Reversible Formwork Shell-to-Beam Connectors for Tool-Free Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing formwork systems face challenges in efficiently connecting and separating formwork shells and carriers without causing damage, particularly when high-quality surface finishes are required, and existing solutions either require tools for separation or result in plastic waste and high material costs.
Innovation Solution
A formwork module with reversible connectors between the formwork carrier and shell, allowing for multiple uses without destruction, using a connector system with threshold forces for connection and separation, and adaptable components for easy exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rivets are used to connect formwork shell and carrier, then connection strength is improved, but separation becomes elaborate and causes wear and damage to components
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separable parts: a carrier element fixed to the formwork carrier and a formwork shell element fixed to the formwork shell. This segmentation allows the connector to be assembled and disassembled without damaging the formwork components, resolving the contradiction between strong connection and easy separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector acts as an intermediary component between the formwork shell and carrier. It provides a reversible connection mechanism that enables both strong bonding during concreting and damage-free separation afterward, eliminating the need for rivets that cause wear and elaborate separation procedures.
2Reliability
If rivets are used for connection, then connection reliability is improved, but surface quality deteriorates due to rivet imprints
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is extracted from the formwork shell surface itself and relocated to the connector components. The carrier element and formwork shell element engage with each other through recesses and protrusions that do not penetrate or mark the formwork shell surface, thereby maintaining surface quality while ensuring reliable connection.
3Ease of operation
If clip connections are used to connect formwork carrier and shell, then ease of assembly is improved, but separation requires tools or destruction of clips
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates elastic deformable sections that allow dynamic adjustment during assembly and separation. The elastic formwork shell element can deform to engage with the carrier element during assembly and deform again to release during separation, enabling tool-free operation in both directions without requiring destruction of components.
4Device complexity
If formwork shell is designed to receive load alone, then structural simplicity is improved, but connection requirements to carrier increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector merges the functions of load transmission and reversible connection into a single integrated component system. The carrier element and formwork shell element together provide both the mechanical strength to handle concrete loads and the reversible connection capability, eliminating the need for overly complex formwork structures while meeting connection strength requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A formwork module for a formwork for a building part comprising at least one formwork carrier and at least one formwork shell, wherein at least one connector is situated between the formwork carrier and the formwork shell. The connector comprises at least one carrier element which is fastened on or in the formwork carrier, and at least one formwork shell element which is fastened in or on the formwork shell. The carrier element and the formwork shell element can be reversibly interconnected and form the connector by means of which the formwork shell can be reversibly connected to the formwork carrier. The use of a connector for detachably connecting a formwork carrier to a formwork shell and to a method for connecting a formwork shell to a formwork carrier of a formwork module. A method for separating a formwork shell from a formwork carrier of a formwork module.