STEPPED CLOSURE FOR DUCT COUPLING

Information

  • Patent Application
  • 20250059764
  • Publication Number
    20250059764
  • Date Filed
    August 15, 2023
    2 years ago
  • Date Published
    February 20, 2025
    7 months ago
Abstract
A concrete block assembly with crenellations making space for a user to interact with a duct assembly running through the block.
Description
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to reinforced concrete blocks and ducts running therethrough.


BACKGROUND

Many structures are built using concrete, including, for instance, buildings, parking structures, apartments, condominiums, hotels, mixed-use buildings, casinos, hospitals, medical buildings, government buildings, research/academic institutions, industrial buildings, malls, bridges, pavement, tanks, reservoirs, silos, foundations, sports courts, and other structures.


Re-stressed concrete is structural concrete in which internal stresses are introduced to reduce potential tensile stresses in the concrete resulting from applied loads. This can be accomplished by two methods-post-tensioned pre-stressing and pre-tensioned pre-stressing. When post tensioning concrete, the pre-stressing assembly is tensioned after the concrete has attained a specified strength. The pre-stressing assembly, commonly known as a tendon, may include for example and without limitation, anchorages, one or more strands, and sheathes or ducts. The strand is tensioned between anchors which are embedded in the concrete once the concrete has hardened.


However, once most reinforced concrete is put into place, it is often difficult to interact with the ducts and tendons laid therein. For example, a worker who needs to investigate a weakness with the duct assembly may want to look at connecting point between two ducts, but this point may be obstructed by the flush connection between the two concrete structure holding the ducts.


These and other deficiencies exist. Therefore, there is a need to provide a concrete structure that overcome these deficiencies.


SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Further features of the disclosed systems and methods, and the advantages offered thereby, are explained in greater detail hereinafter with reference to specific example embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings.





BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a reinforced concrete block assembly including: one or more concrete blocks each having a substantially rectangular body, wherein each body includes a hollow space extending along a longitudinal axis of the body; wherein each concrete block further includes: a first side with a crenellation pattern, wherein the crenellation pattern includes a series of merlons and embrasures, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side; a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side includes openings aligned with the hollow space; and at least one duct disposed within the hollow space and extending through the openings on the second side, wherein the at least one duct is configured to receive one or more tendons; wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a subsequent concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto, such that the merlons of a first concrete block align with the merlons of a concrete block, thereby forming an open space between the concrete blocks for facilitating installation and manipulation of the at least one duct and tendons.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a reinforced concrete block assembly including: a concrete block having a body, wherein the body includes a hollow space extending along the body; wherein the concrete block further includes: a first side with a crenellation pattern, wherein the crenellation pattern includes one or more merlons and embrasures, where the merlons extend outwardly from the first side; a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side includes openings aligned with the hollow space; and at least one duct disposed within the hollow space and extending through the openings on the second side, where the at least one duct configured to receive tendons; wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a second concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto, such that the merlons of the first concrete block assembly align with merlons of the second concrete block assembly, thereby forming an open space between the first and second concrete block assemblies.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a concrete block assembly including: a concrete block having a rectangular body, wherein the body includes a hollow space extending along a longitudinal axis of the body, wherein the hollow space is configured to receive at least a duct; the concrete block further including: a first side with a crenellation pattern, the crenellation pattern including one or more merlons and one or more embrasures, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side; a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side includes openings aligned with the hollow space; and wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a second concrete block assembly.


In order to facilitate a fuller understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the attached drawings. The drawings should not be construed as limiting the present invention, but are intended only to illustrate different aspects and embodiments of the invention.



FIG. 1 illustrates a concrete assembly with a duct according to an exemplary embodiment.



FIG. 2 illustrates a concrete assembly with a duct according to an exemplary embodiment.



FIG. 3 illustrates a concrete assembly with a duct according to an exemplary embodiment.





DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in order to illustrate various features of the invention. The embodiments described herein are not intended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention, but rather are intended to provide examples of the components, use, and operation of the invention.


Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of an embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments.


The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.


The invention pertains to an innovative assembly of reinforced concrete structures, each featuring a unique crenellation pattern. These structures consist of rectangular concrete blocks with a hollow interior, allowing for the insertion of ducts to house tendons. Notably, on at least one side of each concrete block is a crenellation pattern, comprised of merlons and embrasures, while the opposite side holds openings aligned with the hollow space.


