Patent Application
20230029953
This application relates to methods and apparatus (systems) for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding a variety of structures. Some embodiments provide stay-in-place liners (or portions thereof) for containing concrete or other curable material(s). Some embodiments provide stay-in-place liners (or portions thereof) which line interior surfaces of supportive formworks and which are anchored to curable materials as they are permitted to cure.
Concrete is used to construct a variety of structures, such as building walls and floors, bridge supports, dams, columns, raised platforms and the like. Typically, concrete structures are formed using embedded reinforcement bars (often referred to as rebar) or similar steel reinforcement material, which provides the resultant structure with increased strength. Over time, corrosion of the embedded reinforcement material can impair the integrity of the embedded reinforcement material, the surrounding concrete and the overall structure. Similar degradation of structural integrity can occur with or without corrosion over sufficiently long periods of time, in structures subject to large forces, in structures deployed in harsh environments, in structures coming into contact with destructive materials or the like.
There is a desire for methods and apparatus for repairing and/or restoring existing structures which have been degraded or which are otherwise in need of repair and/or restoration.
Exemplary structure 10 also includes portions 18A, 18B on opposing sides of portion 12. In the case where portion 12 is a wall, portions 18A, 18B may represent a floor and ceiling, for example. Portions 18A, 18B of structure 10 respectively form inside corners 20A, 20B with portion 12. Portions 18A, 18B constrain the ability to work in a vicinity of portion 12 and, in particular, in a vicinity of surface 14 which is in need of repair and/or restoration. For example, it may not be possible to access surface 14 of portion 12 by moving in one or more directions parallel with surface 14 from one side of portion 18A (or 18B) to the opposing side of portion 18A (or 18B). Instead, it may be necessary or desirable to access surface 14 from a direction normal to surface 14 (e.g. in direction 22 (
There is a general desire to repair and/or restore existing structures wherein there are constraints on the ability to access the portion(s) and/or surface(s) of the existing structures.
Constraints on access to existing structures (and/or portion(s) and/or surface(s) thereof) in need of repair and/or restoration are not limited to constraints imposed by other portions of the same structure, as is the case of exemplary structure 10 of
Some structures have been fabricated with inferior or sub-standard structural integrity. By way of non-limiting example, some older structures may have been fabricated in accordance with seismic engineering specifications that are lower than, or otherwise lack conformity with, current seismic engineering standards. There is a desire to reinforce existing structures to upgrade their structural integrity or other aspects thereof. There is a corresponding desire to reinforce existing structures wherein there are constraints on the ability to access portion(s) and/or surface(s) of the existing structures.
There is also a desire to protect existing structures from damage which may be caused by, or related to, the environments in which the existing structures are deployed and/or the materials which come into contact with the existing structures. By way of non-limiting example, structures fabricated from metal or concrete can be damaged when they are deployed in environments that are in or near salt water or in environments where the structures are exposed to salt or other chemicals (and/or biochemicals) used to de-ice roads. There is a corresponding desire to protect existing structures wherein there are constraints on the ability to access portion(s) and/or surface(s) of the existing structures.
Previously known techniques for repairing, restoring, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding existing structures often are difficult and time-consuming to implement. There is a general desire to repair, restore, reinforce, protect, insulate and/or clad existing structures in a simple and time-efficient manner.
The desire to repair, restore, reinforce and/or protect existing structures is not limited to concrete structures. There are similar desires for existing structures fabricated from other materials.
The foregoing examples of the related art and limitations related thereto are intended to be illustrative and not exclusive. Other limitations of the related art will become apparent to those of skill in the art upon a reading of the specification and a study of the drawings.
The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiting in scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the above-described problems have been reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments are directed to other improvements.
One aspect of the invention provides a method for covering at least a portion of a surface of an existing structure with a repair structure. The method includes providing a standoff. The standoff is elongated in a longitudinal direction and operable from an open configuration to a closed configuration. While the standoff is in the open configuration, the standoff is mounted to the existing structure, such that the standoff projects outwardly away from the surface of the existing structure. The standoff is closed to the closed configuration. The closing of the standoff forms a standoff connector. A cladding panel is coupled to the standoff by forcing the panel, in an inward direction toward the surface of the existing structure, into engagement with the standoff connector of the standoff at a location spaced outwardly apart from the surface of the existing structure by a void.
In some embodiments, the standoff comprises first and second arms connected at transversely spaced apart locations to a base, the first and second arms movable relative to the base such that at least a portion of the first arm is transversely spaced apart from at least a portion of the second arm when the standoff is in the open configuration and wherein the at least a portion of the first arm is transversely closer to the at least a portion of the second arm when the standoff is in the closed configuration. The first and second arms define an outwardly opening standoff opening therebetween when the standoff is in the open configuration.
In some embodiments, in the open configuration, one or more mounting features of the base are accessible from an outward direction via the standoff opening.
In some embodiments, the one or more mounting features comprise one or more apertures defined by the base.
In some embodiments in the open configuration, the first and second arms are moveable relative to the base and move relative to one another.
In some embodiments, in the closed configuration, the first and second arms are fixed relative to the base and relative to one another.
In some embodiments, the first arm extends from the base at a first angle, α, and the second arm extends from the base at a second angle, β.
In some embodiments, in the open configuration, first angle, α, is between approximately 90° and 180° and second angle, β, is between approximately 90° and 180°.
In some embodiments, in the closed configuration, first angle, α, is between approximately 10° and 90° and second angle, β, is between approximately 10° and 90°.
In some embodiments, closing the standoff comprises connecting the first arm to the second arm at a location spaced outwardly apart from the base.
In some embodiments, connecting the first arm to the second arm comprises locking the first arm to the second arm.
In some embodiments, connecting the first arm to the second arm comprises applying force to one or both of the first and second arms to move one or both of the first and second arms with respect to the base and toward one another.
In some embodiments, connecting the first arm to the second arm comprises connecting a first arm connector of the first arm to a second arm connector of the second arm.
In some embodiments, the first arm connector comprises a male connector and the second arm connector comprises a female connector.
In some embodiments, connecting the first arm connector to the second arm connector comprises extending one or more first prongs of the first arm connector into one or more second hooked concavities of the second arm connector.
In some embodiments, the one or more second hooked concavities comprise one or more second acute hooked concavities.
In some embodiments, connecting the first arm connector to the second arm connector comprises extending one or more second prongs of the second arm connector into one or more first hooked concavities of the first arm connector.
In some embodiments, the one or more first hooked concavities comprise one or more first acute hooked concavities.
