HOLLOW BAR FOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL AND REINFORCEMENT OF CONCRETE ELEMENTS AND STRUCTURES

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for supporting a concrete substrate and providing temperature control are disclosed. The system includes a supporting member and a temperature control device. The supporting member includes a concrete substrate and at least a first bar disposed within the concrete substrate. The first bar defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end to the second end. The first bar has a first cross-sectional area as measured in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis that is greater than or equal to a cross-sectional area requirement of a solid bar disposed within the concrete substrate under Building Code Requirements (e.g., ACI 318). The temperature control device is coupled to the first bar and is configured to control the temperature of the concrete substrate.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/445,134, filed Feb. 13, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to reinforcement for concrete structures. Concrete structures (e.g., buildings, bridges, airport pavements, etc.) and their components are typically reinforced with steel bars. Other materials, such as fiber reinforced polymers, are also used to make bars that are used to reinforce concrete. Concrete is strong in compression and weak in tension. Due to their inherent larger tensile strength, steel or other bars are required to be placed inside concrete members to carry tensile forces or stresses. Sometimes reinforcing bars are placed in compression regions of concrete as well. As a result, solid bars are strategically placed in concrete elements to increase the strength and deformation capacity and to carry the applied loads, e.g., due to snow, ice, car traffic, airplanes, earthquakes, etc.

Existing systems fail to provide for adequate temperature control within the concrete structure. Furthermore, existing heating systems are either installed on top of the concrete surface or risk breakage. Therefore, a need exists for improved concrete structures.

Generally, all reinforced concrete structural members must be designed to meet the strength and deflection requirements of ACI 318 (American Concrete Institute: Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete—ACI 318-22, herein incorporate by reference in its entirety). An example selection of applicable standards is provided herein. However, the ACI 318-22 standards provide additional requirements and guidelines for reinforced concrete structures.

Concrete Building Standards—Example Excerpts From 2018 International Building Code (IBC)

1604.3.2 Reinforced Concrete-The deflection of reinforced concrete structural members shall not exceed that permitted by ACI 318.

1616.2.1 Concrete Frame Structures-Frame structures constructed primarily of reinforced concrete, either case-in-place or precast, or a combination of these, shall conform to the requirements of Section 4.10 of ACI 318. Where ACI 318 requires that non-restressed reinforcing or prestressing steel pass through the region bounded by the longitudinal column reinforcement, that reinforcing or prestressing steel shall have a minimum nominal tensile strength equal to two-thirds of the required one-way vertical strength of the connection of the floor or roof system to the column in each direction of beam or slab reinforcement passing through the column. Exception—Where concrete slabs with continuous reinforcement having an area no less than 0.0015 times the concrete area in each of two orthogonal directions are present and are either monolithic with or equivalently bonded to beams, girders or columns, the longitudinal reinforcing or prestressing steel passing through the column reinforcement shall have a nominal tensile strength of one-third of the required one-way vertical strength of the connection of the floor or roof system to the column in each direction of beam or slab reinforcement passing through the column.

1616.3.1 Concrete wall structures—Precast bearing wall structured constructed solely of reinforced or prestressed concrete, or combinations of these shall conform to the requirements of Sections 16.2.4 and 16.2.5 of ACI 318.

Chapter 19—Concrete

1901.2 Plain and Reinforced Concrete—Structural concrete shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements of this chapter and ACI 318 as amended in Section 1905 of this code. Except for the provisions of Sections 1904 and 1907, the design and construction of slabs on grade shall not be governed by this chapter unless they transmit vertical loads or lateral forces from other parts of the structure to the soil.

1901.04 Composite structural steel and concrete structures—Systems of structural steel acting compositely with reinforced concrete shall be designed in accordance with Section 2206 of this code.

The above described and cited building codes and standards are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

SUMMARY

One implementation of the present disclosure is a supporting member including: a concrete substrate; and at least a first bar disposed within the concrete substrate, the first bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first end defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end to the second end, wherein the first bar has a first cross-sectional area as measured in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the first cross-sectional area being greater than or equal to a cross-sectional area requirement of a solid bar disposed within the concrete substrate under: (i) Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22), (ii) 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 16, Structural Design; or (iii) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9th ed. 2020).

