System and method for enhanced control and contraction joints in concrete structures

Abstract

A concrete control joint preparation system includes an elongate rail member having a proximal end and an opposite distal end, the elongate rail member including a plurality of foot members arranged to support the elongate rail member in an upright orientation. The elongate rail member includes a top surface having a recess extending along the entirety of its length and is configured to be encased in uncured concrete, and to form the concrete control joint when the concrete cures.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENHANCED CONTROL AND CONTRACTION JOINTS IN CONCRETE STRUCTURES

[0002] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This international application claims priority to, and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 18 / 544,580 filed on December 19, 2023, which claims priority to, and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application Serial No.18 / 501,338, filed on November 03, 2023. Both applications are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005] This disclosure relates to a control and contraction joint preparation system. In particular, this disclosure relates toa a control joint preparation system for use when pouring concrete during sidewalk- and other concrete construction.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Concrete sidewalks are a vital component of urban infrastructure, designed to provide safe and accessible pathways for pedestrians. The construction of these sidewalks follows a meticulous process, beginning with site preparation, excavation, and the placement of forms to achieve the desired dimensions and shape. Concrete, a mixture of cement, aggregates, water, and sometimes additives for enhanced durability, is then poured into these forms. Once poured, it undergoes a curing process that ensures it solidifies with the intended strength and longevity. As concrete dries, however, it is subject to expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity variations, which often lead to cracking.

[0008] To manage these inherent stresses, control and contraction joints are introduced to direct where these cracks should occur. Proper placement of control joints mitigates unsightly and potentially dangerous random cracking. Traditionally, these joints are created using either tooling methods during the finishing process or saw-cutting once the concrete has hardened. Tooling involves inserting grooves manually, while saw-cutting relies on specialized equipment to create precise grooves on the hardened surface. Each method has advantages but also presents limitations that can impact both the quality and efficiency of sidewalk construction. Tooling is often labor-intensive, requiring skilled workers to manually create straight, evenly spaced grooves during the concrete finishing stage. Despite their expertise, even minor deviations can lead to irregularities in joint placement, risking premature cracking and creating the need for costly repairs. Saw-cutting, while often more precise, introduces its own set of challenges. This method requires additional equipment and labor after the concrete has set, increasing both the time and cost of the project. Moreover, it often results in a messier job site and the risk of introducing imperfections, as any misalignment during cutting could permanently affect the structural integrity and appearance of the sidewalk.

[0009] These traditional methods often lead to increased labor costs, as adjustments must be made post-pour to achieve the necessary alignment. Additionally, the complexity of creating precise joints in large sidewalk projects can slow down the overall construction process, introducing inefficiencies and adding to the project’s expense. As urban environments continue to demand quicker, more reliable construction techniques, the industry faces a pressing need for an innovative solution that can reduce labor, improve precision, and eliminate the requirement for post-pour adjustments.

[0010] A pre-fabricated control joint system that combines ease of installation with robust structural stability that addresses the foregoing challenges is an unmet need in the art. By integrating a U-shaped rail and anchoring mechanism, the system allows for control joints to be established before pouring, eliminating the need for subsequent modifications and significantly reducing the risk of misalignment or irregular cracking. This approach not only streamlines the construction process but also enhances the durability and aesthetic quality of the finished concrete structure, meeting the demands for efficiency and cost-effectiveness in modem sidewalk construction.

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012] This disclosure provides systems and methods for creating concrete control joints by utilizing an elongate rail with laterally-extending feet. The systems and methods discussed present a unique design in which the top of the elongate rail assumes a U-shape, enabling it to serve as a control joint before the concrete pouring process, thus streamlining construction and improving the overall integrity of the concrete structures.

[0013] The feet feature strategically positioned apertures designed to accommodate stakes or other anchors that are driven into the ground, firmly securing the rail in place prior to the concrete pour. This setup ensures precise alignment and stability during the concrete pouring process, eliminating the need for time-consuming adjustments post-pour. The result is a more efficient and cost-effective construction process.

[0014] Furthermore, the U-shaped top of the elongate rail provides an automatic control joint within the concrete structure, facilitating controlled movement and mitigating the risk of uncontrolled cracking. By incorporating this elongate rail into the construction process prior to concrete pouring, it not only simplifies installation but also enhances the long-term durability and safety of the resulting concrete structure.