In some embodiments, connecting the first arm connector to the second arm connector comprises deforming at least a portion of one of the first arm connector and the second arm connector to create restorative deformation forces which at least partially restore a shape thereof to thereby lock the first arm connector and the second arm
In some embodiments, connecting the first arm connector to the second arm connector comprises deforming at least a portion of one of the first arm connector and the second arm connector to create restorative deformation forces which at least partially restore a shape thereof to thereby lock the first arm connector and the second arm connector and deformation of the first arm connector comprises deformation of one or more first prongs of the first arm connector and deformation of the second arm connector comprises deformation of one or more of the second prongs of the second arm connector.
In some embodiments, the first arm comprises a first standoff connector component and the second arm comprises a second standoff connector component and, in the closed configuration, the first and second standoff connector components together form the standoff connector.
In some embodiments, the first arm is connected to the base by a first joint and the second arm is connected to the base by a second joint.
In some embodiments, the first joint and the second joint each comprise a different material than the base and the first and second arms.
In some embodiments, the first joint and the second joint are each more flexible than the base and the first and second arms.
In some embodiments, the first joint and the second joint each comprise relieved corners.
In some embodiments, the first joint and the second joint each comprise relieved portions adjacent to corners of each of the first and second joints.
In some embodiments, mounting the standoff to the existing structure comprises passing a fastener through each of the one or more apertures in the base of the standoff.
In some embodiments, the surface of the existing structure is spaced apart from the base of the standoff with one or more spacers. In some embodiments, the spacers are threaded to the fastener. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fastener is spaced apart from the base by a washer and wherein the washer is supported by one or more pairs of ridges protruding from the base, the ridges extending in the longitudinal direction along at least a portion of the base.
In some embodiments, a curable material is introduced into the void between the cladding panel and the existing structure and the panel acts as at least a portion of a formwork for containing the curable material until the curable material cures to provide a repair structure cladded, at least in part, by the panel.
Another aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for repairing at least a portion of a surface of an existing structure. The apparatus includes a longitudinally extending standoff coupled to the existing structure to project outwardly away from the surface of the existing structure. The standoff is operable from an open configuration to a closed configuration. A cladding panel is forced, in an inward direction toward the surface of the existing structure, into engagement with a standoff connector of the standoff, when the standoff is in the closed configuration, the engaged panel spaced outwardly apart from the surface of the existing structure to provide a void between the cladding panel and the surface of the existing structure. The standoff comprises first and second arms connected at transversely spaced apart locations to a base, the first and second arms movable relative to the base such that at least a portion of the first arm is transversely spaced apart from at least a portion of the second arm when the standoff is in the open configuration and wherein the at least a portion of the first arm is transversely closer to the at least a portion of the second arm when the standoff is in the closed configuration. The first and second arms define an outwardly opening standoff opening therebetween when the standoff is in the open configuration. One or more mounting features of the base are accessible from an outward direction via the standoff opening when the standoff is in the open configuration; and the first arm comprises a first standoff connector component and the second arm comprises a second standoff connector component and the first and second standoff connector components together form the standoff connector when the standoff is in the closed configuration.
Another aspect of the invention provides a method for covering at least a portion of a surface of an existing structure with a repair structure. The method includes providing a standoff. The standoff is elongated in a longitudinal direction and operable from an open configuration to a closed configuration. While the standoff is in the open configuration, the standoff is mounted to the existing structure, such that the standoff projects outwardly away from the surface of the existing structure. The standoff is closed to the closed configuration. The closing of the standoff forms a standoff connector. A first cladding panel and a second cladding panel is coupled to the standoff by forcing the first and second panels, in an inward direction toward the surface of the existing structure, into engagement with the standoff connector of the standoff at a location spaced outwardly apart from the surface of the existing structure by a void.
In some embodiments, forcing the first and second panels, in an inward direction toward the surface of the existing structure comprises forcing a first panel connector component of the first panel in the inward into the standoff connector and forcing a second panel connector component of the second panel in the inward direction into the standoff connector.
In some embodiments, forcing the first and second panels, in an inward direction toward the surface of the existing structure comprises forcing a first panel connector component of the first panel in the inward into the standoff connector and then forcing a second panel connector component of the second panel in the inward direction into the standoff connector.
In some embodiments, an integrated cover of the second panel is extended into a recess of the first panel as the second panel connector component is forced in the inward direction into the standoff connector.
In some embodiments, the integrated cover of the second panel overlaps with the first panel in the inward direction.
In some embodiments, a seal is located between a surface of the recess of the first panel and the integrated cover of the second panel.
Another aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for repairing at least a portion of a surface of an existing structure. The apparatus includes a longitudinally extending standoff coupled to the existing structure to project outwardly away from the surface of the existing structure. The standoff is operable from an open configuration to a closed configuration. A first cladding panel and a second cladding panel are each forced in an inward direction toward the surface of the existing structure into engagement with a standoff connector of the standoff when the standoff is in the closed configuration. The first and second engaged panels are spaced outwardly apart from the surface of the existing structure to provide a void between the cladding panel and the surface of the existing structure. The standoff comprises first and second arms connected at transversely spaced apart locations to a base, the first and second arms movable relative to the base such that at least a portion of the first arm is transversely spaced apart from at least a portion of the second arm when the standoff is in the open configuration and wherein the at least a portion of the first arm is transversely closer to the at least a portion of the second arm when the standoff is in the closed configuration. The first and second arms define an outwardly opening standoff opening therebetween when the standoff is in the open configuration. One or more mounting features of the base are accessible from an outward direction via the standoff opening when the standoff is in the open configuration. The first arm comprises a first standoff connector component and the second arm comprises a second standoff connector component and the first and second standoff connector components together form the standoff connector when the standoff is in the closed configuration.
Another aspect of the invention provides a tool for closing a standoff mounted to an existing structure. The tool includes a tool head; a first roller rotatably coupled to the tool head; a second roller rotatably coupled to the tool head; and a handle pivotally connected to the tool head. The first and second rollers are configured to engage and apply force to opposing exterior surfaces of the standoff to thereby close the standoff.
In some embodiments, the first roller is configured to engage a first exterior surface of the standoff and the second roller is configured to engage a second exterior surface of the standoff, the first exterior surface opposing the second exterior surface.
In some embodiments, the tool includes a third roller rotatably coupled to the tool head, the third roller configured to engage the first exterior surface of the standoff and a fourth roller rotatably coupled to the tool head, the fourth roller configured to engage the second exterior surface of the standoff.
Another aspect of the invention provides a method for closing a standoff mounted to an existing structure. The method includes providing a tool, engaging the first and second rollers of the tool with the opposing exterior surfaces of the standoff and moving the tool in a longitudinal direction along the length of the standoff to roll the first and second rollers on the opposing exterior surfaces of the standoff to thereby close the standoff.
