WO2013188980A1 - Appareil de coffrage comportant des contrefiches éloignées résilientes et procédés associés - Google Patents

Appareil de coffrage comportant des contrefiches éloignées résilientes et procédés associés Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2013188980A1
WO2013188980A1 PCT/CA2013/050476 CA2013050476W WO2013188980A1 WO 2013188980 A1 WO2013188980 A1 WO 2013188980A1 CA 2013050476 W CA2013050476 W CA 2013050476W WO 2013188980 A1 WO2013188980 A1 WO 2013188980A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
standoff
brace
panels
panel
braces
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/CA2013/050476
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
George David Richardson
Semion Krivulin
Zi Li Fang
Original Assignee
Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. filed Critical Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc.
Publication of WO2013188980A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013188980A1/fr

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G23/00—Working measures on existing buildings
    • E04G23/02—Repairing, e.g. filling cracks; Restoring; Altering; Enlarging
    • E04G23/0218—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G23/00—Working measures on existing buildings
    • E04G23/02—Repairing, e.g. filling cracks; Restoring; Altering; Enlarging
    • E04G23/0218—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements
    • E04G23/0225—Increasing or restoring the load-bearing capacity of building construction elements of circular building elements, e.g. by circular bracing
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
    • E04B2/84—Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ
    • E04B2/86—Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ made in permanent forms
    • E04B2/8635—Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ made in permanent forms with ties attached to the inner faces of the forms
    • E04B2/8641—Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ made in permanent forms with ties attached to the inner faces of the forms using dovetail-type connections
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
    • E04B2/84—Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ
    • E04B2/86—Walls made by casting, pouring, or tamping in situ made in permanent forms
    • E04B2002/867—Corner details
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04C—STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS; BUILDING MATERIALS
    • E04C3/00—Structural elongated elements designed for load-supporting
    • E04C3/30—Columns; Pillars; Struts
    • E04C3/34—Columns; Pillars; Struts of concrete other stone-like material, with or without permanent form elements, with or without internal or external reinforcement, e.g. metal coverings

Definitions

  • the invention relates to methods and apparatus for fabricating structures using concrete or other curable materials and for restoring, repairing, reinforcing and/or protecting a variety of structures using concrete or other curable material(s).
  • Concrete is used to construct a variety of structures, such as building walls and floors, bridge supports, dams, columns, raised platforms and the like. There is a desire for improved techniques for fabricating structures from concrete and/or other curable materials.
  • reinforcement bars (often referred to as rebar) or similar steel reinforcement material, which provides the resultant structure with increased strength.
  • rebar reinforcement bars
  • 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.
  • 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 used to de-ice roads.
  • Structures for which it is desirable to repair, restore, reinforce and/or protect are not limited to concrete structures. There are similar desires for structures fabricated from other materials.
  • Figure 1 A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a modular formwork apparatus according to an example embodiment.
  • Figure IB shows a perspective view of the Figure 1 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 2A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a panel of the Figure 1 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 2B shows a perspective view of the Figure 2A panel.
  • Figure 2C shows a partial transverse cross-sectional plan view of one end of the Figure 2A panel.
  • Figure 2D shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the other end of the Figure 2A panel.
  • Figure 2E shows a partial perspective view of the Figure 2A panel.
  • Figure 3 shows a transverse cross-sectional plan view of a pair of panels of the Figure 1A formwork apparatus coupled to one another in edge- adjacent relationship.
  • Figure 4A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a standoff brace of the Figure 1 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 4B shows a perspective view of the Figure 4A standoff brace.
  • Figure 5 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a standoff brace of the Figure 1 A formwork apparatus coupled to a pair of edge-adjacent panels.
  • Figure 6A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a modular formwork apparatus according to an example embodiment.
  • Figure 6B shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the Figure 6A formwork apparatus depicting a corner thereof.
  • Figure 7 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a stub panel of the Figure 6 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 8A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a corner panel of the Figure 6 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 8B shows a partial perspective view of the Figure 8A corner panel.
  • Figure 9A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a corner brace of the Figure 6 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 9B shows a partial perspective view of the Figure 9A corner brace.
  • Figure 10 shows an interior front elevation view of a portion of the Figure 6 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 11 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment.
  • Figure 12 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment.
  • Figure 13 shows an unfolded interior front elevation view of a portion of the Figure 12 formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 14 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment.
  • Figure 15 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment.
  • Figure 16A shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment.
  • Figure 16B shows a partial transverse cross-section of a portion of the Figure 16A formwork.
  • Figure 17A shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment.
  • Figure 17B shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a panel of the Figure 17A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 18 A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment in a contracted configuration.
  • Figure 18B shows a partial transverse cross- sectional view of the Figure 18A formwork apparatus in the contracted configuration.
  • Figure 19 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the Figure 18A formwork apparatus in an expanded configuration.
  • Figure 20 depicts a transverse cross-sectional view of a panel of the Figure 18 A formwork apparatus.
  • Figure 21 is a schematic flowchart of a method for using the Figure 18A formwork apparatus to line a column or the like according to a particular embodiment.
  • Figure 22A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment in a contracted configuration.
  • Figure 22B shows a partial transverse cross- sectional view of the Figure 22 A formwork apparatus in the contracted configuration.
  • Figure 23 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the Figure 22A formwork apparatus in an expanded configuration.
  • Figure 24A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment in a contracted configuration.
  • Figure 24B shows a partial transverse cross- sectional view of the Figure 24 A formwork apparatus in the contracted configuration.
  • Figure 25 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the Figure 24A formwork apparatus in an expanded configuration.
  • Figure 26 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of the Figure 24A apparatus with one transverse side of a standoff brace connected to a corresponding panel.
  • Figure 27 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus according to another example embodiment in its expanded configuration.