[0015] This disclosure provides a novel approach to creating concrete control joints, where the innovative elongate rail with staked feet and a U-shaped top offers improved efficiency, stability, and long-term integrity for concrete construction.

[0016] In a first general aspect, a control joint preparation system for forming a control joint in a concrete structure includes an elongate rail member having a U-shaped channel on a top surface and a plurality of anchoring features on a bottom surface; a foot member configured to releasably couple with the elongate rail member, the foot member comprising a main body having a square-shaped recess configured to receive the bottom surface of the elongate rail member; and a stake adapted to engage with the foot member for anchoring the system to a subgrade.

[0017] In one embodiment, the U-shaped channel has a width adapted to define a desired width of the control joint.

[0018] In one embodiment, the system further includes a cross-connection member for joining a plurality of the elongate rail members together in a desired configuration. In a related embodiment, the elongate rail member further includes a recess aperture disposed between the bottom surface and the U-shaped channel, the recess aperture configured to receive a dowel member of the cross-connection member.

[0019] In one embodiment, the anchoring features on the bottom surface of the elongate rail member include apertures configured to receive the stake.

[0020] In one embodiment, the foot member further includes left and right foot extensions extending from the main body, each foot extension having a through-aperture configured to receive the stake. In one embodiment, the elongate rail member further includes an aperture on each of a proximal end and a distal end; a sidewall thickness for the U-shaped channel; and a height that corresponds to a desired thickness of the concrete structure.

[0021] In one embodiment, the square-shaped recess of the foot member has a width equal to the width of the bottom surface of the elongate rail member.

[0022] In one embodiment, the elongate rail member and the foot member are formed of a resilient, malleable plastic.

[0023] In one embodiment, the stake is formed of a resilient material that resists rust and decay.

[0024] In a second general aspect, a method of forming a control joint in a concrete structure is provided. The method includes placing one or more elongate rail members of the system of claim 1 on a subgrade; optionally joining the elongate rail members together using a cross- connection member; anchoring the system to the subgrade using stakes; pouring concrete material onto the subgrade and around the elongate rail members; and allowing the concrete material to cure.

[0025] In one embodiment, the concrete material is poured to substantially encapsulate the sides of the elongate rail members.

[0026] In one embodiment, the method further includes placing a filler material in the U- shaped channel of the elongate rail member after the concrete material has been poured.

[0027] In one embodiment, the concrete material is poured to substantially encapsulate the sides of the elongate rail member, but not the top surface, such that the U-shaped channel remains open to receive a control joint material after the concrete has cured.

[0028] In one embodiment, the elongate rail member includes resilient material properties adapted to withstand long-term exposure within the concrete structure without degrading or compromising the integrity of the control joint.

[0029] In a third general aspect, a system for forming a control joint in a concrete structure includes an elongate member having a U-shaped channel on a top surface; a plurality of foot members, each foot member comprising a main body having a square-shaped recess configured to receive the elongate member; and a plurality of stakes adapted to engage with the foot members for anchoring the system to a subgrade. In one embodiment, the U-shaped channel has a width adapted to define a desired width of the control joint.

[0030] In one embodiment, the system further includes a cross-connection member for joining a plurality of elongate members together in a desired configuration.

[0031] In one embodiment, the square-shaped recess of the foot member has a width equal to the width of the elongate member.

[0032] In one embodiment, the elongate member and the foot members are formed of a durable, malleable plastic.

[0033] The systems and methods disclosed herein present a range of significant advantages. Firstly, it simplifies the installation process. By securing the elongate rail with staked feet before pouring concrete, construction becomes more efficient, eliminating the need for complex post-pour adjustments and reducing both labor and time requirements. This innovation also enhances precision, with the lateral feet and apertures for stakes providing a high degree of accuracy in aligning and anchoring the control joint. This ensures the control joint is correctly positioned and firmly secured, contributing to the overall quality of the concrete structure.

[0034] Moreover, the invention improves stability. The staked feet prevent any displacement during concrete pouring, enhancing the structural integrity of the control joint and reducing the risk of misalignment or movement due to external factors. The U-shaped top design naturally forms a control joint within the concrete structure, leading to controlled movement and stress relief, which, in turn, reduces the potential for unsightly and structurally compromising cracks. This control joint is crucial for ensuring the long-term durability of concrete structures.

