Wedge Mechanism for Automated Formwork Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for removing formwork from concrete structures are time-consuming and hazardous, as they require manual disassembly and involve the use of plywood panels supported by beams and shoring posts, posing risks to workers.
Innovation Solution
A motorized, wheeled machine with a raisable platform and formwork-removal apparatus that includes an arm, wedge element, and formwork-retaining mechanism to safely and efficiently remove plywood formwork from the underside of a concrete slab, along with a beam-removal apparatus for gripping and twisting I-beams to free them for removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual disassembly methods are used to remove formwork, then the process is simple to implement, but it is time-consuming and hazardous to workers
Solution Approach 1:
The machine performs formwork removal automatically without requiring manual disassembly operations. The wedge mechanism self-engages with the formwork panels and beams, applying separating forces automatically as the machine moves forward, eliminating the need for workers to manually pry or dismantle the formwork structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical disassembly operations with an automated machine system. The mechanical wedge mechanism, powered by the machine's motion, substitutes for manual prying tools and worker labor, while the retention mechanism automatically captures and transports removed formwork components.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional plywood formwork with beams and shoring posts is used, then the formwork is easy to assemble, but it is dangerous to build and remove particularly for larger structures
Solution Approach 1:
The machine autonomously performs the hazardous removal operations without requiring workers to physically engage with the formwork structure. The automated wedge mechanism and retention system handle all separation and transport tasks, eliminating worker exposure to falling objects and structural collapse risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The machine acts as an intermediary between the formwork structure and the removal process. Rather than workers directly manipulating the formwork components, the machine's wedge mechanism and retention system serve as intermediate devices that safely mediate the separation and transport of formwork elements.
3Reliability
If manual formwork removal is performed, then equipment costs are low, but labor time and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The machine autonomously performs all formwork removal operations including engagement, separation, retention, and transport. The automated sequence of operations eliminates the need for human workers to perform hazardous manual tasks, significantly improving worker safety despite the increased device complexity.
4Productivity
If formwork is removed manually, then the process is simple, but it is time-consuming for larger structures
Solution Approach 1:
The machine continuously removes formwork as it moves across the structure. The wedge mechanism maintains constant engagement with the formwork panels and beams, and the retention mechanism continuously captures and transports removed components, eliminating the intermittent nature of manual disassembly operations and significantly reducing total removal time.
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 machine streamlines the formwork removal process, reducing costs and enhancing worker safety by automating the separation and removal of formwork and beams, allowing for efficient stacking and storage of removed materials.
Implementation Method 1
The wedge mechanism engages the formwork, applying a separating force to partially separate or free the formwork from the slab
Implementation Method 2
The beam-gripping mechanism may comprise a gripper that conforms to and clamps at the central section of an I-beam
Implementation Method 3
the rotary actuator may twist the beam to free the beam for removal
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine for removing formwork from underneath a cured concrete slab includes a wheeled base movable on and supported at a support structure, a raisable-and-lowerable structure disposed on the wheeled base, and a formwork-removal device attached to the raisable-and-lowerable structure. The formwork-removal device includes an arm extending from the raisable-and-lowerable structure, at least one wedge element disposed at a distal end of the arm, and a formwork-retaining mechanism. With the raisable-and-lowerable structure adjusted to raise the wedge element and the wedge element moved to engage the formwork and an underside of a concrete slab, the wedge element is further moved to apply a force separating part of the formwork from the concrete slab, the formwork-retaining mechanism is operated to grasp the formwork separated from the concrete slab, retaining the formwork. With the formwork grasped by the formwork-retaining mechanism, the raisable-and-lowerable structure is lowered, removing the formwork from the concrete slab.