Another aspect of the invention provides a tool for coupling a panel to a plurality of standoffs mounted to an existing structure. The tool includes a a tool body; first and second panel tool connectors extending from the tool body, the first and second panel tool connectors configured for connecting to first and second standoffs mounted to the existing structure; first and second protrusions extending from the tool body for applying force to the panel in an inward direction toward the existing structure when the first and second panel tool connectors are connected to the first and second standoffs; and one or more handle features extending from the tool body.
In some embodiments, the first and second protrusions comprise first and second set pins threadably engaged with the tool body.
In some embodiments, the first and second connectors comprise hooked arms.
Another aspect of the invention provides a method for coupling a panel to first and second standoffs mounted to an existing structure. The method includes providing a tool, aligning the panel with the plurality of standoffs, aligning the tool with the panel, moving the tool in the inward direction towards the existing structure to force a first longitudinal portion of the panel into connection with the first and second standoffs, connecting the first panel tool connector to the first standoff and connecting the second panel tool connector to the second standoff, and moving the tool in a longitudinal direction away from the first longitudinal portion of the panel along the length of the panel to couple a remaining longitudinal portion of the panel to the first and second standoffs.
In some embodiments, the first and second protrusions are adjusted to apply a desired force to the panel in the inward direction toward the existing structure.
In some embodiments, moving the tool in the longitudinal direction comprises pulling on the one or more handle features.
Another aspect of the invention provides a tool for coupling a panel to a plurality of standoffs mounted to an existing structure. The tool includes a tool body, a first panel tool connector extending from the tool body, the first panel tool connector configured for connecting to a first standoff mounted to the existing structure, a second panel tool connector extending from the tool body, the second panel tool connector configured for connecting to a second panel mounted to the existing structure, first and second protrusions extending from the tool body for applying force to the panel in an inward direction toward the existing structure when the first and second panel tool connectors are connected to the first and second standoffs, one or more handle features extending from the tool body.
Another aspect of the invention provides a method for coupling a panel to first and second standoffs mounted to an existing structure. The method includes providing a tool, aligning the panel with the plurality of standoffs, aligning the tool with the panel, moving the tool in the inward direction towards the existing structure to force a first longitudinal portion of the panel into connection with the first and second standoffs, connecting the first panel tool connector to the first standoff and connecting the second panel tool connector to the second panel, and moving the tool in a longitudinal direction away from the first longitudinal portion of the panel along the length of the panel to couple a remaining longitudinal portion of the panel to the first and second standoffs.
In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodiments will become apparent by reference to the drawings and by study of the following detailed descriptions.
Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced figures of the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.
Throughout the following description specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in the art. However, well known elements may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.
Apparatus and methods according to various embodiments may be used to repair, restore, reinforce and/or protect existing structures using concrete and/or similar curable materials. For brevity, in this description and the accompanying claims, apparatus and methods according to various embodiments may be described as being used to “repair” existing structures. In this context, the verb “to repair” and its various derivatives should be understood to have a broad meaning which may include, without limitation, to restore, to reinforce and/or to protect the existing structure. Similarly, structures added to existing structures in accordance with particular embodiments of the invention may be referred to in this description and the accompanying claims as “repair structures”. However, such “repair structures” should be understood in a broad context to include additive structures which may, without limitation, repair, restore, reinforce and/or protect existing structures. In some applications which will be evident to those skilled in the art, such “repair structures” may be understood to include structures which insulate or clad existing structures. Further, many of the existing structures shown and described herein exhibit damaged portions which may be repaired in accordance with particular embodiments of the invention. In general, however, it is not necessary that existing structures be damaged and the methods and apparatus of particular aspects of the invention may be used to repair, restore, reinforce or protect existing structures which may be damaged or undamaged. Similarly, in some applications which will be evident to those skilled in the art, methods and apparatus of particular aspects of the invention may be understood to insulate or clad existing structures which may be damaged or undamaged.
One aspect of the invention provides a method for repairing an existing structure to cover at least a portion of the existing structure with a repair structure. The method comprises: mounting one or more standoffs to a surface of the existing structure; coupling one or more cladding panels to the standoffs by forcing the cladding panels into engagement with the standoffs in one or more directions generally normal to the surface of the existing structure and orthogonal to a plane (or tangential plane) of the cladding panels at the locations of the panel connector components such that the panels are spaced apart from the surface of the existing structure to provide a void therebetween; and introducing a curable material to the void between the panels and the existing structure, the panels acting as at least a portion of a formwork for containing the curable material until the curable material cures to provide a repair structure cladded, at least in part, by the panels. Mounting one or more standoffs to at least a portion of the existing structure may comprise providing one or more standoffs that are in an open configuration to provide easy access to mounting features (e.g. apertures) for mounting each standoff to the existing structure (e.g. with one or more fasteners passed through apertures); closing the one or more standoffs by forcing opposing arms of the one or more standoffs toward one another to initially deform a first connector component of a first one of the opposing arms and/or a second connector component of a second one of the opposing arms and then, subsequently, permitting restorative deformation forces to at least partially restore the shape of the deformed first and second connector component(s) to thereby lock the first arm to the second arm such that the standoff is closed. Forcing the cladding panels into contact with the standoffs may comprise initially deforming one or more panel connector components of the standoffs and/or one or more panel connector components of the panels and then, subsequently, permitting restorative deformation forces to at least partially restore a shape of the deformed connector component(s) to thereby lock the panel connector components of the standoff to the panel connector components of the panel.
Another aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for repairing an existing structure to cover at least a portion of a surface of the existing structure with a repair structure. The apparatus comprises a standoff coupled to the existing structure to project outwardly away from the surface of the existing structure. The standoff comprises first and second arms connected to transversely spaced apart locations of a base. The first and second arms are arranged to define an outwardly opening standoff opening therebetween. The first arm comprises a first standoff connector component and the second arm comprising a second standoff connector component. The standoff is operable between an open configuration in which one or more mounting features defined by the base are accessible via the standoff opening, and a closed configuration in which the first and second standoff connector components together form a standoff connector. The apparatus also comprises a cladding panel forced, in an inward direction toward the surface of the existing structure, into engagement with the standoff connector of the standoff at a location spaced apart from the surface of the existing structure to provide a void between the cladding panel and the surface of the existing structure. The cladding panel is shaped such that the void spaces the cladding panel apart from the surface of the existing structure substantially across a full transverse width of the cladding panel. Curable material is introduced to the void between the panels and the existing structure and the panels act as at least a portion of a formwork for containing the curable material until the curable material cures to provide a repair structure cladded, at least in part, by the panels. The first arm connector components and/or the second arm connector components (or portions thereof) may be shaped such that when the first arm connector components are forced into engagement with the second arm connector components, the first arm connector components and/or the second arm connector components (or portions thereof) are initially deformable and, subsequently, exert restorative deformation forces to at least partially restore their shape to thereby lock the first arm connector components to the second arm connector components. The connector components and/or the panel connector components (or portions thereof) may be shaped such that when the panel connector components are forced into engagement with the standoff connector components in the one or more directions generally normal to the surface of the existing structure, the standoff connector components and/or the panel connector components (or portions thereof) are initially deformable and, subsequently, exert restorative deformation forces to at least partially restore their shape to thereby lock the standoff connector components to the panel connector components.
