Corrugated Steel Tornado Shelter Panel Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Above-ground tornado shelters face challenges in meeting FEMA performance criteria for withstanding high winds and impact from debris, while also requiring easy assembly and disassembly with minimal specialized training and tools, especially in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A tornado shelter constructed from corrugated steel panels connected directly to each other and anchored to a cementitious base, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly from within, using commonly available tools and no specialized training, with a door for entry and exit, and capable of withstanding 250 mph winds and a 15 lb. 2×4 wooden stud impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the enclosure is constructed with metal panels and separate framing members to meet FEMA performance criteria, then the strength and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the panel and framing member into a single integrated component. The C-shaped or U-shaped panel includes integrated flanges that directly connect to adjacent panels and to the foundation, eliminating the need for separate framing members. This integration maintains structural strength while reducing assembly complexity and component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated panel serves multiple functions: it provides the enclosure wall, acts as a framing member for structural support, and includes connection features for anchoring to the foundation and joining with adjacent panels. This multi-functionality reduces the number of specialized components needed while maintaining FEMA compliance.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the enclosure uses separate framing members to connect panels, then the structural stability is improved, but the ease of manufacture and assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The framing function is merged into the panel itself through integrated flanges. These flanges are formed as part of the panel manufacturing process, allowing panels to be produced independently and assembled by simple interlocking without requiring separate framing components or specialized assembly procedures.
3Ease of operation
If the enclosure is designed with integrated panels to reduce complexity, then the ease of assembly is improved, but the ability to withstand impact from flying debris may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated flanges are designed with specific local characteristics: they extend beyond the panel edges to provide overlap with adjacent panels, creating a interlocking system that resists debris impact. The flange geometry and connection method are optimized locally at the panel joints to maintain impact resistance while keeping the overall structure simple.
Data Source
AI summary
A protective enclosure that is primarily constructed from corrugated, symmetrical panel members of uniform shape. The panel members are made from steel. The panel members are connected together to form the walls and roof of the enclosure. The enclosure is connected to a cementitious member to anchor the enclosure. The enclosure is provided with a door that completes the enclosure and allows entry and exit from the enclosure.