Rebar Positioner for Open Core Masonry Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior rebar positioners are not suitable for ProBlock style masonry blocks with open cores, as they rely on closed core structures and are prone to shifting during installation of overlying blocks, compromising the stability of masonry structures.
Innovation Solution
A rebar positioner designed for open core masonry blocks, featuring a single continuous wire with laterally spaced support elements that extend over and are supported by the block web, with sinuous 'S'-shaped rings to maintain rebar position within the open core, ensuring stability and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If prior art rebar positioners with perpendicular members extending over the block core are used, then rebar positioning is achieved, but the positioners are easily disturbed by movement of overlying blocks and prone to falling out of position
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of extending perpendicular members upward over the block core as in prior art, the invention inverts the approach by extending support elements downward into the closed core below the block. This inversion anchors the positioner to the stable closed core structure, preventing disturbance from overlying block movements while maintaining rebar positioning reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioner structure is nested within the block core configuration, with support elements extending into the closed core and positioning members within the open core. This nesting approach integrates the positioner with the block's internal structure, providing stability while accommodating the open core design.
2Device complexity
If rebar positioners lie entirely in one plane extending over the top of the core block, then simple construction is achieved, but the positioners must rely on the next masonry block being positioned on top to maintain proper position
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the traditional horizontal positioning approach by extending support elements vertically downward into the closed core. This provides active anchoring to the stable closed core structure rather than passive reliance on overlying blocks, maintaining position reliability without increasing structural complexity.
3Weight of stationary object
If conventional masonry blocks with closed cores are used, then rebar positioners can be supported by the block structure, but the blocks are heavier and require lifting over rebar to position
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by utilizing the closed core in specific locations (select cores at selected spacing) to provide support for positioners, while allowing other cores to be open for easier block handling. This selective use of closed cores provides structural support where needed without requiring all blocks to be heavy closed-core types.
Solution Approach 2:
The closed core serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the positioner, acts as an anchor for the support elements, and maintains block integrity. This multi-functionality allows the closed core to justify its added weight by providing both support and anchoring functions.
4Ease of operation
If the open core is used to reduce block weight and facilitate positioning, then easier block handling is achieved, but the open core does not support traditional positioner designs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention adapts to the open core design by inverting the positioner configuration: instead of supporting the positioner from above with perpendicular members, support elements extend downward into the closed core. This inverted approach is compatible with open core blocks, providing both ease of handling and positioner support.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioner is segmented into distinct functional parts: support elements extending into the closed core for stability, and positioning members within the open core for rebar alignment. This segmentation allows each part to serve its specific function, making the overall system compatible with open core block design.
Data Source
AI summary
A rebar positioner for being placed within an open core of a masonry block having an open core and an adjacent closed core separated by a web. A wire defines first and second laterally spaced-apart support elements adapted to extend over and be supported by the web of the block. End portions of the first and second support elements are adapted for extending into the enclosed core of the block. A rebar positioning segment defines at least one ring adapted for being positioned within the open core of the block and surrounding a section of vertically extending rebar positioned in the open core. The wire is bent such that the end portions of the first and second support elements are adapted for extending into the closed core at a level below an upper surface of the block and the at least one ring is adapted for extending into the open core at a level below the upper surface of the block.