Span-to-Span Duct Coupler Assembly for Sealed Structural Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Reinforced concrete structures face challenges in efficiently connecting duct segments between adjacent concrete elements, particularly in balanced cantilever constructions, where traditional coupling methods are inadequate for maintaining structural integrity and preventing fluid ingress.
Innovation Solution
A duct coupler assembly comprising first and second coupler bodies and a coupler boot, which are mechanically coupled to end flanges of duct segments within concrete elements, forming a sealed joint that accommodates relative movement and prevents ingress of fluids and debris.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional coupling methods are used to connect duct segments between adjacent concrete elements, then the connection process is simpler, but structural integrity is compromised and fluid ingress cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into distinct functional segments: end flanges integrated into concrete elements, coupler bodies connecting the flanges, and coupler boots providing sealing. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler boot acts as an intermediary sealing element between the coupler body and end flanges, preventing fluid ingress while allowing the rigid coupler bodies to maintain structural connection. This intermediary component resolves the contradiction by adding sealing function without compromising the structural integrity provided by the coupler bodies.
2Reliability
If a sealed joint is formed to prevent fluid ingress, then reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler boot is implemented as a flexible membrane structure that conforms to the interface between coupler bodies and end flanges. This flexible shell provides effective sealing against fluid ingress while maintaining a relatively simple device structure, avoiding the need for complex gasket systems or multiple sealing layers.
3Strength
If rigid connections are used to maintain structural integrity, then strength improves, but adaptability to structural movement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler boot is designed as a dynamic, flexible element that can deform to accommodate thermal expansion, contraction, and other structural movements. This allows the rigid coupler bodies to maintain strong structural connections while the flexible boot adapts to movement, preserving both strength and adaptability in the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
A span to span duct coupler includes a coupler, a first end flange, and a second end flange. A first concrete element is formed to include a duct segment and the first end flange. The first end flange may be coupled to the first duct segment by a first duct boot. A second concrete element is formed to include a duct segment and a second end flange. The second end flange may be coupled to the second duct segment by a second duct boot. The coupler may include first and second coupler bodies and a coupler boot coupled to the first and second coupler bodies. The first coupler body may be mechanically coupled to the first end flange. The second coupler body may be coupled to the second end flange.