Aspects of the invention also provide repair structures fabricated using the methods and formwork apparatus described herein. Kits may also be provided in accordance with some aspects of the invention. Such kits may comprise portions of the apparatus according to various embodiments and may facilitate effecting one or more methods according to various embodiments.
Standoffs 114 are mounted to existing structure 10 such that standoffs 114 extend away from surface 14 thereof. Each standoff 114 is elongated in longitudinal dimension 119. Standoff 114 comprises a base 120 at its edge closest to surface 14 of existing structure 10. First and second arms 132, 134 are connected at transversely spaced apart locations by to base 120. A first component of standoff connector 122 extends from first arm 132 and a second component of standoff connector 122 extends from second arm 134. Together, the first and second components of standoff connector 122 may form standoff connector component 122. In some embodiments, the components of standoff connector 122 are located on one or the other of first and second arms 132, 134 and the arm that does not comprise a component of standoff connector 122 may provide support to standoff connector 122 or may reinforce standoff connector 122 and/or the arm that comprises standoff connector 122.
Standoff 114 may be operable between (or from) an open configuration (illustrated in, for example,
In some embodiments, base 120 may be relatively planar (e.g. may extend in transverse direction 121 and longitudinal direction 119) and relatively flat (e.g. without substantial variation in inward-outward direction 123). In other embodiments, base 120 may be curved such that base 120 varies in inward-outward direction 123 across its transverse direction 121 width. Such curvature may allow liquid concrete to enter in between base 120 and surface 14 of existing structure 10 when base 120 abuts existing structure 10 to thereby improve the structural integrity of repair structure 12.
Base 120 of standoff 114 may comprise one or more mounting features such as apertures 120A, as best shown in
Standoff 114 may be mounted to existing structure 10 such that base 120 contacts or abuts surface 14 of existing structure 10. However, surface 14 of existing structure 10 may be uneven (e.g. may vary in inward-outward direction 123) along longitudinal direction 119, as shown in
In some embodiments, spacers 124B are complementarily threaded to fasteners 124A, as is depicted in
In some embodiments, to prevent fastener 124A pulling through aperture 120A, one or more washers 124C may be employed between fastener 124A and base 120. Washers 124C may be flat washers or curved washers. Washers 124C may, for example, comprise metal, polymer or composite materials. In some embodiments, to prevent fastener 124A and/or washer 124C from crushing base 120 or a portion of base 120, one or more ridges 120B may be provided on base 120. Ridges 120B may extend in inward-outward direction 123 from base 120. Ridges 120B may extend along longitudinal direction 119 continuously or may be discontinuous (e.g. ridges 120B may only be present near apertures 120A). Ridges 120B may serve to reinforce base 120 near apertures 120A and may serve to prevent overtightening of fasteners 124A. Ridges 120B may also serve to help center washers 124C around apertures 120A.
Base 120 may comprise one or more pairs of ridges 120B such that each washer 124C contacts at least one pair of ridges 120B. In the
First arm 132 may comprise an interior surface 132A and an exterior surface 132C, Guides 132D for aligning a tool as discussed further herein and for increasing a stiffness of first arm 132 may extend from exterior surface 132C. First arm 132 may define apertures 132E to allow curable material to flow through from an exterior side of first arm 132 to an interior side of first arm 132 (e.g. space 127). First arm 132 may have a first arm length 1328. Second arm 134 may comprise an interior surface 134A, an exterior surface 134C. Guides 134D for aligning a tool as discussed herein and for increasing a stiffness of second arm 134 may extend from exterior surface 134C. Second arm 134 may define apertures 134E to allow curable material to flow through from an exterior side of second arm 134 to an interior side of second arm 134 (e.g. space 127). Second arm 134 may have a length 134B.
First and second arms 132, 134 extend generally in inward-outward direction 123 and/or transverse direction 121 from base 120. First arm 132 may extend from base 120 at an angle, α, and second arm 134 may extend from base 120 at an angle, β as shown in
First and second arms 132, 134 may be connected to base 120 by first and second joints 140, 142 respectively. First and second joints 140, 142 may permit first and second arms 132, 142 to move relative to one another and/or relative to base 120 when standoff 114 is in the open configuration. Such movement may be facilitated by pivoting, bending, deforming or the like of joints 140, 142 and or one or more portions of base 120 and/or one or more portions of first and second arms 132, 134.
In some embodiments, base 120, first and second joints 140, 142 and first and second arms 132, 134 integral and/or are extruded as one piece and are made of a single material. In some embodiments, first and second joints 140, 142 are co-extruded with base 120 and first and second arms 132, 134 but joints 140, 142 are made of a different material than base 120 and/or first and second arms 132, 134. In some embodiments, base 120 and arms 132, 134 are formed separately and are subsequently attached by joints 140, 142 of a different material. In some embodiments, base 120 and first and second arms 132, 134 are mechanically joined such as by a pivot joint. For example, joints 140, 142 may comprise a more flexible material. In this way, joints 140, 142 may flex (e.g. may allow angles α and β to be increased or reduced) easily and repeatedly (e.g. to allow first and second arms 132, 134 to move between the open configuration and the closed configuration of standoff 114) without cracking or breaking.
In some embodiments, first and second joints 140, 142 may comprise first and second relieved portions 140A, 142A adjacent to first and second corners 140B, 142B to facilitate movement of first and second arms 132, 134 between the open configuration and the closed configuration of standoff 114, as shown in
In some embodiments, first and second joints 140, 142 may comprise rounded corner joints to reduce the stress concentration at first and second joints 140, 142 and increase the flexibility of first and second joints 140, 142 to facilitate movement of first and second arms 132, 134 between the open configuration and the closed configuration of standoff 114.
In some embodiments, first and second joints 140, 142 may comprise relieved corners (e.g. shaped similar to the corner pockets of a billiard table as shown, for example, in
First and second arm connector components 136, 138 and the formation of connection 137 between first and second arm connector components 136, 138 are now described in more detail with reference to
As can be seen from
Second arm connector component 138 also comprises a pair of second hooked prongs 138A, 138B which initially extend away from second arm interior surface 134A of second arm 134 on spaced apart second projections 138C, 138D, respectively and which curve back toward second arm interior surface 134A to provide corresponding second hook concavities 138E, 138F. Second hooked prongs 138A, 138B of second arm connector component 138 also comprise second beveled surfaces 138G, 138H which are beveled to extend away from one another as they extend away from second arm interior surface 134A of second arm 134.
