Concrete float

Abstract

The concrete float includes a float body, a means for manipulating the float body over the concrete to be finished, a longitudinally extending finishing surface, a first substantially square edge along a first portion of the finishing surface, and a sloped portion and a second substantially square edge on a second portion of the finishing surface opposite the first substantially square edge of the finishing surface. A method of finishing a concrete surface includes moving the float body rearwardly with the substantially flat finishing surface across the concrete surface, and moving the float body rearwardly with the sloped portion surface on the rear portion of the float body in contact with the concrete surface.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] These inventions relate to concrete floats and float assemblies, and apparatus and methods for using concrete finishing equipment in the form of concrete floats to finish concrete surfaces. They also relate to improved float configurations and methods for using concrete floats more easily and efficiently. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0002] In one example of a concrete float or other device for finishing concrete, a longitudinally extending float body includes a finishing surface and a means for aiding in the control of the device on the upper surface opposite the finishing surface. The control aid means may take any number of configurations currently or previously conventional with these types of devices, including, but not limited to, those described or cited in WO2021 / 158690 (all of which are incorporated herein by reference). As used herein, the control aid means and means for engaging a control element for operating the concrete float include a mounting bracket, a swivel assembly, a handle and a manual control element for controlling the concrete float, components thereof, and devices as described in WO2021 / 158690. The float body includes a substantially right angle or 90° edge extending longitudinally on a first portion of the finishing surface. In one configuration, the first portion of the finishing surface is a distal portion of the device when the device is manipulated or controlled by a user to finish the concrete surface, such as by pushing and pulling with a wand. In one example, the first portion extends longitudinally the entire length of the float body. In a further example, the finishing surface in cross section is substantially planar, or flat, or slightly convex (as viewed at the finishing surface) up to the first portion, in one example, the substantially right-angled or 90° edge. The float body also includes a longitudinally extending ramp surface and a substantially right-angled or 90° edge on a side of the ramp surface opposite the finishing surface. The ramp surface and the substantially right-angled or 90° edge are on a second portion of the finishing surface opposite the first portion, and in an example of the invention, the first and second portions of the finishing surface are on opposite sides of the control aid or manipulation means.

[0003] In another example of a concrete float or other device for finishing concrete, the device is a manually controlled device having a float body with a finishing surface, a first rail having a first longitudinally extending right-angled edge at a first portion of the finishing surface, and a second rail having a second portion at an opposite side of the finishing surface from the first portion and having a sloped portion and a second substantially right-angled edge on the second portion. The first portion further includes a concave wall extending away from the first right-angled edge and forming a convex wall as viewed from the center of the float at the opposite side of the finishing surface. The concave wall can be formed from first and second walls angled relative to one another, the first wall joining the first right-angled edge.

[0004] In a further example of a concrete float or other device for finishing concrete, the device is a manually controlled device having a float body with a longitudinally extending finished surface and first and second transition portions on opposite sides of the longitudinally extending finished surface. The first transition portion includes a longitudinally extending right-angled edge and the second transition portion includes a longitudinally extending beveled portion and a second substantially right-angled edge. In one example, as viewed in a cross-section of the device, the beveled portion may include a portion that extends in an arc away from and out of the plane of the finished surface and has a constant radius of curvature. The substantially right-angled edge may additionally include a substantially flat portion as viewed in the cross-section on the side opposite the finished surface of the beveled portion, the substantially flat portion extending longitudinally with the beveled portion. The second substantially right-angled edge is joined to the ramp and extends away therefrom, for example, in the illustrated configuration, extending from the ramp in a direction away from the finished surface extending outwardly from the arcuate portion of the ramp and upwardly from the ramp. The substantially right-angled edge extends substantially perpendicular to the ramp. In one configuration of the ramp curvature, the ramp may include a radius of curvature of about 30 mm to about 45 mm, and in another example, a radius of curvature of about 38 mm. The ramp may terminate when the ramp reaches an angle of about 30° relative to the horizontal or to the finished surface of the float. The second transition portion may also include a concave wall structure, or a convex portion as viewed from the center of the float on the opposite side of the finished surface, the concave wall structure extending away from the substantially right-angled edge and away from the finished surface. The concave wall structure may be formed from first and second walls angled relative to each other.

[0005] In another example of a concrete float or other device for finishing concrete, the concrete float or other device for finishing concrete includes a finishing surface and a means for helping to control the use of the device on the side of the float opposite the finishing surface. The device includes a first boundary or boundary portion having a sealing edge and a second boundary or boundary portion having an open surface portion and a cutting edge. The first and second boundary or boundary portions are on opposite sides of the finishing surface and extend longitudinally with the finishing surface. In one example, the sealing edge includes first and second mutually perpendicular surfaces extending longitudinally of the device, the first perpendicular surface being substantially parallel to the finishing surface. The second perpendicular surface extends away from the finishing surface. The sealing edge may also be formed by first and second surfaces that form an acute angle of less than 90° with respect to each other, or the second surface extends at an acute angle with respect to the finishing surface and extends longitudinally of the float. The sealing edge helps to seal the concrete surface when the sealing edge is the trailing edge during the movement of the float. Further structures extend from the second perpendicular surface or the second surface away from the finishing surface to form a convex structure as viewed from the center of the device on the opposite side of the finishing surface. The open surface portion includes a substantially continuously arcuate surface (convex as viewed from the finishing surface) or curved inclined portion that curves away from the finishing surface. The open surface may include a portion having a constant or variable radius of curvature (concave as viewed from the center of the device on the opposite side of the finishing surface). The cutting edge may include third and fourth sharp or mutually perpendicular surfaces extending in the longitudinal direction of the device, the third surface may be flat and extend substantially parallel to the adjacent end portions of the arcuate or inclined portions where they meet, and the fourth surface extends away from the third surface and away from the finishing surface. In one configuration, the open surface may terminate at the opposite portion of the finishing surface when the open surface approaches an angle of about 30 degrees from the finishing surface. The open surface brings the cream to the surface and can promote improved capillary transport when the open surface is used as a leading edge, for example, on a float on the back stroke.In one configuration, the third and fourth surfaces extend at an acute angle to one another, and in another configuration, they are perpendicular to one another and extend longitudinally with the finishing surface. The third and fourth surfaces form a cutting edge when used on the leading edge of the float on the rearward stroke.

[0006] In another example of a float, including any of the floats described herein, the float may include an upper surface having a channel or groove that is open to the elements. The channel or groove may be at least partially or completely covered by a cover to reduce the amount of material, such as concrete or debris, that gets into the channel or groove. The cover may be retained in the channel or groove through an interference fit or other secure engagement to keep the cover in place during normal operation. The cover may be installed by sliding the cover longitudinally along the channel or groove, or by pushing the cover into engagement with an upper rim or rail of the channel or groove, e.g., pushing the cover in a direction perpendicular to the float.