The distinctive aspect of this invention lies in how these crenellated concrete structures interact when assembled. Adjacent structures are configured such that their merlons can line up, generating open spaces in the merlons between them. These spaces facilitate the straightforward installation and manipulation of the ducts and tendons. Additionally, the concrete blocks may incorporate various features, such as reinforcing materials, compressive strength enhancements, and decorative elements. This invention finds utility in constructing load-bearing walls with integrated services, capitalizing on the synergy between the crenellation patterns to achieve stability, functionality, and aesthetics.


The introduction of the crenellation pattern in the assembly of reinforced concrete structures addresses practical challenges and enhances construction efficiency. Unlike conventional concrete assemblies, where assembling and working with internal ducts often requires complex and time-consuming procedures, the crenellation pattern in each concrete block revolutionizes this process. By aligning adjacent structures with their merlons interlocked, a assembly is made quicker and easier. This arrangement creates open spaces between the concrete blocks, strategically designed to enable a worker's direct access to the internal ducts without compromising the overall structural integrity. Furthermore, the merlons protect the openings and tube assemblies from lateral forces and debris.


Workers can seamlessly engage with the ducts, facilitating effortless maintenance, connection, and disconnection. This stands in stark contrast to prior concrete assemblies where such tasks necessitated intricate maneuvers or even disassembly of sections, leading to delays, added costs, and potential structural risks. The crenellation pattern's ingenious design not only simplifies these tasks but also enhances worker safety by eliminating the need for extensive interventions that could compromise the assembly's stability.



FIG. 1 illustrates a top down view of a concrete assembly with a duct and a crenellation pattern according to an exemplary embodiment. The concrete block assembly 100 can include a first concrete block 105 and a second concrete block 110. It is understood that only one concrete block may be used in the assembly, or more than two concrete blocks may be used. Each block can be generally square, rectangular, or some similar shape. Each block can include a hollow space or hollow tube configured to receive a tube assembly 170. The tube assembly 170 can include without limitation a duct assembly including duct bodies, duct connectors, and duct caps. The hollow space within each block can terminate at the first openings 135 and 140 and the second openings 190 and 195. Each concrete block 105 and 110 can have two sides, a first side 185 and 180, and a second side 155 and 160. The second sides 155 and 160 can be flat or shear sided. The first sides 180 and 185 can have a crenellation pattern including one or more merlons 115, 120, 145, and 150. In between merlons 115 and 145 can be an embrasure 125. Similarly, between merlons 120 and 150 there can be an embrasure 130. These embrasures 125 and 130 can be merely empty spaces in which the tube assembly 170 through which a user can interacts with the tube assembly 170. The merlons further protect from tube assembly and openings from debris.



FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of a concrete assembly with a duct and a crenellation pattern according to an exemplary embodiment. The first block 205 can have a first side 265 and a second side 245, and a first opening 235 on the first side 265, and a second opening 255 on the second side 245. Similarly, the second block 210 can have a first side 280 with a first opening 240 and a second side 250 with a second opening 260. The blocks can have a hollow tube interior configured to receive a tube assembly 270. The blocks can also have a crenellation pattern on each of their first sides 265 and 280. The first block 205 can have a merlon 215 and embrasure 225, and the second block 210 can have a merlon 220 and an embrasure 230. The merlons 215 and 220 can flank the tube assembly 270, thus protecting it from the elements, debris, and other forces. The embrasures 225 and 230 can provide an open space where the tube assembly 270 can be easily interacted with.



