Modular Formwork Dummy Kit for Damage-Free Concrete Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current formwork dummies for creating openings in concrete walls are often custom-built, not reusable, and their removal damages both the dummies and the concrete edges, while also being cumbersome to handle and install due to their weight, requiring machinery that may not be available on all construction sites.
Innovation Solution
A modular formwork dummy kit comprising corner assemblies, adjustable formwork/stripping keys, and detachable blocks that can be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing a single user to mount and remove them without damage, using magnets for attachment and adjustable mechanisms for precise fitting and easy handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If custom-built formwork dummies are used for each recess, then the reservation formation is precise, but the dummies cannot be reused and cause damage to the wall edges during removal
Solution Approach 1:
The formwork dummy is divided into multiple modular components including corner assemblies, intermediate assemblies, and closure plates that can be segmented and reconfigured. Each corner assembly contains a corner block and associated formwork/stripping keys, allowing the dummy to be disassembled into reusable segments rather than being a single custom-built piece.
Solution Approach 2:
The dummy incorporates adjustable formwork/stripping keys with threaded rods and nuts that allow dynamic adjustment of spacing between corner assemblies. This adjustability enables the same dummy components to adapt to different reservation dimensions while maintaining precise formation, and facilitates easy removal without damage.
2Manufacturing precision
If assembled formwork devices are used to create precise openings, then the reservation dimensions are accurate, but the device weight makes it difficult for a single user to transport and install
Solution Approach 1:
The formwork dummy is segmented into multiple lightweight components including corner assemblies, intermediate assemblies, and closure plates. Each component can be easily handled by a single user, yet when assembled together they form a structurally sound device that maintains precise opening dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner assemblies and intermediate assemblies are pre-fabricated with integrated formwork/stripping keys and adjustment mechanisms. This preliminary preparation allows a single user to quickly assemble the complete dummy on-site without requiring heavy machinery, while ensuring precise dimensional accuracy through the pre-configured modular components.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional dummies are strongly adhered to concrete for secure positioning, then the reservation placement is stable, but the removal process damages both the dummy and the wall edges
Solution Approach 1:
The formwork/stripping keys incorporate threaded rods with nuts that allow dynamic adjustment of the spacing between corner assemblies. This adjustable mechanism provides stable positioning during concrete pouring while enabling controlled removal without damage, as the keys can be unscrewed to release the corner assemblies gently from the hardened concrete.
Solution Approach 2:
The formwork/stripping keys act as intermediary elements between the corner assemblies and the concrete. These keys provide the necessary friction and mechanical interlock for stable positioning during pouring, but can be easily unscrewed to facilitate damage-free removal of the corner assemblies from the hardened wall.
4Ease of operation
If heavy machinery is used to handle the formwork dummy, then the installation becomes easier, but the equipment availability is limited on construction sites
Solution Approach 1:
The dummy is segmented into multiple lightweight components that can be easily carried and assembled by a single user without heavy machinery. The modular design reduces the weight and complexity of each individual component while maintaining the overall structural integrity and precision of the assembled dummy.
Solution Approach 2:
The corner assemblies and intermediate assemblies are designed to be self-aligning and self-securing through the threaded rod and nut mechanism. A single user can easily assemble the complete dummy on-site without requiring external machinery or assistance, as the modular components naturally fit together and can be secured through simple manual operations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, damage-free formation and removal of formwork openings, allowing for reusability of components and simplified installation without the need for heavy machinery, improving construction efficiency and reducing material waste.
Implementation Method 1
using magnets for attachment and adjustable mechanisms for precise fitting and easy handling
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a formwork dummy in kit formwork for forming, on a formwork face, the opening of a wall made from a setting material. This dummy comprises four filling assemblies (E1; E2; E3; E4) or corner assemblies, each suitable for being placed in an area corresponding to a corner of the opening, and in relative positions such that their outer shell corresponds to the opening and that, in this arrangement, a space is provided separating the vertical faces opposite the corner assemblies and a space separating the horizontal faces opposite the corner assemblies; removable elements (3; 215) called "formwork/stripping keys" suitable for holding the corner assemblies (E1; E2; E3;E4) in the corners of the recess to be formed, said organs being suitable for adjusting the spacing of the opposing corner assemblies in the mounting position and also being suitable for being removed when dismantling the dummy; and closing plates (P) suitable for closing the ends of the aforementioned spaces in the mounting position to constitute, with the external walls of the corner assemblies, the perimeter of the dummy to be formed.