[0007] In another example of a float, including any of the floats described herein, the float may include edge rails extending longitudinally of the float at one or both of the leading and trailing edges of the float. One or both of the edge rails may include a rail protector extending around the peripheral surface of the rail. If the rail is partially circular or has a portion, such as a free end, with a curved profile, the rail protector may extend over the partially circular or curved surface. The rail protector helps reduce ingress of material from the edges of the float (including but not limited to reducing debris from damaging the surface of the float).

[0008] In further examples of floats, including any of the floats described herein, the float may include an end cap or end caps. The end caps may be used to close the ends of the float and limit the possibility of materials such as water, concrete, or debris entering the float from the edge or reaching the upper surface of the float. The end caps may be held in place on the lateral ends of the float through an interference fit with the corresponding ends of the float. In one example of an end cap, the end cap may have a surface profile for the surface facing the concrete surface to be finished that is different from the surface profile of the immediately adjacent finishing surface of the float. For example, for a float that is placed on a concrete surface to be finished, the finishing surface of the float will be the surface of the float that at least partially faces the concrete surface and contacts the wet concrete to finish the wet concrete during normal operation of the float. The finishing surface of the float will have a first profile and the adjacent surface of the end cap will have a second profile that is different from the first profile. In one example, the finished surface of the float has a flat portion with a flat portion surface profile, and the immediately adjacent profile of the end cap will be the same as and in the same plane as the flat portion surface profile. In such an example, the flat portion surface profile and the immediately adjacent profile of the end cap will be substantially in the same plane or coplanar with each other. In this same example, and in other examples, the finished surface of the float has an end portion (as seen from the end of the float and which would correspond to the profile of the front or rear edge of the float) on the opposite side of the flat portion with the respective adjacent surfaces of the end cap, and the adjacent surfaces of the end cap have a different surface profile compared to the respective adjacent surfaces of the float finished surface. For example, they are not in the same plane, they are not coplanar. In one example, the adjacent surfaces of the end cap are spaced apart from the corresponding finished surface of the float. In another example, the adjacent surfaces of the end cap extend at respective angles relative to the corresponding adjacent surfaces of the float finished surface. In another example, a portion of the end cap is recessed upwardly from the respective adjacent surfaces of the float finished surface. In such instances, portions of the end caps extend at respective angles relative to adjacent surfaces of the finished surface.

[0009] In another example of a concrete finishing float including any of the floats described herein, the float may include an end cap or end caps for closing the end of the float having at least a portion of a profile in an end elevation for the float adjacent the float finished surface that differs from the profile in an end elevation of the float's finished surface, for example. In one example for evaluating possible differences in profile across at least a portion of the end cap and float finished surface, an assembly of end caps on the end of the float is viewed toward the end of the float assembly in a direction parallel to the concrete surface on which the float will rest and perpendicular to the outward facing edge of the float that forms the finished surface. A point is selected with a point of the finished surface on the edge of the float and a point on the bottom surface of the end cap that is both on or on a projection of a vertical line perpendicular to the concrete surface, including a point on the edge of the float. The float line is formed from a point on the finished surface on the edge of the float that is in contact with the surface, and the end cap line is formed from a point on the bottom surface of the end cap that is on a perpendicular line that is in contact with the end cap point. If the float line and the end cap line are parallel, then those portions of the finished surface profile and the end cap profile are substantially the same. They are not spaced apart and they do not form an angle with respect to each other. If the float line and the end cap line are not parallel, then those portions of the finished surface profile and the end cap profile are different. They can be spaced apart, they can form an angle with respect to each other, or both. In one example, the portion of the float finished surface that is flat and in contact or substantially in contact with the concrete surface when the float is placed on the concrete surface has a float profile at the end of the float that is the same as the profile of the adjacent surface of the end cap on the float. In this example, the tangent to a point along the float surface is substantially parallel to the tangent on a point along the adjacent surface of the end cap on the float.In this example, or in other examples, the portion of the float finishing surface that extends away from the flat float finishing surface has a tangent that is either spaced from or at an angle to the immediately adjacent tangent of the end cap on the end of the float, where the edge profile of the concrete finishing surface of the float is different from the adjacent profile of the end cap on the end of the float. When an end cap is used on the float, an end cap profile that is different from the edge profile of the concrete finishing surface to which the end cap is mounted reduces the likelihood that the end cap will cause marking or produce lines in the concrete as the float is used. For example, when an end cap is mounted on the end of the float and the contour of the concrete finishing surface is substantially the same as the adjacent profile of the end cap, the surface of the end cap may mark the surface of the concrete, e.g., one or more portions of the end cap opposite the flat finishing surface at the end of the float between the front or rear ends of the float. An end cap with an edge surface profile that is at least partially adjacent to a different concrete finishing edge surface profile reduces the likelihood that the end cap will mark the concrete surface.

[0010] A method of using a float or other device for manually finishing concrete, e.g., with a bar or other control device, includes positioning a longitudinally extending float or finishing device such that the device can be moved transversely of a longitudinal axis of the device in a forward and rearward direction. The device has a longitudinally extending finishing surface that extends both longitudinally and transversely of the axis. The device also includes a forward portion of the device (leading the device on the forward stroke), e.g., a sealing surface on the front of the finishing surface, and a rearward portion of the device, e.g., a sloped portion on the rear of the finishing surface. The device is moved forward and rearward with the longitudinally extending finishing surface, and as the device is moved rearward, the finishing surface contacts the surface of the concrete during a portion of the rearward movement. During a portion of the rearward movement of the device, the device is positioned such that at least one of the sloped portion and the cutting edge contacts the surface of the concrete. In one example, the device is pulled back while the angled portion contacts the concrete surface, and in another example, the device is pulled back with the cutting edge contacting the concrete surface, e.g., on a portion of the concrete surface having a high concrete area to be leveled. In one example, the device is pulled back such that the cutting edge moves a portion of the concrete from the high concrete area to another portion of the concrete surface. In a further example, the device is pulled back, pulling a portion of the concrete and depositing the portion of the concrete into a depression or low area of ​​the concrete. In another example of using the device, the device is pushed forward with the angled portion contacting the concrete surface. In a further example of using the device, the device is pulled back such that the cutting edge chips concrete from the concrete surface. In another example of using the device, the device is pulled back such that a substantially flat surface between the angled portion and the cutting edge moves along the concrete surface with the cutting edge contacting the concrete surface.In another example of using the device, the float is pushed forward with the angled portion contacting the concrete surface, for example the float at an angle, followed by a return or rearward stroke, pushing the float forward with the angled portion contacting the concrete surface so that the cutting edge chips away at the concrete within the concrete surface, followed by placing the float flat or at a slight angle on the return or rearward stroke to seal the concrete surface.

