US20160186453A1 - Structure reinforcement system and method - Google Patents
Structure reinforcement system and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20160186453A1 US20160186453A1 US15/052,419 US201615052419A US2016186453A1 US 20160186453 A1 US20160186453 A1 US 20160186453A1 US 201615052419 A US201615052419 A US 201615052419A US 2016186453 A1 US2016186453 A1 US 2016186453A1
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- Prior art keywords
- pair
- bridge portion
- fiber reinforcement
- reinforcement strip
- holes
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G23/00—Working measures on existing buildings
- E04G23/02—Repairing, e.g. filling cracks; Restoring; Altering; Enlarging
- E04G23/0218—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements
- E04G23/0222—Replacing or adding wall ties
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02D—FOUNDATIONS; EXCAVATIONS; EMBANKMENTS; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES
- E02D31/00—Protective arrangements for foundations or foundation structures; Ground foundation measures for protecting the soil or the subsoil water, e.g. preventing or counteracting oil pollution
- E02D31/10—Protective arrangements for foundations or foundation structures; Ground foundation measures for protecting the soil or the subsoil water, e.g. preventing or counteracting oil pollution against soil pressure or hydraulic pressure
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/62—Insulation or other protection; Elements or use of specified material therefor
- E04B1/92—Protection against other undesired influences or dangers
- E04B1/98—Protection against other undesired influences or dangers against vibrations or shocks; against mechanical destruction, e.g. by air-raids
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
- E04C5/00—Reinforcing elements, e.g. for concrete; Auxiliary elements therefor
- E04C5/07—Reinforcing elements of material other than metal, e.g. of glass, of plastics, or not exclusively made of metal
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G23/00—Working measures on existing buildings
- E04G23/02—Repairing, e.g. filling cracks; Restoring; Altering; Enlarging
- E04G23/0218—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements
- E04G23/0229—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements of foundations or foundation walls
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G23/00—Working measures on existing buildings
- E04G23/02—Repairing, e.g. filling cracks; Restoring; Altering; Enlarging
- E04G23/0218—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements
- E04G2023/0251—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements by using fiber reinforced plastic elements
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G23/00—Working measures on existing buildings
- E04G23/02—Repairing, e.g. filling cracks; Restoring; Altering; Enlarging
- E04G23/0218—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements
- E04G2023/0251—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements by using fiber reinforced plastic elements
- E04G2023/0262—Devices specifically adapted for anchoring the fiber reinforced plastic elements, e.g. to avoid peeling off
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to a system and method for reinforcing structural elements.
- the present disclosure relates to a system and method for structural member reinforcement including an anchor system for anchoring a reinforcement material to a concrete, masonry, or timber wall or other structural member, such as a column, beam, floor, or ceiling.
- walls and other structural elements are known to be generally capable of supporting residential and light commercial structures. Over time, however, such walls and structural elements can crack, tilt, bow, or otherwise deform due to inherent weaknesses attributable to particular structural characteristics thereof.
- walls constructed of concrete blocks have excellent compressive strength to support structures placed upon them.
- these walls are inherently weak with respect to lateral loads and are particularly susceptible to cracking from water pressure, as the mortar joints at which these walls are connected are weak in tension and tend to separate relatively easily when subjected to tensile forces.
- Deformation such as cracking, tilting, and bowing
- Deformation can become progressively greater and eventually facilitate collapse of an entire structural element with resultant damage to the structure supported thereon.
- several methods are known for treating such deformation (e.g., it is known to adhere a carbon fiber material to a structural element, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,692,595; 6,746,741; and 6,846,537)
- the present disclosure provides a reinforcement system for a structural element, such as a wall, column, beam, floor, or ceiling.
- the reinforcement system includes a concrete, masonry, or timber structural member, including a pair of holes formed therein.
- a fiber reinforcement strip is adhered to the structural member between the pair of holes.
- a bracket includes a pair of legs being secured within the pair of holes and a bridge portion that overlaps the fiber reinforcement strip.
- the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip can be wrapped or rolled successively around the bridge portion, such that it is rolled upon itself and/or adhered to an intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip.
- the U-shaped bracket can also include a widened bridge portion in order to increase the surface area for adhering the U-shaped bracket to the fiber reinforcement strip and the structural member.
