Web Shoe Overhang Support System for Bridge Girder Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for supporting concrete bridge decks during overhang construction are labor-intensive and unsafe, requiring workers to install and remove brackets beneath the structure, which poses risks and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A web shoe system with horizontal and vertical adjustment mechanisms that supports formwork brackets, allowing for crane-based installation and removal without personnel underneath, using a shoe with a hinged flap and adjustable components to secure and position the brackets on the bridge girder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If brackets are installed and removed individually by workers beneath the structure, then the formwork can be supported and removed, but the process becomes labor-intensive and unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple brackets are merged into a single gang assembly that can be installed and removed as one unit. The gang of brackets is attached to a common support structure, allowing simultaneous installation of multiple brackets by a single worker from above, eliminating the need for multiple workers to operate beneath the structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A shoe or support structure serves as an intermediary between the bridge girder and the brackets. This intermediary component allows the brackets to be mounted from above the girder, enabling workers to install and remove the entire gang assembly safely from the top without needing to position themselves beneath the suspended load.
2Ease of operation
If multiple brackets are installed individually, then each bracket can be positioned and secured, but the process requires multiple workers and becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple brackets are combined into a pre-assembled gang unit with a common mounting structure. This allows the entire assembly to be installed in a single operation by one worker, reducing both the complexity of the installation process and the total time required compared to installing each bracket separately.
Solution Approach 2:
The brackets are pre-assembled into a gang configuration before being placed on the bridge girder. This preliminary assembly of multiple brackets into a unified structure simplifies the on-site installation process, as the entire gang can be mounted as one unit rather than requiring sequential installation of individual brackets.
3Ease of manufacture
If workers are positioned beneath the suspended brackets for installation, then the brackets can be secured to the girder, but safety risks increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of installing brackets from beneath the girder as in traditional methods, the gang of brackets is inverted and installed from above the girder. The mounting structure is designed to engage with the girder from the top side, allowing workers to perform all installation operations from a safe position above the suspended load.
Solution Approach 2:
A shoe or mounting assembly acts as an intermediary that transfers the installation operation from beneath the girder to above the girder. This intermediary structure provides a safe working platform and mounting interface that eliminates the need for workers to position themselves in the hazardous zone beneath suspended loads.
Data Source
AI summary
A web shoe comprising a main body and a hinged flap attached to the main body via a bolt. The hinged flap rotates about the bolt relative to the main body. In the closed position the main body and hinged flap are configured to secure a pin within an opening defined by the main body and hinged flap.