Internally Braced Permanent Formwork for Concrete Foundations
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Solution Overview
Problem
The traditional method of constructing concrete slab foundations using temporary formwork is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly, often requiring multiple site visits and being weather-dependent, which can hinder other construction work.
Innovation Solution
An internally braced permanent formwork system comprising a base sheet member with perimeter recesses, permanent outer boards, and internal bracing members that are mechanically coupled to provide stability and support against tipping, allowing for efficient setup and integration into the concrete slab foundation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional temporary formwork boards are used with external stakes, then the formwork can be removed and reused after concrete hardening, but the process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming requiring multiple site visits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the disposable principle by using permanent formwork boards that remain in the concrete foundation after hardening. Instead of removing and reusing formwork, the system uses inexpensive permanent boards (such as fiber cement or insulated concrete forms) that become part of the permanent structure, eliminating the need for removal and reuse while significantly speeding up construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the formwork function with the permanent foundation structure by integrating the formwork boards into the concrete itself. The formwork boards are positioned within the concrete mass and remain as permanent elements, combining the temporary support function with the permanent structural requirement, thus eliminating the need for separate formwork removal operations.
2Stability of the object's composition
If external formwork stakes are used to secure temporary formwork, then the formwork stays upright during concrete pouring, but the process requires multiple trips and holds up other construction work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the external stakes from the system by using internally braced permanent formwork. The bracing members are embedded within the concrete foundation rather than extending externally into the ground. This internal bracing system provides the necessary stability during pouring while eliminating the need for external ground engagement, allowing faster setup and no interference with other construction activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the permanent formwork boards and internal bracing members before concrete pouring. The entire formwork system is assembled in advance with all bracing elements in place, eliminating the need for multiple site visits and sequential operations. The formwork is ready for immediate concrete placement, significantly reducing construction time.
3Device complexity
If traditional temporary formwork is used, then the process is simple to set up with basic materials, but it is weather-dependent and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the formwork system into modular permanent boards and standardized internal bracing members that can be quickly assembled. The permanent formwork boards are divided into manageable sections that can be positioned and secured rapidly, while the internal bracing uses standardized components. This segmentation reduces labor intensity while maintaining system simplicity, allowing fewer workers to complete the assembly faster.
Data Source
AI summary
An internally braced permanent formwork for concrete foundation construction is provided in order to achieve a quick and simple assembly. The formwork comprises a base member laid on the ground having a perimeter recess on an upper surface for receiving components of the formwork. One or more permanent outer boards forming an outer periphery of the foundation are provided and coupled to a plurality of spaced internal bracing components to prevent collapse under the pressure of wet concrete.