Waveform Joint Edge Insert for Concrete Joint Spalling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Concrete joints between slabs are prone to spalling due to misalignment and wider openings, causing damage to vehicles and allowing contaminants, and existing solutions like epoxy fillers lack structural support and durability.
Innovation Solution
A joint edge insert with an elongated waveform configuration is inserted between joint edge members, providing structural support and engaging opposing surfaces to fill the gap, allowing for expansion and contraction without damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If epoxy fillers are used to fill joint gaps, then the joint appearance is improved, but structural support is insufficient and the filler cannot withstand temperature changes
Solution Approach 1:
The joint edge insert is constructed from a composite structure combining a rigid core material (such as metal or rigid plastic) with an elastomeric outer layer. The rigid core provides structural support and dimensional stability to withstand temperature changes, while the elastomeric layer provides flexibility and shock absorption. This composite material approach resolves the contradiction by integrating both structural strength and shape-maintaining properties in a single component.
2Stability of the object's composition
If joint edges are allowed to open freely to accommodate concrete shrinkage, then concrete damage is prevented, but joint spalling occurs due to vehicle wheel impact
Solution Approach 1:
The joint edge insert changes the physical parameters of the joint by providing a bridging structure that modifies the mechanical behavior. The insert maintains a controlled gap size and prevents excessive opening while accommodating normal shrinkage movement. The elastomeric material absorbs impact energy from vehicle wheels, changing the hardness and damping characteristics of the joint region to prevent spalling while maintaining the necessary flexibility for concrete movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint edge insert acts as an intermediary element between the concrete slabs and vehicle wheels. It mediates the interaction by providing a compliant surface that absorbs wheel impacts through elastomeric deformation, preventing direct contact between hard wheel surfaces and joint edge concrete. This intermediary structure protects both the concrete from spalling and the vehicle from damage while allowing the joint to function properly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the joint gap is left open to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, then temperature changes are managed, but contaminants can ingress into the joint
Solution Approach 1:
The joint edge insert utilizes an elastomeric shell or film structure that forms a flexible barrier across the joint gap. This elastomeric material is designed to be impermeable to water and contaminants while maintaining flexibility to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the concrete slabs. The flexible shell closes the gap sufficiently to prevent contaminant ingress during normal conditions while allowing controlled movement through elastic deformation during thermal cycles.
Data Source
AI summary
A joint edge insert positionable in a gap between two joint edge members of a joint edge assembly attached to two adjacent concrete slabs, and configured to provide structural support for the joint in cooperation with the joint edge members to reduce joint spalling.