Distal first projection 136C (e.g. the first projection more distal from base 120) may have a distal first projection length 136I while proximal first projection 136D (e.g. the first projection more proximal to base 120) may have a proximal first projection length 136J. In some embodiments, distal first projection length 136I is less than proximal first projection length 136J. Similarly distal second projection 138C (e.g. the second projection more distal from base 120) may have a distal second projection length 138I while proximal second projection 138D (e.g. the second projection more proximal to base 120) may have a proximal second projection length 138J. In some embodiments, distal first projection length 136I is less than proximal first projection length 136J and distal second projection length 138I is less than proximal second projection length 138J. Such disparity may facilitate formation of connection 137 in embodiments where angles α and β are less than 90° when connection 137 is formed, since interior surfaces 132A, 134A of first and second arms 132, 134 are closer to one another near distal first projection 136C and distal second projection 138C than near proximal first projection 136D and proximal second projection 138D. Such disparity may therefore reduce stresses on first and second arm connector components 132, 134 when connection 137 to thereby improve retention of connection 137.
In some embodiments one or more of first projections 136C, 136D and second projections 138C, 138D define apertures (not depicted) for receiving rebar and/or allowing curable material to flow through.
Some or all of first and second hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A, 138B are resiliently deformable such that they can be elastically deformed and exhibit restorative deformation forces which tend to restore first and second hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A, 138B to their original shapes and/or positions. Additionally or alternatively, some or all of first and second projections 136C, 136D, 138C, 138D are resiliently deformable such that they can be elastically deformed and exhibit restorative deformation forces which tend to restore first and second projections 136C, 136D, 138C, 138D to their original shapes and/or positions.
As seen best from
In some embodiments, hooked concavities 136E, 136F, 138E, 138F may each define a respective acute angle hooked concavity (e.g. a hooked concavity defining an angle less than 90°) to better retain hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A, 138B therein.
The process of coupling first arm connector component 136 to second arm connector component 138 involves forcing first arm 132 and second arm 134 toward one another (e.g. generally in direction 127 as shown in
Under continued application of force (see
More particularly, first hooked prong 136A of first arm connector component 136 deforms in a direction 152A toward space 150, first hooked prong 136B of first arm component 136 deforms in a direction 152A toward space 150, second hooked prong 138A of second arm connector component 138 deforms in a direction 152B away from space 146, and/or second hooked prong 138B of second arm connector component 138 deforms in a direction 152B away from space 146. This deformation permits first arm connector component 136 to pass through opening 144 and extend into space 146.
As first and second arm connector components 136, 138 continue to be forced toward one another (e.g. by deformation of joints 140, 142), first hooked prongs 136A, 136B deform in direction 152A (and/or second hooked prongs 138A, 138B deform in direction 152B) until first hooked prongs 136A, 136B fit past the edges of second hooked prongs 138A, 138B (e.g. beveled surfaces 136G, 136H move past the edges of beveled surfaces 138G, 138H) and first arm connector component 136 is inserted into space 146. At this point, restorative deformation forces (e.g. elastic forces which tend to restore first and/or second arm connector components 136, 138 to, or closer to, their original, non-deformed, shapes) causes first hooked prongs 136A, 136B to move back in direction 152B such that first hooked prongs 136A, 136B extend into second hook concavities 138E, 138F of second arm connector component 138. Similarly, restorative deformation forces cause second hooked prongs 138A, 138B to move back in direction 152A such that second hooked prongs 138A, 138B extend into first hook concavities 136E, 136F of first arm connector component 138. Connection 137 is thereby formed (see
In some embodiments, first and second hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A and/or 138B are deformed during formation of connection 137, resulting in the creating of restorative deformation forces. First and second arm connector components 136, 138 are shaped such that the restorative deformation forces associated with the deformation of hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A and/or 138B are maintained after the formation of connection 137—i.e. after the formation of connection 137, hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A and/or 138B are not restored all the way to their original non-deformed shapes, resulting in the existence of restorative deformation forces after the formation of connection 137. Such restorative deformation forces may tend to cause hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A, 138B to remain extended into hooked concavities 136E, 136F, 138E, 138F to thereby lock first arm connector 136 to second arm connector 138
In some embodiments, first joint 140 and/or second joint 142 are deformed during formation of connection 137, resulting in the creating of restorative deformation forces. First joint 140 and/or second joint 142 are shaped such that the restorative deformation forces associated with the deformation of first joint 140 and/or second joint 142 are maintained after the formation of connection 137—i.e. after the formation of connection 137 first joint 140 and/or second joint 142 are not restored all the way to their original non-deformed shapes, resulting in the existence of restorative deformation forces after the formation of connection 137. Such restorative deformation forces may tend to cause hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A, 138B to remain extended into hooked concavities 136E, 136F, 138E, 138F to thereby lock first arm connector 136 to second arm connector 138.
In some embodiments, first arm 132 and/or second arm 134 are deformed during formation of connection 137, resulting in the creating of restorative deformation forces. First arm 132 and/or second arm 134 are shaped such that the restorative deformation forces associated with the deformation of first arm 132 and/or second arm 134 are maintained after the formation of connection 137—i.e. after the formation of connection 137 first arm 132 and/or second arm 134 are not restored all the way to their original non-deformed shapes, resulting in the existence of restorative deformation forces after the formation of connection 137. Such restorative deformation forces may tend to cause hooked prongs 136A, 136B, 138A, 138B to remain extended into hooked concavities 136E, 136F, 138E, 138F to thereby lock first arm connector 136 to second arm connector 138
Since first arm connector component 136 is forced into and extends into space 146 between second hooked prongs 138A, 1386 of second arm connector component 138, first arm connector component 136 may considered to be a “male” connector component corresponding to the “female” second arm connector component 138. In other embodiments, first arm connector component 136 may comprise a female connector component and second arm connector component 138 may comprise a male connector component.
Panels 116 of the illustrated embodiment are generally planar with longitudinal dimensions 119 and transverse widths 121. Panels 116 may have generally uniform cross-sections in the direction of their longitudinal dimensions 119, although this is not necessary. Panels 116 comprise connector components 154, 156 (as shown in
Standoff connector components 122 are couplable to corresponding panel connector components 154, 156 to thereby couple panels 116 to standoffs 114 such that panels 116 are positioned at locations spaced apart from existing structure 10 and from surface 14 thereof. When panels 116 are coupled to standoffs 114, the transverse widths 121 of panels 116 may extend generally orthogonally to the inward-outward dimension 123 of standoffs 114.
