Concrete Sideform System with Removable Inserts for Edge Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current concrete sideform systems face challenges in producing sharp edges, accommodating non-standard angles, securing sideforms to casting beds, and preventing concrete bleeding, which result in costly labor, inefficiencies, and suboptimal finishes.
Innovation Solution
A composite concrete sideform system featuring a rigid frame with removable inserts that allow for customizable edge profiles, secure attachment to casting beds, and integrated features for sealing and concrete spillage management, enabling diverse aesthetic finishes and efficient production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard sideforms with fixed chamfer profiles are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to produce various edge profiles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The sideform is divided into a base structure and separate interchangeable inserts. The inserts can be removed and replaced to change the edge profile, allowing the same sideform to produce multiple different concrete edge shapes without modifying the main structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different inserts with varying geometric parameters (angles, shapes, profiles) can be attached to the sideform base. By changing the insert parameters, the output edge profile parameters change accordingly, enabling production of standard and non-standard angles without redesigning the entire sideform.
2Adaptability or versatility
If plywood or polystyrene foam fillets are used for non-standard angles, then edge profile variety is achieved, but labor intensity and production time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using labor-intensive custom-cut fillets for each non-standard angle, pre-fabricated inserts are used that can be quickly attached and removed. These inserts are designed for rapid installation and removal, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site cutting and fitting operations.
3Reliability
If silicone is used to seal gaps between sideform and casting bed, then concrete bleeding is prevented, but cleaning time and labor increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the sideform base and placed into a separate removable insert. This allows the insert to be removed and cleaned separately from the expensive sideform structure, reducing cleaning time and preventing damage to the main sideform components.
4Reliability
If sideforms are bolted to casting bed for secure attachment, then stability is improved, but weight and maneuverability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sideform is segmented into a lightweight base structure and separate functional components (inserts, sealing elements). This segmentation allows the use of lighter materials in the main structure while maintaining overall stability through proper design of attachment and support mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention concerns a concrete side form system suitable for factory casting or site casting concrete. The side form (10) comprises a substantially rigid longitudinally extending wall. The wall has a first face to define the edge profile of a concrete panel poured onto a casting bed (16) bounded by the wall and a second face opposite the first face having formation to enable the wall to be secured to the casting bed. The wall comprises a longitudinally extending frame having formation along at least one of its edges to removably receive a removable longitudinal insert (13) to provide a shape along an edge of the concrete panel. The removable inserts (12, 13) provide the system with the ability to simply, easily and cost effectively change the edge profile of concrete poured against the side form. Architects can use the invention to specify standard or non standard edge profiles and achieve a much more diverse range of aesthetic finishes to the concrete edges without the cost being prohibitive.