[0011] In any of the foregoing examples, the profile of the device in a cross section may have a device that is asymmetrical with respect to a longitudinally extending plane that intersects perpendicularly with a central portion of the device, e.g., that is on a centerline where the manipulating means engages the device. Additionally or alternatively, in any of the foregoing examples, the profile of the device in a cross section may have a device that is asymmetrical with respect to a longitudinally extending plane that intersects perpendicularly with a central portion of the device on a lower half of the device, e.g., the half of the device that includes the finishing surface, and that is symmetrical on an upper half of the device, e.g., the half of the device opposite the finishing surface.

[0012] These and other examples are described more fully below in conjunction with the drawings, a brief description of which follows. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a rear upper left biaxial view of a concrete float and a means for operating the concrete float.

[0014] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a left side elevational view of the concrete float of FIG.

[0015] [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of the position of the float relative to a concrete surface when it is being pushed forward onto the concrete surface.

[0016] [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of the position of the float relative to a concrete surface as it is pulled backwards across the surface.

[0017] [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of the position of the float relative to a concrete surface with a ramp in contact with the concrete surface and a cutting edge as it is pulled backwards over the concrete surface.

[0018] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an isometric cutaway view of a float for use with any of the inventions described herein, the float having rounded ends, a channel cover, an end cap, a rail protector, and a beveled surface on the end of the finished surface of the float, any one or more of which may be included or excluded from the float.

[0019] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a top plan view and detail of the end of the float of FIG. 6 with the end cap removed showing the rounded end of the float.

[0020] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an end view of the float of FIG. 6 showing the float extrusion and end profile, i.e., with the end caps removed, the rail protector removed, and the channel cover removed.

[0021] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-section of the float of FIG. 6 showing any cross-section along the longitudinal length of the float excluding the rounded edges within the edges of the finished surface and the end portions within the areas of the bevels, and without removing any of the channel covers that would otherwise be removed to accommodate means useful for manipulating or controlling the float.

[0022] [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is an end elevational view of the float of FIG. 6 illustrating different portions of the end profile between the float end and the end cap.

[0023] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a detailed rear elevation view taken from the left side of FIG. 10 illustrating an example of a different end profile.

[0024] [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a detail of a bottom plan view of the end of the float of FIG. 6 showing the sloped end surface of the finishing surface.

[0025] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a detail of a longitudinal section taken along the centerline of the float showing the end cap having an underlying rim structure which covers the adjacent structure at the end of the float finishing surface.

[0026] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a detail of a longitudinal section near a right angle edge of the float showing an end cap which has a lower rim structure which does not cover the adjacent structure at the end of the float finishing surface and which begins to separate or space from the adjacent surface of the float. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] The specification, considered in conjunction with the drawings, describes examples of devices and methods incorporating one or more aspects of the invention in a manner that enables one skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The examples provide the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention, but it will be understood that various modifications can be made within the parameters of the invention.

[0028] Examples of floats and methods of using floats are described. Depending on the feature or features incorporated into a given structure or a given method, benefits can be achieved in the structure or method. For example, a float having a sealing edge on a forward or distal portion of the float and an open and cutting surface on a rear, proximal or back portion of the float can be used more efficiently, and in many cases easier, than existing floats using existing methods.

[0029] These and other benefits will become more apparent in light of the description of the examples herein. However, it should be understood that not all of the benefits or features discussed with respect to a particular example must be incorporated into a float, component, or method in order to achieve one or more benefits contemplated by these examples. In addition, it should be understood that features of this example may be incorporated into a float, component, or method to achieve some given benefit, even though the benefit may not be optimal compared to other possible configurations. For example, one or more benefits may not be optimized for a given configuration to achieve cost savings, efficiency, or other uses known to those skilled in the art of determining a particular product configuration or method.

[0030] Examples of float configurations and methods of making and using floats are described herein, and some elements of the configurations have particular advantages when used together. However, while these devices and methods are discussed together at this point, there is no requirement that they be combined and used together, or that one component or method be used with any other component or method or combination. In addition, it should be understood that a given component or method may be combined with other structures or methods not expressly discussed herein and still achieve desirable results.

[0031] As used herein, "substantially" and "approximately" shall mean within a specified parameter or configuration ±10%. However, it is to be understood that terms used in relation to orientation or relative position, such as "front", "rear", "side", "left" and "right", "upper" and "lower", etc., may be used in the detailed description for ease of understanding and reference, and may not be used as exclusive terms with respect to the structures being described and illustrated.

[0032] In one example of an apparatus for finishing concrete (FIG. 1), the float assembly 100 includes a float 200 and a swivel assembly 300. The swivel assembly is one example of a means useful for manipulating or controlling the float. In this example, the swivel assembly 200 includes gears (not shown in FIG. 1) for adjustably positioning the float at a desired angle relative to the concrete surface, similar to those described in WO2021 / 158,690. The swivel assembly includes a handle adapter 302 for receiving and supporting a handle (not shown) and a selector 304 for adjusting the ease with which the handle can be used to position the float at a desired angle. In some examples of the apparatus and methods described herein, the handle adapter 302 extends over a proximal portion of the float 200 (e.g., over a second portion of the float having a ramp and a sharp or square edge or cutting edge, as described more fully below) generally toward the user. In use, the handle will extend over the proximal portion of the float 200, which has a ramp and sharp or square edges or cutting edges, up to the user. The swivel assembly engages an interface component 306 that is substantially the same as or similar to the adapters 500, 500A and other adapters described and illustrated in WO2021 / 158,690. As used herein, "means for manipulating" and "means useful for controlling" a float such as those described herein includes one or more of the interface component 306, the adapters 500, 500A, and other devices for mounting the swivel assembly onto the concrete float (including fasteners such as nuts and bolts, wing bolts, etc., clamps, releasable engagements, and other components for securely mounting the swivel assembly onto the concrete float) described in WO2021 / 158,690, and also includes the swivel assembly for the concrete float, and the handle and handle mount for the concrete float.

[0033] Float 200 (FIGS. 1-5) extends longitudinally as illustrated in FIG. 1 and has a side profile such as that illustrated in FIGS. 2-5. The float profile as illustrated is substantially the same along the entire length of the float, although in other configurations the lateral end portions may differ, such as by varying thickness, forming a sloped surface, or other edge effect, in the last 1-10% of the float. In the illustrated example, the float profile will be described in terms of cross-sectional appearance, with the understanding that the float profile will be the same throughout substantially all or all of the float's entire length.