After standoffs 114 are mounted to structure 10 as described above, the coupling of standoff connector components 122 and panel connector components 154, 156 may be effected by aligning panels 116 with standoffs 114 and forcing panels 116 into engagement with standoffs 114 in inward-outward direction 123 generally normal to surface 14 and generally orthogonal to the plane of panels 116. Forcing panels 116 toward standoffs 114 in directions 22 may initially deform standoff connector components 122 and/or panels connector components 154, 156 and, subsequently, permit restorative deformation forces to at least partially restore the shape of the deformed connector components 122, 154, 156 to thereby lock standoff connector components 122 to panel connector components 154, 156 and couple panels 116 to standoffs 114.
In the illustrated embodiment, there are two types of connections between panels 116 and standoffs 114. Referring back to
The engagement of interior connector components 156 to standoff connector components 122 of interior standoffs 114B is shown best in
In the case of edge-connecting standoffs 114A (see
The process of coupling interior panel connector components 156 to standoff connector components 122 of interior standoffs 1148 by forcing panels 116 against interior standoffs 114B in inward-outward direction 123 is shown in
Formwork 110 may optionally comprise cap connectors 118. Cap connectors 118 may be connected to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 116 that are coupled to an edge-connecting standoff 114A as described above and as shown in
Unlike joints 140, 142 as illustrated, joints 240, 242 comprise a different material than base 220 and arms 232, 234. Joints 240, 242 may comprise a material that is more flexible than the material of base 220 and/or arms 232, 234. As can be seen from
As can be seen from
As can be seen from
As can be seen from
As can be seen from
As can be seen from
As can be seen from
In the illustrated embodiment, where formwork 110 is used to create a repair structure to repair existing structure 10, standoffs 114, panels 116 and optional cap connectors 118 may extend substantially the same length as the distance between constraining portions 18A, 18B of existing structure 10. In such an example application, after assembly of formwork 110 (including mounting of standoffs 114 to existing structure 10, coupling panels 116 to standoffs 114 and optionally coupling cap connectors 118 to panels 116), concrete may be introduced into the void 170 between surface 14 and panels 116 using a concrete introduction port (not shown). Concrete introduction ports and their use to introduce concrete into a formwork are well known in the art. In embodiments, where formwork 110 does not occupy the entire space between constraints 18A, 18B or where the top of formwork 110 is accessible, concrete may be introduced into void 170 behind formwork 110 via an edge (e.g. a top edge) of formwork 110 without a need for a concrete introduction port.
Liquid concrete introduced into void 170 will flow through apertures 132E, 134E in standoffs 114 (shown in
In other embodiments, constraining portions 18A, 18B of existing structure 10 may not be present or may not be located in the same places relative to portion 12 so as to retain the concrete in void 170 between panels 116 and surface 14 of existing structure 10. In such cases, it may be necessary or desirable to provide edge formwork components (not explicitly shown) which may be used to retain concrete in void 170 at the edges of panels 116. In particular, it may be necessary or desirable to provide edge formwork components at the bottom and/or the transverse edges of a formwork assembled using standoffs 114, panels 116 and optionally cap connectors 118. Suitable examples of edge formwork components which may be used in connection with the other formwork components described herein are described in Patent Cooperation Treaty application No. PCT/CA2010/000003 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/794,607 which are incorporated herein by reference.
In some applications, it may be desirable to provide repair structure 10 with extra strength using reinforcement bar (commonly referred to as rebar).
Although not depicted, standoff extenders could be provided between standoffs 114 and panels 116 to increase the inward-outward direction 123 dimension of void 170. Standoff extenders may comprise a first end complementary to standoff connectors 122 and a second end complementary to panel connectors 154, 156. Standoff extenders may also comprise one or more openings to allow liquid concrete to flow through.
Although not depicted, in some embodiments, formwork may comprise sealing members configured to provide substantially liquid tight seals between edge-adjacent panels. Such sealing members may, for example, provide substantially liquid tight seals between connected outer panel connector components, connector caps and/or edge connector components. Examples of sealing members that may be employed as part of formwork 110 or any other embodiment herein are discussed in co-owned Patent Cooperation Treaty application No. PCT/CA2011/050414 which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Although not depicted, in some embodiments, systems may be provided to insulate and/or clad existing structures (e.g. existing structure 10). It should be understood that the formworks described herein (e.g. formwork 110) may be modified to include insulation in any suitable manner such as, for example, such manners discussed in co-owned Patent Cooperation Treaty application No. PCT/CA2011/050414 which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Standoff 114 may be closed (e.g. connection 137 may be formed) by applying force manually to first and second arms 132, 134 or force may be applied to first and second arms 132, 134 using any suitable technique or apparatus.
Tool 180 comprises a handle 182 which is connected to arms 184A, 184B. Arms 184A, 184B are in turn connected to tool heads 186, 188 respectively. In some embodiments, tool head 186 is pivotally connected to arm 184A by a pivot joint 185A and tool head 188 is pivotally connected to arm 184B by a pivot joint 185B. Tool head 186 has a tool face 186A and tool head 188 has a tool face 188A. One or more rollers 190 are rotatably connected to tool face 186A and one or more rollers 192 are rotatably connected to fool face 188A. For example, in the illustrated embodiment two rollers 190 are rotatably connected to tool face 186A and two rollers 192 are rotatably connected to tool face 188A. Rollers 190, 192 may be attached to tool faces by one or more fasteners 190A, 192A respectively and rollers 190, 192 may be rotatably mounted to fasteners 190A, 192A in any suitable way such as by means of a bearing, bushing or the like.
Rollers 190, 192 may be shaped and/or dimensioned to be able to exert a force (e.g. to form a complementary fit with or to otherwise engage) exterior surfaces 132C, 134C of first and second arms 132, 134 of standoff 114. Such force may be sufficient to form connection 137 when rollers 190, 192 engage exterior surfaces 132C, 134C. For example, first and second arms 132, 134 may comprise guides 132D, 134D respectively for engaging rollers 190, 192 and when tool 180 engages standoff 114, rollers 190, 192 protrude into spaces between guides 132D, 134D and are guided by guides 132D, 134D on exterior surfaces 132C, 134C of standoffs 114.
Tool 180 may be employed to form connection 137 by carrying out the following steps: (1) move first and second arms 132, 134 into proximity with one another such that first arm connector component 136 is adjacent to and aligned with second arm connector component 138 (as depicted, for example, in
Pivot joints 185A, 1856 allow tool heads 186, 188 to be rotated relative to arms 184A, 1846 about pivot axes (not expressly enumerated) that are co-axial with pivot joints 185A, 185B. In this way, pivot joints 185A, 185B may aid in allowing a user to slide tool 180 along longitudinal direction 119 of standoff 114 since pivot joints 185A, 185B allow a user to better grip handle 182—e.g. when handle 182 is above the user's shoulders or below the user's waist.
