//Background

-Load-bearing issues in multi-storey parking lots

With the proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs), there are growing concerns among experts that the increased weight of these vehicles might lead to the collapse of multi-story parking garages in the UK. As reported by The Telegraph, due to the aging infrastructure of many parking facilities in the country, engineers are suggesting the need to enhance the weight-bearing capacity of these structures and improve overall garage maintenance.

//Design concept

Power Pillar is a charging station integrated with a structural support system, updating not only the infrastructure of parking facilities but also preventing overloading of floor slabs, thereby reducing the risk of collapse and subsequent carbon emissions and repair costs.

The top cross-shaped support structure ensures stability after installation, while the device, being mounted under the beam, shortens the span between beams and disperses the load. The material used is G550 galvanized aluminum-zinc light steel, known for its rust resistance, Lightweight, high structural strength, achieving high load-bearing capacity with minimal weight.

Internally, the pillar is equipped with a fiber grating that can detect tilting or deformation of the pillar and the building, facilitating timely maintenance.

//Anticipate

1.Provide support to prevent collapse

The installation of Power Pillar can support the stress of multi-story parking lots, preventing collapse.

2.Offer charging functionality

Power Pillar serve not only as supporting columns but also as devices providing sufficient charging stations for electric vehicles.

3.Modular and fast installation

The advantages of modular and fast installation help reduce the time and cost of setup.

4.Save on renovation expenses

Installing this device can avoid additional costs associated with renovating multi-story parking lots, eliminating substantial expenses and extensive projects.

SDGs 9

The installation of the Power Pillar not only increases the deployment of clean energy but also upgrades the parking facility to an electric vehicle charging station. Moreover, it helps avoid the carbon emissions associated with the dismantling and reconstruction required after a collapse.

SDGs 11

Power Pillar is installed in multi-level parking garages, and its robust structural support capability helps prevent the risk of floor collapse, providing car owners with a suitable and safe environment and service. Therefore, it aligns with SDG 11 objectives.

//Background

Load-bearing issues in multi-storey parking lots .

With the proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs), there are growing concerns among experts that the increased weight of these vehicles might lead to the collapse of multi-story parking garages in the UK. As reported by The Telegraph, due to the aging infrastructure of many parking facilities in the country, engineers are suggesting the need to enhance the weight-bearing capacity of these structures and improve overall garage maintenance.

//Problem Research

According to the parking lot collapse investigation report, the four main problems.

1.Electric vehicle weight

After comparing the publicly available vehicle weight data from manufacturers, on average, electric vehicles tend to be heavier than traditional gasoline vehicles. The primary reason for this is the substantial weight added by the presence of batteries. This can result in challenges for parking facilities that were originally designed based on the weight of traditional gasoline vehicles, potentially exceeding their load capacity.

2.Number of parking lots

During the pandemic, significant shifts in work patterns occurred. In New York City parking facilities, there was a 224% increase in the number of vehicles before and after the pandemic. This surge in vehicle volume may result in parking facilities exceeding their weight load capacity.

3.Limatic factors

Cars absorb de-icing salt spread during winter, which corrodes structural steel and accelerates corrosion, leading to parking lot collapses.

4.Structural Engineer Explains

Parking structure inspector Patrick Conlon said, "If there's an issue with the load-bearing walls or columns on the second floor, everything supported by it will collapse."

//Design concept

Power Pillar is a charging station integrated with a structural support system, updating not only the infrastructure of parking facilities but also preventing overloading of floor slabs, thereby reducing the risk of collapse and subsequent carbon emissions and repair costs.

The top cross-shaped support structure ensures stability after installation, while the device, being mounted under the beam, shortens the span between beams and disperses the load. The material used is G550 galvanized aluminum-zinc light steel, known for its rust resistance, Lightweight, high structural strength, achieving high load-bearing capacity with minimal weight.

Internally, the pillar is equipped with a fiber grating that can detect tilting or deformation of the pillar and the building, facilitating timely maintenance.

//Design Features

Installation combined with architectural structure

1. Floating column

Transferring force to the lower-level pillars and reinforcing their strength beforehand to prevent the collapse of the parking structure.

2.Create new column

Strengthening fragile floor slabs by adding new columns.

3.Flexible height-adjustable

The minimum clearance in public building underground parking lots typically ranges from 2.1m to 2.4m. Therefore, the device, with its modular base, can adjust its height dimensions within the range of 2.035m to 2.475m, making it suitable for the majority of parking lots.