In some implementations, the supporting member further includes a second bar disposed within the concrete substrate, the second bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end of the second bar along the longitudinal axis of the second bar, wherein the first end of the second bar defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end of the second bar to the second end of the second bar.

In some implementations, the second end of the first bar is coupled to the first end of the second bar. In some implementations, the channel of the first bar is a first channel and the channel of the second bar is a second channel, wherein the first channel is in fluid communication with the second channel. In some implementations, a pump is in fluid communication with the channel.

In some implementations, the first bar and the second bar are coupled in parallel with each other. In some implementations, the first bar and the second bar are coupled in series with each other.

In some implementations, a cross-sectional shape of the first bar is circular as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In some implementations, a cross-sectional shape of the channel is circular as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

In some implementations, the first bar includes steel. In some implementations, the steel includes stainless steel.

In some implementations, the first bar further has an outer surface extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the outer surface includes a corrosion-inhibiting coating. In some implementations, the first bar further has an inner surface extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the inner surface includes a corrosion-inhibiting coating. In some implementations, the first bar further has an outer surface extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the outer surface includes at least one of a plurality of ribs, a rough surface, a textured surface, or surface deformations defining a bonding surface.

In some implementations, a diameter of the first cross-sectional area is ⅜ inches or greater. In some implementations, a diameter the first cross-sectional area is 2.26 inches or smaller.

Another implementation of the present disclosure is a system. The system includes a supporting member and a temperature control device. The supporting member includes a concrete substrate and a first bar disposed within the concrete substrate, the first bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end along the longitudinal axis. The first end defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end to the second end. A second bar is disposed within the concrete substrate, the second bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end of the second bar along the longitudinal axis of the second bar. The first end of the second bar defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end of the second bar to the second end of the second bar. The first bar has a first cross-sectional area as measured in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The second bar has a second cross-sectional area as measured in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area are greater than or equal to a cross-sectional area requirement of a reference solid bar. The temperature control device is coupled to the first bar and the second bar.

In some implementations, the cross-sectional area requirement of the reference solid bar dispose within the concrete substrate meets the requirements under: (i) Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22); (ii) 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 16, Structural Design; or (iii) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9th ed. 2020).

In some implementations, the temperature control device includes a pump configured to cause a fluid to flow through the channel of the first bar and the channel of the second bar.

In some implementations, the temperature control device further includes a heater configured to increase the temperature of the fluid entering the concrete substrate. In some implementations, the temperature control device is a heat source configured to increase the temperature of the supporting member. In some implementations, the heat source is a conductive medium in thermal communication with the first bar and the second bar. In some implementations, the heat source is a heating coil in thermal communication with the first bar and the second bar. In some implementations, the temperature control device is an electrical resistive heat source. In some implementations, the temperature control device provides heat to the channel of the first bar and the channel of the second bar.

In some implementations, the temperature control device lowers the temperature of the first bar, the second bar, and the concrete substrate. In some implementations, the fluid is a cooling fluid and the temperature control device further includes a refrigeration device configured to lower the temperature of the cooling fluid entering the concrete substrate. In some implementations, the temperature control device includes a condenser and a compressor, wherein the temperature control device forms a portion of a refrigeration cycle through which the fluid flows. In some implementations, the concrete substrate transfers heat to the fluid, lowering the temperature of the concrete substrate.

In some implementations, the temperature control device is configured to selectively decrease or increase the temperature of the concrete substrate.

In some implementations, the system further includes a mechanical coupler coupled to the second end of the first bar and to the first end of the second bar. In some implementations, the mechanical coupler defines a coupler channel, the coupler channel being in fluid communication with the channel of the first bar and the channel of the second bar.

In some implementations, the second end of the first bar is coupled to the first end of the second bar. In some implementations, the channel of the first bar is a first channel and the channel of the second bar is a second channel, wherein the first channel is in fluid communication with the second channel. In some implementations, the first bar and the second bar are coupled in parallel with each other. In some implementations, the first bar and the second bar are coupled in series with each other.

In some implementations, a cross-sectional shape of the first bar is circular as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In some implementations, a cross-sectional shape of the channel of the first bar is circular as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In some implementations, a diameter of the first cross-sectional area is ⅜ inches or greater. In some implementations, a diameter of the first cross-sectional area is 2.26 inches or smaller.

