transmitting these loads to the channel element, thereby protecting the channel element from destruction while maintaining structural support.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the road surface and channel arrangement are rigidly connected, then structural stability is improved, but differential sinking due to traffic loads causes channel destruction
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing strip's physical parameter of compressibility is utilized to accommodate differential settlement. This compressible element allows the road surface and channel arrangement to sink at different rates without causing structural failure, maintaining the seal while absorbing the differential movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The compressible sealing strip functions as a flexible element that can deform under differential settlement conditions. This flexible film maintains the waterproof seal while accommodating the relative movement between the road surface and channel arrangement, preventing channel destruction.
3Ease of manufacture
If support brackets are attached directly to the channel element, then installation is simpler, but the channel element is subjected to high loads causing wear and destruction
Solution Approach 1:
The support function is extracted from the channel element by using separate support brackets that are attached to the inlet part and rest on the floor structure. This extraction removes the channel element from the load-bearing path, eliminating traffic loads from acting on it while maintaining installation simplicity through the integrated bracket design.
4Manufacturing precision
If the inlet part is rigidly fixed to prevent movement, then positioning accuracy is improved, but settlement causes the components to 'grow out' and lose stability
Solution Approach 1:
The support bracket system transitions from a rigid fixed connection to a dynamic system that allows controlled movement. The brackets are rigidly attached to the inlet part for precise positioning, but they rest on the floor structure with a compressible seal, allowing the inlet part to move slightly with settlement while maintaining stability and preventing component separation.
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
Ensures stability and resistance to wear by decoupling loads from the channel element, preventing 'growth' during settlement and enhancing durability through load distribution into the surrounding soil.
Implementation Method 1
a compressible sealing strip being installed between one of the support brackets and the gutter member, which on the one hand ensures tightness and on the other hand allows settlement
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The slotted channel comprises an inlet section (20) with side walls (21, 21') between which an inlet slot (22) is formed. Support brackets (23, 23') are attached to the lower edges of the side walls. A channel element (40) can be attached below the inlet section (20) such that surface water or similar liquid can be directed through the inlet section (20) into the channel element (40). It is proposed that the support brackets (23, 23') be attached and dimensioned to project beyond the side walls (41, 41') of the channel element (40) in such a way that a load acting from above on the inlet section (20) – in the installed state – can be transferred into a soil section (13) located next to the channel element (40). This compensates for settling of the entire assembly (including the soil) and increases the overall durability of the assembly.