Tri-Layer Steel Shell and Frame Structure for Earthquake Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RC, SRC, and SC structures suffer from low tensile resistance, exposure to environmental factors leading to structural deterioration, and poor earthquake resistance due to concrete exposure, which can result in collapse and damage.
Innovation Solution
A tri-layer steel reinforced concrete (S3RC) structure comprising a steel frame, steel shell layer, and embedded rebars with concrete, where the steel shell layer covers and protects the concrete, enhancing tensile resistance and earthquake resistance by preventing concrete shattering and exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional RC, SRC, or SC structures are used, then construction is straightforward with traditional materials, but the structures have low tensile resistance and poor earthquake resistance due to concrete exposure and shattering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining steel shell layers with concrete core to create an S3RC structure. The steel shell provides tensile resistance while the concrete provides compressive strength, creating a composite system that overcomes the limitations of conventional single-material structures. This is evident in the description of the steel shell layer covering the concrete and rebars to form a composite structural system.
Solution Approach 2:
The steel shell layer acts as a flexible protective shell that conforms to the concrete structure while providing external reinforcement. The shell layer is thin relative to the overall structure but provides significant tensile resistance and earthquake protection, similar to how flexible shells protect internal structures while maintaining structural integrity.
2Reliability
If concrete is exposed in conventional structures, then construction is simpler without external covering, but the concrete is prone to deterioration from environmental factors and electrochemical reactions
Solution Approach 1:
The steel shell layer creates a protected environment around the concrete, isolating it from harmful environmental factors such as moisture, oxygen, and pollutants. This inert protective layer prevents electrochemical reactions and deterioration of the concrete, extending the structural lifespan and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The steel shell serves as a protective film or shell that envelops the concrete structure, providing a barrier against environmental degradation while maintaining the structural form. This shell protection is analogous to how thin films protect surfaces from environmental damage.
3Strength
If steel frames with large malleability are used for high-rise buildings, then construction flexibility is improved, but large horizontal displacements occur on high floors during earthquakes or strong winds
Solution Approach 1:
The S3RC composite structure combines the flexibility and strength of steel with the stiffness and stability of concrete. The steel shell provides ductility and energy absorption during earthquakes, while the concrete core provides stiffness to control horizontal displacements, creating a balanced system that addresses both requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The steel shell layer is nested around the concrete structure, creating a concentric composite system where the outer steel layer provides flexibility and the inner concrete layer provides stiffness. This nested arrangement allows the structure to benefit from both material properties simultaneously, controlling displacement while maintaining earthquake resistance.
4Productivity
If conventional SRC structure with embedded steel frames and concrete is used, then structural strength is improved, but construction requires extensive formworks, rebar assembling, and plastering works
Solution Approach 1:
The steel shell layers are prepared and positioned in advance before the concrete is poured and cured. This preliminary action allows for pre-fabrication and precise positioning of the steel components, reducing on-site assembly time and complexity. The shell layers serve as both structural elements and formwork, eliminating the need for separate plastering operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of formwork, reinforcement, and external protection into a single integrated steel shell layer system. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate formworks and plastering operations, streamlining the construction process and improving productivity by reducing the number of construction stages required.
Data Source
AI summary
A tri-layer steel reinforced concrete (S3RC) building structure comprises a steel frame, at least one steel shell layer, multiple rebars, and a concrete. The steel shell layer is mounted on the steel frame. The rebars are connected to the steel frame and located at one side of the steel shell layer. The concrete is mounted at the side of the steel shell layer and embeds the rebars. With the steel shell layer and/or the steel frame cover the concrete and the rebars, a tensile resistance of the concrete may be enhanced from the exterior, increasing the earthquake resistance. If the earthquake occurs and the concrete is shattered, the broken pieces may be covered by the steel shell layer rather than fall apart, avoiding collapse of the overall structure. Besides, the steel shell layer can also protect the concrete from being affected by the atmosphere and moisture, preventing the concrete from bulging and weathering.