Concrete Form Locking Pin Retainer Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for constructing and deconstructing concrete forms are manpower-intensive, costly, and inefficient, with issues of maintaining desired spacing, preventing distortion, and dealing with loss of components like threaded rods and clamps during the process.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus using elongated locking pins, retainers, and form connectors that allow for quick assembly and disassembly without tools, maintaining consistent thickness and geometric shape, and minimizing component loss, featuring a tapered surface for easy insertion and removal and adjustable locking slots for varying thicknesses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If threaded rods and nuts are used to maintain spacing between forms, then the desired spacing can be achieved, but the components are easily lost during deconstruction and require replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the spacing maintenance function and the retention function into a single integrated device. The retainer assembly merges the threaded rod, nuts, washers, and spacing blocks into one unified component that cannot be lost during deconstruction, as all parts remain attached to each other throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the formwork system into modular components: the retainer assembly (with integrated spacing and retention functions), the form connectors, and the forms themselves. This segmentation allows for systematic assembly and disassembly while keeping small components attached to larger structural elements.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple separate components (nuts, washers, rods, clamps) are used for form construction, then spacing and structural integrity can be maintained, but the process becomes manpower-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components into integrated assemblies. The retainer assembly combines threaded rods, nuts, washers, and spacing blocks into one unit. The form connector integrates clamping and positioning functions. This reduces the number of separate operations needed during assembly and deconstruction, significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it maintains spacing, provides structural support, and prevents component loss. The form connector integrates clamping, positioning, and alignment functions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and operations needed.
3Manufacturing precision
If threaded rods are inserted through forms and nuts are tightened with wrenches, then the desired spacing width is achieved, but tools and multiple steps are required increasing time and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the spacing blocks and threaded rod components into an integrated retainer assembly where the spacing is predetermined by the physical structure of the assembly itself, not by adjustable nuts and washers. This eliminates the need for wrenches and multiple adjustment steps while maintaining precise spacing control.
4Strength
If multi-piece clamps are assembled to grip adjoining forms, then forms can be clamped together, but pieces are often lost requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the clamping function into the form connector assembly, which remains attached to the forms throughout the process. The clamp components are merged with the form connector structure, eliminating the risk of losing separate clamp pieces during deconstruction while maintaining strong grip on the forms.
Data Source
AI summary
A concrete form apparatus and system for connecting opposing form sections at a desired distance from each other defining a space to receive poured concrete, the apparatus preventing the form section separation, the apparatus including a locking pin, form connector rotatably and releasably affixed to a form, and retainer affixed to arm defining a channel therein sized to be engaged within the slot whereby the locking pin is placed through corresponding holes in adjacent forms and engages a first form, extends through the relative distance between the forms, exits through a hole in the second form, and the channel of the retainer attached to the second form engages the locking slot on the locking pin maintaining a fixed distance between the forms and preventing form separation when pouring concrete. A system using the foregoing and also including clamps for affixing adjoining forms to one another is also claimed.