System and Method for Concrete Slab Connection

Abstract

Systems and methods of transferring loads between adjacent cast-in-place slabs, such as concrete slabs, and for accurately positioning dowels between adjacent sections of slabs are provided. A generally planar plate-type dowel is used which may be positioned within a cutaway in a preexisting slab of concrete. The dowel is shaped to generally conform to the shape of the cutaway, which is made by a saw blade. Once the dowel is positioned within the preexisting slab, a new slab is poured adjacent the preexisting slab. Rubber seals are included on the edges of the dowels to provide spacing or a gap between the dowel and the preexisting slab to allow for lateral independent movement of the adjacent slabs, and to prevent concrete from the newly poured second slab from entering into the gap. A saw unit for making a generally planar cut horizontally into an edge of a hardened concrete slab is also provided.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 150,403, which claims priority pursuant to 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 578,512, filed Jun. 10, 2004, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present inventions relate generally to systems and methods for pavement reinforcement. More particularly, the present inventions are concerned with systems and methods of transferring loads between adjacent cast-in-place slabs, such as concrete slabs, and for accurately positioning dowels between adjacent sections of slabs.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In the construction of concrete floors or surfaces (i.e. sidewalks, driveways, roads, etc.), it has long been the practice to make the surface from a series of individual blocks or slabs. Adjacent slabs meet each other at joints which are typically spaced so that each slab has enough strength to o...

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