  • Figures 28, 29 and 30 are transverse cross-sectional views of standoff braces according to other embodiments.
  • Figures 31 A and 3 IB are respectively partial perspective and partial transverse cross-sectional views of a formwork apparatus according to another embodiment.
  • Figure 31C is a partial perspective view of a modified version of the Figure 31 A formwork.
  • Figures 32A and 32B are respectively partial perspective and partial transverse cross-sectional views of a formwork apparatus according to another embodiment.
  • Figure 32C is a partial perspective view of a modified version of the Figure 32A formwork.
  • Figure 32D is a transverse cross-sectional view of an alternate connection which may be suitable for modified versions of the formworks of Figures 31 A, 31C, 32A, 32C.
  • Apparatus and methods according to various embodiments may be used to fabricate structures using concrete or other curable construction materials.
  • 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.
  • FIGS 1A, IB show, respectively, transverse cross-sectional and perspective views of a modular formwork apparatus 10 according to an example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 10 comprises a plurality of panels 12. Adjacent panels 12 are coupled to one another in edge-adjacent relationship by cooperating connector components 14.
  • barrier 16 surrounds generally circular workpiece Wl.
  • Workpiece Wl may be an existing structure in need of repair, for example, and apparatus 10 may be used to repair existing structure Wl. Existing structure Wl is not necessary.
  • formwork apparatus 10 may be used to fabricate a structure that is independent of existing structure Wl.
  • Each of a plurality of standoff braces 18 is coupled to the interior of barrier 16 (e.g. to panels 12).
  • the transverse extension of standoff braces 18 may have an arcuate configuration when so coupled.
  • the term "arcuate” and terms of similar import are to be interpreted broadly as connoting a characteristic of macro-curvilinearity, and are not to be interpreted as being restricted to features with uniform convexity or radius of curvature.
  • an arcuate member may be stepped, undulating, scalloped, crenate, bent or the like along all or part of its length, and/or may comprise one or more rectilinear sections which may contribute to the overall macro-curvilinearity of the arcuate shape.
  • the arcuate shape of panels 12 may be provided by bend between a pair of rectilinear sections.
  • Standoff braces 18 comprise connector components 14 along longitudinally-extending transverse sides thereof, which are configured to engage corresponding connector components 14 of edge-adjacent panels 12.
  • standoff braces 18 When apparatus 10 is assembled, standoff braces 18 have opposite- facing convexity to that of panels 12. When standoff braces 18 are coupled to barrier 16, the apexes of standoff braces 18 are spaced apart from barrier 16, thereby providing separation between the interior surface 161 of barrier 16 and existing structure Wl.
  • standoff braces 18 comprise resiliently deformable material and provide spring-like separation between the interior surface 161 of barrier 16 and existing structure Wl - i.e. when assembled and used standoff braces 18 may be elastically deformed (e.g. squeezed between barrier 16 and existing structure Wl).
  • standoff braces 18 span couplings between edge-adjacent panels 12.
  • Standoff braces 18 may be configured to apply forces to the couplings between edge-adjacent panels 12 (e.g. at connections of cooperating connector components 14 of coupled panels 12).
  • standoff braces 18 may comprise resiliently deformable material, and be configured to be deformed from their natural configuration when coupled to barrier 16. Restorative forces produced in standoff braces 18 when so deformed are communicated to the edge-adjacent panels 12 to which standoff braces 18 are coupled, resulting in force being applied by standoff braces 18 at the couplings between edge-adjacent panels 12 spanned by standoff braces 18.
  • Panels 12 of apparatus 10 may have longitudinal dimensions 12L and transverse widths 12W (Figure IB). Panels 12 may be bowed across their transverse dimensions (although this bowed shape is not necessary). Panels may be transversely bowed during fabrication or may be bent during assembly of apparatus 10 to provide this bowed shape. Panels 12 may have generally uniform cross- sections in the direction of their longitudinal dimensions 12L, although this is not necessary. Panels 12 may be fabricated from various type(s) of plastic (e.g. PVC) or other suitable material(s) (e.g. suitable metals, metal alloys, polymeric materials, fibreglass, carbon fiber material or the like) using extrusion or any other suitable fabrication technique.
  • plastic e.g. PVC
  • suitable material(s) e.g. suitable metals, metal alloys, polymeric materials, fibreglass, carbon fiber material or the like
  • the longitudinal dimensions 12L of panels 12 may be fabricated to have desired lengths or may be cut to desired lengths.
  • Panels 12 may be fabricated to be have modularly dimensioned transverse widths 12W (e.g. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 32 and 64 units (such as inches)), and, in some embodiments, modularly dimensioned radii of curvature, to fit various existing structures and for use in various applications.
  • modularly dimensioned transverse widths 12W e.g. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 32 and 64 units (such as inches)
  • modularly dimensioned radii of curvature e.g. 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 24, 32 and 64 units (such as inches)
  • Panel 12 of the Figure 2 embodiment comprises a sheet 22 having first longitudinally extending transverse side 22R, a second longitudinally extending transverse side 22L, an inner face 221 and an outer face 220.
  • Sheet 22 has (or is deformed to provide) a generally arcuate transverse cross-section.
  • the concavity of sheet 22 permits a plurality of panels 12 to be coupled in edge- adjacent relationship to form a cylindrically shaped closed barrier 16 of a desired diameter.
  • barrier 16 may have a diameter in a range of 6 to 120 inches.
  • Panel 12 comprises a first panel connector component 30 on its first transverse side 22R ( Figure 2C).
  • First panel connector component 30 comprises a pair of resiliently deformable penannular clips 32, 42. Except where the context indicates otherwise, as used herein the term "penannular" is not intended to be limited to connotations implying strict circularity, circular symmetry or constant radius of curvature.
  • first clip 32 has a generally C-shaped transverse cross-section which comprises: a shoulder 34 and a resiliently deformable arcuate member 36 that extends from inner face 221 of sheet 22.