[0035] The advantages of this innovation also extend to cost savings. The simplified installation process, reduced labor requirements, and enhanced precision all contribute to more cost-effective concrete construction. Projects benefit from reduced labor costs, less material wastage, and the avoidance of costly post-pour adjustments. Furthermore, the versatility of the disclosed systems and methods allow for adaptation in various concrete construction applications, making it a valuable asset for contractors and construction professionals across different sectors. In addition to its practical benefits, the innovation contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for post-construction repairs and maintenance due to uncontrolled cracks. This leads to longer-lasting, more resilient constructions, ultimately reducing the environmental impact associated with frequent repairs. Other advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of any described embodiment, suitable methods and materials are described below. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. In case of conflict with terms used in the art, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

[0037] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description and claims.

[0038] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] The present embodiments are illustrated by way of the figures of the accompanying drawings, which may not necessarily be to scale, in which like references indicate similar elements, and in which:

[0040] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a control joint preparation system, according to a first embodiment;

[0041] FIG. 2 is a side-view of the control joint preparation system of FIG. 1;

[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates an installation of the control joint preparation system of FIG. 1 according to a first embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 4 is a joiner of a control joint preparation system according to a first embodiment;

[0044] FIG. 5 illustrates the control joint system of FIG. 1 in use according to a first embodiment;

[0045] FIG. 6 illustrates a finished construction project utilizing a control joint preparation system according to a first embodiment;

[0046] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a rail member of a control joint preparation system according to a second embodiment; FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of the rail member of FIG. 8;

[0047] FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a foot support member of a control joint preparation system according to the second embodiment; and

[0048] FIG. 10 shows the rail member and foot support members of the control joint preparation system according to the second embodiment in an operative configuration.

[0049] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

[0050] FIG. 1 is a first embodiment of a control joint preparation system (hereinafter ‘system’) 100 according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, the system 100 includes an elongate rail member 105. The rail member 105 includes a plurality anchoring feet 110 and riser sections 115 as illustrated. In this embodiment, the upper portion of the rail member 105 includes a U-shaped recess 120. The system 100 can be used in construction, and particularly in the fabrication of concrete sidewalks, although its use is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0051] In this embodiment, the system 100 can be placed on the ground where a control joint is intended to be placed in a sidewalk, for example. In practicality, one or more of the systems 100 can be placed at desired spaced intervals, e.g., every eight feet, every ten feet, etc., within an area designated for a sidewalk or other concrete pour. The system 100 can be anchored to the ground, e.g., the subgrade, through the use of immobilization stakes 130 as discussed in greater detail below. The concrete can then be poured; as the concrete settles into position, the systems 100 are left in place to form the control joints of the sidewalk resultingly.

[0052] Referring now to FIG. 2, a side-view of the rail member 105 is shown according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, an aperture 125 is disposed on each of the proximal (106) and distal (107) end portions of the rail member 105. The position of the aperture 125 is such that it aligns with a dowel member 154 of a cross-connection member 150 discussed in further detail below (FIG. 4).

[0053] In this embodiment, the U-shaped recess 120 and hole 125 on piece 100 extends completely from the proximal (106) end to the distal (107) end portions of the rail member 105. The U-shaped recess 120 has a cross-sectional channel width Cw appropriate for an optimized control joint in the finished concrete structure, e.g., sidewalk. The U-shaped recess 120 can also be configured for receiving expansion joint materials and / or fillers commonly used in the preparation of sidewalks, such as, but not limited to rubber joint filler, foam fillers, etc. While the rail member 105 can suffice unaccompanied to serve as the control joint material, the use of fillers within the U-shaped recess 120 can help to prevent damage to the rail member 105 and surrounding material due to water intrusion. In one embodiment, and without limitation, the channel width Cw is preferably about one-half inch, e.g., one- quarter inch, one-half inch, three-quarters of an inch, etc.