- the bridge portion can include an arcuate edge to permit the fiber reinforcement strip to be smoothly wrapped around the bridge portion.
- an opposing tapered edge extending along an opposing side relative to the arcuate edge can be use to permit the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip to be smoothly adhered to the intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip.
- the arcuate edge can extend circumferentially about the bridge portion to form a cylindrical cross-section to permit the fiber reinforcement strip to be rolled about the bridge portion, thereby capturing the first end in a rolled fashion.
- FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary wall for use with a reinforcement system and method according to the principles of the present disclosure
- FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and 2E illustrate exemplary steps for installing a reinforcement system and for a reinforcement method according to the principles of the present disclosure
- FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 3E illustrate exemplary brackets used for anchoring the fiber reinforcement material to the wall structure
- FIG. 4 illustrates a bracket having a widened bridge portion for anchoring a fiber reinforcement strip to a wall structure according to a further aspect of the present disclosure.
- Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.
- first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.
- Spatially relative terms such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
- reinforcement system 10 can be utilized with a structural member or structure 12 that can include a block wall, brick wall, a poured concrete wall, a timber wall, a concrete pillar, beam, ceiling, floor, or other concrete structure.
- Reinforcement system 10 can be installed as fiber reinforcement strips 14 that can be adhered to the structural member 12 .
- FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary installation locations 16 for reinforcement system 10 relative to wall structure 12 . It should be understood that the installation locations 16 can vary depending upon the direction in which reinforcement is required. Therefore, the fiber reinforcement strips 14 can extend vertically (as shown) or alternatively horizontally or diagonally as desired. In some embodiments, the reinforcement can be wrapped around the pillar or other structure.
- a pair of holes 20 are formed in the structural member 12 .
- the pair of holes 20 can be formed at a base of a wall, top of the wall, or at another location on a structural member 12 .
- the fiber reinforcement strip 14 is adhered to the structural member 12 between the pair of holes 20 by an adhesive 22 .
- the fiber reinforcement strip includes a first end 14 A, a second end 14 B, and an intermediate portion 14 C disposed between the first and second ends 14 A, 14 B.
- Adhesive is injected into the pair of holes 20 via a caulking gun 26 ( FIG. 2A ) or other device.
- a bracket 24 is provided including a bridge portion 24 A and a pair of end legs 24 B disposed at opposite ends of the bridge portion 24 A.
- the pair of end legs 24 B of the bracket 24 are inserted into the pair of holes 20 .
- the first end 14 A of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 can then be folded around the bridge portion 24 A of the bracket 24 and can be adhered to the intermediate portion 14 C of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 .
- the first end 14 A of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 can alternatively be rolled about bridge portion 24 A so as to capture first end 14 A upon itself.
- bridge portion 24 A can define alternative cross-sectional profiles (e.g. flat, arcuate, tapers, cylindrical, or other shape) to aid in the assembly and/or installation of fiber reinforcement strip 14 .
- the second end 14 B of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 can be anchored to the structural member 12 in a similar way or can alternatively be mounted to other structures such as a sill plate by a bracket or other techniques.
- the fiber reinforcement strips 14 can include a number of longitudinal fiber bundles and a plurality of transverse fiber bundles that can be woven together or otherwise layered to form a flexible reinforcement strip.
- the fibers can include carbon fibers or other fibers such as Kevlar, nylon, or other synthetic or natural fibers that exhibit strong tensile strength.
- the brackets 24 can be formed from a number of longitudinal fiber bundles and a plurality of transverse fiber bundles that can be woven together or otherwise layered to form a bracket.
- the fibers can include carbon fibers or other fibers such as Kevlar, nylon or other synthetic or natural fibers that exhibit strong tensile strength.
- the reinforcement strip can be coated with an epoxy or adhesive and allowed to cure in the U-shape configuration having a bridge portion 24 A and a pair of legs 24 B, as disclosed in the commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 7,823,354.
- the brackets 24 ′ can be made from metal or other materials that can be formed in the U-shape configuration as disclosed, as shown in FIG. 3B .
- bracket 24 ′ can be made by casting, forging, injection molding, or other methods known to produce robust structural members.
- brackets 24 , 24 ′, and 24 ′′ can be flat, cylindrical, or can define other predetermined shapes.