  • Member 36 comprises a rounded nose 37 at its distal end 36A. Nose 37 is in spaced opposition to shoulder 34 to define a mouth 38 of first clip 32
  • Member 36 has opposite convexity to panel 12, so that mouth 38 opens in the direction of outer face 220 of sheet 22. Mouth 38 may be made wider by deforming first clip 32 (e.g. by the application a force to nose 37 in a direction away from shoulder 34). Because member 36 is resilient, forces acting on nose 37 which tend to widen mouth 38 will be opposed by the restorative force associated with the deformation of first clip 32.
  • Second clip 42 of first panel connector component has a generally G- shaped transverse cross-section comprising: shoulder 34 and a resiliently deformable arcuate member 46 that extends from inner face 221 of sheet 22.
  • Member 46 comprises a rounded nose 47 at its distal end 46A. Nose 47 is in spaced opposition to shoulder 34 to define a mouth 48 of second clip 42
  • First panel connector component 30 also comprises a seat 50.
  • Seat 50 is located between first clip 32 and second clip 42, and defined in opposition to noses 37 and 47.
  • seat 50 is defined on the outward surface of a groove 52 defined between inner face 221 of sheet 22 and a ridge 54 that extends longitudinally along the interior surface of second clip 42 and generally parallel to the first transverse side 22R of panel 12.
  • Seat 50 may have other configurations (e.g. seat 50 may comprise a recess defined in member 46 and/or face 221, may be a flat portion, may be defined by a ridge spaced apart from second clip 42, etc.).
  • Panel 12 comprises a second panel connector component 60 on its second transverse side 22L ( Figure 2D).
  • Second panel connector component 60 comprises a resiliently deformable penannular clip 62.
  • clip 62 has a generally G-shaped transverse cross-section comprising: a shoulder 64 having a ridge 65 extending therefrom; and a resiliently deformable arcuate member 66 extending from inner face 221 of sheet 22.
  • Member 66 comprises a tang 67 at its distal end 66A. Shoulder 64 and tang 67 define a mouth 68 of clip 62 therebetween. Tang 67 is bent away from mouth 68 and terminates in a rounded nose 69.
  • Member 66 has opposite convexity to panel 12, so that mouth 68 opens in the direction of outer face 220 of sheet 22. Mouth 68 of clip 62 may be made wider by deforming clip 62 (e.g. by the application a force to tang 67 in a direction away from shoulder 64). Because member 66 is resilient, forces acting on tang 67 which tend to widen mouth 68 will be opposed by the restorative force associated with the deformation of clip 62.
  • Second panel connector component 60 comprises a seat 70.
  • Seat 70 faces away from the remainder of clip 62 (e.g. away from tang 67 and mouth 68).
  • seat 70 is defined on the outward surface of a groove 72 defined between inner face 221 of sheet 22 and a ridge 74 that extends longitudinally along the proximal end 66B of member 66.
  • Seat 70 may have other configurations (e.g. seat 70 may comprise a recess defined in member 66 and/or face 221, may be a flat portion, may be defined by a ridge spaced apart from clip 62, etc.).
  • First panel connector component 30 and second panel connector component 60 are configured for inter-locking engagement (e.g.
  • FIG. 3 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a pair of panels 12, 12A coupled to one another in edge-adjacent relationship wherein a second panel connector component 60 of panel 12 is connected to a first panel connector component 30A of panel 12A.
  • the coupling between edge-adjacent panels 12, 12A shown in Figure 3 may be representative of the coupling between edge-adjacent panels 12 of the Figure 1A formwork apparatus 10.
  • first panel connector component 30 A of panel 12A and second panel connector component 60 of panel 12 contact one another a plurality of contact regions (e.g. 80, 82, 84, 86).
  • a plurality of contact regions e.g. 80, 82, 84, 86.
  • First panel connector component 30A and second panel connector component 60 may be inter-lockingly engaged to one another by: partially inserting clip 62 into mouth 48 A of clip 42A with the widths 12W of panels 12, 12A oriented at an obtuse angle (e.g. non-parallel) to one another to provide a "loose fit" configuration (not shown); pivoting panels 12, 12A and/or panel connector components 60, 30 A relative to one another (i.e. pivoting toward an orientation where the widths 12W of panels 12, 12 A are approaching an orientation parallel to one another) to thereby deform connector components 60, 30A (e.g. clip 62 of second connector component 60 and clips 32, 42 of first connector
  • such snap-fitting engagement may occur when restorative forces associated with the deformation of connector components 60, 30A cause: ridge 65 of second panel connector component 60 to extend into mouth 38A of first panel connector component 30A; nose 69 of tang 67 of second panel connector component 60 to extend into seat 50A of first panel connector component 30A; and nose 47A of second clip 42A of first panel connector component 30A to retract into seat 70 of second panel connector component 60.
  • connector components 60, 30A may remain deformed from their natural states and corresponding restorative forces associated with such deformation may actively engage connector components 60, 30A to one another.
  • Relative pivotal motion represents only one example of how connector
  • components 60, 30A can be deformed in such a manner that restorative forces associated with such deformation lock connector components 60, 30A in a snap-fit engagement.
  • other mechanisms and/or tools may be used to effect this deformation, the corresponding restorative forces and the corresponding snap-fit engagement.
  • resilient members 36, 46 and 66 When connector components 30 and 60 are inter-lockingly engaged ( Figure 3), resilient members 36, 46 and 66 may be deformed from their natural (undeformed) configurations as discussed above. The restorative forces associated with the deformation of members 36, 46 and 66 may provide mutually reinforcing contact forces at contact regions 80, 82, 84 and/or 86. These mutually reinforcing contact forces may promote sealing contact between connector components 30 and 60 at contact regions 80, 82, 84 and/or 86. Such sealing contact may reduce or eliminate ingress of fluids (e.g. such as might promote corrosion) and/or the egress of curable materials introduced into formwork apparatus 10 at the joints between first panel connector components 60 and second panel connector components 60.