[0054] In this embodiment, the overall height h of the rail member 105 can be selected to match a desired thickness of a concrete structure, e.g., sidewalk. Commonly, sidewalks are poured to have a thickness of between 4 inches and 6 inches; accordingly, the height h of the rail member 105 can be selected to match such thickness, e.g., between about 4.75 inches and 6.25 inches. During formation of a control j oint, the concrete can be poured onto the subgrade, over the feet 110 of the rail member until the concrete reaches the top of the rail member 105, encasing the system 100 in concrete. Referring also back to FIG. 1, in this and other embodiments, the riser sections 115 provide a space between the bottom (108) of the rail member 105 and the bottom (109) of each foot member 110, through which poured concrete can flow. This space can provide an advantageous structural advantage to maintaining the system 100 in place as the concrete sets and hardens. In one non-limiting example, the spacing between adjacent feet 110 is twelve inches.

[0055] In this embodiment, the width Rw of the rail member 105 can be selected to provide a desired controlled joint width in a poured concrete structure, e.g., a sidewalk. For example, the width Rw can be about one inch, e.g., 0.75 inch, 1 inch, 1.25 inches, etc. The foot width Fw can be chosen according to preference and factors such as stability of the rail member 105, ease of installing stakes 130 and other factors. In this example, and without limitation, the foot width Fw is four inches. In this embodiment, the thickness of the sides 126 of the U- shaped channel 120 can also be chosen according to structural stability and the ability to withstand the lateral forces of concrete as it is poured. For example, and without limitation, the sides 126 of the U-shaped channel 120 in this embodiment is one-quarter of an inch. The overall length of the rail member 105, e.g., from proximal (106) to distal (107) ends can be chosen according to specifications of the concrete structure, e.g., sidewalk, to be poured. The rail members 105 can be prepared in pre-determined lengths, e.g., 4, 5, 6 foot lengths, etc.; or, the rail members 105 can be cut to fit any length needed. Turning now to FIG. 3, the system 100 can be placed in a desired location, e.g., an excavated subgrade where a concrete structure such as a sidewalk is to be poured, and anchored into position through the use of one or more stakes 130. In this embodiment, each foot 100 of the rail member 105 includes at least one aperture 114 configured to allow a stake 130 to pass therethrough. A stake 130 can be driven through each aperture 114 of each foot 110 to firmly anchor the rail member 105 to the subgrade. Stakes 130 can be formed of a resilient material that resists rust and decay, such as, and without limitation, polystyrene plastic or steel. Moreover, the components of system 100 itself can be formed of the same or similar material. For example, and without limitation, the rail member 105, cross-connection member 150, foot members 110, stakes 130, and riser sections 115 can be formed of a strong, yet malleable plastic such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, high-density polyethylene, polycarbonate, polyamide-imide, high-impact polystyrene, etc.

[0056] Referring now to FIG. 4, a cross-connection member 150 is shown according to one embodiment. The cross-connection member 150 can be used to join rail members 105 in a straight line or at intersecting at angles. The cross-connection member can be used, e.g. for multi-slab concrete structures, e.g., multi-slab sidewalks. In this embodiment, the cross- connection member 150 includes four arms 151 arranged in a “plus” (+) configuration, allowing four rail members 105 to be arranged in the same configuration.

[0057] In this embodiment, each arm 151 extends outwardly from the center intersection 155 and terminates at a face 153 as illustrated. Extending from face 153 on each arm 151 is a dowel member 154 configured to be inserted into aperture 125 of either the proximal (106) or distal (107) end portion of the rail member 105 during assembly. Each arm 151 includes a U- shaped recess 152, as illustrated, of the same shape and dimensions as the U-shaped recess 120 of the rail member 105. In this embodiment, the distance between the center of the dowel member 154 and the bottom of the U-shaped recess 152 is the same as the distance between the center of the aperture 125 and the bottom of the U-shaped recess 120 of the rail member 105, so that the pieces join together such that the U-shaped recesses 152, 120 appear substantially contiguous.

[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, a method of use of the system 100 includes placing one or more rail members 105 on a subgrade, an area that has been excavated for placement of a concrete structure such as a sidewalk. If only one rail member 105 is used, it can be anchored to the subgrade using the stakes 130 as previously described. If multiple rail members 105 are used, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the rail members 105 can be joined utilizing one or more cross-connection members 150 to form a scaffolding array 170 that forms a plurality of open areas that will eventually become a multi-slab concrete structure. Once the rail members 105 are in place, the concrete material A / can be poured into the excavated site. In a preferred embodiment, the concrete material M can be poured so as to fill the excavated site from the subgrade to the top of, or nearly to the top of the rail member 105 as illustrated in FIG. 5. In other words, the concrete is poured to substantially encapsulate the sides of the rail member, preferably exclusive of the top surface so that concrete does not enter the U- shaped channel. Next, optionally, a filler may be placed into the U-shaped recess 120 of the rail member 105. The concrete material AT can then be allowed to cure.

