Tilt-Up Wall Window Assembly for Ground-Level Pre-Glazing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for forming vertical tilt-up walls around window frames require custom fitting, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and pose safety risks due to the need for glazing at height, while also generating unnecessary job site waste.
Innovation Solution
A method of pouring a tilt-up or precast vertical wall by positioning a window assembly comprising a frame, sash, and glazing on a horizontal surface, securing it, and pouring concrete around it, allowing the concrete to cure, then tilting the wall into a vertical position, thereby integrating the window frame before tilting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If window assemblies are installed after wall tilting using a lift, then glazing can be performed at the top of the wall, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive requiring additional equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly is installed in the horizontal wall form before the wall is tilted to its vertical position. This preliminary action eliminates the need for subsequent glazing operations at height, as the window is already in place during the pouring and curing process. The window assembly includes frame, sash, and glazing components pre-assembled on the horizontal surface, allowing concrete to be poured around it to form the wall with the window integrated.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom fitting is performed for each concrete opening, then the window can fit the specific opening dimensions, but the process requires additional time and labor
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly is pre-assembled with frame, sash, and glazing components in a controlled environment before wall construction. This preliminary assembly ensures precise dimensions and proper fit, eliminating the need for custom fitting after the wall is constructed. The pre-assembled unit maintains manufacturing precision while significantly reducing on-site time and labor requirements.
3Reliability
If glazing is performed at height on the vertical wall, then the window can be installed in the finished wall, but safety risks increase for workers
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly including frame, sash, and glazing is completely assembled on the horizontal surface before the wall is tilted. This preliminary assembly performs all glazing operations at ground level, eliminating safety hazards associated with working at height. The pre-assembled unit is then integrated into the wall during the tilt-up process, maintaining installation reliability while removing safety risks.
4Ease of manufacture
If boxes are removed after concrete cures to create openings, then the window opening can be formed, but job site waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window assembly is pre-assembled with all components (frame, sash, glazing) before wall construction. This preliminary action eliminates the need to remove formwork boxes after concrete curing, as the window is already in place. The concrete is poured around the pre-assembled window assembly, creating the wall with the window integrated, thereby eliminating waste from removed boxes and reducing material loss.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed apparatus, systems and methods relate to pouring concrete around a window frame begins by spraying a flat surface with a release, followed by positioning window assemblies on the flat surface. The window assemblies include at least a frame, and also possibly a sash, glazing and removable bracing. The window assemblies are secured to the flat surface and then concrete is poured around the window assembly to form a wall. Once the concrete cures around the frame, the bracing is removed, and the wall is tilted/lifted to a vertical position.