In some implementations, the first bar includes steel. In some implementations, the steel includes stainless steel. In some implementations, the first bar includes a corrosion resistant material.

In some implementations, the first bar further has an outer surface extending between the first end of the first bar and the second end of the first bar, wherein the outer surface includes a corrosion-inhibiting coating. In some implementations, the first bar further has an inner surface extending between the first end of the first bar and the second end of the first bar, wherein the inner surface includes a corrosion-inhibiting coating.

In some implementations, the first bar further has an outer surface extending between the first end of the first bar and the second end of the first bar, wherein the outer surface includes a plurality of ribs defining a bonding surface.

In some implementations, the concrete substrate at least partially includes a slab-on-grade, a floor slab of a building, roof of a parking structure, a bridge deck, a structural wall, an airport pavement, or an airport runway.

According to another implementation, a hollow rebar member is disclosed, the hollow rebar member including: an outer surface configured to be embedded within a concrete substrate and a channel defining a longitudinal axis. The hollow rebar member defines a cross-sectional area as measured in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

The cross-sectional area is equal to or greater than a cross-sectional area requirement of a solid bar disposed within the concrete substrate under: (i) Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22); (ii) 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 16, Structural Design; or (iii) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9th ed. 2020).

Additional advantages will be set forth in part in the description which follows or may be learned by practice. The advantages will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a hollow rebar member, according to one implementation. FIG. 1B shows a cross-section of the hollow rebar member of FIG. 1A along line 1B-1B. FIG. 1C shows a hollow rebar member, according to an alternative implementation. FIG. ID shows a hollow rebar member, according to an alternative implementation.

FIG. 2A shows an example image of a plurality of hollow rebar members, according to one implementation. FIG. 2B shows a comparison image having a plurality of traditional rebar members, according to one implementation.

FIG. 3A shows a diagram with the equation for the cross-sectional area of the hollow bar member. FIG. 3B shows a diagram with the corresponding equation for the cross-sectional area of a solid bar.

FIG. 4A shows a section view of a reinforced concrete slab having the plurality of hollow rebar members, according to one implementation. FIG. 4B shows a diagram of one implementation of the reinforced concrete slab of FIG. 4A from a top view.

FIG. SA shows a diagram of a reinforced concrete slab, according to one implementation. FIG. 5B shows a thermal system utilizing the reinforced concrete slab of FIG. SA. FIG. 5C shows a cooling system utilizing the reinforced concrete slab of FIG. 5A.

Various objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The systems, methods, and devices of this disclosure generally include hollow reinforcement bars to be used for reinforcing concrete. As used herein, “rebar”, “bars”, “bar members”, or “rebar members” (or similar variations using “solid” or “hollow” modifiers) refer to a bar (or bars) of steel configured to be disposed within a concrete substrate, the geometry of which varies as described herein. The function and performance of the hollow rebar inside concrete is very similar to conventional solid bar, except that it includes a large hole or opening around the center of its cross section. In reinforced concrete design calculations, the cross sectional area of the bar is used for calculating maximum stress and permitted loads. As long as the area of the traditional solid rebar and the disclosed hollow rebar are similar, they should function the same way for a given use-case or loading scenario. The disclosed hollow steel bars will be treated same as the currently used solid steel bars in design of concrete members and structures. During the design process, all requirements of ACI 318 and IBC will be met.

The hollow rebar of this disclosure combined two distinct features and functions at the same time in the same system: (1) the hollow rebar provides strength to the concrete member (as in traditional rebar applications), and (2) the hollow rebar enables heat transfer (e.g., heating and/or cooling) between the concrete substrate and the hollow rebar therein. In one implementation, an advantage of the hollow rebar is that it can be used like a heating conduit embedded inside the concrete while maintaining the bond with concrete the same as conventional solid rebar. In another implementation, an advantage of the hollow rebar is that it can be used like a cooling conduit embedded inside the concrete while maintaining the bond with concrete the same as conventional solid rebar. The hollow rebar can be made of any heat conductive material capable of resisting tensile forces or stresses.