Tool 180 is not restricted to being used with standoffs 114 discussed therewith but may be used with other types of standoffs described herein.
Panels 116 may be attached to standoffs 114 (or standoffs 214, 314, 414, etc.) by applying force manually in inward-outward direction 123 toward existing structure 10 or force may be applied to panels 116 using any suitable technique or apparatus.
First panel tool 700 comprises a panel tool body 710 extending in longitudinal direction 119 and transverse direction 121. First and second panel tool connectors 720, 730 extend from transversely spaced apart ends of panel tool body 710 in inward-outward direction 123. A plurality of set pins 712-1, 712-2, 712-3, 712-4, 712-5, 712-6 (collectively or generically referred to as set pins 712) extend from surface 710C of panel tool body 710 in inward-outward direction 123. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, first and second set pins 712-1, 712-2 are oriented along a longitudinal direction 119 axis generally adjacent to first panel tool connector 720, third and fourth set pins 712-3, 712-4 are oriented along a longitudinal direction 119 axis generally equidistantly spaced apart in transverse direction 121 from first panel tool connector 720 and second panel tool connector 730 and fifth and sixth set pins 712-5, 712-6 are oriented along a longitudinal direction 119 axis generally adjacent to second panel tool connector 730. One or more handle features 740-1, 740-2, 740-3, 740-4 (collectively or generically referred to as handle features 740) may extend from one or both transversely extending edges 710A, 7106 of panel tool body 710. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, first and second handle features 740-1, 740-2 extend from transversely extending edge 710A of panel tool body 710 and third and fourth handle features 740-3, 740-3 extend from transversely extending edge 7106 of panel tool body 710.
First panel tool connector 720 may be complementary to one of first and second standoff connector components 122A, 122B while second panel tool connector 730 may be complementary to the other of first and second standoff connector components 122A, 122B.
In some embodiments, each of set pins 712 may be threaded into panel tool body 710 such that the amount that each of set pins 712 extends or protrudes from surface 710C of panel tool body 710 may be adjusted by threading a set pin 712 in or out. While the first panel tool 700 is depicted as comprising six set pins, this is not mandatory and any suitable number of set pins may be employed. Further, set pins 712 may be replaced with ridges, nubs or the like. Further still, surface 710C itself may serve the same function as set pins 712 instead of set pins 712.
In the illustrated embodiment, handle features 740 comprise loops for attaching handle 742. This is not mandatory. Handle features 740 may comprise any suitable feature to serve as a handle or to serve for attaching a handle such as handle 742. While handle features 740 are depicted on both edges 710A, 710B, this is not mandatory and in some embodiments, only one of edges 710A, 710B may comprise handle features 740.
In practice, first panel 116-1 is aligned with first, second and third standoffs 114-1, 114-2, 114-3 as shown in
A first longitudinal portion of first panel 116-1 (and not the entire longitudinal length of panel 116-1) may be connected by manually forcing connector components 154, 156 into connection with first, second and third standoffs 114-1, 114-2, 114-3 in the same manner as described in relation to
As first panel tool 700 continues to move in inward-outward direction 123 toward existing structure 10, first and second panel tool connectors 720, 730 connect to first and second standoff connector components 122A, 122B of first and third standoffs 114-1, 114-3 as shown in
When first panel tool 700 is connected to first and third standoffs 114-1, 114-3, set pins 112 may apply force to panel 116-1 urging panel 116-1 toward existing structure 10 and into connection with first, second and third standoffs 114-1, 114-2, 114-3. By sliding (pulling or pushing) first panel tool 700 in longitudinal direction 119 away from the first longitudinal portion of first panel 116-1 that is connected to standoffs 114 and toward a second remaining portion of first panel 116-1 that is not connected to standoffs 114, the second remaining portion of first panel 116-1 may be connected to standoffs 114. In particular, as first panel tool 700 is pulled (or pushed), first and second panel tool connectors 720, 730 slide in first and second standoff connector components 122A, 122B in longitudinal direction 119 and set pins 112 apply force on unconnected portions of first panel 116-1 as they move longitudinally along panel 116-1 to urge each unconnected portion of panel 116-1 toward existing structure 10 and into connection with first, second and third standoffs 114-1, 114-2, 114-3. This may be continued until the entire longitudinal length of first panel 116-1 is connected to first, second and third standoffs 114-1, 114-2, 114-3. First panel tool 700 may then be removed from contact with first panel 116-1 by, for example, sliding it longitudinally off of first panel 116-1.
Once first panel 116-1 is connected to first, second and third standoffs 114-1, 114-2, 114-3, it may be desirable to connect a second panel 116-2 to third, fourth and fifth standoffs 11-4-3, 114-4, 114-5. Since first panel 116-1 would interfere with first panel tool connector 720 of first panel tool 700, second panel tool 800 may be employed instead to connect second panel 116-1 to existing structure 10.
Second tool panel 800 is substantially similar to first panel tool 700 except as follows. Second panel tool 800 comprises a panel tool body 810 extending in longitudinal direction 119 and transverse direction 121. First and second panel tool connectors 820, 830 extend from panel tool body 810 in inward-outward direction 123. A plurality of set pins 812-1, 812-2, 812-3, 812-4, 812-5, 812-6 (collectively or generically referred to as set pins 812) extend from panel tool body 810 in inward-outward direction 123. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, first and second set pins 812-1, 812-2 are oriented along a longitudinal direction 119 axis generally adjacent to first connector 820, third and fourth set pins 812-3, 812-4 are oriented along a longitudinal direction 119 axis generally equidistantly spaced apart in transverse direction 121 from first connector 820 and second connector 830 and fifth and sixth set pins 812-5, 812-6 are oriented along a longitudinal direction 119 axis generally adjacent to second connector 830. One or more handle features 840-1, 840-2, 840-3, 840-4 (collectively or generically referred to as coupling features 840) may extend from one or both transversely extending edges 810A, 8106 of panel tool body 810. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, first and second handle features 840-1, 840-2 extend from transversely extending edge 810A of panel tool body 810 and third and fourth handle features 840-3, 840-3 extend from transversely extending edge 810B of panel tool body 810.
First panel tool connector 820 may be complementary to one of first and second cap connector components 117A, 1176 (as shown in
Second panel tool 800 may be employed in substantially the same way as first panel tool 700 except in that first panel tool connector 820 may slide along one of first and second cap connector components 117A, 117B of first panel 116-1 while second panel tool connector 830 slides along one of first and second standoff connector components 122A, 122B of second panel 116-2 to thereby connect second panel 116-2 to existing structure 10. Subsequent panels may also be connected to existing structure 10 by employing second panel tool 800.
