Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to testing methods for assessing the mechanical properties of brick masonry structures, and particularly to a multiple triplet specimen and a method for determining a shear bond strength.
Description of Related Art
[002] A load-carrying capacity of a brick wall is intricately tied to a shear strength of its masonry, which refers to a mortar joint's ability to withstand shearing forces acting parallel to a joint between mortar and brick units. This property is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity and stability of brick constructions. However, accurately assessing shear bond strength presents challenges due to complex interactions within masonry structures.
[003] Traditional methods for determining shear bond strength typically involve paired shear strength tests and triplet specimens. In paired shear strength tests, two brick units are subjected to forces that induce shear stress along the mortar joint, aiming to measure the resistance of the joint to these forces. While these methods have been valuable in understanding shear bond strength, they come with limitations in replicating real-world masonry conditions. One major challenge lies in accurately simulating pre-compressive stresses that naturally exist within masonry structures due to factors like settlement, loading, and thermal effects. These stresses can significantly influence a behavior of mortar joints under shear forces, impacting the overall load-bearing capacity of brick walls.
[004] Moreover, existing methods do not provide a comprehensive analysis of both bond shear strength and flexural strength simultaneously. Flexural strength, which measures a material's ability to resist bending or deformation under applied loads, is another critical aspect of masonry performance that directly relates to its load-bearing capabilities. Neglecting to assess flexural strength alongside bond shear strength can lead to incomplete evaluations of masonry structures' overall mechanical properties. Therefore, there is a need for improved testing methods that can better replicate real-world masonry conditions, including the effects of pre-compressive stresses, and provide a holistic analysis of both bond shear and flexural strength. These advancements would enhance the accuracy and reliability of assessing the load-carrying capacity and structural performance of brick masonry in various applications.
[005] There is thus a need for a method for finding shear bond strength that can administer the abovementioned limitations in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[006] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a multiple triplet specimen comprising a first set of bricks forming one side of a triplet configuration, a second set of bricks forming an opposite side of the triplet configuration, a center brick positioned centrally between the first set of bricks and the second set of bricks, metal plates placed on the first set of bricks and the second set of bricks to secure the triplet configuration during testing, and counterweights positioned over the first set of bricks and the second set of bricks to simulate real-world loading conditions.
[007] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a method for determining a shear bond strength of a brick masonry using the multiple triplet specimen. The method comprises arranging a first set of bricks and a second set of bricks in a triplet configuration, positioning a center brick centrally between the first set of bricks and the second set of bricks, placing metal plates on top of the first set of bricks and the second set of bricks to secure the triplet configuration during testing, applying counterweights over the first set of bricks and the second set of bricks to simulate real-world loading conditions, conducting a test without applying a compressive stress on the center brick, and calculating a shear bond strength as a maximum shear force exerted on the center brick.
[008] Embodiments of the present invention may provide several advantages. First, embodiments of the present application may provide a method of accurately determining the shear bond strength of brick masonry using a multiple triplet specimen, ensuring reliable and precise test results.
[009] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a cost-effective solution by utilizing standard brick materials and simple testing equipment, reducing overall testing expenses.
[0010] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide a method that allows for easy assembly and disassembly of the triplet specimen, enhancing testing efficiency and convenience.
[0011] These and other advantages will be apparent from the embodiments described herein, demonstrating the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed method for determining shear bond strength in brick masonry.The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible by utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a multiple triplet specimen, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0014] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method for determining a shear bond strength of a brick masonry using the multiple triplet specimen, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0017] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising", "comprises”, and the like (which are synonymous with "including", "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of", “consists essentially of", and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of", "consists of”, the like.
[0018] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a multiple triplet specimen 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The multiple triplet specimen 100 may be used for conducting standardized tests to determine a shear bond strength of a brick masonry. By applying controlled forces the multiple triplet specimen 100 may enable an accurate and a repeatable testing of the brick masonry. In an embodiment of the present invention, the multiple triplet specimen 100 may be capable of accurately simulating real-world loading conditions on brick masonry structures. The arrangement of bricks, along with the placement of counterweights, allows for the application of adjustable loads that mimic practical scenarios, providing valuable insights into the performance of brick masonry under varying pressures.
