Pre-embedded Anchor Apparatus for Concrete Formwork

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current construction methods require drilling into cured concrete to embed fasteners, which is time-consuming and can compromise the structural integrity of the concrete, and also creates logistical challenges for multiple contractors accessing the support structure.

Innovation Solution

A construction anchoring system where anchor apparatuses are embedded within the concrete form before curing, featuring a locking plate, elongate anchor with a connector segment, and a cover that isolates the external thread from concrete, allowing easy access for various construction materials and tools post-concrete curing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If fasteners are drilled into cured concrete, then anchoring capability is achieved, but construction time increases and structural integrity is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidconstruction time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The anchor apparatus is installed in the concrete form before the concrete is poured and cured. The locking plate is secured to the form board, and the elongate anchor with external threads is positioned in advance. When concrete is deposited over the form, the anchor becomes embedded along with the form. After curing, the form is removed and the anchor is already in place, eliminating the need for post-curing drilling and installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple contractors access the support structure for fastener installation, then various construction materials can be installed, but logistical coordination becomes complex and structural integrity is further compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility for multiple contractorsVSAvoidlogistical coordination
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anchor apparatus features a universal coupling mechanism with external threads that can accommodate various construction materials and equipment from different contractors. The coupler with central opening and cooperating structure allows electrical lines, plumbing, HVAC, and other materials to be attached to the same anchor system without requiring separate fasteners or drilling operations.

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

3Ease of operation

If anchor apparatuses are embedded before concrete curing, then post-construction access is improved, but the anchoring system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepost-construction accessVSAvoidanchoring system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anchor apparatus is divided into distinct functional segments: the locking plate for securing to the form board, the elongate anchor with external threads for embedding in concrete, the coupler for connecting construction materials, and the cover for isolating the thread portion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system manageability and ease of installation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10689841B2Construction anchoring system, apparatus and methodology
Publication Date: 2020.06.23 ANCHOR RING SOLUTIONS LLC
  • US10689841B2 patent drawing
  • US10689841B2 patent drawing
  • US10689841B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A construction anchoring system includes one or more anchor apparatuses which are mountable relative to a form used to create a concrete support structure. The concrete is deposited in the form and cures whereby the one or more anchor apparatuses becomes embedded within the concrete support structure. The embedded anchor apparatus is readily accessible to be coupled with, or to support, construction supplies or equipment such as ductwork, electrical cables, plumbing, sprinklers, safety lines or fences, etc. within a construction site. A plurality of anchor apparatuses may be mounted relative to the concrete form to create a system for organizing the installation of construction materials and/or safety equipment.