Fiber warning

Through the use of optical fiber gratings, it is possible to detect any material stress-related damage or tilting issues in the Power Pillar, as well as assess the possibility of overloading in parking garage floors that may lead to collapse. The data collected will be analyzed by AI using decision tree logic for identification and learning, ensuring increasingly accurate detection over time.

//Fiber optic applications

1.The charging cable employs light for two main advantages

The first advantage is data indicating whether the vehicle's battery is fully charged is transmitted via optical fibers to the signal transmitter, notifying the vehicle owner when the battery is fully charged.

The second advantage is the ability to prevent the possibility of tripping in dimly lit parking areas.

2.Fiber grating determines tilt

Fiber optics adhered to the column. When tilting occurs, certain characteristics of light transmission in the fiber optic, such as wavelength, attenuation, and propagation time change.

Through these values, it is possible to detect the deformation of the Power pillar and the inclination of the building, allowing for rapid temporary maintenance.

//Equipment installation process

Step1 Begin by positioning and installing the base of Power Pillar.

Step2 After measuring the height of the parking structure floors, connect the beam and column body to the base. Arrange the wiring along the ceiling.

Step3 Once Power Pillar is installed, mount the charging cover on the column and connect it to the power source.

Step 4 After completing the installation on the first level, for subsequent levels, use ground-penetrating radar to verify the positioning of the lower Power Pillar and repeat the first step accordingly.

//Material application

G550 hot-dip aluminum-zinc

G550 hot-dip aluminum-zinc coating provides superior corrosion resistance and high-temperature resistance compared to electroplated aluminum-zinc. This material helps prevent thermal stress damage when used in charging stations. With its high strength and lightweight characteristics, G550 is well-suited as the primary steel material for the Power Pillar, ensuring durability and efficiency in various charging environments.

Paint

1. Nippon Paint Hydrogel Water-based Metallic Primer

2. Hydrogel water-based high-gloss enamel paint Black Magic NN6500-1

Nippon Paint's Water-based Metal Primer Low VOC is an eco-friendly primer that prevents rust, suitable for both indoor and outdoor metal surfaces. When used in conjunction with water-based magnetic paint, it enhances adhesion to metal surfaces, improving rust resistance. Nippon Paint's Water-based High Gloss Magnetic Paint Low VOC is a quick-drying, time-saving, and mold-resistant solution for metal surfaces. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor metal materials.

//Market scale

Charging Station Demand

The global demand for residential and public charging is continuously growing, directly influencing the expansion of electric vehicle charging stations and infrastructure. Therefore, with a total of four charging guns in this device, it not only provides support for the parking lot floors but also accommodates the expanding demand for charging stations.

Expansion of public charging piles

Charging piles are only for home use. As the penetration rate of electric vehicles increases, the demand for public charging piles will expand. Therefore, the environmental positioning of this device is not intended for public spaces, aligning with the current demand for public charging stations.

//Business Model

Power Pillar collaborates with parking meter manufacturers for installations in public parking lots or underground facilities. Before installation, a structural engineer assesses the parking structure to ensure suitability. Partnerships include construction companies and charging station manufacturers. The primary revenue source is from fee-based charging services, with profit-sharing agreements in place with various partners.

//Anticipate

1.Provide support to prevent collapse

The installation of Power Pillar can support the stress of multi-story parking lots, preventing collapse.

2.Offer charging functionality

Power Pillar serve not only as supporting columns but also as devices providing sufficient charging stations for electric vehicles.

3.Modular and fast installation

The advantages of modular and fast installation help reduce the time and cost of setup.

4.Save on renovation expenses

Installing this device can avoid additional costs associated with renovating multi-story parking lots, eliminating substantial expenses and extensive projects.

SDGs 9

The installation of the Power Pillar not only increases the deployment of clean energy but also upgrades the parking facility to an electric vehicle charging station. Moreover, it helps avoid the carbon emissions associated with the dismantling and reconstruction required after a collapse.

SDGs 11

Power Pillar is installed in multi-level parking garages, and its robust structural support capability helps prevent the risk of floor collapse, providing car owners with a suitable and safe.

Universal design concept - Size and Space for Approach and Use

The height of the charging gun on the Power Pillar is designed with consideration for wheelchair users, allowing them easy access to a lower charging gun.