In addition to reinforcing concrete like any other solid rebar, the hollow rebar can be used to facilitate heat transfer to and/or from the concrete. In some implementations, an electrical resistive heat source, heating coil, or a similar heating source can be used. In some implementations, a fluid (e.g., a hot fluid) can be circulated inside the bar anytime the concrete and its surface need to be heated. The hollow heating bar can have many applications to reinforce and heat: 1) concrete airport pavements, 2) parking structures especially their roof, when it snows in winter, 3) bridge decks to melt snow and to prevent icing in cold weather, 4) slab-on-grade in large industrial buildings, 5) pavements or walkways in large structures, like shopping malls, 6) heating of any reinforced concrete commercial, hotel, residential, etc. buildings, 7) any concrete member (roof or pavement) or structure subjected to snow or ice, and 8) any other heated concrete structure.

In some implementations, a fluid (e.g., a refrigerant) is circulated inside the hollow bar(s) to remove heat from the concreate substrate. In some implementations, a fluid expels excess heat into a heat sink (e.g., a geothermal source) or a refrigeration system (e.g., via a compressor, condenser, expansion valve, or combination of the same). In some implementations, a separate refrigeration cycle is placed adjacent to the concrete substrate such that fluid flowing through the hollow rebar interacts with, and exchanges heat with, a heat exchanger or other device configured to remove heat from the fluid. The hollow colling bar can have many applications to reinforce and cool: 1) temperature sensitive buildings in hotter climates, 2) bridge decks, parking decks, pavements, walkways, or other structures to prevent excess expansion, 3) large industrial or office buildings, 4) cooling of any reinforced concrete commercial, hotel, residential, etc. buildings, 5) any other cooled concrete structure.

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a hollow rebar member 100. The hollow rebar member 100 is a steel (e.g., stainless steel) rebar member configured to be installed or placed within a concrete substrate (e.g., a concrete wall or slab). The hollow rebar member 100 has a longitudinal axis 101. The hollow rebar member 100 includes a first end 102 and a second end 104 spaced apart from the first end 102 along the longitudinal axis 101. The hollow rebar member 100 includes an inner surface 106 and an outer surface 108 spaced apart from each other to define a thickness of the hollow rebar member 100. FIG. 1B shows a cross-section of the hollow rebar member 100 along line 1B-1B showing the thickness of the hollow rebar member 100.

A first channel 110 is defined by the inner surface 106 extending longitudinally from the first end 102 to the second end 104. A first opening 112 is defined at the first end 102 and a second opening 114 is defined at the second end 104. The first opening 112 and the second opening 114 are each in fluid communication with, and partially define, the first channel 110.

The first channel 110 is configured and dimensioned for a fluid and/or a conduit to run therethrough. As will be further described, a fluid (e.g., a heating/cooling fluid such as a refrigerant) or a resistive heating wire may be disposed within the hollow rebar member 100 in the first channel 110 from the first end 102 to the second end 104. The hollow rebar member 100 of FIG. 1A has an inner diameter matching the diameter of the first channel 110 (e.g., a diameter of 1.5 inches or less). However, in other implementations, the inner diameter of the hollow rebar member has a value dependent on the outer diameter of the hollow rebar member (e.g., based on a cross sectional area requirement. The outer diameter of the hollow rebar member 100 may be, for example, 3/8″ (0.375 inches). However, in other implementations, the outer diameter of the hollow rebar member is in the range of 0.25 to 2.25 inches.

Each of the inner surface 106 and the outer surface 108 may include a corrosion-resistant coating. Additionally, the outer surface 108 may include a plurality of ribs, a rough surface, a textured surface, or surface deformations defining a bonding surface (e.g., as shown in the images of FIGS. 2A and 2B).

FIG. IC shows an alternative implementation of the hollow rebar member of this disclosure. FIG. 1C shows a hollow rebar member 120 having a 90-degree turn. Thus, the channel 122 of the hollow rebar member 120 has a corresponding 90-degree turn. The longitudinal axis 121 of the hollow rebar member 120 also has a corresponding 90-degree turn, following the longitudinal direction of the hollow rebar member 120. In other implementations, the hollow rebar member may have a turn having a different angle (e.g., between 0 and 360 degrees). In some implementations, the hollow rebar member may include a plurality of turns in one or two different planes along the length of the member.