  • fluids e.g. such as might promote corrosion
  • contact regions 80, 82, 84 and 86 are arranged serially along the sole path which fluids might cross the joint between engaged first panel connector component 30 and second panel connector component 60, thereby providing redundant protection against ingress and/or egress of fluids.
  • additional sealing may be provided by introducing or otherwise providing suitable sealing material in locations between one or more of contact regions 80, 82, 84 and 86.
  • Such sealing material may be relatively soft (e.g.
  • sealing materials when compared to the material used to form panels 12.
  • Such sealing materials may be provided using a co-extrusion process or coated onto connector components 30, 60 after fabrication of panels 12, for example, and may help to make the connections between edge adjacent panels 12,12A impermeable to liquids or gasses.
  • such sealing materials may be provided: in seat 70, on nose 69, shoulder 64, nose 47, seat 50, shoulder 34 and/or nose 37.
  • the contact forces at contact regions 82, 84 and 86 may be increased by the application of forces which tend to pull panel connector components 30 and 60 apart from one another in transverse directions.
  • such forces may tend to increase the deformation of members 36 and 46, leading to greater restorative forces from these members at contact regions 82 and 86, respectively.
  • Such forces also may tend to increase the deformation of member 66 by the action of nose 47 of member 46 on ridge 74, which tends to drive nose 69 into seat 50 with greater force at contact region 82.
  • panel 12 comprises a first standoff brace connector component 90 which, in the illustrated embodiment, is located adjacent first panel connector component 30.
  • first standoff brace connector component 90 comprises a penannular clip 91, which opens away from face 221 of sheet 22.
  • Clip 91 has a "double-J" shaped transverse cross-section defined by a pair of longitudinally extending walls 92, 94 that extend from the inner face 221 of sheet 22 and that have J-shaped transverse cross- sections.
  • the portion of J-shaped wall 94 that extends from sheet 22 also forms part of first panel connector component 30.
  • Panel 12 comprises a second standoff brace connector component 100.
  • Second standoff brace connector component 100 is located between, and spaced apart from, transverse sides 22R, 22L of panel 12.
  • second standoff brace connector component 100 comprises a penannular clip 101, which opens away from inner face 221 of sheet 22.
  • Clip 101 has a double-J shaped transverse cross-section defined by a pair of longitudinally extending walls 102, 104 that extend from the inner face 221 of sheet 22 and that have J-shaped transverse cross-sections.
  • each panel 12 comprises a single first standoff brace component 90 and a single second standoff brace component 100.
  • panels 12 may comprise different numbers of standoff brace components.
  • second standoff brace connector component 100 is located in the middle of the transverse dimension 12W of panel 12. In some embodiments, second standoff brace connector component 100 may be spaced apart from the transverse edges 22L, 22R of panel 12 by more than 25% of the transverse dimension 12W of panel 12. In some embodiments, second standoff brace connector component 100 may be spaced apart from the transverse edges of 22L, 22R of panel 12 by more than 35% of the transverse width 12W of panel 12.
  • panel 12 comprises a plurality of anchor components 110.
  • anchor components 110 comprise longitudinally extending flanged rails, which also extend away from inner face 221.
  • anchor components 110 include a first pair of transversely spaced apart rails 112L, 112R located between first panel connector component 30 and second standoff brace connector component 100 and a second pair of transversely spaced apart rails 114L, 114R located between second panel connector component 60 and second standoff brace connector component 100.
  • Anchor components 110 may comprise anchor features for anchoring panel 12 to curable substances introduced into formwork apparatus 10.
  • rails 112L,112R and 114L,114R have T-shaped transverse cross-sections which provide such anchoring features. More
  • anchoring components 110 may have other shapes and/or other anchoring features. Shapes and anchoring features of some suitable anchoring components are described in PCT/CA2008/000608 (published under
  • anchoring components 110 may comprise connector components for connection to other anchoring components and/or to other standoffs.
  • Other suitable anchoring components and other suitable standoffs are described in PCT/CA2010/000003 (published under WO2010/078645) which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
  • Standoff brace 18 has an arcuate configuration (i.e. the transverse dimension of standoff brace is generally bowed). Standoff brace 18 has a first longitudinally extending transverse side 140R, a second longitudinally extending transverse side 140L, an inner face 1401 and an outer face 140O. Standoff brace 18 comprises longitudinally extending peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L that extend transversely from transverse sides 140R, 140L. In the illustrated example embodiment, peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L are arcuate in their transverse extent. Peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L of the illustrated embodiment comprise a plurality of optional apertures 144 ( Figure 4B).
  • apertures 144 comprise identic ally- sized obround apertures. Apertures 144 may comprise apertures of a diversity of shapes and sizes. In some embodiments, rebar (or other reinforcing material) may be extended through apertures 144 to hold the rebar in place prior to introducing concrete to formwork apparatus 10.
  • Peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L are linked by longitudinally extending central web 146 which extends transversely between peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L.
  • central web 146 comprises a plurality of straps 148 having longitudinal dimensions 148L and transverse widths 148W. Straps 148 are generally arcuate in their transverse extent.
  • peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L are more deeply bowed than straps 148 (e.g. wall portions 142R, 142L have a smaller radius of curvature than straps 148), although this is not necessary. This shape may help wall portions 142R, 142L to support transversely extending rebar which may project through their apertures 144.
  • the radius of curvature of standoff brace 18 is uniform across its transverse extent.
  • Straps 148 of the Figure 4 embodiment have uniform transverse cross-section, though this is not necessary (e.g. straps 148 may comprise ribs or the like).
