One-Piece Post-Tension Tendon Pocket Former with Ribbed Formwork Securing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pocket formers for post-tension cables require cumbersome and difficult-to-install alignment and securing mechanisms, often necessitating two people and multiple pieces, especially in tight spaces like beams and columns with rebar, and result in back-outs and form removal challenges.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece tendon pocket former with a ribbed formwork securing mechanism that integrates a pocket section, formwork securing mechanism, and anchor securing mechanism, allowing for single-person installation by using angled or tapered ribs to secure the anchor to the formwork and prevent back-outs, eliminating the need for nails or screws.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional alignment rings and nails/screws are used to secure the anchor to formwork, then the anchor can be attached to the formwork, but the installation becomes complex requiring multiple pieces, two people, and constant supervision to prevent back-outs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the alignment ring and securing mechanism into a single integrated component. The ribbed formwork securing mechanism is built as one piece with the pocket section, eliminating the need for separate alignment rings, nails, or screws. This merging reduces the number of parts and simplifies installation while maintaining reliable anchor attachment through the ribbed structure that prevents back-outs.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing mechanism uses segmented ribs that can be inserted into corresponding slots in the formwork. The ribbed structure divides the securing function into multiple engagement points along the rib length, providing reliable attachment without requiring multiple separate fasteners. The ribs segment the force distribution across multiple contact points with the formwork.
2Ease of operation
If nails or screws are used to secure the pocket former to formwork, then the assembly can be held in place, but installation becomes difficult in tight spaces with rebar and requires extensions
Solution Approach 1:
The ribbed formwork securing mechanism acts as an intermediary between the pocket section and the formwork. Instead of using nails or screws that require penetration through rebar, the ribs provide a direct mechanical interlocking mechanism with the formwork slots, eliminating the need for fasteners and simplifying installation in tight spaces.
3Reliability
If multiple pieces and fasteners are used to secure the anchor, then the anchor can be attached to formwork, but the installation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the alignment ring and securing mechanism into one integrated component with ribbed structure, the patent eliminates multiple installation steps. The single-piece construction allows the worker to install the entire assembly in one operation without needing to separately attach alignment rings, nails, or screws, significantly increasing installation speed while maintaining reliable anchor securing.
4Ease of operation
If screws are used to secure the formwork, then installation is easier than nails, but form removal becomes difficult as screws are buried in concrete
Solution Approach 1:
The ribbed securing mechanism uses discrete ribs that can be individually engaged with formwork slots. When form removal is needed, the ribs can be released from the slots without requiring screw extraction. The segmented rib structure allows for easy installation and removal unlike embedded screws, while still providing secure attachment during construction.
Data Source
AI summary
A post-tension tendon pocket former includes a pocket section, a formwork securing mechanism and an anchor securing mechanism. The pocket section is configured to create a pocket in an edge of concrete. The pocket section includes a first end and a second end. The formwork securing mechanism connected to the second end of the pocket section. The formwork securing mechanism is configured to secure the second end of the pocket section to a formwork. The anchor securing mechanism is connected to the first end of the pocket section. The anchor securing mechanism is configured to secure the first end of the pocket section to an anchor. The pocket section, formwork securing mechanism and anchor securing mechanism are integrally formed to create a one-piece pocket former. Whereby, the post-tension tendon pocket former is configured so secure and align the anchor to the formwork.