- brackets 24 , 24 ′, and 24 ′′ can define a generally flat cross-sectional profile in bridge portion 24 A, 24 A′, and 24 A′′ and/or in legs 24 B, 24 B′, and 24 B′′.
- brackets 24 , 24 ′, 24 ′′ can define a cylindrical cross-sectional profile in bridge portion 24 A, 24 A′, and 24 ′′ and/or in legs 24 B, 24 B′, and 24 B′′.
- the brackets 124 can be made from a plate 126 defining a bridge portion 124 A and a pair of molly fasteners or other anchors 128 inserted through a pair of apertures 130 in the plate 126 and defining a pair of legs 124 B.
- the plate 124 A can be made from steel, other metals or other materials, such as plastic or other fiber reinforced material. If molly fasteners are used, the molly fasteners can be inserted into the holes 20 in the structural member 12 and mechanically expanded to secure the fasteners within the holes 20 .
- Molly fasteners generally include a sleeve that receives a screw which when screwed into the sleeve causes the sleeve to expand outward and spread to trap the expanded sleeve within the hole 20 .
- the anchors can be inserted into the holes 20 and secured therein with an adhesive.
- the brackets 24 / 124 are secured to the lowest course of blocks which are typically partially covered by a concrete floor that secures the blocks from being pulled inward.
- the bracket 124 ′ can define a bridge portion 124 A′ and a pair of legs 124 B′.
- the pair of legs 124 B′ can be integrally formed with bridge portion 124 A′ (as similarly configured in FIGS. 3A-3C ) and/or include molly fasteners or other anchors 128 (see FIG. 3D ) inserted through a pair of apertures 130 ′ in bridge portion 124 A′.
- the bridge portion plate 124 A′ can comprise a cross-sectional shape having an arcuate edge 132 ′. In some embodiments, bridge portion plate 124 A′ can further comprise an opposing tapered edge 134 ′.
- Arcuate edge 132 ′ can extend along the edge of bridge portion plate 124 A′ such that first end 14 A of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 can then be folded about arcuate edge 132 ′ thereby extending around the bridge portion 124 A′ of the bracket 124 ′.
- the first end 14 A of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 can be rolled upon itself about bridge portion plate 124 A′ (particularly, if arcuate edge 132 ′ extends about bridge portion plate 124 A′ to define a cylinder.
- the first end 14 A of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 can be adhered to the intermediate portion 14 C of the fiber reinforcement strip 14 by lying along tapered edge 134 ′.
- first end 14 A of fiber reinforcement strip 14 can smoothly extend about arcuate edge 132 ′ and then smoothly transition along tapered edge 134 ′ to a nested adhered arrangement with intermediate portion 14 C.
- tapered edge 134 ′ permits first end 14 A of fiber reinforcement strip 14 to smoothly transition from bridge portion 124 A′ to contact with intermediate portion 14 C without a substantial gap there between. This permits a more seamless connecting interface between first end 14 A and intermediate portion 14 C, thereby maximizing the contact surface area there between.
- brackets 124 ′ can comprise any number of particular cross-sectional shapes providing an arcuate edge and/or a tapered transition of fiber reinforcement strip 14 .
- bracket 124 ′ can comprise an arcuate edge 132 ′ that immediately transitions into tapered edge 134 ′.
- additional and/or alternative transitions between arcuate edge 132 ′ and tapered edge 134 ′ are anticipated, such as an intermediate plane or other feature.
- the bracket 124 ′ can be made from steel, other metals, and/or other materials, such as plastics or fiber reinforced material, or a combination thereof. If molly fasteners are used, the molly fasteners can be inserted into the holes 20 in the structural member 12 and mechanically expanded to secure the fasteners within the holes 20 . If other anchors 128 ′ are used, the anchors can be inserted into the holes 20 and secured therein with an adhesive. For reinforcing a block wall, it is preferred that the brackets 24 , 24 ′, 24 ′′, 124 , 124 ′ are secured to the lowest course of blocks which are typically partially covered by a concrete floor that secures the blocks from being pulled inward.
- the brackets 24 ′′ can be provided with a widened bridge portion 24 A′′.
- “widened bridge portion” it is meant that the bridge portion 24 A′′ has a width that is wider than a width of the legs 24 B′′.
- the widened bridge portion 24 A′′ can be formed in various ways including being formed integrally with the pair of legs 24 B′′ or can alternatively be formed separately from and then adhered to a bracket 24 .