  • Straps 148 and peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L define a plurality of optional apertures 150 (Figure 4B).
  • apertures 150 comprise identically-sized rounded-rectangle apertures, but may comprise differently shaped apertures.
  • apertures 150 are larger in longitudinal dimension and transverse width than apertures 144.
  • Apertures 150 may comprise apertures of a diversity of shapes and sizes.
  • Standoff brace 18 comprises first and second panel connector components 152R, 152L, which extend longitudinally along its transverse sides 140R, 140L.
  • first panel connector component 152R comprises opposed, T-shaped, flanged rails 154RI, 154RO, which extend transversely from inner and outer faces 1401, 140O
  • second panel connector component 152L comprises opposed, T-shaped, flanged rails 154LI, 154LO, which extend transversely from inner and outer faces 1401, 140O.
  • rails 154 are arranged in opposed pairs (154RI opposed to 154RO, 154LI opposed to 154LO).
  • panel connector components 152R, 152L are configured for longitudinal sliding engagement with standoff brace connector components 90, 100 of panel 12 (e.g. the transversely opposed T-shaped rails 154 are configured for sliding engagement with the double-J shaped socket defined by J-shaped walls 92, 94 of standoff brace connector components 90 and/or J-shaped walls 102, 104 of standoff brace connector components 100).
  • Standoff brace 18 of the Figure 4 embodiment comprises a plurality of optional anchor components 156RI, 156LI, 156RO,156LO, which comprise longitudinally extending flanged rails that also extend from inner and outer faces 1401, 140O of standoff brace 18 along the interfaces between central web 146 and peripheral wall portions 142R, 142L.
  • components 156RI, 156LI, 156RO, 156LO are arranged in transversely opposed pairs (156RI opposed to 156RO, 156LI opposed to 156LO).
  • Anchor components 156RI, 156LI, 156RO, 156LO may comprise anchor features for anchoring curable substances introduced into formwork apparatus 10.
  • anchor components 156RI, 156LI, 156RO, 156LO have a T-shaped transverse cross-section which provides such anchoring features in a manner similar to the above-discussed anchoring features rails 112L, 112R and 114L, 114R of anchor components 110.
  • anchoring components 156RI, 156LI, 156RO, 156LO may have other shapes and/or other anchoring features. Shapes and anchoring features of some suitable anchoring components are described in
  • anchoring components 156RI, 156LI, 156RO, 156LO may comprise connector components for connection to other anchoring components and/or to other standoffs.
  • Other suitable anchoring components and other suitable standoffs are described in PCT/CA2010/000003 (published under WO2010/078645) which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
  • Panel connector components 152R, 152L of standoff brace 18 and standoff brace connector components 90, 100 of panel 12 are configured for interlocking engagement.
  • Figure 5 is a partial transverse cross-sectional view of apparatus 10 that shows detail of the engagement between: panel connector component 152R of standoff brace 18 and a first standoff brace connector component 90 of panel 12; and panel connector component 152L of standoff brace 18 and a first standoff brace connector component 90A of adjacent panel 12A.
  • panel connector components 152R, 152L and standoff brace connector components 90,100 are configured for longitudinal sliding engagement with one another (e.g. by movement relative to one another in directions into and out of the page in the Figure 5 view).
  • each standoff brace 18 is coupled to barrier 16 such that each standoff brace 18 spans a coupling between a pair of edge-adjacent panels 12.
  • each standoff brace 18 spans the connection between a first panel's first panel connector component 30 and an edge-adjacent second panel's second panel connector component 60 (e.g. as shown in Figure 5, standoff brace 18 spans the connection between panel 12A's first panel-connector component 30 A and panel 12's second panel-connector component 60).
  • Standoff braces 18 may be configured such that when they are coupled to barrier 16 (i.e.
  • standoff braces 18 are compressively deformed from their natural (undeformed) configurations. Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 18 may provide standoff braces 18 with a greater convexity or smaller radius of curvature (relative to their natural configuration).
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 18 may additionally or alternatively involve movement of the opposing transverse sides 104L, 140R of standoff braces 18 closer to one another (relative to their natural configuration) to reduce the transverse width of standoff braces 18 (relative to their natural configuration).
  • the restorative forces that result from such deformation of standoff braces 18 may tend to increase the contact force between edge-adjacent coupled panels at the contact regions therebetween (i.e. the restorative forces associated with the deformation of standoff braces 18 tend to increase the contact forces at contact regions 82, 84, 86 of connections between cooperating connector components 30, 60) and may promote sealing contact at such contact regions.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 18 and corresponding restorative forces may limit the relative movement in the longitudinal direction between standoff braces 18 and panels 12 - e.g. after connections are made between connector components 90, 152L, 152R, it may be relatively difficult to slide standoff braces 18 in longitudinal directions relative to panels 12. This may be due to the restorative forces associated with the deformation of standoff braces 18 which may in turn cause increased pressure between standoff brace connector components 90 and panel connector components 152L, 152R.
  • standoff braces 18 may in turn cause increased pressure between standoff brace connector components 90 and panel connector components 152L, 152R.
  • FIG. 6A shows a transverse cross-sectional view of modular formwork apparatus 200 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 200 may be used to repair an existing structure W2 having a generally rectangular transverse cross-section, for example. Existing structure W2 is not necessary.
  • formwork apparatus 200 may be used to fabricate a structure that is independent of existing structure W2.
  • Apparatus 200 comprises a plurality of panels 212 coupled to one another in edge-adjacent relationship to form a barrier and a plurality of standoff braces 218.
  • Panels 212 are similar to panels 12 ( Figure 2) described above except that panels 212 are generally flat (as opposed to arcuate) along their transverse dimensions. Except where the context dictates otherwise, panels 212 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 12.
  • Standoff braces 218 are substantially similar to standoff braces 18 ( Figure 4) described above and may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for standoff braces 18.