FIG. 3 illustrates a concrete assembly with one or more ducts and crenellation patterns according to an exemplary embodiment. The block assembly 300 can include at least a first block 305 and a second block 310. In other embodiments, more blocks can be used. Each block can have a first side and a second side, wherein the first side has a crenellation pattern with one or more merlons 315 and 320, and corresponding embrasures 325 and 330. Each block can also have one more openings 335 and 340 corresponding with one or more hollow interiors within each block configured to receive one or more tube assemblies 345 and 350 such as ducts. Each tube assembly 345 can be positioned between the merlons, i.e. within the embrasures of the crenellation pattern on each block. Although the assembly 300 illustrates two concrete blocks with three tube assemblies, it is understood that the more concrete blocks with more or fewer tube assemblies, as well as more or fewer crenellations, are considered. It is also understood that the merlons and embrasures illustrated in the figures are of only a few sizes and shapes that are considered. In other embodiments, the merlons may extend farther or closer to the body of the concrete bock, and the merlons may be thinner or thicker than what it illustrated in the figures. Furthermore, the embrasures may be larger or smaller than what is illustrated in the figures. Additionally, the shape of the merlons can vary according to the needs and desires of certain uses. For example, the merlons can be rectangular shaped as illustrated in the figures, but in other embodiments the merlons can be square shaped, trapezoid or dovetail shaped, rounded, beveled, baluster shaped, teethed or ribbed, textured, or any other shape that could be used in a crenellation pattern. Even ornamental crenellations are considered. Furthermore, even though the figures depict concrete blocks with crenellations on only one side of the block, it is understood that in other embodiments the concrete block can have crenellations one two sides, e.g. opposite sides, three sides, or all four sides of the concrete block. Furthermore, the crenellations may vary in size and shape from one concrete block assembly to another, yet such concrete blocks can still be used in the same overall assembly.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a reinforced concrete block assembly including: one or more concrete blocks each having a substantially rectangular body, wherein each body includes a hollow space extending along a longitudinal axis of the body; wherein each concrete block further includes: a first side with a crenellation pattern, wherein the crenellation pattern includes a series of merlons and embrasures, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side; a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side includes openings aligned with the hollow space; and at least one duct disposed within the hollow space and extending through the openings on the second side, wherein the at least one duct is configured to receive one or more tendons; wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a subsequent concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto, such that the merlons of a first concrete block align with the merlons of a concrete block, thereby forming an open space between the concrete blocks for facilitating installation and manipulation of the at least one duct and tendons.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the concrete block further includes reinforcing materials selected from the group consisting of steel bars, mesh, and fibers embedded within the concrete body.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side of the concrete block at a length ranging from 10% to 50% of the width of the concrete block.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the crenellation pattern further includes decorative features selected from the group consisting of grooves, ridges, and ornamental designs.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the at least one duct further includes a corrosion-resistant material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, plastic, and coated materials.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the open space formed between the first and second concrete block assemblies is adaptable to accommodate additional functional elements selected from the group consisting of utility conduits, communication cables, and sensors.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the concrete block is manufactured using a precast molding process.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the concrete block further includes additives selected from the group consisting of fly ash, slag, and silica fume, to enhance the durability and sustainability of the assembly.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the second side of the concrete block includes reinforcing elements configured to secure the at least one duct in place.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a reinforced concrete block assembly including: a concrete block having a body, wherein the body includes a hollow space extending along the body; wherein the concrete block further includes: a first side with a crenellation pattern, wherein the crenellation pattern includes one or more merlons and embrasures, where the merlons extend outwardly from the first side; a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side includes openings aligned with the hollow space; and at least one duct disposed within the hollow space and extending through the openings on the second side, where the at least one duct configured to receive tendons; wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a second concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto, such that the merlons of the first concrete block assembly align with merlons of the second concrete block assembly, thereby forming an open space between the first and second concrete block assemblies.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the open space between the first and second concrete block assemblies facilitates installation and manipulation of the at least one duct and tendons.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein each concrete block further includes reinforcing materials selected from the group consisting of steel bars, mesh, and fibers embedded within the concrete body.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the merlons of adjacent concrete structures interlock to provide enhanced stability and load distribution between the concrete structures.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein each concrete block further includes a plurality of ducts arranged in a parallel configuration within the hollow space.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the at least one duct within each concrete block further includes a central void, facilitating the passage of additional elements therethrough.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein each concrete block is manufactured using a precast molding process.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the second side includes a second crenellation pattern configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a subsequent concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the assembly forms a load-bearing wall system, capable of supporting vertical and lateral loads while accommodating services and utilities.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an assembly, wherein the concrete block has at least one selected from the group of a rectangular body and a square body.


In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a concrete block assembly including: a concrete block having a rectangular body, wherein the body includes a hollow space extending along a longitudinal axis of the body, wherein the hollow space is configured to receive at least a duct; the concrete block further including: a first side with a crenellation pattern, the crenellation pattern including one or more merlons and one or more embrasures, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side; a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side includes openings aligned with the hollow space; and wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a second concrete block assembly.


Although embodiments of the present invention have been described herein in the context of a particular implementation in a particular environment for a particular purpose, those skilled in the art will recognize that its usefulness is not limited thereto and that the embodiments of the present invention can be beneficially implemented in other related environments for similar purposes. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiments, method, and examples, but by all embodiments within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed.


Further, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. Also, for purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof relate to the invention as oriented in the figures and is not to be construed as limiting any feature to be a particular orientation, as said orientation may be changed based on the user's perspective of the device.


In the invention, various embodiments have been described with references to the accompanying drawings. It may, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto, and additional embodiments may be implemented, without departing from the broader scope of the invention as set forth in the claims that follow. The invention and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.


