Sideform Connector Plate Magnetic Mounting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sideform support systems are not suitable for molding single, unusual, or awkwardly shaped precast building panels, as they are designed for multiple panels and are either cumbersome or require significant movement, which is impractical for in situ and off-site operations.
Innovation Solution
A sideform assembly comprising a connector plate with an engaging means and a mounting member that can be securely attached to various substrates, including magnetic tables, allowing for flexible and cost-effective support of sideforms, enabling easy modification for different panel shapes and sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional sideform support system is used for multiple panels, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen when only a single panel needs to be molded
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into separate modular components: mounting brackets that attach to the substrate, connector plates that secure the sideforms, and independent mounting members. This segmentation allows the system to be scaled down for single panel operations while maintaining the capability for multiple panels, resolving the contradiction between productivity and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs releasable and adjustable connections between components, allowing dynamic reconfiguration. The connector plate can be easily attached and detached from both the mounting bracket and the sideform, enabling the system to adapt its complexity level based on whether single or multiple panels are being molded.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional sideform support system is used, then structural stability is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to required sideform movement
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets are pre-installed on the substrate (magnetic table or other surface) before the sideforms are positioned. The connector plates are designed with pre-positioned engaging means that align with the attaching formations on the sideforms. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need to move or reposition the sideforms during assembly, maintaining stability while greatly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector plate acts as an intermediary component between the mounting bracket and the sideform. It provides a stable attachment point with engaging means that securely connects to the sideform's attaching formation, eliminating the need to handle or move the sideform directly while ensuring stable support.
3Ease of manufacture
If a customized support system is designed for single panels, then ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability worsens for different panel shapes and sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets, connector plates, and mounting members are designed as universal components that can accommodate various panel shapes, sizes, and configurations. The connector plate's engaging means can interface with different attaching formations, and the mounting brackets can be positioned at various locations on the substrate. This universality allows a single standardized system to be manufactured once while adapting to diverse panel requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic reconfiguration through adjustable component positions and orientations. The mounting brackets can be placed at different locations and angles on the substrate, and the connector plates can be oriented to match various sideform configurations. This dynamic adaptability enables the same manufactured components to serve multiple panel types without requiring customization.
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 provides a simple, cost-effective, and adaptable sideform support system that can efficiently mold single panels of unusual shapes, accommodating different substrates and allowing for easy panel removal after curing, thus enhancing operational flexibility and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
the mounting member may be a magnetisable mounting block for mounting to a magnetic substrate
Data Source
AI summary
A sideform assembly (9) includes a sideform (11) defining an attaching formation (13′, 14′) on an operatively rear wall (12). A mounting bracket assembly (10) comprises a connector plate (16) for supporting the sideform (11) and includes an engaging component (21) for engaging the attaching formation (13′, 14′) of the sideform (11). A mounting member (18) is carried by the connector plate (16) for mounting the connector plate (16) to a substrate.