FIG. ID shows another alternative implementation of the hollow rebar member of this disclosure. FIG. ID shows a U-shaped hollow rebar member 130 that is substantially similar to the hollow rebar member of FIG. 1C. The channel 132 and the longitudinal axis 131 of the U-shaped hollow rebar member 130 follow the U-shaped geometry of the U-shaped hollow rebar member 130.

FIG. 2A shows an example image of a plurality of hollow rebar members (e.g., the hollow rebar member 100). FIG. 2B shows a comparison image having a plurality of traditional rebar members. The traditional rebar members of FIG. 2B are solid through the center.

The overall strength of the hollow rebar members of this disclosure is sufficient to meet the requirements of standard building codes and standards. However, meeting those requirements may include a larger outer diameter as compared to a traditional, solid rebar member. The overall strength of the bar is a function of the total cross-sectional area of the bar. Therefore, for a given loading condition and/or strength requirement, the cross-sectional area of the hollow bar should match (or be greater than) the cross-sectional area of the solid bar it has replaced. FIG. 3A shows the equation for the cross-sectional area of the hollow bar member. FIG. 3B shows the corresponding equation for the cross-sectional area of a solid bar. As can be seen from these figures, the outer diameter (OD, or D_O) of the hollow bar must be equal to or greater than that of the solid bar to achieve the same or greater cross-sectional area.

The hollow bar members of this disclosure can be designed, fabricated, and installed to meet the building codes and requirements—similar to the traditional solid bars. While the outer diameter may be greater, their structure and function are nearly the same.

In some implementations, assuming the yield strength or tensile strength of the material is the same in the hollow bar and solid bar, one of both of the first cross-sectional area of a first hollow rebar member (e.g., the hollow rebar member 100) and the second cross-sectional area of a second hollow rebar member (e.g., the hollow rebar member 100) are equal to a cross-sectional area requirement of a solid bar disposed within the concrete substrate to meet the strength and serviceability requirements of the governing code: (i) Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22) [cited as: American Concrete Institute. Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22) and Commentary. ACI 2022.]; (ii) 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 16, Structural Design [cited as: International Code Council. International Building Code. Falls Church, Va. International Code Council, 2018.]; or (iii) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9^th ed. 2020) [cited as: American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, 9th Edition (2020)], each of which is incorporated herein by reference. In other implementations, the cross-sectional area of the hollow bar may be greater than that of a solid bar. In some implementations, if the yield strength or tensile strength of the material is different for the hollow bar and solid bar, then the equivalent cross-sectional area can be determined to provide the same total tensile load resistance, which is equal to material strength times the cross sectional area.

FIG. 4A shows a section view of a reinforced concrete slab 400. The reinforced concrete slab 400 includes a concrete substrate 402 surrounding a plurality of hollow rebar members 404 (e.g., hollow rebar members 100, 120, or 130 of FIGS. 1A-ID). In particular, five hollow rebar members 404 are shown extending out from an end 408 of the concrete substrate 402. In other implementations, the hollow bars may not extend out of the concrete substrate, but some portions or sections of the hollow bars may be completely surrounded by the concrete substrates. The hollow rebar members 404 include a first hollow rebar member 404a and a second hollow rebar member 404b. Each of the plurality of hollow rebar members 404 defines a channel 406 extending from end to end. For example, the first hollow rebar member 404a defines a first channel 406a and the second hollow rebar member 404b defines a second channel 406b.

The reinforced concrete slab 400 may be any one of a variety of concrete structures or components. For example, the reinforced concrete slab may include a slab-on-grade, a floor slab of a building, roof of a parking structure, a bridge deck, or a structural wall. In other implementations, the reinforced concrete slab may include an airport pavement or runway.

FIG. 4B shows a diagram one implementation of the reinforced concrete slab 400 having the plurality of hollow rebar members 404 from a top view. As shown, each of the plurality of hollow rebar members 404 extend from one end 408 to an opposite end 410 of the concrete substrate 402. Each of the first hollow rebar member 404a and the second hollow rebar member 404b have the same shape and size. However, in other implementations, different hollow rebar members may have different lengths, diameters, or shapes within the concrete substrate. The configuration of the reinforced concrete slab 400 could be termed a “parallel” configuration.

