Adjustable Formwork Corner Element with Magnetic Fixation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional reservation formwork corner elements are not easily adaptable to different dimensions and shapes, particularly failing to create non-standard angles, and are difficult to use without specialized tools.

Innovation Solution

A corner element with adjustable seats forming an elbow, made from a preformed plate that can be folded to accommodate various angles, allowing easy installation and adjustment without tools, using magnetic means for fixation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional reservation formwork corner elements are used, then the formwork can be assembled, but they are not adaptable to different dimensions and shapes, particularly failing to create non-standard angles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different dimensions and shapesVSAvoidcomplexity of corner element structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The corner element incorporates an articulation mechanism that allows the angle between the two seats to be adjusted dynamically. This enables the formwork to adapt to different dimensions and shapes, including non-standard angles, while maintaining a relatively simple structural design through the use of a single adjustable component rather than multiple fixed-angle pieces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If conventional reservation formwork corner elements are used, then the formwork can be assembled, but they are difficult to use without specialized tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installation and adjustmentVSAvoidstability of corner element assembly
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The corner element replaces complex mechanical fastening systems with a simplified articulation mechanism that can be adjusted and secured more easily. The articulation allows for tool-free or minimal-tool adjustment of angles, improving ease of operation while maintaining assembly stability through the inherent mechanical interlock of the articulated joints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If adjustable corner elements are implemented, then adaptability to different angles is improved, but the complexity of the corner element increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability to non-standard anglesVSAvoidcomplexity of articulation mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The corner element is segmented into two distinct seats connected by an articulation, allowing each seat to be optimized for its specific function while the articulation provides the necessary adjustability. This segmentation enables adaptability to different angles without requiring the entire corner element to be overly complex, as each segment remains relatively simple in design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables the creation of well-formed angles with fewer surface irregularities and burrs, being easily adjustable to different dimensions and shapes, including non-right angles, facilitating efficient construction with integrated formwork.

Implementation Method 1

The corner element according to the invention is produced by folding a preformed plate along fold lines

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFolding: Folding

Implementation Method 2

using magnetic means for fixation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP4183952B1Reservation formwork corner element and formwork comprising such an element
Publication Date: 2023.11.15 FEHR GROUPE
  • EP4183952B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4183952B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4183952B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The present invention relates to an external corner element (1) of a formwork frame or portion thereof comprising a first receiving seat (8) for a first formwork element (3), extending along a first longitudinal axis XX' and comprising a connecting end (10a) and a free end (11a), a second receiving seat (9) for a second formwork element (4), extending along a second longitudinal axis YY' and comprising a connecting end (10b) and a free end (11b), said first seat (8) and said second seat (9) being connected by a joint (12) formed by said connecting ends (10a) (10b), and forming a bend delimiting an internal space E, the angle of which is adjustable and within which said formwork elements (3, 4) are positioned, said first seat (8) and said second seat (9) each comprising at least an upper wall (14a, 14b),arranged adjacent to each of a side wall (15a, 15b), said upper walls (14a, 14b) having a longitudinal section substantially in the shape of an "L". It also relates to a method of obtaining such a corner element, to its use for constructing a recess formwork, to a recess formwork, and to a construction element comprising said recess formwork or a recess made using such formwork.