The invention is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described herein, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope. Functionally equivalent systems, processes and apparatuses within the scope of the invention, in addition to those enumerated herein, may be apparent from the representative descriptions herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such representative claims are entitled.


The preceding description of exemplary embodiments provides non-limiting representative examples referencing numerals to particularly describe features and teachings of different aspects of the invention. The embodiments described should be recognized as capable of implementation separately, or in combination, with other embodiments from the description of the embodiments. A person of ordinary skill in the art reviewing the description of embodiments should be able to learn and understand the different described aspects of the invention. The description of embodiments should facilitate understanding of the invention to such an extent that other implementations, not specifically covered but within the knowledge of a person of skill in the art having read the description of embodiments, would be understood to be consistent with an application of the invention.

Claims
  • 1. A reinforced concrete block assembly comprising: one or more concrete blocks each having a substantially rectangular body, wherein each body comprises a hollow space extending along a longitudinal axis of the body;wherein each concrete block further comprises:a first side with a crenellation pattern, wherein the crenellation pattern comprises a series of merlons and embrasures, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side;a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side comprises openings aligned with the hollow space; andat least one duct disposed within the hollow space and extending through the openings on the second side, wherein the at least one duct is configured to receive one or more tendons; wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a subsequent concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto, such that the merlons of a first concrete block align with the merlons of a concrete block, thereby forming an open space between the concrete blocks for facilitating installation and manipulation of the at least one duct and tendons.
  • 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the concrete block further comprises reinforcing materials selected from the group consisting of steel bars, mesh, and fibers embedded within the concrete body.
  • 3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side of the concrete block at a length ranging from 10% to 50% of the width of the concrete block.
  • 4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the crenellation pattern further comprises decorative features selected from the group consisting of grooves, ridges, and ornamental designs.
  • 5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one duct further comprises a corrosion-resistant material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, plastic, and coated materials.
  • 6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the open space formed between the first and second concrete block assemblies is adaptable to accommodate additional functional elements selected from the group consisting of utility conduits, communication cables, and sensors.
  • 7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the concrete block is manufactured using a precast molding process.
  • 8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the concrete block further comprises additives selected from the group consisting of fly ash, slag, and silica fume, to enhance the durability and sustainability of the assembly.
  • 9. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the second side of the concrete block comprises reinforcing elements configured to secure the at least one duct in place.
  • 10. A reinforced concrete block assembly comprising: a concrete block having a body, wherein the body comprises a hollow space extending along the body;wherein the concrete block further comprises:a first side with a crenellation pattern, wherein the crenellation pattern comprises one or more merlons and embrasures, where the merlons extend outwardly from the first side;a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side comprises openings aligned with the hollow space; andat least one duct disposed within the hollow space and extending through the openings on the second side, where the at least one duct configured to receive tendons;wherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a second concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto, such that the merlons of the first concrete block assembly align with merlons of the second concrete block assembly, thereby forming an open space between the first and second concrete block assemblies.
  • 11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the open space between the first and second concrete block assemblies facilitates installation and manipulation of the at least one duct and tendons.
  • 12. The assembly of claim 10, wherein each concrete block further comprises reinforcing materials selected from the group consisting of steel bars, mesh, and fibers embedded within the concrete body.
  • 13. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the merlons of adjacent concrete structures interlock to provide enhanced stability and load distribution between the concrete structures.
  • 14. The assembly of claim 10, wherein each concrete block further comprises a plurality of ducts arranged in a parallel configuration within the hollow space.
  • 15. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the at least one duct within each concrete block further comprises a central void, facilitating the passage of additional elements therethrough.
  • 16. The assembly of claim 10, wherein each concrete block is manufactured using a precast molding process.
  • 17. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the second side comprises a second crenellation pattern configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a subsequent concrete block assembly when arranged adjacent thereto.
  • 18. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the assembly forms a load-bearing wall system, capable of supporting vertical and lateral loads while accommodating services and utilities.
  • 19. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the concrete block has at least one selected from the group of a rectangular body and a square body.
  • 20. A concrete block assembly comprising: a concrete block having a rectangular body, wherein the body comprises a hollow space extending along a longitudinal axis of the body, wherein the hollow space is configured to receive at least a duct;the concrete block further comprising:a first side with a crenellation pattern, the crenellation pattern comprising one or more merlons and one or more embrasures, wherein the merlons extend outwardly from the first side;a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second side comprises openings aligned with the hollow space; andwherein the crenellation pattern is configured to mate with a corresponding crenellation pattern of a second concrete block assembly.