FIG. 5A shows a diagram of an alternative implementation of the reinforced concrete slab of FIG. 4A. The reinforced concrete slab 500 of FIG. SA includes one or more hollow rebar members 504 disposed in the concrete substrate 502. The diagram of the reinforced concrete slab 500 may represent (i) a singular hollow rebar member that extends through the substrate and turns back 180 degrees to re-enter and extend through the substrate once again, or (ii) a plurality of hollow rebar members that extend through the substrate and are coupled to each other by a U-shaped coupler on either end. In the case of a coupler, the end of one bar would be coupled to the end of another bar such that their corresponding channels are in fluid communication via a channel of the coupler (e.g., as if the first channel 406a of the first hollow rebar member 404a were in fluid communication with the second channel 406b of the second hollow rebar member 404b). In some implementations, the coupled can be hex nut couplers having an outer surface engageable with a wrench or other tool during installation.

In either case, the net effect is that the one or more hollow rebar members 504 of the reinforced concrete slab 500 defines a single channel running through the one or more hollow rebar members 504. The single channel runs back and forth from end to end of the concrete substrate 502. Thus, a first end 510 of the channel is in fluid communication with a second end 512 of the channel. The first and second ends 510, 512 may be on the same or different sides of the concrete substrate 502. The configuration of the reinforced concrete slab 500 could be termed a “series” configuration.

The reinforced concrete slab 500 of FIG. SA can be used as both a structural member and a temperature control device. For example, the hollow rebar members 504 of the reinforced concrete slab 500 can be used to implement a temperature control device to manage the temperature and/or heat transfer of the reinforced concrete slab 500 and the larger structure made up of one or more reinforced concrete slabs 500. Generally, this disclosure contemplates the ability for the reinforced concrete slab 500 and the hollow rebar members 504 therein to be used for heating and/or cooling the reinforced concrete slab 500. In some implementations, a system external to the reinforced concrete slab is disclosed facilitate the temperature control (e.g., via heat exchange, power input, or a combination of both). In some implementations, a geothermal system is contemplated wherein a fluid flowing through the hollow rebar members 504 interacts with a heat transfer device underground to provide a temperature management system. FIGS. 5B and 5C and their associated descriptions provide examples of heating and cooling, respectively, using the hollow rebar members 504.

FIG. 5B shows a system 520 utilizing a reinforced concrete slab 500 with hollow rebar member(s) 504 defining a singular channel. The system 520 includes inlet conduit 522 coupled to and in fluid communication with the first end 510 of the channel defined by hollow rebar members 504. The system 520 includes outlet conduit 524 coupled to and in fluid communication with the second end 512 of the channel defined by hollow rebar members 504.

The system 520 further includes a pump 530 coupled to and include communication with the inlet conduit 522 such that the pump 530 is in fluid communication with the channel defined by the hollow rebar members 504. In other implementations, the pump may be coupled at a different point in the flow path of the system.

The system 520 further includes a temperature control that is a heat source 540. The heat source 540 is in fluid communication with each of the pump 530, the inlet conduit 522, the outlet conduit 524, and the channel defined by hollow rebar members 504. The heat source 540 may be a heater configured to increase the temperature of a fluid flowing through the flow path of the system 520. In other implementations, the heat source may be a resistive heater, a power source providing energy to a resistive heating wire, a heat pump, a heating coil, or another conductive medium in thermal communication with the plurality of hollow bar members.

In use, the plurality of hollow bar members 504 defining the channel through the concrete substrate 502 of the reinforced concrete slab 500 are used to heat the reinforced concrete slab 500. The heating of the reinforced concrete slab 500 may include heating the surrounding structure or environment.

In some implementations, a heating fluid (e.g., water, thermal oil, or water-glycol solutions) is heated by the heat source 540 and urged along the inlet conduit 522 by the pump 530. The heating fluid enters into the channel defined by the hollow rebar members 504, flowing along each individual hollow rebar member and any connectors therebetween. As the heating fluid flows throughout the channel of the hollow rebar members 504, a heat exchange occurs that provides heat to the concrete substrate 502. Thus, the heating fluid that leaves the concrete substrate 502 along the outlet conduit 524 is at a lower temperature than that entering the concrete substrate 502.

The heating fluid then re-enters the heat source 540 to be heated back to an initial temperature before re-entering the concrete substrate 502. In some implementations, the heating fluid may enter and flow through a different reinforced concrete slab having a plurality of hollow bar members. In some implementations, an array of concrete slabs is arranged to have a single flow path of heating fluid. In some implementations, a plurality of heating sources and pumps are arranged to flow heating fluid through a plurality of flow paths through a plurality of reinforced concrete slabs.