  • each of standoff braces 218 is coupled to an edge-adjacent pair of panels 212 with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 212 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 212.
  • Standoff braces 218 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g.
  • transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 218 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 212.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 218 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components 90, 152L, 152R which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 218 and panels 212.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 218 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 212), permitting standoff braces 218 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 212.
  • Panels 212 differ from panels 12 in that panels 212 are generally flattened, rather than arcuate or bowed. As discussed above, however, in some embodiments panels 12 are formed as flat panels 12 and are bowed when used, in which case panels 212 are substantially identical to panels 12. Edge-adjacent panels 212 are coupled to one another by cooperating connector components 30, 60. In the illustrated example embodiment, panels 212 are joined to form a generally planar faces 216T, 216R, 216B and 216L of a rectangular barrier 216. Adjacent faces of rectangular barrier 216 are joined at outside corners 2171, 217II, 217III and 217IV (collectively, corners 217). In the illustrated embodiment, outside corners 217 comprise stub panels 220 and corner panels 222. Figure 6B shows a transverse cross-sectional view of a representative corner 2171 comprising a stub panel 220 and a corner panel 222.
  • FIG. 7 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of an example stub panel 220.
  • Stub panel 220 is similar to panels 212 and comprises similar connector components 30, 60 for connection to an edge-adjacent panel 212 on one transverse side and to a corner panel 222 on the opposing side.
  • Stub panel 220 differs from panels 212 in that stub panel 220 has a smaller width than panels 212, lacks a second standoff brace connector component 100, and has just one anchor component 110.
  • Stub panels 220 may be fabricated in a variety of modularly dimensioned widths, and may have correspondingly greater or fewer numbers of flanged anchor components 110 and/or brace connector components 100.
  • stub panel 220 may be provided without the double-J shaped brace connector component 90 adjacent connector component 30.
  • An example outside corner panel 222 is shown in Figures 8A and 8B (collectively, Figure 8). Corner panel 222 is similar to panels 212 and comprises similar connector components 30, 60 for connection to an edge-adjacent panel 212 on one transverse side and to a stub panel 220 on the opposing side. Corner panel 222 differs from panels 212 in that corner panel 22 has a right angle bend 242 between first panel connector component 30 and second panel connector component 60, lacks second standoff brace connector component 100, and has just two anchor components 110 (located, in the illustrated example embodiment, adjacent first panel connector component 30). In the illustrated example
  • corner panel 222 comprises an optional protuberant edge 244 and corresponding interior groove 246 that extend longitudinally along bend 242.
  • Protuberant edge 244 and interior groove 246 may increase the rigidity of bend 242 and may permit bend 242 to be fabricated with a relatively small radius of curvature.
  • Corner panels 222 may be fabricated in a variety of modularly dimensioned configurations, and may have correspondingly greater or fewer numbers of anchor components 110 and/or brace connector components 100.
  • corners 217 comprise corner braces 224.
  • Corner braces 224 may be generally similar to the 45°retaining elements described in US patent No. 6,435,471 which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
  • An example corner brace 224 is shown in Figures 9A and 9B (collectively, Figure 9). Corner brace 224 is generally transversely flattened with a first and second longitudinally extending sides 250R, 250L and inner and outer faces 2501, 250O. Corner brace 224 comprises first and second panel connector components 252R, 252L, which extend, respectively along the longitudinal sides 250R, 250L. In the illustrated example embodiment, first and second panel connector components
  • clips 252A, 252B comprise penannular clips 254R, 254L, respectively.
  • clips 254R, 254L have generally C-shaped transverse cross- sections and extend continuously along the longitudinal dimension of corner brace 224.
  • clips 254R, 254L are linked together by a web 256.
  • web 256 is generally flat.
  • Clips 254R, 254L of the illustrate embodiment are connected so that the angles between the bases 254R', 254L' thereof is substantially 90° (i.e. so that the interior angles between bases 254R', 254L' and web 256 are both 135°).
  • a plurality of optional apertures 258 are defined in central web 256.
  • apertures 258 comprise a single column of identically-sized obround apertures, but may comprise differently shaped
  • Apertures 258 may comprise apertures of a diversity of shapes and sizes.
  • a corner brace 224 is coupled to a stub panel 220 and a corner panel 222 to reinforce a corresponding corner 117. More particularly, first panel connector component 252R of corner brace 224 is connected to anchor component 110 of stub panel 220 and second panel connector component 252L of corner brace 224 is connected to anchor component 110 of corner panel 222. It will be appreciated that anchor components 110 are configured for longitudinal sliding engagement with panel connector components 252R, 252L.
  • Figure 10 shows an interior front elevation view of a portion 300 of formwork apparatus 200 which depicts the arrangement of couplings between panels 212 and standoff braces 218.
  • the couplings between panels 12 and standoff braces 18 in formwork apparatus 10 may be similar to those between panels 212 and standoff braces 218 in formwork apparatus 200. Except where explicitly described to be different or the context dictates otherwise, the couplings between panels 212 and standoff braces 218 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for the couplings between panels 12 and/or standoff braces 18.
  • standoff braces 218 have shorter longitudinal dimensions than panels 212 and standoff braces 218 are arranged on portion 300 of formwork apparatus 200 in a checkerboard fashion by which a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart standoff braces 218 are connected to a corresponding pair of edge-adjacent panels 212. More particularly, a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart standoff braces 218 have their first panel connector components 152L in the first standoff brace connector component 90 of a first panel 212 and their second panel connector components 152R in the first standoff brace connector component 90 of a second, edge-adjacent panel 212.
  • This checkerboard arrangement of standoff braces 218 may be facilitated by the compressive deformation of standoff braces 218 (i.e. when connected to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 212) and corresponding restorative forces which tend to prevent longitudinal movement of standoff braces 218 relative to panels 212, as discussed above.
