Positioning Element with Radially Deformable Tongues for Concrete Formwork

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing positioning elements for built-in parts in concrete segments face challenges such as difficulty in quick and cost-effective removal after concrete casting, alignment issues with the formwork, and variability in component sizes that hinder universal magnetic arrangement usage.

Innovation Solution

A positioning element with a magnetic arrangement that includes a floor and side walls surrounding a first recording room for a magnet, and a tubular socket for a magnetic tap, featuring radially deformable tongues for secure attachment and easy release, along with centering elements and seals for precise alignment and protection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a positioning element with magnet assembly is used to attach embedded components to metal formwork, then the component can be securely positioned during concrete casting, but the positioning element and magnet assembly become difficult to remove quickly and cost-effectively after casting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure positioningVSAvoidremoval time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning element is divided into separable components: the base with magnet receiving chamber that attaches to the formwork, and the insert with mounting opening that holds the embedded component. The tubular spigot acts as a detachable connector between these segments, allowing the magnet assembly to remain on the formwork while the positioning element and embedded component are removed as a unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The magnet assembly is extracted from the positioning element structure, allowing it to remain attached to the formwork while the positioning element body and embedded component are removed separately. This extraction enables the magnet to be reused while eliminating the need to remove it with the positioning element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Manufacturing precision

If additional positioning elements are required to position the embedded component relative to the magnetic arrangement, then the component can be precisely positioned, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning precisionVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The positioning element merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: the base provides magnetic attachment to the formwork, the tubular spigot provides mechanical connection and alignment, and the insert provides the mounting interface for the embedded component. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate positioning elements and reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The positioning element is designed as a universal fixture that can accommodate different embedded components through the adjustable insert mechanism. The same base and spigot structure can work with various inserts to position different types of anchoring elements, junction boxes, or other embedded components, reducing the need for multiple specialized positioning devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

The solution enables efficient and cost-effective removal of the magnetic arrangement and positioning element post-concrete casting, ensures precise alignment and positioning of built-in parts, and accommodates varying component sizes through adaptable design, enhancing automated processes and usability.

Implementation Method 1

The magnet serves to temporarily attach the positioning element to the metal formwork of the concrete segment to be cast

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic attraction: Magnetism

Implementation Method 2

In one wall of the tubular fitting, at least one radially deformable tongue is arranged for holding the pin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic deformation: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4296451B1Positioning element
Publication Date: 2025.05.07 KAISER AKTIENGES
  • EP4296451B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4296451B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4296451B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5

AI summary

The present invention relates to a positioning element (1) for positioning an embedded part (3) in a concrete segment (4) to be cast on a metal formwork by means of a magnetic arrangement (2). The positioning element (1) comprises a base (6) and a surrounding side wall (7), which together enclose a first receiving chamber (9) for receiving a magnet (15) of the magnetic arrangement (2), and a receiving opening (11) opposite the base (6) through which the first receiving chamber (9) is accessible. A tubular spigot (8) projects axially from a rear side (17) of the base (6), enclosing a second receiving chamber (10) for holding a pin (14) of the magnetic arrangement (2). The second receiving chamber (10) is accessible from the first receiving chamber (9) through an opening (12) in the base (6).Furthermore, the positioning element (1) comprises at least one radially deformable tongue (18) arranged in a wall (13) of the nozzle (8) for holding the pin (14).