[0034] The float includes a finished surface 202, which in this example extends from a first boundary or interface 204 to a second boundary or interface 206. The finished surface may be substantially flat, e.g., as flat as the extrusion process allows, and in this example is slightly convex, e.g., with a substantially constant radius of curvature, as viewed from the finished surface. Alternatively, the finished surface can be slightly concave, as viewed from the side of the finished surface, as described in Publication WO2021 / 158,690.

[0035] The first and second interface portions provide a boundary for the finished surface. The first and second interface portions provide a finishing effect to aid in finishing the concrete surface, for example, cutting, opening, and sealing all or a portion of the concrete surface. The first interface portion occupies little, if any, of the float surface parallel to the finished surface 202, and in this example, the finished side 208 occupies only enough of the float surface parallel to the finished surface to form a right angle edge 210. For example, the right angle edge 210 may include one or more millimeters of surface that is parallel to the finished surface that extends from the finished surface to a corner 212 that forms the right angle edge 210. The right angle edge is formed by a vertical or right angle surface 214 that extends upward and away from the finished surface 202 at a 90° angle and forms a right angle for the right angle edge 210. In this example, vertical surface 214 extends upwardly by approximately 0.2 inches (4.8 mm), or, for example, 4-5 mm. Alternatively, surface 214 can be other than precisely perpendicular. For example, surface 214 can extend at an acute angle of less than 90° relative to that portion of finished surface 202 adjacent corner 212, or relative to the horizontal when the float is installed on the concrete surface.

[0036] The right angled edge 210 in this float configuration forms a sealing edge for the float. As the float is pulled back, toward the user, i.e., in a proximal direction, the finished surface 202 can sit flat against the concrete surface, or at a slight positive angle, or lower than the rest of the finished surface at the sealing edge as the float is pulled back. The right angled edge 210 trailing the float forms a sealing edge to seal against the concrete surface as the float is pulled back.

[0037] In the illustrated configuration, the first transition portion also includes a convex wall 216 that extends upwardly from the right angle edge 210 and forms a rail, which will be described more fully below. The convex wall is convex from a central portion of the upper surface 218 of the float opposite the finishing surface 202. In this example, the convex wall is formed from first and second straight walls 220 and 222 joined at a mid-angle joint 224. Conversely, the wall 216 would appear concave from the outside of the float. The first wall 220 extends upwardly and inwardly toward the interior of the float above the upper surface 218 and is substantially straight in the illustrated configuration. The second wall 222 extends upwardly and outwardly relative to the upper surface 218. The first and second walls serve to contain the concrete when the float is inverted, and the first and second walls and first transition portion become the proximal portion of the float and the leading edge toward the user when the user pulls the float toward them to move it over a concrete surface.

[0038] The float second transition portion 206 includes a substantially continuously arcuate surface or ramp 226 (convex as viewed from the finished surface) and a right-angled edge 228. As shown, both the ramp and the right-angled edge extend upwardly and away from the finished surface 202. The ramp can be considered to be an arcuate surface that extends upwardly and away from the finished surface 202 (or out of the plane of the finished surface), starting at a point 230 where the finished surface ends (or is no longer flat) and terminating at the end of the curvature (or where a straight portion 232 begins). In another configuration, the curvature can extend to the right-angled edge 228.

[0039] The right-angled edge 228 may form little, if any, of the bevel surface, but in this example, the right-angled edge includes a straight portion 232 that extends to a corner 234 and forms the right-angled edge 228. The right-angled edge 228 is also formed by a vertical or perpendicular surface 236 that extends upwardly and away from the bevel surface and away from the finished surface 202 at a 90° angle.

[0040] The right angled edge 228 forms a cutting surface on the float for cutting high areas above the concrete surface. The cutting surface in the illustrated configuration is formed at a 90° angle with respect to the ramp surface and is used to cut the concrete when the ramp surface contacts the concrete surface sufficiently to allow the right angled edge 228 to cut into the high areas above the concrete surface. Alternatively, the cutting edge may be formed from other than an exactly 90° or vertical surface (e.g., with an acute angle of less than 90°, surfaces 232 and 236 form an acute angle of less than 90°, or other) so long as the desired cut can be achieved.

[0041] In the illustrated configuration, the finishing surface 202 forms a substantially planar surface that extends axially and proximally and distally (or forward and rearward from the centerline 250). The cutting edge 228 is positioned upwardly (or away from) the plane of the finishing surface 202, or the cutting edge 228 is elevated from the surface of the concrete when the finishing surface is substantially flat on the concrete surface. This provides a cutting surface that is spaced from the concrete surface when the float is flat against the concrete surface and moved over the concrete surface with the cutting edge 228 leading. A user can finish the concrete surface without the cutting edge 228 contacting the concrete surface, but still allow the user to angle the float as desired and position the cutting edge to cut a portion of the concrete surface.

[0042] In the illustrated configuration, the ramp 226 extends from an end 230 where the finished surface terminates to a straight portion 232. The ramp includes an arcuate portion 238 that extends outwardly and upwardly from the finished surface, forming a convex surface as viewed from the side of the finished surface. In one example, the arcuate portion extends over an arc having a radius of curvature of about 30 to about 45 mm, in the illustrated example, about 38 mm. As illustrated, the radius of curvature is substantially constant over the arc, but the radius of curvature may be varied as desired, such as to form a suitable surface for opening the concrete surface as the float is moved over the concrete surface. In this example, the arc of the ramp terminates in a substantially straight surface 232 that extends upwardly and outwardly from the arcuate portion 238 to the straight portion 232.

[0043] The ramps 226 form a release surface portion to release the concrete surface as the float is moved over the concrete surface, and in addition, the ramps form a bearing surface for the float on the concrete surface as it is pulled back to use the right angled edge 228 to cut.

[0044] In the illustrated configuration, the second boundary portion also includes a convex wall 240 extending upwardly from the right-angled edge 228. The convex wall is convex from a central portion of the upper surface 218 of the float opposite the finished surface 202. In this example, the convex wall is formed from first and second straight walls 242 and 244 joined at a mid-angle joint 246. The wall 240 would appear concave from the side of the float outside the upper surface 218. The first wall 242 extends upwardly and inwardly toward the interior of the float above the upper surface 218 and is substantially straight in the illustrated configuration. The second wall 244 extends upwardly and outwardly relative to the upper surface 218. The first and second walls serve to contain the concrete cut from the concrete surface as the right-angled edge 228 is pulled back along the concrete surface.