  • This checkerboard arrangement of standoff braces 218 is not necessary.
  • longitudinally adjacent panel connector components of standoffs 218 abut one another.
  • the checkerboard arrangement of standoff braces 218 shown in Figure 10 permits standoff braces 218 to deform under compressive force (e.g. between panels 212 and existing structure W2) without undue interference from adjacent standoff braces 218.
  • apparatus 200 may be similar to apparatus 10 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 10.
  • Figure 11 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 400 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 400 is similar to apparatus 10 ( Figures 1 A and IB) and comprises a plurality of arcuate panels 402 substantially similar to panels 12 of apparatus 10 and a plurality of standoff braces 408 substantially similar to standoff braces 18 of apparatus 10. Except where explicitly described to be different or the context dictates otherwise, panels 402 and standoff braces 408 may comprise any of the features,
  • panels 12 and/or standoff braces 18 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 408 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 402, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 402 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 402.
  • Apparatus 400 differs from apparatus 10 described above, in that panel connector components 152R, 152L on transverse sides 140R, 140L of standoff braces 408 are connected to second standoff brace connector components 100 of edge-adjacent panels 402 (i.e. as opposed to first standoff brace connector components 90 as is the case in apparatus 10 - compare Figure 5 and Figure 11). As shown in Figure 11, a first panel 402 is coupled to a second, edge-adjacent panel 402A.
  • a standoff brace 418 is coupled at its first transverse side 140L and first panel connector component 152L to the second standoff brace connector component 100 of first panel 402, and coupled at its second transverse side 140R and second panel connector component 152R to the second standoff brace connector component 100A of second panel 402A.
  • Standoff braces 408 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g. transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 408 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 402, 402A.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 408 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between corresponding connector components 100, 100 A, 152L, 152R which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 408 and panels 402.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 408 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 402), permitting standoff braces 408 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 402.
  • apparatus 400 may be similar to apparatus 10 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 10. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that apparatus 10 could be modified so that standoff braces 18 are additionally or alternatively coupled between second standoff brace connector components 100 of edge-adjacent panels 12.
  • Figure 12 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 500 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 500 is similar to apparatus 10 ( Figures 1 A and IB) and comprises a plurality of arcuate panels 502 similar to panels 12 of apparatus 10 and a plurality of standoff braces 508 substantially similar to standoff braces 18 of apparatus 10. Except where explicitly described as being different or the context dictates otherwise, panels 502 and standoff braces 508 may comprise any of the features,
  • panels 12 and/or standoff braces 18 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 508 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 502, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 502 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 502.
  • Standoff braces 508 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g. transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 508 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge- adjacent panels 502.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 508 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector
  • standoff braces 508 components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 508 and panels 502.
  • restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 508 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 502), permitting standoff braces 508 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 502.
  • Apparatus 500 differs from apparatus 10 in that each panel 502 comprises a pair of adjacent second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 in the place of the single second standoff brace connector component 100 of panel 12.
  • second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 have a similar "double-J" shaped transverse cross-section as standoff brace connector component 100 of panel 12.
  • second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 are immediately adjacent one another and share a central member 523, although this is not necessary.
  • second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 may be spaced apart from the transverse edges 22L, 22R of panel 502.
  • second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 may be spaced apart from the transverse edges 22L, 22R of panel 502 by more than 25% of the transverse dimension 12W of panel 502.
  • other standoff brace connector components 519, 521 may be spaced apart from the transverse edges 22L, 22R of panel 502 by more than 25% of the transverse dimension 12W of panel 5
  • second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 may be spaced apart from the transverse edges of 22L, 22R of panel 502 by more than 35% of the transverse width 12W of panel 502.
  • a first panel 502 is coupled on one of its transverse sides to a second panel 502A and on a second of its transverse sides to a third panel
  • a first standoff brace 508 is coupled at its first transverse side 140L and first panel connector component 152L to second standoff brace connector component 521 A of panel 502A, and coupled at its second transverse side 140R and second panel connector component 152R to second standoff brace connector component 519 of panel 502.
  • a second standoff brace 508 is coupled at its first transverse side 140L and first panel connector component 152L to second standoff brace connector component 521 of panel 502, and coupled at its second transverse side 140R and second panel connector component 152R to second standoff brace connector component 519B of panel 502B.
  • the configuration shown in Figure 12 may be repeated for any number of (e.g. all of) standoff braces 508 and panels 502 of formwork apparatus 500.
  • Figure 13 shows an unfolded interior front elevation view of a portion of formwork apparatus 500.
  • the inclusion of the pair of second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 on panels 502 permits standoff braces 508 to have longitudinal dimensions 508L that are coextensive with the longitudinal dimensions 12L of panels 502.
  • the coextensive longitudinal dimensions 508L, 12L of standoff braces 508 and panels 502 is facilitated by the pair of second standoff brace connector components 519, 521 which can respectively accommodate a first panel connector component 152L of a first standoff brace 508 and a second panel connector component 152R of a transversely adjacent standoff brace 508.
  • the coextensive longitudinal dimensions 508L, 12L of standoff braces 508 and panels 502 contrasts with the checkerboard configuration of apparatus 10, 200 ( Figure 10), where transversely adjacent standoff braces 218 are spaced apart from one another.
  • the coextensive longitudinal dimensions 508L, 12L of standoff braces 508 and panels 502 in apparatus 500 may provide greater strength when compared to the checkerboard configuration of apparatus 10, 200 ( Figure 10) and may also provide more even distribution of forces among standoff brace 508, and correspondingly more even distribution of forces among panels 502, when compared to the checkerboard configuration of apparatus 10, 200 ( Figure 10). While Figure 13 shows standoff braces 508 and panels 502 having coextensive longitudinal lengths, this is not necessary. In some embodiments, standoff braces 508 may have different longitudinal lengths than panels 502. In some
  • standoff braces 508 may be arranged in a checkerboard
  • apparatus 500 may be similar to apparatus 10 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 10.