[0020] In an embodiment of the present invention, the multiple triplet specimen 100 may comprise a first set of bricks 102a-102c (hereinafter referred to as the first set of bricks 102), a second set of bricks 104a-104c (hereinafter referred to as the second set of bricks 104), a center brick 106, metal plates 108a-108d (hereinafter referred to as the metal plates 108), and counterweights 110a-110b (hereinafter referred to as the counterweights 110).
[0021] In an embodiment of the present invention, the first set of bricks 102 may be arranged in a specific pattern to form one side of the triplet configuration. The first set of bricks 102 may be formed using a material that may be, but not limited to, a standard clay-based brick, a concrete brick, or any other suitable material known in the field of masonry construction. The choice of material for the first set of bricks 102 depends on factors such as strength, durability, and compatibility with testing standards. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the first set of bricks 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first set of bricks 102 may be three in numbers. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any numbers for the first set of bricks 102, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0023] In an embodiment of the present invention, the second set of bricks 104 may be arranged in the specific pattern to form an opposite side of the triplet configuration. The second set of bricks 104 may be formed using a material that may be, but not limited to, the same as the first set of bricks 102 or a different material. The second set of bricks 104 may be formed using the material that may be, but not limited to, the standard clay-based brick, the concrete brick, or any other suitable material known in the field of masonry construction. In an embodiment of the present invention, a choice of material for the second set of bricks 104 depends on factors such as compatibility with testing requirements, structural integrity, and cost-effectiveness. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the second set of bricks 104, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0024] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the second set of bricks 104 may be three in numbers. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any numbers for the second set of bricks 104, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0025] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 may be arranged vertically to form the opposing sides of the triplet configuration. This vertical arrangement may ensure that the multiple triplet specimen 100 maintains structural integrity and symmetry that is essential for conducting accurate shear bond strength tests on the brick masonry.
[0026] In another embodiment of the present invention, the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 may be arranged in a parallel configuration, maintaining equal spacing between each brick. This arrangement simplifies the testing process by ensuring uniform distribution of applied forces across the multiple triplet specimen 100. Additionally, the parallel arrangement may enable a straightforward measurement and comparison of the shear bond strength of the brick masonry, facilitating accurate assessment of performance under various loading conditions.
[0027] In another embodiment of the present invention, the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 may be arranged in a staggered or offset manner to enhance the stability and load-bearing capacity of the multiple triplet specimen 100. This arrangement may introduce an interlocking between the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 for increasing an overall resistance to shear forces and improving the accuracy of the test results.
[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, the center brick 106 may be arranged centrally between the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 to ensure uniformity in the triplet configuration. The arrangement of the center brick 106 may be crucial in standardizing a contact area during testing, thereby contributing to accurate measurements of the shear bond strength. In an embodiment of the present invention, the center brick 106 may be formed using a material that may be, but not limited to, the same as the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104. Alternatively, the center brick 106 may be made from the material specifically chosen for its properties related to a contact area standardization and a resistance to applied forces during testing. The selection of material for the center brick 106 may depend on factors such as a strength, a durability, and a compatibility with testing standards. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material for the center brick 106, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, the multiple triplet specimen 100 may enable a test without applying a compressive stress on the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104. Instead, only a shear force may be applied exclusively on the center brick 106 to isolate and evaluate a shear bond strength. This approach allows for a focused examination of the shear bond strength between the adjacent brick sets, offering valuable insights into the masonry system's performance under shear loading conditions without the confounding influence of compressive forces.
[0030] In an embodiment of the present invention, the metal plates 108 may be designed and placed on the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 to secure the triplet configuration during testing. The metal plates 108 may have a specific shape and size to fit securely on top of the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 and prevent any movement or displacement during applied forces.