[0045] Also, in the illustrated configuration, the float is asymmetrical with respect to a vertical plane extending lengthwise, represented through the float by a vertical line 250 (FIG. 2). In this example, the vertical line 250 bisects an engagement structure 252 formed, attached, or otherwise created as part of the upper surface 218 of the float, which receives one or more elements of the means for manipulating the float. As illustrated, the finished surface 202 of the float extends substantially symmetrically on opposite sides of the plane 250, while the first transition portion 204 includes a sealing structure and the second transition portion 206 on the opposite side of the finished surface includes a ramp 226 for opening the concrete surface and a cutting edge 228 for cutting the high portion of the concrete. Thus, the float is asymmetrical with respect to the vertical plane 250. The first and second transition portions are also asymmetrical. The cutting edge 228 is positioned significantly higher than the finished surface 202 and adjacent to an arcuate surface 238, which has a significantly smaller surface area than the finished surface 202. Additionally, in the illustrated configuration, the float can be divided between an upper half and a lower half, or between an upper horizontal portion and a lower horizontal portion, where the lower half or lower horizontal portion are asymmetrical with respect to the vertical plane 250. Furthermore, in the illustrated configuration, the upper half or upper horizontal portion are symmetrical with respect to each other. The lower portion is asymmetrical, while the symmetrical upper portion helps maintain the float as a balanced structure for the user, having the same or similar weight on one side of the vertical plane as on the other side.

[0046] In other examples of an apparatus for finishing concrete, the float assembly 100 can use other float configurations and other swivel assembly configurations. In an alternative float, the float assembly 500 (FIGS. 6-12) can have a float 502 (FIG. 8) that is identical to the float 200, except as described below. Specifically, the float 502 includes end portions 504 and 506, each of which has a beveled surface 508 (FIGS. 8, 10, and 12) created or formed into the end surface. The beveled surfaces help provide a smooth concrete surface under the end portions of the float 502 during operation.

[0047] The float's engagement structure 252 (FIGS. 8-9) includes a channel 510. The channel extends substantially the entire length of the float, for example, if the channel is generated using extrusion of the float. The channel can take any number of forms desired for suitable support of the means for controlling the float. In this example, the channel is defined in part by first and second lips or shoulders 512 and 514 extending longitudinally with the channel, the first and second lips or shoulders 512 and 514 defining a longitudinal opening or entrance to the cavity defined by the channel 510. The first and second lips or shoulders 512 and 514 extend parallel to one another, their upper surfaces can define a plane, and they terminate at opposing points.

[0048] The float assembly includes a channel cover 516 (FIG. 9). The channel cover covers all or part of the channel as desired to help reduce the possibility of concrete, debris, or other foreign matter getting into the channel or getting under the channel cover. The channel cover in this example extends the entire length of the float, except for any portion or portions desired to accommodate pivot engagement structures or other means to help control or manipulate the float. The channel cover is formed to provide a secure interference fit with the channel lips or shoulders 512 and 514, and the channel cover may include respective overlay structures 518 and 520 that overlie the upper surfaces of the lips or shoulders 512 and 514. In this example, the channel cover is held in place by longitudinally extending ribs 522 and 524 that have outwardly facing surfaces that form grooves that conform to or engage opposing points or convex surfaces on the lips or shoulders. The channel cover can be press-fit into the channel or slid longitudinally along the top of the channel to the desired position.

[0049] The present float assembly 500, as well as the float 200 described above, and other float configurations, can include covers or end caps. End covers can help minimize the possibility of concrete, debris, or other foreign matter entering through the float edge or reaching the upper surface of the float. In this example, end caps 530 and 532 (FIG. 6) are included in the float assembly. The end caps can take several configurations, and in this example extend around the end portion of the float from an end or terminus 534 of a first rail 535 having a right angled edge portion 210 to an end or terminus 536 of a second rail 537 having an angled portion 226 (FIGS. 7 and 8). In the illustrated configuration, each end cap begins and ends at each end of the respective rail 535 and 537, for example, to have a wall continuity that surrounds or encloses an area of ​​the upper surface of the float. Each end cap follows the rounded curvature of the respective end portion of float 502 (or a straight wall, if the float has a straight end wall as in 200) and includes a substantially vertical wall portion 540 when viewed in end elevation (FIGS. 6 and 10), and an upper sloped wall portion 542. In this example, the upper sloped wall portion terminates in a top portion 544 that extends at approximately the same level as the tops of the rails at the tops of upper walls 222 and 244.

[0050] The end caps are securely supported on the ends of the float in such a way as to minimize intrusion of concrete, water, or other materials from the float edges so that they remain in place during normal use. In this example, the end caps are, for example, interference-fit or press-fit onto the end surfaces of the float to have a desired seal around the interface between the end caps and the respective adjacent float surfaces. The end caps are molded, printed, or otherwise formed from a suitable plastic or other material to have a desired configuration.

[0051] The float end and the adjacent end cap surface have different profiles between the end or termination points 534 and 536, but in this example, the concrete finished surface at the float end and the adjacent end cap surface have portions where their profiles are the same or substantially the same. In this example, the central portion of the profile is the same or substantially the same, while the end portions of the profile are different. In the illustrated example, the central portion of the profile of the concrete finished surface at the end of the float between points 546 and 548 (FIG. 10) and the profile of the adjacent surface of the end cap are the same or substantially the same, and the profile of the adjacent surface of the end cap follows the profile of the concrete finished surface at the central portion of the end of the float. Since this end cap is substantially the same, only one will be described herein. Outward of the central portion of the end of the float, the profile of the finished surface at the end of the float and the profile of the closest adjacent surface of the end cap are different, and in this example, both of the opposite end portions of the end cap are different in profile relative to the respective adjacent surface profiles of the ends of the float. In this example, the float is asymmetrical about its longitudinal edge portions along its longitudinal centerline, so that the contour differences between the portions of the float edge portions and their respective end cap contours are not identical, however, both of the end cap contours corresponding to the float end portions are different from the contours of the corresponding portions of the float finishing surface.

[0052] The surface profile of the illustrated end cap described herein with respect to the adjacent surface of the float's concrete finished surface is the lowermost downwardly facing portion of the end cap. As illustrated in Figures 13-14, the outwardly facing (e.g., facing left as viewed in those figures) portion 550 of the float's end is covered by the adjacent portion of the end cap, and the lowermost surface 552 of the end cap adjacent the concrete finished surface at the float's end is flush or coincident with one another. The adjacent portion of the lowermost surface of the end cap and the concrete finished surface between points 546 and 548 are flush and coincident with one another, and that portion of the end cap covers the outwardly facing surface 550 of the float's end. That relationship extends between points 546 and 548. In the region between points 546 and 548, the end cap's downwardly facing surface 552 is an outward extension of the adjacent concrete finished surface. Outside the region between points 546 and 548, the downwardly facing surface of the end cap covers less and less of the outwardly facing surface 550. Thus, outside the region between points 546 and 548, the contour of the end cap is different from the contour of the nearest adjacent concrete finished surface on the end of the float. In other words, between end point 546 and the end of rail 535, the contour is different. In addition, between end point 548 and the end of rail 537, the contour is different. Alternatively, one of the regions outside of ends 546 and 548 can have their contours different, and the contour of the other region can be the same, as desired. In the illustrated configuration, more than 50% of the periphery of the end cap between rail 535 and 537 has the same contour as the adjacent finished surface, for example, because the lower surface of the end cap is flush with the adjacent surface of inclined surface 508. In other words, less than 50% of the perimeter of the end cap between the rails has a different contour than the adjacent finished surfaces.