- the widened bridge portion 24 A′′ can have various shapes, including circular, oval, rectangular, square or other desired shapes.
- the brackets 24 ′′ can be formed from a number of longitudinal fiber bundles and a plurality of transverse fiber bundles that can be woven together or otherwise layered to form a flexible reinforcement strip.
- the fibers can include carbon fibers or other fibers such as Kevlar, nylon or other synthetic or natural fibers that exhibit strong tensile strength.
- the reinforcement strip can be coated with an epoxy or adhesive and allowed to cure in the U-shape configuration 24 ′′.
- the brackets 24 ′′ can be made from metal or other materials that can be formed in the U-shape configuration as disclosed.
- the brackets 24 , 24 ′, 24 ′′, 124 , 124 ′ can also be mounted at an intermediate location along a fiber reinforcement strip 14 to secure the fiber reinforcement strip 14 to a structural member.
- a U-shaped bracket 24 ′′ having a widened bridge portion 24 A′′ is shown with the legs 24 B′′ adhered in a pair of holes 20 and with the widened bridge portion 24 A′′ overlapping the fiber reinforcement strip 14 .
- the pair of holes 20 that are formed in the structural member 12 can be formed by drilling, cutting or other techniques. Mesh screens or other containment devices can be inserted into the pair of holes 20 in order to contain the adhesive that is injected therein while the adhesive cures.
- a reinforcement system according to the principles of the present disclosure can have a variety of components which each can have a variety of configurations and can be made of a variety of materials.
- the installation steps for a reinforcement system according to the principles of the present disclosure and reinforcement methods according to the principles of the present disclosure can vary.
- a reinforcement system and method according to the principles of the present disclosure can be used in a variety of applications. As such, it should be understood that the present disclosure is exemplary in nature.
Abstract
A reinforcement system includes a structural member such as a concrete wall including a pair of holes formed therein. A fiber reinforcement strip is adhered to the structural member between the pair of holes. A U-shaped bracket includes a pair of legs being secured in the pair of holes and a bridge portion that overlaps the fiber reinforcement strip, wherein the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip is wrapped or rolled successively around the bridge portion, such that it is rolled upon itself and/or adhered to an intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/795,328, filed on Jul. 9, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/588,166, filed on Dec. 31, 2014. The entire disclosure of the above applications is incorporated herein by reference.
- The present disclosure relates to a system and method for reinforcing structural elements. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a system and method for structural member reinforcement including an anchor system for anchoring a reinforcement material to a concrete, masonry, or timber wall or other structural member, such as a column, beam, floor, or ceiling.
- The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.
- A variety of walls and other structural elements are known to be generally capable of supporting residential and light commercial structures. Over time, however, such walls and structural elements can crack, tilt, bow, or otherwise deform due to inherent weaknesses attributable to particular structural characteristics thereof.
- For example, walls constructed of concrete blocks have excellent compressive strength to support structures placed upon them. However, these walls are inherently weak with respect to lateral loads and are particularly susceptible to cracking from water pressure, as the mortar joints at which these walls are connected are weak in tension and tend to separate relatively easily when subjected to tensile forces.
- Deformation, such as cracking, tilting, and bowing, if left untreated, can become progressively greater and eventually facilitate collapse of an entire structural element with resultant damage to the structure supported thereon. While several methods are known for treating such deformation (e.g., it is known to adhere a carbon fiber material to a structural element, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,692,595; 6,746,741; and 6,846,537), it would be desirable for a relatively simple and cost effective system and method for anchoring a fiber reinforcement material to a wall structure in order to treat, prevent, or otherwise inhibit deformation of the structural element.
- This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.
- The present disclosure provides a reinforcement system for a structural element, such as a wall, column, beam, floor, or ceiling. The reinforcement system includes a concrete, masonry, or timber structural member, including a pair of holes formed therein. A fiber reinforcement strip is adhered to the structural member between the pair of holes. A bracket includes a pair of legs being secured within the pair of holes and a bridge portion that overlaps the fiber reinforcement strip. The first end of the fiber reinforcement strip can be wrapped or rolled successively around the bridge portion, such that it is rolled upon itself and/or adhered to an intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip.
