Open-Frame Formwork Element for Obstacle Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling formwork systems require temporary structures to surround obstacles, such as columns, which complicates the forming process and poses safety risks during concrete slab construction.
Innovation Solution
A formwork element with a pivoting, L-shaped or U-shaped frame that can be mounted from below, allowing for easier insertion around obstacles and providing a continuous grid structure, enhanced safety, and simplified obstacle handling through adjustable legs and cross braces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard formwork panels with fully enclosed frames are used, then the formwork structure is stable and safe, but temporary structures must be used to form around obstacles which complicates the forming process
Solution Approach 1:
The formwork system is divided into standard closed panels and separate open-frame compensating elements. The compensating element has a frame that is open on at least one side parallel to the formwork skin plane, allowing it to be inserted into gaps around obstacles like columns. This segmentation allows the majority of the formwork to use stable closed panels while only requiring simple open frames at obstacle locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensating element acts as an intermediary component between standard closed formwork panels and obstacles. It has a formwork skin that can be arranged in a formwork skin plane and a frame that is open on at least one side, enabling it to bridge the gap created by obstacles while maintaining the continuity of the formwork surface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If temporary structures are used to form around obstacles, then the obstacle can be accommodated, but worker safety is compromised as workers can fall through gaps
Solution Approach 1:
The compensating element is designed with a formwork skin that can be arranged in a formwork skin plane before concrete pouring. The frame is designed to be open on at least one side parallel to this plane, allowing it to be mounted from below to close gaps around obstacles. This preliminary arrangement ensures that the formwork surface is continuous and safe for workers before they need to access the area.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed to be mounted from below, changing the direction of assembly from the traditional top-down approach. This allows the formwork skin to be securely positioned in the horizontal plane while the frame structure provides vertical support and closure, eliminating fall hazards through a different assembly dimension.
3Adaptability or versatility
If temporary structures are used around obstacles, then the obstacle is accommodated, but the process of re-forming is complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The compensating element is designed as a separate, modular component that can be easily inserted into gaps around obstacles. The frame is open on at least one side parallel to the formwork skin plane, allowing for simple insertion and assembly without requiring complex temporary structures or extensive re-forming operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensating element serves multiple functions: it accommodates obstacles like columns, maintains the continuity of the formwork surface, provides worker safety by closing gaps, and can be easily assembled and disassembled. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized temporary structures for each obstacle.
4Stability of the object's composition
If standard closed frame panels are used, then the formwork is stable, but the appearance of the constructed structure may be non-uniform due to visible seams or joints
Solution Approach 1:
The compensating element with its formwork skin arranged in a formwork skin plane acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap around obstacles while maintaining the visual continuity of the formwork surface. The open frame design allows it to be inserted into gaps without creating visible disruptions to the overall surface pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The compensating element is designed to match the appearance and dimensions of standard formwork panels as closely as possible. The formwork skin and frame configuration create a uniform surface that integrates seamlessly with adjacent closed panels, ensuring that the final concrete structure has a consistent appearance without visible seams or irregularities.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a formwork element (20a) of a ceiling formwork (10). The formwork element (20a) has a non-fully circumferentially closed, in particular U-shaped, frame onto which a formwork skin can be or is arranged. The frame preferably has at least a first leg, a second leg and a base strut in between. The base strut is preferably oriented at a right angle ±5° relative to the two legs. The legs are preferably each provided at their end regions opposite to the base strut with a fastening projection and/or a fastening recess. The formwork element (20a) can be suspended by a worker from below into a pillar head (16a) and is upwardly pivotable. It makes it possible to build around an obstacle (18) in a simple manner while maintaining a grid-like imprint structure in the concrete surface to be created with the ceiling formwork (10).