[0053] The contours between the end cap and the finished surface can be shown as the same or different using the tangents to the respective surfaces. If the appropriate tangents are substantially the same in a selected area or region, then the contours within that selected area will be substantially the same, while the contours of the selected area may differ if the appropriate tangents are different. Viewing the end of the float assembly generally from an end view can show similarities or differences in the contours. For example, viewing the combined float and end cap toward the end of the float assembly in a direction parallel to the concrete surface on which the float will be placed, e.g., surface 400 in FIG. 4, the tangents can be evaluated by taking a viewing direction 560 perpendicular to the edge of the float that forms the finished surface (FIG. 9). Each viewing direction 560, 562, and 564 is taken perpendicular to the outward facing edge of the float to accommodate any possible curvatures, such as rounded edges, as viewed in the plan view of FIG. 7. The term "vertical" in this context is taken to be perpendicular to the edge of the float when viewed in the plan view of FIG. 7, even if the end surface 550 (FIG. 13) is not precisely perpendicular as viewed in FIG. 13. To select a tangent, a point is selected on the finished surface for a selected viewing direction. For example, point 566 (FIG. 10) is selected as the intersection between vertical 562 and the finished surface, and a tangent to that point is taken and represented at 568. To determine a tangent for the adjacent surface of the end cap, a vertical line 570 that intersects with point 566 is taken to select an adjacent point on the end cap. The vertical line 570 is substantially perpendicular to the concrete surface on which the float may rest. Point 572 is selected on the adjacent surface of the end cap to determine the tangent. Point 572 may or may not be on vertical line 570, but point 572 is selected based on the projection of line 570 as viewed in vertical direction 562 as it intersects with the adjacent surface of the end cap.For example, if the nearest end cap surface is recessed inward from surface 550 or extends outward from surface 550, the selected point 572 will not lie on vertical line 570, but a projection of vertical line 570 will intersect selected point 572, such as a plane containing vertical line 570 and vertical 562. Using selected point 572, a tangent line 574 (FIG. 10) can be generated that represents a portion of the profile for the end cap as viewed from vertical direction 562. Because points 566 and 572 are essentially adjacent to one another and the adjacent surfaces of the end cap surface and the concrete finish surface are substantially coplanar, tangent lines 568 and 574 will be substantially parallel, not spaced apart, will not intersect, and will not form an angle. Many points on the projection of a vertical line, such as 570, will produce tangent lines that are parallel to one another, meaning that the profiles corresponding to such tangent lines are substantially the same. For example, the tangents, and therefore the contours of the float end and end cap, are substantially the same between points 546 and 548 .

[0054] Considering the view direction 560, a point 576 is selected on a vertical line 578 for a tangent 580 (FIG. 10). Projecting the vertical line 578 onto the end cap along the view direction 560, a point 582 is selected for a tangent for the adjacent surface of the end cap. The point 582 is selected based on the closest surface portion of the end cap to the corresponding point 576 on the vertical line 578, which in this case may be on an at least partially downward-facing surface on the end cap. In this example, the point 582 may be selected to be on an interior edge portion of the end cap, similar to point 572 (FIG. 13) or other points on the surface 552, based on whichever portion of the end cap is on the finished surface and closest to point 576 on the projection of the vertical line 578. Using the selected point 582, a tangent 584 can be generated that represents a portion of the profile of the end cap as seen from the vertical direction 560. Tangents 580 and 584 are not parallel, but spaced apart, and in the two-dimensional projection of the two tangents, the tangents will intersect and form an angle with respect to one another. Note that if the end cap surface were concave inwardly from the end surface of the float, as viewed in the plan view of FIG. 7, the tangents may not intersect in three dimensions, but when projected onto a two-dimensional plane as depicted in FIG. 10, they will intersect and form an angle with respect to one another. Thus, the portions of the float profile and end cap profile in the area of ​​points 576 and 582 will not be the same, and similarly, the tangents representing the profiles in each direction from respective points 576 and 582 will be different. The end cap profile diverges away from point 546 and continues to diverge away from point 546 beyond point 582 on perpendicular line 578. Thus, the end cap profile from the end of the end cap to a point at approximately 546 is different than the corresponding profile for the float, and therefore the end cap profile is different from the float profile for the end of the finished surface.

[0055] Similar annotations apply to other portions of the end of the float corresponding to the slope 226 and the adjacent end portion of the end cap. A vertical line 586 includes a point 588 on the finished surface and can be used to select a point 590 on the nearest lowest facing surface on the end cap. The finished surface tangent 592 and the end cap tangent 594 are non-parallel and their projection on a two-dimensional plane will cause them to intersect forming an angle with respect to one another. Thus, the portions of the float profile and the end cap profile in the area of ​​points 588 and 590 will not be the same, and similarly, the tangents representing the profiles in each direction from respective points 588 and 590 will also be different. The end cap profile diverges beyond point 548 away from point 548 and continues to diverge beyond point 590 on the projection of the vertical line 586. Thus, the end cap profile from the end of the end cap to point 548 will be different from the corresponding profile for the finished surface, and thus the profile for the end cap will be different from the profile for the finished surface. The contour of the end cap portion near the end of the end cap reduces the likelihood that the concrete surface will be marred by the surface on the end cap as the float is displaced.

[0056] As with float 200, the end caps for float 500 are optional and may be omitted.

[0057] Other exposed peripheral edges of the float can be protected or covered with added material, with or without the presence of end caps. However, the protection by the end caps can be supplemented with protection of the other peripheral edges of the float. In one example, edge rails 535 and 537 (FIGS. 7 and 9) that extend longitudinally from one end of the float to the other end of the float can include rail protectors 600 and 602, respectively. Although they can be different, each rail protector is an identical mirror image of the other, and only one rail protector will be described further. Rail protector 600 preferably includes an inner surface 604 that conforms to the outer contour of the edge rail 535 on which it is installed. The outer surface of the protector can take any number of configurations. Rail protector 600 is formed as a channel, which in the illustrated configuration includes a free end surface that is tapered in cross section to reduce the size of the transition from the surface of the rail protector to the adjacent surface of the rail.

