Hinged Formwork Device for Crane-Free Precast Concrete Production

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing formwork devices for producing precast concrete parts are limited in their universal application and require multiple devices or a battery mold setup, which can be inefficient and require cranes for handling and placement.

Innovation Solution

The method involves filling the formwork device with concrete in its unfolded state and allowing it to harden in a partially or fully folded state, enabling independent use without additional formwork devices or battery molds, and allowing for transportation and on-site assembly without cranes, using a detachable cover and securing devices to maintain the folded state.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If formwork devices are used in traditional battery mold setups, then production efficiency is improved, but device complexity and requirement for additional equipment increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduction efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The formwork device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be used both as part of a battery mold system for high-volume production and as an independent unit for individual precast element fabrication. The device includes all necessary components (formwork panels, cover, bracing mechanisms) to function autonomously, eliminating the need for additional specialized equipment while maintaining production efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If formwork devices are used in unfolded state for concreting, then ease of operation is improved, but space requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidspace requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The formwork device employs dynamic configuration capabilities, allowing it to transition between unfolded state during concreting operations and folded state for storage and transport. The articulated connection between formwork panels and the collapsible bracing system enable smooth transitions between these states, providing ease of operation during use while minimizing space requirements when not in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Area of stationary object

If concrete hardens in folded state, then space saving is improved, but manufacturing precision may worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace savingVSAvoidmanufacturing precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The device performs preliminary actions by establishing the unfolded configuration with proper bracing before concrete pouring begins. All formwork panels, covers, and bracing elements are positioned and secured in their correct operational positions prior to concreting. This preliminary setup ensures that the concrete hardens in the proper form with accurate dimensions, and only after hardening does the device collapse to the folded state for space-saving storage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Force

If traditional crane-based handling is used, then lifting capability is improved, but cost and time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelifting capabilityVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The formwork device is designed with self-service capabilities through its collapsible bracing system and articulated panel connections. When concrete hardens, the device can be collapsed from unfolded to folded state through its own structural mechanisms without requiring external cranes or heavy lifting equipment. The formwork panels and cover can be manually or mechanically collapsed and secured, enabling the device to serve itself for storage and transport, significantly reducing time consumption and operational costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3565692B1Formwork device
Publication Date: 2020.07.01 UMDASCH GROUP NEWCON GMBH
  • EP3565692B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3565692B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3565692B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The aim of the invention is to improve a conventional formwork device. According to the invention, a formwork device is provided for producing components, in particular precast concrete parts, wherein the formwork device has two formwork panels which can be hinged together preferably in a releasable manner in order to be converted from an unfolded state into a folded state. Each formwork panel has a formwork front face and a formwork rear face, and the formwork rear faces of the two formwork panels face each other in the folded state. A formwork chamber which can preferably be closed by a cover is provided at least on one of the formwork front faces for filling with a fluid that can be hardened, preferably concrete. The invention additionally relates to a method for producing a precast concrete part using a formwork device according to the invention.