Stephen Pryor conducted a project analyzing the structural performance of the KnewPod residential slab and beam system. He found through finite element modeling and analysis of standards that the system did not perform adequately for Class M soils and did not comply with Australian building standards. He recommended further research and development was needed, including increasing beam depths and analyzing the system for Class A soils.

1. Stephen John Pryor
Bachelor of Civil Engineering
KnewPod Systems Project
PROJECT PLANNING
→ Client Brief
→ Purpose of Project
→ Project Aims
→ Objectives
→ Project Outcomes
→ Project Methodology
RESIDENTIAL SLAB & BEAM RESEARCH
α Standards Australia
α AS 2870 Residential Slabs & Beams
α AS 3600 Concrete Structures
α AS 1289 Soil Testing
α Soil Survey Laboratory
α Walsh and Mitchell Methods
α Newcastle Test Site
GOVERNING PARAMETERS
τ KnewPod System Beam Grillage & Structural
Components
τ Walsh Mound Theory
τ Heave Pressures & Foundation Soil
Displacement
τ Seasonal Moisture Variations
A
S
M
H1
H2
E
Soil Classification Soil Capacity
SoilDisplacement(mm)
Soil Pressure (kPa/m)
A
S
M
H1
H2
E
LOWHIGH
SYSTEM MODELLING
ɛ Finite Element Modelling (FEM)
ɛ Strand7
ɛ Centre Heave
ɛ Edge Heave
RESULTS OF ANALYSIS
σ The System Underperformed in Relation to Australian
Standards
σ Shear Force, Bending Moment & Displacement Failure
σ Not Sure if Soil Shears into Void
PROJECT OUTCOMES
β KnewPod System Not Complying with BCA for Class M
Soil
β Further R&D Required
RECOMMENDATION
Δ Increase internal beam depths
Δ Analyse current system for Class A
0 mm
100 mm+
20-40mm
Concrete Slab and Beams
Polystyrene KnewPod Void Former
RAFT SLAB DESIGN FOR VOID FORMER APPLICATION ON REACTIVE
SITES – A GEOTECHNICAL ANALYSIS