Concrete Form Assembly with Interchangeable Locking Ties
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing concrete form systems are inefficient due to fully assembled blocks that occupy space, require labor-intensive assembly, and lack interchangeability and reversibility, leading to increased costs and inefficiencies in storage, shipping, and handling.
Innovation Solution
A locking and tie system with interchangeable and reversible components that can be assembled into sturdy blocks without specific orientation, allowing for easy handling and assembly, and can be cut for window and door openings, featuring teeth and bridging members for secure connections and adaptable dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If fully assembled blocks are used, then form strength is sufficient, but storage space and shipping costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The form blocks are divided into separate components (locking members with embedded panels and ties) that can be shipped and stored independently in a compact, flat configuration. These segments are then assembled on-site to form the complete insulated concrete form blocks, reducing storage volume while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.
2Strength
If traditional metal forms are used, then form strength is adequate, but assembly and removal become extremely labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The form system is segmented into modular components (locking members and ties) that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The locking members with embedded panels and removable ties create a system that is much easier to handle and assemble compared to traditional metal forms, reducing labor requirements while maintaining form strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking members combine rigid structural elements with insulated panels, creating a composite structure that integrates form strength with insulation functionality. This reduces the need for separate heavy metal forms while maintaining adequate structural support.
3Ease of operation
If knockdown forms with fixed orientation are used, then assembly is simplified, but component reliability decreases when cut or reoriented
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are designed with symmetrical features and interchangeable components that allow them to function reliably in multiple orientations and configurations. The ties can be installed from either direction, and the locking members can be rotated or reoriented without compromising the structural integrity or assembly reliability, providing universal applicability.
4Strength
If blocks are pre-assembled, then form strength is ensured, but shipping efficiency and handling ease deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The form system is divided into separable components (locking members and ties) that can be shipped in a compact, space-efficient manner. The components are assembled on-site rather than pre-assembled, maximizing shipping efficiency and handling ease while ensuring form strength is achieved through proper component connection.
Data Source
AI summary
Concrete form assemblies having insulating foam panels are created using locking members embedded within the insulating foam panels and ties each having a pair of side rails for coupling two insulating foam panels together at a predetermined distance apart, the locking members and side rails being adapted so that either side rail can be coupled to either locking member and either of the ends of the rails and locking members can be toward the top or bottom of the assembly when the rails are coupled to the locking members.