US 11,859,386 B2 · Cable-supported structural assembly with flexible reinforced concrete structural element

Abstract

A structural assembly utilizing a reinforced concrete support element with a flexibly-braided reinforcement sleeve and a cable system for building structures. The reinforced concrete BMASS element has an approximately cylindrical shape and includes a substantially solid concrete core. An outer reinforcement sleeve with a flexible multi-axially braided configuration is embedded on the perimeter, and an inner reinforcement sleeve is embedded within the outer sleeve. A cable tension system connected between the ends of the BMASS element transmits tensile force from the cable to the BMASS element. The structural assembly can be configured as a beam or a column. In a beam configuration, the tensioned cable can also provide beam curvature and greater strength. A multi-cable embodiment includes a second cable, providing additional strength and greater ability to control curvature. One or more of the braces may include an adjustable arm. The tension may be adjusted manually, or remotely.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A cable-supported structural assembly for constructing structures, comprising:

a reinforced concrete BMASS element that has an approximately cylindrical shape having a first end and a second end, including
a substantially solid concrete core consisting essentially of concrete;
an outer multi-axially braided reinforcement sleeve embedded in the concrete on the perimeter of the core, the outer reinforcement sleeve having a flexibly braided configuration;
and
an inner reinforcement sleeve embedded in the concrete situated concentrically within the outer reinforcement sleeve;
wherein the outer and inner reinforcement sleeves provide reinforcement for the BMASS element;
and
a cable tension system connected between a first end and a second end of the BMASS element for tensioning the BMASS element, including
a cable having a first end connected proximate to the first end of the BMASS element, and a second end connected proximate to the second end of the BMASS element;
and
a brace connected to the BMASS element between the two ends, the brace connected to the cable to transmit tension from the cable to the BMASS element.

8 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Cable-supported structural assembly with flexible reinforced concrete structural element

Life of this patent

Cable-supported structural assembly with flexible reinforced concrete structural element

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20