[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 7-10, a second embodiment of a control joint preparation system is shown. In essence, the second embodiment includes an elongate rail member that is separate from a foot member. In combination, the elongate rail member and foot member cooperate to perform similarly to the first embodiment of a control joint expansion system as described herein.

[0060] In this second embodiment, the system includes an elongate rail member 700. FIG. 7 shows the elongate rail member 700 in an isometric view, and FIG. 8 shows the elongate rail member 700 in a front elevation view. In this embodiment, the elongate rail member 700 includes a main body 701, the main body 701 having a U-shaped channel 702 being disposed on the top of the main body 701 and extending along the entire length as illustrated. The U- shaped channel 702 is centrally laterally disposed between left (705) and right (706) sides of the main body 701. Similar to elongate rail member 120, elongate rail member 700 includes a recess aperture 703 disposed between the bottom (704) of the main body 701 and the U- shaped channel 702. In this embodiment, the recess aperture 703 extends about one (1) inch into the main body 701, although the recess aperture may have other dimensions as desired. The recess aperture 703 is configured to receive a dowel member 154 of a cross-connection member 150 described with respect to the first embodiment.

[0061] Referring now to FIG. 9, in this second embodiment, a foot member 710 includes a main body 711. The main body 711 includes a riser portion 709 having a square recessed portion 716 at the top, as illustrated. The main body further includes left (712) and right (713) foot extensions for stabilizing the foot member 710. In this embodiment, each of the left (712) and right (713) foot extensions include a through-aperture 714, 715, respectively, as illustrated. The foot extensions are configured to receive a stake member 130 therethrough as previously described.

[0062] Referring now to FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, the elongate rail member 700 is shown in a joined configuration with the foot member 710. In order to fit properly and snuggly, the square-shaped recess 716 of the foot member 710 has a width FW that is equal to, or slightly longer than the width RW of the bottom side 704 of the elongate rail member 700.

[0063] In practice, a series of foot members 710 can be placed in a straight line upon a surface and held in place utilizing the stake members 130. Next, the elongate rail member 700 can be placed atop the foot members 710 such that the bottom (704) of the elongate rail member fits into the square-shaped channel 716 of the foot member 710. Cross-connection members (e.g., cross-connection member 150) can be utilized as previously described to create a matrix, e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 6. The separation of the elongate rail member 700 and the foot member 710 allow for easier manipulation of parts, more convenient storage, and other advantages.

[0064] A number of illustrative embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the various embodiments presented herein. For example, while the structures referred to herein generally related to concrete sidewalks, the system 100 can be used for other construction purposes, such as driveways, patios, garage floors, basement floors, shed floors, pole barn floors, commercial building floors and any type of interior or exterior flatwork.

[0065] An embodiment of the control joint preparation system for concrete structures incorporates an integrated lighting system, allowing the joints themselves to become functional elements that enhance visibility and safety. In this embodiment, the elongate rail member features a recessed groove or channel specifically configured to house LED or fiberoptic lighting strips; or the recessed grove or channel previously described can be modified to receive or house the LED or fiber-optic lighting strips. This integration would provide continuous illumination along the pathway, making it particularly beneficial for nighttime use in public spaces such as parks, walkways, and driveways. The lighting elements can be designed to run along the U-shaped channel on the top surface, protected by transparent or semi-transparent weatherproof material to safeguard against moisture and debris. In addition to aesthetics, this feature contributes to safety, as illuminated pathways help pedestrians navigate more confidently in low-light environments.

[0066] To accommodate various installation preferences, the lighting system can be designed with modular electrical connections, enabling sections of lighted rail to connect easily. In some embodiments, the lighting can be solar-powered, with solar cells embedded along the rail or connected externally, minimizing the need for hardwiring and reducing energy costs. The lights can be programmable, offering customizable options for brightness or color depending on specific needs, such as emergency lighting or accent lighting for events. Such flexibility makes the control joint preparation system adaptable to both standard and decorative applications, providing contractors with a versatile tool that enhances concrete construction beyond traditional functionality.