- According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the U-shaped bracket can also include a widened bridge portion in order to increase the surface area for adhering the U-shaped bracket to the fiber reinforcement strip and the structural member.
- According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, the bridge portion can include an arcuate edge to permit the fiber reinforcement strip to be smoothly wrapped around the bridge portion. In some embodiments, an opposing tapered edge extending along an opposing side relative to the arcuate edge can be use to permit the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip to be smoothly adhered to the intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip. In some embodiments, the arcuate edge can extend circumferentially about the bridge portion to form a cylindrical cross-section to permit the fiber reinforcement strip to be rolled about the bridge portion, thereby capturing the first end in a rolled fashion.
- Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
- The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary wall for use with a reinforcement system and method according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D and 2E illustrate exemplary steps for installing a reinforcement system and for a reinforcement method according to the principles of the present disclosure; -
FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 3E illustrate exemplary brackets used for anchoring the fiber reinforcement material to the wall structure; and -
FIG. 4 illustrates a bracket having a widened bridge portion for anchoring a fiber reinforcement strip to a wall structure according to a further aspect of the present disclosure. - Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.
- Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail.
- The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
- When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
- Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.
- Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 reinforcement system 10 can be utilized with a structural member orstructure 12 that can include a block wall, brick wall, a poured concrete wall, a timber wall, a concrete pillar, beam, ceiling, floor, or other concrete structure. Reinforcement system 10 can be installed asfiber reinforcement strips 14 that can be adhered to thestructural member 12.FIG. 1 illustratesexemplary installation locations 16 for reinforcement system 10 relative towall structure 12. It should be understood that theinstallation locations 16 can vary depending upon the direction in which reinforcement is required. Therefore, the fiber reinforcement strips 14 can extend vertically (as shown) or alternatively horizontally or diagonally as desired. In some embodiments, the reinforcement can be wrapped around the pillar or other structure. - With particular reference to
FIGS. 2A-2E , exemplary steps for installing reinforcement system 10 and for a reinforcement method according to the present disclosure are illustrated. Referring toFIG. 2A , a pair ofholes 20 are formed in thestructural member 12. The pair ofholes 20 can be formed at a base of a wall, top of the wall, or at another location on astructural member 12. Thefiber reinforcement strip 14 is adhered to thestructural member 12 between the pair ofholes 20 by an adhesive 22. The fiber reinforcement strip includes afirst end 14A, asecond end 14B, and anintermediate portion 14C disposed between the first and second ends 14A, 14B. Adhesive is injected into the pair ofholes 20 via a caulking gun 26 (FIG. 2A ) or other device. As shown inFIG. 2B , abracket 24 is provided including abridge portion 24A and a pair ofend legs 24B disposed at opposite ends of thebridge portion 24A. As shown inFIG. 2C , the pair ofend legs 24B of thebracket 24 are inserted into the pair ofholes 20. As shown inFIG. 2D , thefirst end 14A of thefiber reinforcement strip 14 can then be folded around thebridge portion 24A of thebracket 24 and can be adhered to theintermediate portion 14C of thefiber reinforcement strip 14. As shown inFIG. 2E , thefirst end 14A of thefiber reinforcement strip 14 can alternatively be rolled aboutbridge portion 24A so as to capturefirst end 14A upon itself. As will be discussed herein,bridge portion 24A can define alternative cross-sectional profiles (e.g. flat, arcuate, tapers, cylindrical, or other shape) to aid in the assembly and/or installation offiber reinforcement strip 14. Thesecond end 14B of thefiber reinforcement strip 14 can be anchored to thestructural member 12 in a similar way or can alternatively be mounted to other structures such as a sill plate by a bracket or other techniques. - The fiber reinforcement strips 14 can include a number of longitudinal fiber bundles and a plurality of transverse fiber bundles that can be woven together or otherwise layered to form a flexible reinforcement strip. The fibers can include carbon fibers or other fibers such as Kevlar, nylon, or other synthetic or natural fibers that exhibit strong tensile strength.