[0031] In an embodiment of the present invention, the counterweights 110 may be adjustable and positioned over the first set of bricks 102 and the second set of bricks 104 to simulate real-world loading conditions. The counterweights 110 may be calibrated based on expected load requirements for specific masonry applications being tested, allowing for accurate simulations of practical scenarios and providing valuable insights into the performance of brick masonry under varying pressures.
[0032] FIG. 2 depicts a flowchart of a method 200 for determining the shear bond strength of the brick masonry using the multiple triplet specimen 100.
[0033] At step 202, the triplet configuration of the multiple triplet specimen 100 may be formed by arranging the first set of bricks 102a-102c and the second set of bricks 104a-104c.
[0034] At step 204, the center brick 106 may be centrally positioned between the first set of bricks 102a-102c and the second set of bricks 104a-104c.
[0035] At step 206, the metal plates 108a-108d may be placed on the top of the the first set of bricks 102a-102c and the second set of bricks 104a-104c to secure the triplet configuration during testing.
[0036] At step 208, the counterweights 110a-110b may be applied over the first set of bricks 102a-102c and the second set of bricks 104a-104c to simulate real-world loading conditions.
[0037] At step 210, the test is conducted without applying the compressive stress on the center brick 106 of the multiple triplet specimen 100.
[0038] At step 212, the shear bond strength is calculated as a maximum shear force exerted on the center brick 106. The maximum shear force may then be identified as a point at which failure or deformation of the multiple triplet specimen 100, such as cracking or displacement of the bricks, begins to occur, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0040] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
I/We Claim:
1. A multiple triplet specimen (100), characterized in that the multiple triplet specimen (100) comprising:
a first set of bricks (102a-102c) forming one side of a triplet configuration;
a second set of bricks (104a-104c) forming an opposite side of the triplet configuration;
a center brick (106) positioned centrally between the first set of bricks (102a-102c) and a second set of bricks (104a-104c);
metal plates (108a-108d) placed on the first set of bricks (102a-102c) and a second set of bricks (104a-104c) to secure the triplet configuration during testing; and
counterweights (110a-110b) positioned over the first set of bricks (102a-102c) and the second set of bricks (104a-104c) to simulate real-world loading conditions.
2. The multiple triplet specimen (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the counterweights (110a-110b) are adjustable to vary an applied load on the first set of bricks (102a-102c) and the second set of bricks (104a-104c).
3. The multiple triplet specimen (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the center brick (106) is having a predetermined thickness to standardize a contact area with an applied force during testing.
4. The multiple triplet specimen (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the metal plates (108a-108d) and the counterweights (110a-110b) are removable for ease of assembly and disassembly of the triplet configuration.
5. The multiple triplet specimen (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the counterweights (110a-110b) are calibrated based on expected load requirements for specific masonry application being tested.
6. The multiple triplet specimen (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of bricks (102a-102c) are three in number.
7. The multiple triplet specimen (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second set of bricks (104a-104c) are three in number.
8. A method (200) for determining a shear bond strength of a brick masonry using a multiple triplet specimen (100), characterized in that the method (200) comprising:
arranging a first set of bricks (102a-102c) and a second set of bricks (104a-104c) in a triplet configuration;
positioning a center brick (106) centrally between the first set of bricks (102a-102c) and the second set of bricks (104a-104c);
placing metal plates (108a-108d) on top of the the first set of bricks (102a-102c) and the second set of bricks (104a-104c) to secure the triplet configuration during testing;
applying counterweights (110a-110b) over the first set of bricks (102a-102c) and the second set of bricks (104a-104c) to simulate real-world loading conditions; and
conducting a test without applying a compressive stress on the center brick (106); and
calculating a shear bond strength as a maximum shear force exerted on the center brick (106).

Date: May 22, 2024
Place: Noida

Dr. Keerti Gupta
Agent for the Applicant
(IN/PA-1529)