Panels 216 differ from panels 116 in that first and second cap connector components 117A, 117B and cap 118 are substituted with recessed portion 217A and integrated cover 217B. As can be seen from
Integrated cover 217B may be shaped such that when the connection is made between connector components 254 and standoff 814, integrated cover 217B of panel 216-2 overlaps at least a portion (e.g. recessed portion 217A) of panel 216-1 in inward-outward direction 123. Such overlap may further improve the seal between edge adjacent panels 216-1, 216-2.
In some embodiments, integrated cover 217B and/or seal 217D are deformed during formation of the connection between connector component 254 and standoff 814, resulting in the creating of restorative deformation forces. Integrated cover 217B and/or seal 217D are shaped such that the restorative deformation forces associated with the deformation of integrated cover 217B and/or seal 217D are maintained after the formation of the connection between connector component 254 and standoff 814—i.e. after the formation of the connection between connector components 254 and standoff 814, integrated cover 217B and/or seal 217D are not restored all the way to their original non-deformed shapes, resulting in the existence of restorative deformation forces after the formation of the connection between connector component 254 and standoff 814. Such restorative deformation forces may tend to cause integrated cover 217B and/or seal 217D to contact, maintain contact with, or be forced against recessed portion 217A to further improve the seal between edge adjacent panels 216-1, 216-2.
In some embodiments, recessed portion 217A may be sloped in inward-outward direction 123 toward standoff 814 such that if standoffs 814 and panels 216 are installed on a convex surface (see, for example,
Panels 316 differ from panels 216 in that panels 316 do not necessarily comprise connector components 256 (although panels 316 could include connector components 256, if desired) and, panels 316 include connector 319A and connectors 319B-1, 319B-2, 319B-3, 319B-4, 319B-5, 319B-6, 319B-7, 319B-8 (collectively or generically referred to as connectors 319B) to allow a transverse direction 121 dimension of panels 316 to be adjusted such that a spacing 316A between hooked branch 354A and hooked branch 354B can be adjusted as desired. While panel 316 is depicted as having eight connectors 319B, this is not necessary and panel 316 may have one, two, three or more connectors 319B, as desired.
Transverse direction 121 dimension and spacing 316A of a panel 316 may be adjusted by first cutting panel 316 along cut line 319C (e.g., using a sharp edged tool, heat, a combination thereof, or the like). While cut line 319C is depicted as being adjacent connector 319B-1, this is not mandatory and cut line 319C may be located adjacent any one of connectors 319B such that cutting panel 316 along cut line 319C forms a first portion 316A of panel 316 and a second portion 316B of panel 316 where first portion 316A comprises connector 319A and second portion 316B comprises at least one of connectors 319B. In some embodiments, panel 316 may comprise portions of reduced thickness (e.g., longitudinal grooves) along cut line 319C to facilitate cutting of panel 316. In the illustrated embodiment, since first portion 316A does not comprise any connectors 319B, no additional cuts are required. However, in the case that cut line 319C is located between, for example, connector 319B-1 and connector 319B-2, an additional cut may be employed to remove connector 319B-1 from first portion 316A such that connector 319B-1 would not interfere with the formation of connection 320 between first and second portions 316A, 316B.
After first and second portions 316A, 316B are formed, connection 320 between first and second portions 316A, 316B may be formed by connecting connector 319A of first portion 316A to a remaining connector 319B of second portion 316B. When connection 320 is formed between connector 319A and a connector 319B, the interaction of connector 319A and connector 319B prevents or inhibits movement of first and second portions 316A, 3168 relative to one another in one or more of transverse direction 121, inward-outward direction 123 and longitudinal direction 119. When connection 320 is formed, a panel 316′ is formed having a transverse direction 121 dimension and spacing 316B′ that is smaller than the transverse direction 121 dimension and spacing 316B of panel 316. This adjustability of the transverse direction 121 dimension and spacing 3168 of panel 316 may be desirable for applications where a standard size of panel 216 (or 116) does not fit and/or where it is undesirable to manufacture custom sized panels. This adjustability of the transverse direction 121 dimension and spacing 3168 of panel 316 may also be desirable where regular or consistent transverse direction 121 spacing between standoffs (e.g. standoffs 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614, 814) is not practical, possible or desired.
Connectors 319A, 319B may be any suitable type of connectors. Connectors 319A, 319B may extend longitudinally along an inward face of panel 316. For example, in the illustrated embodiments, connector 319A is shaped to define a channel 319D that is in turn shaped to receive one of connectors 3198 and each connector 3198 is shaped to define a channel 319E that is in turn shaped to receive connector 319A. In some embodiments, one of connectors 319B is slid into channel 319D in longitudinal direction 119 (e.g. into the page in
Adjacent connectors 319B are spaced apart from each other in transverse direction 121 by a spacing 319D. In some embodiments, spacing 319D between adjacent connectors 319B is consistent (e.g. spacing 319D between connectors 319B-1, 319B-2 is equal to spacing 319D between connectors 319B-2, 319B-3 and connectors 319B-3, 319B-4 etc.). This is not mandatory. In some embodiments, spacing 319D between adjacent connectors may be different for different pairs of adjacent connectors such that, for example, spacing 319D between connectors 319B-1, 319B-2 is not equal to spacing 319D between connectors 319B-2, 319B-3 and/or connectors 319B-3, 319B-4 etc. Such unequal spacing 319D may allow for employing panel 316 or combinations of panels 316 to achieve a greater variety of transverse direction 121 dimensions and spacing 316A′, as desired.
When connection 320 is formed between first portion 316A and second portion 316B, an outer surface 316C of first portion 316A may not align in inward-outward direction 123 with an outer surface 316D of second portion 316B as shown in
After panel 316′ is formed (e.g. when connection 320 is made), panel 316′ may be connected to one or more standoffs (e.g. standoffs 114, 214, 314, 414, 514, 614, 814) along with another panel in substantially the same manner as with other panels 116, 216 discussed herein. For example,
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications are possible in the practice of this invention without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. For example:
While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations as are consistent with the broadest interpretation of the specification as a whole.
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/894,634 filed 5 Jun. 2020, which in turn is a continuation of Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application No. PCT/CA2018/051666 filed 21 Dec. 2018, which in turn claims priority from (and the benefit under 35 USC 119 in relation to) U.S. application No. 62/610,145 filed on 22 Dec. 2017 and U.S. application No. 62/641,927 filed on 12 Mar. 2018. All of the applications referred to in this paragraph are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62641927 | Mar 2018 | US | |
| 62610145 | Dec 2017 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16894634 | Jun 2020 | US |
| Child | 17964318 | US | |
| Parent | PCT/CA2018/051666 | Dec 2018 | US |
| Child | 16894634 | US |