- As shown in
FIG. 3A , thebrackets 24 can be formed from a number of longitudinal fiber bundles and a plurality of transverse fiber bundles that can be woven together or otherwise layered to form a bracket. The fibers can include carbon fibers or other fibers such as Kevlar, nylon or other synthetic or natural fibers that exhibit strong tensile strength. The reinforcement strip can be coated with an epoxy or adhesive and allowed to cure in the U-shape configuration having abridge portion 24A and a pair oflegs 24B, as disclosed in the commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 7,823,354. Alternatively, thebrackets 24′ can be made from metal or other materials that can be formed in the U-shape configuration as disclosed, as shown inFIG. 3B . Moreover, it should be understood thatbracket 24′ can be made by casting, forging, injection molding, or other methods known to produce robust structural members. - As illustrated particularly in
FIGS. 3A-3D , it is shown thatbrackets brackets bridge portion legs brackets bridge portion legs - As shown in
FIG. 3D , thebrackets 124 can be made from aplate 126 defining abridge portion 124A and a pair of molly fasteners orother anchors 128 inserted through a pair ofapertures 130 in theplate 126 and defining a pair oflegs 124B. Theplate 124A can be made from steel, other metals or other materials, such as plastic or other fiber reinforced material. If molly fasteners are used, the molly fasteners can be inserted into theholes 20 in thestructural member 12 and mechanically expanded to secure the fasteners within theholes 20. Molly fasteners generally include a sleeve that receives a screw which when screwed into the sleeve causes the sleeve to expand outward and spread to trap the expanded sleeve within thehole 20. Ifother anchors 128 are used, the anchors can be inserted into theholes 20 and secured therein with an adhesive. For reinforcing a block wall, it is preferred that thebrackets 24/124 are secured to the lowest course of blocks which are typically partially covered by a concrete floor that secures the blocks from being pulled inward. - As shown in
FIG. 3E , thebracket 124′ can define abridge portion 124A′ and a pair oflegs 124B′. The pair oflegs 124B′ can be integrally formed withbridge portion 124A′ (as similarly configured inFIGS. 3A-3C ) and/or include molly fasteners or other anchors 128 (seeFIG. 3D ) inserted through a pair ofapertures 130′ inbridge portion 124A′. Thebridge portion plate 124A′ can comprise a cross-sectional shape having anarcuate edge 132′. In some embodiments,bridge portion plate 124A′ can further comprise an opposing tapered edge 134′.Arcuate edge 132′ can extend along the edge ofbridge portion plate 124A′ such thatfirst end 14A of thefiber reinforcement strip 14 can then be folded aboutarcuate edge 132′ thereby extending around thebridge portion 124A′ of thebracket 124′. As described herein, thefirst end 14A of thefiber reinforcement strip 14 can be rolled upon itself aboutbridge portion plate 124A′ (particularly, ifarcuate edge 132′ extends aboutbridge portion plate 124A′ to define a cylinder. In some embodiments, thefirst end 14A of thefiber reinforcement strip 14 can be adhered to theintermediate portion 14C of thefiber reinforcement strip 14 by lying along tapered edge 134′. In this way,first end 14A offiber reinforcement strip 14 can smoothly extend aboutarcuate edge 132′ and then smoothly transition along tapered edge 134′ to a nested adhered arrangement withintermediate portion 14C. Moreover, it should be appreciated that tapered edge 134′ permitsfirst end 14A offiber reinforcement strip 14 to smoothly transition frombridge portion 124A′ to contact withintermediate portion 14C without a substantial gap there between. This permits a more seamless connecting interface betweenfirst end 14A andintermediate portion 14C, thereby maximizing the contact surface area there between. - It should be appreciated that
brackets 124′ can comprise any number of particular cross-sectional shapes providing an arcuate edge and/or a tapered transition offiber reinforcement strip 14. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG. 3E ,bracket 124′ can comprise anarcuate edge 132′ that immediately transitions into tapered edge 134′. However, it should be understood that additional and/or alternative transitions betweenarcuate edge 132′ and tapered edge 134′ are anticipated, such as an intermediate plane or other feature. - The
bracket 124′ can be made from steel, other metals, and/or other materials, such as plastics or fiber reinforced material, or a combination thereof. If molly fasteners are used, the molly fasteners can be inserted into theholes 20 in thestructural member 12 and mechanically expanded to secure the fasteners within theholes 20. Ifother anchors 128′ are used, the anchors can be inserted into theholes 20 and secured therein with an adhesive. For reinforcing a block wall, it is preferred that thebrackets - With reference to
FIG. 3C , thebrackets 24″ can be provided with a widenedbridge portion 24A″. By “widened bridge portion” it is meant that thebridge portion 24A″ has a width that is wider than a width of thelegs 24B″. The widenedbridge portion 24A″ can be formed in various ways including being formed integrally with the pair oflegs 24B″ or can alternatively be formed separately from and then adhered to abracket 24. The widenedbridge portion 24A″ can have various shapes, including circular, oval, rectangular, square or other desired shapes. Thebrackets 24″ can be formed from a number of longitudinal fiber bundles and a plurality of transverse fiber bundles that can be woven together or otherwise layered to form a flexible reinforcement strip. The fibers can include carbon fibers or other fibers such as Kevlar, nylon or other synthetic or natural fibers that exhibit strong tensile strength. The reinforcement strip can be coated with an epoxy or adhesive and allowed to cure in theU-shape configuration 24″. Alternatively, thebrackets 24″ can be made from metal or other materials that can be formed in the U-shape configuration as disclosed. - The
