Formwork Mechanism for Reticular Slabs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing formwork systems for concrete structures do not allow for the easy formation of coffers for reticular slabs, and they require additional aligners that increase the weight and complexity of the system, while also potentially altering the thickness of structural elements during concrete setting.
Innovation Solution
A formwork mechanism comprising a coffer with a sheet and four perimeter plates, each plate having holes for fixing means that connect to structural elements with lateral perforations, allowing for the construction of formworks for flat and curved reticular slabs with varying thickness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional formwork systems with aligners and multiple connection accessories are used, then panels can be connected and adjusted, but the system becomes heavier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated corner piece that replaces aligners, spacers, and corner brackets. The corner piece integrates the alignment, spacing, and structural corner functions into one element, reducing the number of separate components and overall system weight while maintaining ease of installation through simplified connection procedures.
2Manufacturing precision
If spacers are used to prevent plates from moving outwards, then plate position is maintained, but plates can still move towards concrete when nuts are tightened, changing structural thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The self-tapping screw mechanism performs the dual function of securing the plate to the structural element and simultaneously maintaining the correct spacing and thickness. The screw's threaded engagement with the structural element's perforations provides both connection and dimensional control, eliminating the need for separate spacer components and preventing thickness variations during tightening.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional formwork systems are used, then general concrete structures can be formed, but coffers for reticular slabs cannot be formed
Solution Approach 1:
The corner piece is designed as a universal component that can form both traditional concrete structures and reticular slabs with coffers. The integrated design with multiple perforations and connection points allows the same corner piece to accommodate different structural configurations, including the specific geometry required for reticular slabs, eliminating the need for specialized formwork components.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention corresponds to a formwork mechanism for casting and molding concrete, comprising a coffer having a sheet and four plates around the sheet perimeter. Each plate has holes arranged on its front face. Also, the formwork mechanism includes a structural element, connected to one of the plates by fixing means. On the other hand, the structural element has lateral perforations that are aligned with the holes of one of the coffer plates. Fixing means pass through the holes and side holes. The structural element may be a beam, a three or four-beam T, and combinations thereof. On the other hand, using several coffers interconnected with structural elements, formworks are constructed for casting flat reticular slabs; and also for curved reticular slabs with greater slab thickness near the beams supporting the slabs in comparison to the span of the slabs.