Pivotable Formwork Brace Assembly for Efficient Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing formwork systems for pourable building materials, such as concrete, face challenges in efficient deployment, disassembly, storage, and transport, often requiring disconnection of brace assemblies from wallform panels, which can be time-consuming and unsafe.
Innovation Solution
A formwork system with a brace assembly that includes pivotably connected props and a locking mechanism, allowing the assembly to swing between deployed and storage positions, enabling anchoring to a ground surface and subsequent adjustment for alignment, while remaining connected to the wallform panel for efficient deployment and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If brace assemblies are disconnected from wallform panels for storage and transport, then space efficiency and ease of handling are improved, but deployment time increases and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The brace assembly incorporates a swivel connector that enables dynamic movement between a deployed position (extending outward to support the wallform panel) and a storage position (swung parallel to the panel). This dynamic positioning allows the brace to remain connected while adapting to different operational states, eliminating the need for disconnection during storage and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The swivel connector serves multiple functions: it provides rotational movement for positioning, maintains structural connection during storage and transport, and enables rapid deployment without disassembly. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the connection mechanism itself adaptable to different operational requirements.
2Loss of time
If brace assemblies remain connected to wallform panels during storage and transport, then deployment time is reduced and safety is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel connector enables the brace assembly to dynamically change its spatial configuration. During storage and transport, the brace swings to a parallel position against the wallform panel, minimizing the space occupied. During deployment, it swings outward to the extended position for support functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The brace assembly in storage position effectively nests against the wallform panel, with the swivel connector allowing the brace to lie flat against the panel surface. This nesting configuration significantly reduces the footprint and space requirements compared to traditional disconnected storage methods.
3Area of stationary object
If traditional brace assemblies require disconnection for storage, then space efficiency is improved, but safety risks and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The swivel connector provides universal functionality that satisfies both space efficiency and safety requirements. It enables compact storage positioning while maintaining secure connection, eliminating the safety risks associated with disconnection and reconnection operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic swivel mechanism allows the brace to adapt its position for compact storage while remaining securely connected. This eliminates the need for disconnection operations that create safety hazards, while still achieving space-efficient storage configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
A formwork system includes (a) a wallform panel for forming a wall portion; and (b) at least one brace assembly including a pair of vertically spaced apart props pivotably connected to the wallform panel for pivoting of the brace assembly relative to the wallform panel between a storage position, in which the brace assembly lies adjacent the wallform panel, and a deployed position, in which the brace assembly projects from the wallform panel for anchoring the props to a ground surface through a common base plate connected to each prop.