Adjustable Formwork Clamp Assembly for Low-Inventory Configurations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing formwork systems require a large inventory of components and are not optimized for U.S. Imperial units, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for additional conversion components.
Innovation Solution
A formwork system composed of lightweight, non-welded aluminum components with adjustable fillers and standard clamps, allowing for versatile configurations and reduced inventory needs, including features like hinged corner extrusions and self-sealing ties to enhance assembly efficiency and reduce leakage risks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional formwork systems use a large inventory of components to fit any configuration, then versatility is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase due to assembly inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The formwork system is divided into modular components including adjustable fillers, corner brackets, and standard panels that can be independently assembled. The clamp assembly itself is segmented with adjustable members that can be configured for different wall thicknesses, enabling versatility without requiring a large inventory of fixed-size components.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly incorporates adjustable members that can be dynamically repositioned along the extrusion to accommodate different wall thicknesses. The filler assemblies can be adjusted in length and position, transforming the system from static fixed-size components to dynamic adjustable components that adapt to various configurations.
2Device complexity
If European modular systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability worsens due to metric unit requirements and lack of U.S. Imperial optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The system parameters are changed from metric to U.S. Imperial units throughout the component specifications. The extrusions, fillers, and clamps are designed with dimensions in inches and feet, allowing direct compatibility with U.S. construction standards without requiring conversion components or adapting to metric requirements.
3Reliability
If self-sealing ties are used, then reliability is improved to prevent concrete leakage, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The self-sealing tie mechanism combines multiple functions into a single integrated component. The tie bar, sealing element, and anchoring features are merged into one assembly that prevents concrete leakage while maintaining structural integrity, eliminating the need for separate sealing components and reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations described herein are directed to a formwork system. In one implementation. the formwork system includes aluminum extrusions and aluminum castings. The aluminum castings and the aluminum extrusions can be assembled by being pressed and riveted together.