In an alternative implementation of the system of FIG. 5B, a resistive heating wire is fed into and through the channel defined by the plurality of hollow bar members. In this implementation, the heating of the hollow bar members and the concrete substrate is accomplished by the heating of the resistive wire within the channel-rather than via heating fluid. In this implementation, the pump may be removed from the system and the heater may be a power source for the resistive wire.

FIG. 5C shows a system 550 utilizing a reinforced concrete slab 500 with hollow rebar member(s) 504 defining a singular channel. The system 550 includes inlet conduit 552 coupled to and in fluid communication with the first end 510 of the channel defined by hollow rebar members 504. The system 550 includes outlet conduit 554 coupled to and in fluid communication with the second end 512 of the channel defined by hollow rebar members 504.

The system 550 further includes a pump 556 coupled to and include communication with the inlet conduit 552 such that the pump 556 is in fluid communication with the channel defined by the hollow rebar members 504. In other implementations, the pump may be coupled at a different point in the flow path of the system.

The system 550 is configured to lower the temperature of the hollow rebar members 504 and the reinforced concrete slab 500. For example, the system 550 is configured to remove heat from the reinforced concrete slab 500 via the fluid flowing through the hollow rebar members 504. The fluid flowing through the hollow rebar members 504 may be a refrigerant or other heat transfer fluid (e.g., a cooling fluid).

The system 550 includes a refrigeration system 560 through which the fluid flows. Fluid from the hollow rebar members 504 enters the refrigeration system 560 from the outlet conduit 554. The refrigeration system 560 may be a heat exchanger configured to remove heat from the fluid, reducing the temperature of the fluid exiting the refrigeration system 560 compared to the temperature of the fluid entering the refrigeration system 560. In some implementations, the refrigeration system includes a condenser, a compressor, an expansion valve, and other components of a refrigeration cycle. In some implementations, the hollow rebar members in the concrete substrate act as the evaporator of the refrigeration device. In some implementations, the refrigeration system includes a separate refrigeration cycle that includes a heat exchanger configured to interact with the fluid flowing in from the outlet conduit of the hollow rebar members. In some implementations, a compressor of the refrigeration system may replace the pump shown. In some implementations, the refrigeration system is replaced with a geothermal system configured to reduce the temperature of the concrete substrate depending on environmental conditions and climate.

The systems and methods for controlling the temperature of concrete structures described herein provide for a structurally secure and space-efficient solution. Existing temperature control systems may rely on resistive wires or heating ducts installed after the concrete has been laid and set (e.g., on the outer surface of the concrete). Such solutions do not provide the strength provided by the hollow bars of this disclosure, nor the strength of existing steel bars. Such systems may lead to breakage of the wires due to installation errors or expansion/contraction of the concrete structure. Additionally, such systems do not have the capability to carry the external loads applied to the concrete structure (e.g., from cars, aircraft, people, etc.).

Therefore, the presently disclosed system provides an efficient method of heating and/or cooling concrete structures that takes advantage of the existing geometry and structure of a reinforced concrete member. The system has applications in a wide range of environments, including but not limited to, airport runways, sidewalks, or parking lots that may require de-icing or snow removal; and/or buildings, such as apartments or office buildings, that would benefit from the heating and/or cooling efficiencies provided by in-slab temperature control. For example, structures in warm climates may benefit from a cooling system in the concrete members to prevent over expansion or other negative effects of high heat environments.

Configuration of Certain Implementations

The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown in the various implementations are illustrative only. Although only a few implementations have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes, and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative implementations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the implementations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Although the figures show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps and decision steps.

It is to be understood that the methods and systems are not limited to specific synthetic methods, specific components, or to particular compositions. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another implementation includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another implementation. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other additives, components, integers or steps. “Exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey an indication of a preferred or ideal implementation. “Such as” is not used in a restrictive sense, but for explanatory purposes.

Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific implementation or combination of implementations of the disclosed methods.

