Tunnel Element Gasket Integration via Embedded Anchors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing and placing tubular tunnel elements with watertight seals are time-consuming due to the need for separate installation of steel end-frames and gaskets, which complicates the process and increases costs.
Innovation Solution
Integrating metal or carbon anchors into the concrete mould, allowing the gasket's deforming body and base to form a chemical and mechanical bond with the concrete, eliminating the need for separate gasket installation and end-frames, and using plate-shaped anchors with bolts or screws for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If steel end-frames and separate gaskets are used for mounting, then the gasket can be securely attached to tunnel elements, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the gasket mounting function directly into the tunnel element by integrating anchor points into the concrete structure during manufacturing. This merging eliminates the separate end-frame component and integrates gasket attachment into the element fabrication process, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchor points are prepared in advance during the concrete element manufacturing process. By pre-installing the anchoring structure into the tunnel element before delivery, the patent eliminates the need for separate on-site mounting operations, thus improving installation speed without compromising attachment reliability.
2Reliability
If steel end-frames are used for gasket mounting, then secure attachment is achieved, but the overall construction cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the gasket mounting function into the tunnel element itself by integrating anchor points during concrete manufacturing. This eliminates the need for separate steel end-frame components, reducing material costs and simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining secure gasket attachment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tunnel element is designed with multi-functionality by incorporating anchor points as an integral part of the element structure. This allows the same concrete element to serve both structural and gasket mounting functions, eliminating the need for additional specialized components and reducing overall construction costs.
3Strength
If anchors extend into curing concrete, then a strong chemical and mechanical bond is formed, but the gasket must be integrated into the mould process
Solution Approach 1:
The anchor points are installed into the mould during the concrete element manufacturing process, before the concrete cures. This preliminary placement ensures that when the concrete hardens, the anchors are firmly embedded with strong chemical and mechanical bonding, while the process itself remains integrated into the standard manufacturing workflow.
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
This method significantly reduces production and placement time, enhances the reliability of the sealing process, and ensures a durable watertight seal by integrating the gasket directly into the concrete, thus streamlining the construction of immersed tunnels and other construction elements.
Implementation Method 1
the base with the deforming body is placed against an inner side of the mould, wherein the concrete is cast in the mould, and the anchors extend into the concrete while the concrete is cured to form the tubular tunnel element with the watertight seal. a chemical and or mechanical bond can be obtained
Implementation Method 2
said anchors extend into the concrete while the concrete is cured to form the tubular tunnel element with the watertight seal. a chemical and or mechanical bond can be obtained
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for producing a construction element, in particular a tunnel element, from a curing material, such as concrete, in a mould, said construction element being provided with a watertight seal on at least one side thereof, wherein a gasket is used comprising a deforming body which is produced from a yielding material, such as rubber. According to the invention a base is produced from a relatively strong material, which base may or may not be detachable from the deforming body. Said base with or without said deforming body is placed against an inner side of the mould, said curing material is cast in the mould, and said curing material is cured to form said construction element with said watertight seal.