[0067] In another embodiment, the control joint preparation system can include drainage capabilities for managing water flow across concrete surfaces. This drainage-integrated system allows for grooves or channels within the control joint to direct water away from the concrete surface, reducing pooling and enhancing the longevity of the structure. Small apertures or weep holes within the channel can be positioned strategically to allow water to flow into a subsurface drainage network, making the system ideal for sidewalks, parking lots, and other outdoor areas where water buildup might lead to cracks or structural degradation over time.

[0068] In another embodiment, the system can incorporate temperature-regulating materials within the joint structure. For example, phase-change materials (PCMs) embedded along the rail can absorb and release heat, stabilizing the temperature of the concrete and reducing thermal expansion and contraction. This feature can be particularly useful in regions with extreme temperature fluctuations, as it minimizes the potential for cracks and extends the durability of the concrete.

[0069] A further embodiment can include adding a sensor integration feature, where moisture, temperature, or stress sensors are embedded within the control joint. These sensors can monitor the structural health of the concrete, alerting maintenance personnel if stress thresholds are exceeded or if cracks are imminent. The data from these sensors can be wirelessly transmitted to a remote monitoring system, providing real-time insights into the conditions of public infrastructure, thereby facilitating preventive maintenance and enhancing safety.

[0070] Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A control joint preparation system for forming a control joint in a concrete structure, comprising: an elongate rail member having a U-shaped channel on a top surface and a plurality of anchoring features on a bottom surface; a foot member configured to releasably couple with the elongate rail member, the foot member comprising a main body having a square-shaped recess configured to receive the bottom surface of the elongate rail member; and a stake adapted to engage with the foot member for anchoring said system to a subgrade.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the U-shaped channel has a width adapted to define a desired width of the control joint.

3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cross-connection member for joining a plurality of the elongate rail members together in a desired configuration.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the elongate rail member further comprises a recess aperture disposed between the bottom surface and the U-shaped channel, the recess aperture configured to receive a dowel member of the cross-connection member.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the anchoring features on the bottom surface of the elongate rail member comprise apertures configured to receive the stake.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the foot member further comprises left and right foot extensions extending from the main body, each foot extension having a through-aperture configured to receive the stake.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the elongate rail member further comprises: an aperture on each of a proximal end and a distal end; a sidewall thickness for the U-shaped channel; and a height that corresponds to a desired thickness of the concrete structure.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the square-shaped recess of the foot member has a width equal to the width of the bottom surface of the elongate rail member.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the elongate rail member and the foot member are formed of a resilient, malleable plastic.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the stake is formed of a resilient material that resists rust and decay.

11. A method of forming a control joint in a concrete structure, comprising: placing one or more elongate rail members of the system of claim 1 on a subgrade; optionally joining the elongate rail members together using a cross-connection member; anchoring the system to the subgrade using stakes; pouring concrete material onto the subgrade and around the elongate rail members; and allowing the concrete material to cure.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the concrete material is poured to substantially encapsulate the sides of the elongate rail members.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising placing a fdler material in the U-shaped channel of the elongate rail member after the concrete material has been poured.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the concrete material is poured to substantially encapsulate the sides of the elongate rail member, but not the top surface, such that the U- shaped channel remains open to receive a control joint material after the concrete has cured.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the elongate rail member includes resilient material properties adapted to withstand long-term exposure within the concrete structure without degrading or compromising the integrity of the control joint.

16. A system for forming a control joint in a concrete structure, comprising: an elongate member having a U-shaped channel on a top surface; a plurality of foot members, each foot member comprising a main body having a square-shaped recess configured to receive the elongate member; and a plurality of stakes adapted to engage with the foot members for anchoring the system to a subgrade.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the U-shaped channel has a width adapted to define a desired width of the control joint.

18. The system of claim 16, further comprising a cross-connection member for joining a plurality of elongate members together in a desired configuration.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein the square-shaped recess of the foot member has a width equal to the width of the elongate member.

20. The system of claim 16, wherein the elongate member and the foot members are formed of a durable, malleable plastic.

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