Claims

1. A system comprising:

a supporting member, comprising: a concrete substrate, a first bar disposed within the concrete substrate, the first bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first end defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end to the second end, and a second bar disposed within the concrete substrate, the second bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end of the second bar along the longitudinal axis of the second bar, wherein the first end of the second bar defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end of the second bar to the second end of the second bar, wherein the first bar has a first cross-sectional area as measured in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the second bar has a second cross-sectional area as measured in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area are greater than or equal to a cross-sectional area requirement of a reference solid bar; and a temperature control device coupled to the first bar and the second bar.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional area requirement of the reference solid bar disposed within the concrete substrate meets the requirements under: (i) Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22); (ii) 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 16, Structural Design; or (iii) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9th ed. 2020).

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the temperature control device comprises a pump configured to cause a fluid to flow through the channel of the first bar and the channel of the second bar.

4. (canceled)

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the temperature control device is a heat source configured to increase the temperature of the supporting member.

6. (canceled)

7. (canceled)

8. (canceled)

9. (canceled)

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the temperature control device lowers the temperature of the first bar, the second bar, and the concrete substrate.

11. The system of claim 3, wherein the fluid is a cooling fluid and the temperature control device further comprises a refrigeration device configured to lower the temperature of the cooling fluid entering the concrete substrate.

12. (canceled)

13. (canceled)

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the temperature control device is configured to selectively decrease or increase the temperature of the concrete substrate.

15. The system of claim 1, further comprising a mechanical coupler coupled to the second end of the first bar and to the first end of the second bar, wherein the mechanical coupler defines a coupler channel, the coupler channel being in fluid communication with the channel of the first bar and the channel of the second bar.

16. (canceled)

17. (canceled)

18. (canceled)

19. The system of claim 1, wherein the first bar and the second bar are coupled in parallel with each other.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the first bar and the second bar are coupled in series with each other.

21. (canceled)

22. The system of claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional shape of the channel of the first bar is circular as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

23. (canceled)

25. (canceled)

26. (canceled)

27. (canceled)

28. The system of claim 1, wherein the first bar further has an outer surface extending between the first end of the first bar and the second end of the first bar, wherein the outer surface includes a plurality of ribs defining a bonding surface.

29. (canceled)

30. (canceled)

31. (canceled)

32. A supporting member, comprising:

a concrete substrate; and

at least a first bar disposed within the concrete substrate, the first bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first end defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end to the second end,

wherein the first bar has a cross-sectional area as measured in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and

wherein the cross-sectional area is equal to or greater than a cross-sectional area requirement of a solid bar disposed within the concrete substrate under: (i) Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22); (ii) 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 16, Structural Design; or (iii) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9th ed. 2020).

33. The supporting member of claim 32, further comprising a second bar disposed within the concrete substrate, the second bar having a longitudinal axis, a first end, and a second end spaced apart from the first end of the second bar along the longitudinal axis of the second bar, wherein the first end of the second bar defines a channel longitudinally extending from the first end of the second bar to the second end of the second bar.

34. The supporting member of claim 33, wherein the second end of the first bar is coupled to the first end of the second bar.

35. The supporting member of claim 33, wherein the channel of the first bar is a first channel and the channel of the second bar is a second channel, wherein the first channel is in fluid communication with the second channel.

36. The supporting member of claim 32, further comprising a pump in fluid communication with the channel.

37. (canceled)

38. (canceled)

39. (canceled)

40. (canceled)

41. (canceled)

42. (canceled)

43. (canceled)

44. The supporting member of claim 32, wherein the first bar further has an inner surface extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the inner surface comprises a corrosion-inhibiting coating.

45. The supporting member of claim 32, wherein the first bar further has an outer surface extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the outer surface includes at least one of a plurality of ribs, a rough surface, a textured surface, or surface deformations defining a bonding surface.

46. (canceled)

47. (canceled)

48. A hollow rebar member, comprising:

an outer surface configured to be embedded within a concrete substrate; and

a channel defining a longitudinal axis,

wherein the hollow rebar member defines a cross-sectional area as measured in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and

wherein the cross-sectional area is equal to or greater than a cross-sectional area requirement of a solid bar disposed within the concrete substrate under: (i) Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete (ACI 318-22); (ii) 2018 International Building Code, Chapter 16, Structural Design; or (iii) American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, LRFD Bridge Design Specifications (9th ed. 2020).