Modular Grid System for Concrete Aperture Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for creating apertures in concrete walls for passage of objects are labor-intensive and damage the form, and existing grid systems cannot be installed before aperture-forming devices or allow for easy insertion of devices after installation.
Innovation Solution
A modular grid system comprising an outer frame, outer partial ring, and inner partial rings with securable connections, allowing for flexible installation and accommodation of aperture-forming devices of varying diameters, enabling easy insertion and reuse of concrete forms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If aperture-forming devices are secured directly to the form, then the devices are held in place, but the form is damaged and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a grid system as an intermediary component between the aperture-forming devices and the concrete form. The grid system includes a plurality of interconnected members that form a three-dimensional structure, which secures the aperture-forming devices without direct attachment to the form, thereby preventing form damage while maintaining holding capability
2Ease of operation
If a traditional grid system is used, then aperture-forming devices can be secured, but the grid system cannot be installed before the devices are installed
Solution Approach 1:
The grid system is divided into multiple separate members that can be assembled together. This segmentation allows the grid system to be installed in the concrete form before the aperture-forming devices are placed, as the modular structure can be positioned and secured independently, then the devices are inserted through the open spaces between members
Solution Approach 2:
The grid system is designed to be installed in advance before the aperture-forming devices are positioned. The interconnected members create a pre-established framework that guides and supports subsequent device installation, enabling preliminary preparation of the form structure
3Strength
If rigid grid sections are used, then structural strength is provided, but aperture-forming devices cannot be inserted after grid installation
Solution Approach 1:
The grid members are designed with flexible characteristics that allow them to bend or flex during device insertion, then maintain structural integrity once the devices are in place. This dynamic behavior enables the grid to transition from a rigid barrier to a accommodating structure that supports the aperture-forming devices
4Reliability
If two modular grid components are used per device, then securement is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple grid members are interconnected to form a unified three-dimensional structure that functions as a single integrated system. This merging of components reduces the overall complexity compared to using separate grid sections for each device, while maintaining securement reliability through the distributed support of the interconnected network
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide modular grid systems for use with aperture-forming devices. The modular grid system includes a plurality of modular grids, wherein each modular grid includes an outer frame, an outer partial ring coupled to the frame, and at least one inner partial ring coupled to the outer partial ring via at least one securable connection, wherein the outer partial ring and the at least one inner partial ring form arcs of greater than 180 degrees but less than 360 degrees. Each modular grid is coupled to an adjacent modular grid. In some embodiments, the outer frame comprises a removable bar. In some embodiments, the plurality of modular grids are oriented in the same direction. In some embodiments, the modular grid is configured to couple to an aperture-forming device, where the aperture-forming device has a diameter ranging from 2 to 6 inches.