[0058] The rail protector forms a fit as close as possible to the rail edge. In one configuration, the rail protector is applied with an interference fit and may optionally include additional fastening material, such as adhesive, on the inner surface of the rail, for example, to tightly cover the surface. The rail protector can be extruded from a suitable material and tightly applied to the rail edge, so that it can withstand normal use and cleaning at a construction site, including contact with or intrusion by water, wet concrete, impact from tools and the like, and pressure washing. Each rail protector can be formed as a single piece or assembled from multiple pieces. The multiple pieces can be installed discreetly, or they can be bonded, glued, adhered, welded, or otherwise secured together on the rail edge. The end portions of the rail protector can also be formed to be integral with the end cap, or the rail protector can be bonded, glued, adhered, welded, or otherwise secured to the end cap to form a continuous protection against intrusion of material from the edge of the float.

[0059] In use, the float assembly 100 with float 200 or 500 is placed on a concrete surface, such as concrete surface 400 (FIGS. 3-4), and a handle (not shown) is turned to increase the outbound angle of the float 200, 500 to the desired amount. The description of the use of the float assembly 100 applies equally to the use of the float assembly including float 500. The float is pushed in the direction of arrow 402 as far above the concrete surface as the assembly can reach. At the end of the span or track above the concrete surface, the handle is turned to flatten the float so that the finished surface 202 contacts the concrete surface, as illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. The float is shown in Figures 3-5 slightly elevated from the concrete surface for clarity, but it should be understood that a significant portion of the float's finishing surface 202 would rest on and contact the concrete surface in the orientation shown in Figure 4, and relevant portions would contact the concrete surface in the orientation shown in Figures 3 and 5. As the float is pulled back in the direction of arrow 404, the seal portion formed by the float's first boundary portion 204 serves to seal the concrete surface while the finishing surface 202 smoothes the concrete surface. At any portion of the concrete surface that may be elevated, the handle of the float assembly can be turned to increase the angle of the float relative to the concrete surface upon or during pullback, for example, as illustrated in Figure 5. The float angle can be increased to a desired angle, as illustrated in Figure 5, until the straight surface portion 238 rests on the concrete surface 406 and the cutting edge 228 may contact the concrete surface. As the float assembly, with cutting edge 228, is pulled back against the concrete surface, the float can cut the high portions 408 and smooth the surface. Additional concrete can rise to the first wall 242 and possibly the second wall 244 and be pulled along the concrete with the float 200.Additional concrete may also be left in any cavities or low areas in the concrete surface, such as that illustrated at 410.

[0060] A sequence of steps for using the float assembly 100 to finish a concrete surface includes pushing the float 200 outward, as illustrated in FIG. 3, and retracting, as illustrated in FIG. 4. The retraction and retraction of the float can occur several times until the desired finish or texture is produced on the concrete surface. At any time during the retraction, the float angle can be increased to a desired angle above zero relative to the concrete surface, as illustrated in FIG. 5, so that the ramp 226 and / or cutting edge 228 can finish adjacent portions of the concrete surface, as desired. The increased float angle can be used to cut concrete from high portions of the surface or to place excess concrete in low spots, such as 410.

[0061] Although several example implementations have been described above, it will be apparent that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the concepts discussed herein. Although such changes and modifications are not explicitly described above, they are nevertheless intended and implied to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative only.

Claims

1. A concrete float, comprising: a longitudinally extending float body having an upper surface and a finished surface opposite said upper surface; means on said upper surface for engaging a control element for operating said concrete float; a first substantially right angled edge extending longitudinally on a first portion of said finished surface; a bevel and a second substantially right angle edge on the second portion of the finished surface; Equipped with The first and second portions of the finished surface are on opposite sides of the manipulating means.

2. 2. The float of claim 1, wherein said finished surface is substantially flat between said first and second portions.

3. 3. The float of claim 1, wherein the first right-angled edge of the first portion of the finished surface includes a finished side that is substantially parallel to the finished surface and a first vertical wall that extends substantially perpendicular to the finished side in an opposite direction to the finished surface.

4. 4. The float of claim 3, further comprising first and second walls angled relative to one another, said first wall contacting and extending away from said first vertical wall.

5. 5. The float of claim 4, wherein said first and second walls form a convex surface as viewed from said second portion of said finished surface.

6. 6. A float according to any preceding claim, wherein the float has a float profile in transverse cross-section that is asymmetrical with respect to a longitudinally extending plane perpendicular to a central portion of the float.

7. A float as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the ramp extends arcuately out of the plane of the finished surface and away from the finished surface.

8. 8. The float of claim 7, wherein said ramp extends from said finished surface to a substantially flat longitudinally extending wall on a side of said ramp opposite said finished surface.

9. 9. The float of any one of claims 7-8, wherein the second substantially right angled edge extends from the angled portion in an opposite direction from the finished surface, the second substantially right angled edge extending substantially perpendicular to the angled portion.

10. A float as claimed in any preceding claim 7-9, wherein the ramp portion extends arcuately over an arc having a radius of curvature of about 30-45 mm.

11. 11. The float of claim 10, wherein the radius of curvature is about 38 mm.

12. 12. A float as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising first and second walls angled relative to one another, said first wall contacting and extending away from said substantially right angled edge.

13. 13. The float of claim 12, wherein the first and second walls angled relative to one another form a convex surface as viewed from the first portion of the finished surface.

14. The float according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a channel and a channel cover covering at least a portion of the channel.

15. 15. The float of claim 14, wherein said means on said upper surface for engaging a control element for manipulating said concrete float is positioned within said channel.

16. A float as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each end of the float includes a bevel in the float finishing surface.

17. A float as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the float includes a rail protector.

18. A concrete float, comprising: a float body extending longitudinally between first and second end portions and having an upper surface and a finished surface opposite said upper surface, each of said first and second boundary portions extending at least partially between said first and second end portions and opposite said finished surface; means on said upper surface for engaging a control element for operating said concrete float; Equipped with the first boundary portion includes a sealing edge; The second boundary portion includes an open surface portion and a cutting edge.

19. 20. The float of claim 18, wherein the first boundary portion includes a first surface extending parallel to the finished surface and a second surface extending substantially perpendicular to the first surface and away from the finished surface.

20. 20. The float of claim 19, further comprising a wall segment extending away from said second surface, extending longitudinally and having a convex configuration as viewed from said second boundary portion.

21. A float as claimed in any preceding claim 18-20, wherein the open surface portion on the second boundary portion is defined by a concave surface in transverse cross section curving from the finishing surface to the cutting edge.