brackets fiber reinforcement strip 14 to secure thefiber reinforcement strip 14 to a structural member. In particular, as shown inFIG. 4 , aU-shaped bracket 24″ having a widenedbridge portion 24A″ is shown with thelegs 24B″ adhered in a pair ofholes 20 and with the widenedbridge portion 24A″ overlapping thefiber reinforcement strip 14. - The pair of
holes 20 that are formed in thestructural member 12 can be formed by drilling, cutting or other techniques. Mesh screens or other containment devices can be inserted into the pair ofholes 20 in order to contain the adhesive that is injected therein while the adhesive cures. - The present disclosure can vary in many ways. For example, a reinforcement system according to the principles of the present disclosure can have a variety of components which each can have a variety of configurations and can be made of a variety of materials. Furthermore, the installation steps for a reinforcement system according to the principles of the present disclosure and reinforcement methods according to the principles of the present disclosure can vary. Additionally, a reinforcement system and method according to the principles of the present disclosure can be used in a variety of applications. As such, it should be understood that the present disclosure is exemplary in nature.
- The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.
Claims (28)
1. A method of reinforcing a structure, comprising the steps of:
forming a pair of holes in the structure;
adhering a fiber reinforcement strip to the structure between the pair of holes, the fiber reinforcement strip having a first end, an second end and an intermediate portion disposed between the first and second ends;
providing a bracket having a bridge portion and a pair of legs extending from opposite ends of the bridge portion, the bridge portion having an arcuate edge;
securing the pair of legs into the pair of holes with the bridge portion overlapping the fiber reinforcement strip; and
folding the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip around the arcuate edge of the bridge portion of the bracket and adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip to the bridge portion.
2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip comprises wrapping the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip about the bridge portion of the bracket.
3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the bridge portion comprises a tapered edge extending along an opposing side of the bridge portion relative to the arcuate edge.
4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein the adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip comprises adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip to the intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip.
5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip comprises adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip to the intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip.
6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the fiber reinforcement strip is made from carbon fibers.
7. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the bridge portion is made of metal.
8. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the bracket includes a plate defining the bridge portion and having a pair of apertures and further includes a pair of fasteners inserted through the apertures for defining the pair of legs.
9. The method according to claim 8 wherein the pair of fasteners include a pair of molly fasteners that are mechanically expanded to secure the fasteners in the holes.
10. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the bridge portion and the pair of legs of the bracket are integrally formed as a unitary member.
11. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the bridge portion is forged.
12. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said pair of legs are secured in the holes by an adhesive that is injected into the holes.
13. A structure reinforcement system comprising:
a structure including a pair of holes formed therein;
a fiber reinforcement strip adhered to the structure between the pair of holes, the fiber reinforcement strip having a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion disposed between the first and second ends; and
a bracket having a bridge portion disposed between a pair of legs, the bridge portion having an arcuate edge, the pair of legs being secured within the pair of holes and the bridge portion overlapping the fiber reinforcement strip,
wherein the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip is wrapped around the arcuate edge of the bridge portion adhering the fiber reinforcement strip to the bridge portion.
14. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip is wrapped about the bridge portion of the bracket.
15. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 14 , wherein the bridge portion is cylindrical in cross-section.
16. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein the bridge portion comprises a tapered edge extending along an opposing side of the bridge portion relative to the arcuate edge.
17. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 16 , wherein the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip is wrapped around the arcuate edge of the bridge portion thereby adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip to the intermediate portion of the fiber reinforcement strip.
18. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein the fiber reinforcement strip is made from carbon fibers.
19. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein the bridge portion is made of metal.
20. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein the bracket includes a plate defining the bridge portion and having a pair of apertures and further includes a pair of fasteners inserted through the apertures for defining the pair of legs.
21. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 20 wherein the pair of fasteners include a pair of molly fasteners that are mechanically expanded to secure the fasteners in the holes.
22. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein the bridge portion and the pair of legs of the bracket are integrally formed as a unitary member.
23. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein the bridge portion is forged.
24. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 13 , wherein said pair of legs are secured in the holes by an adhesive that is injected into the holes.
25. A method of reinforcing a structure, comprising the steps of:
forming a pair of holes in the structure;
adhering a fiber reinforcement strip to the structure between the pair of holes, the fiber reinforcement strip having a first end, an second end and an intermediate portion disposed between the first and second ends;
providing a bracket having a bridge portion and a pair of legs extending from opposite ends of the bridge portion;
securing the pair of legs into the pair of holes with the bridge portion overlapping the fiber reinforcement strip; and
folding the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip around an edge of the bridge portion of the bracket and adhering the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip to the bridge portion.
26. The method according to claim 25 , wherein the bracket includes a plate defining the bridge portion and having a pair of apertures and further includes a pair of fasteners inserted through the apertures for defining the pair of legs.
27. A structure reinforcement system comprising:
a structure including a pair of holes formed therein;
a fiber reinforcement strip adhered to the structure between the pair of holes, the fiber reinforcement strip having a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion disposed between the first and second ends; and
a bracket having a bridge portion disposed between a pair of legs, the pair of legs being secured within the pair of holes and the bridge portion overlapping the fiber reinforcement strip,
wherein the first end of the fiber reinforcement strip is wrapped around the an edge of the bridge portion adhering the fiber reinforcement strip to the bridge portion.
28. The structure reinforcement system according to claim 27 , wherein the bracket includes a plate defining the bridge portion and having a pair of apertures and further includes a pair of fasteners inserted through the apertures for defining the pair of legs.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/052,419 US20160186453A1 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2016-02-24 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
US15/152,110 US9790697B2 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2016-05-11 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US14/588,166 US9290956B1 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2014-12-31 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
US14/795,328 US9290957B1 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2015-07-09 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
US15/052,419 US20160186453A1 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2016-02-24 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
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US14/795,328 Continuation-In-Part US9290957B1 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2015-07-09 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
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US15/152,110 Continuation-In-Part US9790697B2 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2016-05-11 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
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US20160186453A1 true US20160186453A1 (en) | 2016-06-30 |
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US15/052,419 Abandoned US20160186453A1 (en) | 2014-12-31 | 2016-02-24 | Structure reinforcement system and method |
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20160258173A1 (en) * | 2014-12-31 | 2016-09-08 | Donald E. Wheatley | Structure reinforcement system and method |
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JP2008143001A (en) * | 2006-12-08 | 2008-06-26 | East Japan Railway Co | Method for reinforcing structure and fixing implement |
US20160258173A1 (en) * | 2014-12-31 | 2016-09-08 | Donald E. Wheatley | Structure reinforcement system and method |
-
2016
- 2016-02-24 US US15/052,419 patent/US20160186453A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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JP2008143001A (en) * | 2006-12-08 | 2008-06-26 | East Japan Railway Co | Method for reinforcing structure and fixing implement |
US20160258173A1 (en) * | 2014-12-31 | 2016-09-08 | Donald E. Wheatley | Structure reinforcement system and method |
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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Machine Translation of JP 2008143001 A prepared by EPO on 6 October 2016 (30 pages). * |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20160258173A1 (en) * | 2014-12-31 | 2016-09-08 | Donald E. Wheatley | Structure reinforcement system and method |
US9790697B2 (en) * | 2014-12-31 | 2017-10-17 | Fortress Stabilization Systems | Structure reinforcement system and method |
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Owner name: FORTRESS STABILIZATION SYSTEMS, MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:WHEATLEY, DONALD E.;REEL/FRAME:039097/0666 Effective date: 20160707 |
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