22. 22. The float of claim 21, wherein the second boundary portion includes a substantially straight wall in cross-section between the convex surface and the cutting edge.

23. 23. A float as claimed in any preceding claim 21-22, wherein the cutting edge is formed at an angle of substantially 90° from the open surface portion.

24. 24. The float of claim 23, wherein the cutting edge includes a longitudinally extending wall extending away from the open surface portion.

25. A float as claimed in any preceding claim 18-24, wherein the edges of the finished surface are bevelled.

26. 26. A float as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising end caps on each end of the float.

27. 27. The float of claim 26, wherein the float includes a finished surface contour as viewed from an end of the float, and the end cap has an end cap contour for a surface adjacent the finished surface contour, and the finished surface contour and the end cap contour are different.

28. 28. The float of claim 27, wherein the float has a substantially flat finished surface that faces at least partially downward when the float is resting on a concrete surface, the end cap has a portion adjacent the substantially flat finished surface, and the contours of the substantially flat finished surface and the portion of the end cap adjacent the substantially flat finished surface are substantially the same.

29. 30. The float of claim 28, wherein the contours of the substantially flat finished surface and the portion of the end cap adjacent the substantially flat finished surface are substantially coplanar.

30. 28. The float of claim 27, wherein the end portion of the float includes a side having a side concrete finished surface with a side concrete finished surface contour, and further includes an adjacent end cap surface contour, the side concrete finished surface contour being different from the adjacent end cap surface contour.

31. 31. The float of claim 30, wherein said side concrete finished surface contour and said adjacent end cap surface contour are not coplanar.

32. 31. The float of claim 30, wherein said side concrete finished surface contour and said adjacent end cap surface contour are spaced apart.

33. 31. The float of claim 30, wherein said side concrete finished surface contour and said adjacent end cap surface contour extend at respective angles relative to one another.

34. 31. The float of claim 30, wherein the lateral concrete finished surface contour extends in a first direction relative to a surface of the concrete when the float is placed on the surface of the concrete, and the adjacent end cap surface contour extends upwardly and away from the lateral concrete finished surface contour.

35. A float as claimed in any preceding claim 18-34, wherein a surface of the end of the float facing longitudinally away from the float is covered by a portion of the end cap.

36. A float as claimed in any preceding claim 18-35, wherein a surface of the end of the float facing longitudinally away from the float is not covered by the end cap.

37. 1. A concrete finishing float comprising: a finished surface having a finished surface contour as viewed from a first end of the float; and an end cap supported on an end of the float and having an end cap surface adjacent an adjacent portion of the finished surface, the end cap surface having a contour as viewed from the first end of the float that is different from the finished surface contour.

38. 38. The float of claim 37, wherein said finished surface profile includes a straight portion, and said end cap surface profile adjacent said straight portion is substantially straight.

39. 39. The float of any one of claims 37-38, wherein a portion of the finished surface contour and a portion of the end cap surface contour are substantially coplanar.

40. 40. The float of any of claims 37-39, wherein the finished surface has a flat portion for resting on a concrete surface, the finished surface including at least one end portion adjacent the flat portion, and the end cap has a first end cap surface adjacent the at least one finished surface end portion, the first end cap surface having a first end cap surface contour that is different from a contour of the at least one end portion of the finished surface.

41. 41. The float of claim 40, wherein said first end cap surface contour is not coplanar with said contour of said at least one end portion of said finishing surface.

42. 41. The float of claim 40, wherein said first end cap surface contour is non-coplanar with said contour of said at least one end portion of said finishing surface.

43. 41. The float of claim 40, wherein said first end cap surface contour is spaced from said contour of said at least one end portion of said finishing surface.

44. 41. The float of claim 40, wherein the first end cap surface contour includes a first line and the contour of the at least one end portion of the finished surface includes a second line extending at an angle to the first line.

45. 45. The float of any of claims 37-44, wherein the finished surface contour and the end cap surface contour are viewed from the first end in a direction parallel to a concrete surface on which the float can be placed and in a direction perpendicular to an edge of the float forming the finished surface, a perpendicular line intersecting the direction perpendicular to the edge, a projection of the perpendicular line capable of defining a first point on the finished surface contour and a second point on the end cap surface contour, the first line capable of defining a first tangent on the finished surface contour and the second line capable of defining a second tangent on the end cap surface contour.

46. 46. ​​The float of claim 45, wherein the first tangent and the second tangent are parallel.

47. 47. The float of any one of claims 45-46, wherein the first tangent and the second tangent are parallel.

48. 46. ​​The float of claim 45, wherein the first tangent and the second tangent are not spaced apart and do not intersect.

49. 46. ​​The float of claim 45, wherein the first tangent and the second tangent are spaced apart from each other.

50. 50. The float of any one of claims 45 and 49, wherein the first tangent and the second tangent intersect each other.

51. A float as described in any preceding claim 45-50, wherein the first tangent extends substantially parallel to a concrete surface on which the float can be placed and the second tangent extends at an angle towards a substantially perpendicular edge.

52. 52. A float as described in any one of claims 45-51, wherein the first tangent extends at an angle to a concrete surface on which the float can be placed and the second tangent extends at an angle to the first tangent in the direction of a slope surface.

53. A concrete float, comprising: a first side, said first side supporting means on said first side for engaging a control element for operating said concrete float; a channel on the first side; a second side opposite the first side, the second side having a concrete finished surface; and a cover that covers at least a portion of the channel; , a concrete float.

54. 1. A method of using a float for finishing concrete, the method comprising: positioning a longitudinally extending concrete float such that the concrete float can be moved in a forward and rearward direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the float, the concrete float including a finished surface extending longitudinally along and transverse to the longitudinal axis, a sealing surface on a forward portion of the float, and a sloped portion on a rearward portion of the float, the sloped portion with a cutting edge on the sloped portion opposite the finished surface; moving the concrete float rearwardly so that the finished surface contacts the surface of the concrete; moving the concrete float rearwardly such that at least one of the angled portion and the cutting edge contacts the surface of the concrete; A method comprising:

55. 55. The method of claim 54, further comprising moving the concrete float forward with a ramp portion contacting the concrete surface.

56. 56. A method as claimed in any preceding claim 54-55, wherein moving the concrete float rearwardly comprises chipping away concrete with the cutting edge.

57. 57. The method of claim 56, wherein the concrete float sloped portion includes a substantially flat surface adjacent the cutting edge, and moving the concrete float rearwardly includes moving the concrete float rearwardly such that the substantially flat surface moves along the concrete surface with the cutting edge in contact with the concrete surface.

58. 58. The method of claim 57, further comprising using the cutting edge to chip away concrete along a surface of the concrete.

Images