  • Figure 14 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 600 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 600 is similar to apparatus 10 ( Figures 1 A and IB) and comprises a plurality of panels 602 similar to panels 12 of apparatus 10 and a plurality of standoff braces 608 substantially similar to standoff braces 18 of apparatus 10. Except where explicitly described as being different or the context dictates otherwise, panels 602 and standoff braces 608 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 12 and/or standoff braces 18.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 12 and standoff braces 18 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 602 and standoff braces 608.
  • Panels 602 of apparatus 600 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 608 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 602, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 602 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 602.
  • Standoff braces 608 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g. transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 608 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 602.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 608 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 608 and panels 602.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 608 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 602), permitting standoff braces 608 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 602.
  • Apparatus 600 differs from apparatus 10 in that: panels 602 are generally flat (rather than being arcuate over their transverse dimensions); panels 602 comprise panel connector components 630, 660 at their respective transverse edges 22R, 22L that are different from the panel connector components 30, 60 of panels 12; and panels 602 only comprise a single anchor component 614 in the place of the pair of anchor components 114L, 114R of panel 12.
  • First panel connector component 630 of panel 602 comprises a penannular clip 632 having a generally C-shaped transverse cross-section.
  • Second panel connector component 660 of panel 602 comprises a male component 662 that is inwardly offset from the plane of panel 602, is complementary to penannular clip 632 and has a generally T- shaped transverse cross-section.
  • first panel connector component 660 of a first panel 602 may be connected to a second panel connector component 630A of a second, edge-adjacent panel 602A by effecting relative longitudinal motion to slide male component 662 into clip 632A.
  • apparatus 600 may be similar to apparatus 10 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 10.
  • Figure 15 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 700 according to another example embodiment.
  • Formwork apparatus 700 is similar to formwork apparatus 600 ( Figure 14) and comprises a plurality of panels 702 and standoff braces 708 which are substantially similar to panels 602 and standoff braces 608 of apparatus 600.
  • Apparatus 700 differs from apparatus 600 in that in apparatus 700, standoff braces 708 are connected between second standoff brace connector components 100 of edge-adjacent panels 702, rather than between first standoff brace connector components 90 as is the case in apparatus 600.
  • the differences between apparatus 700 and apparatus 600 are analogous to the differences between apparatus 400 ( Figure 11) and apparatus 10 ( Figure 5).
  • FIG. 15 shows panel 702 coupled to a first edge-adjacent panel 702 A on one side and to a second edge- adjacent panel 702B on an opposing side.
  • Each of standoff braces 708 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to the second standoff brace connector components 100 of a pair of edge-adjacent panels 702, with one transverse side 140L connected to second standoff brace connector component 100 of one of the edge-adjacent panels 702 and the other transverse side 140R connected to second standoff brace connector component 100 of the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 702.
  • Standoff braces 708 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g.
  • transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 708 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 702.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 708 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 708 and panels 702.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 708 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 702), permitting standoff braces 708 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 702.1n other respects
  • apparatus 700 may be similar to apparatus 600 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 600.
  • FIG 16A shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 900 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 900 is similar to apparatus 10 ( Figures 1 A and IB) and comprises a plurality of panels 902 similar to panels 12 of apparatus 10 and a plurality of standoff braces 908 substantially similar to standoff braces 18 of apparatus 10. .
  • panels 902 and standoff braces 908 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 12 and/or standoff braces 18.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 12 and standoff braces 18 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 902 and standoff braces 908.
  • Panels 902 of apparatus 900 are connected in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 908 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 902, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 902 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 902.
  • Standoff braces 908 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g. transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 908 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 902.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 908 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 908 and panels 902.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 908 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 902), permitting standoff braces 908 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 902.
  • Apparatus 900 differs from apparatus 10 in that: panels 902 are generally flat (rather than being arcuate over their transverse dimensions); panels 902 comprise panel connector components 930R, 930L at their respective transverse edges 22R, 22L that are different from the panel connector components 30, 60 of panels 12; panels 902 are connected in edge-adjacent relationship with one another using a coupling component 909 that connects to a connector component 930R of one edge-adjacent panel 902 and to a connector component 930L of the other edge-adjacent panel 902; and panels 902 only comprise a single anchor component 914 in the place of the pair of anchor components 114L, 114R of panel 12 and a single anchor component 912 in the place of the pair of anchor components 112L, 112R of panel 12.
  • FIG. 16B is a partial transverse cross-sectional view of formwork apparatus 900 showing detail of the operation of coupling component 909 to couple a pair of panels 902, 902 A in edge-adjacent relationship.
  • Coupling component 909 comprises a flanged joiner 942 and an optional anchor 944 extending from joiner 942.
  • flanged joiner 942 comprises a pair of connector components 942R, 942L having generally T- shaped transverse cross-sections, and anchor 944 which comprises a body 944A that extends from a web 942 A of joiner 942.
  • anchor 944 which comprises a body 944A that extends from a web 942 A of joiner 942.
  • anchor 942 comprises optional opposed flaps 946R, 946L that extend in transversely opposed directions from body 944A. As flaps 946R, 946L extend away from body 944 A, they also extend away from joiner 942. Anchor 944 also comprises opposed barbs 948R, 948L at the distal end of body 944A.
  • Coupling component 909 may have a longitudinal dimension similar to that of panels 902. [0100] As shown in Figure 16B, coupling component 909 joins edge-adjacent panels 902, 902A by coupling to connector component 930RA of panel 902A and to connector component 930L of panel 902.
  • T-shaped connector components 942L, 942R are slidably received in connector components 930RA of panel 902A and 930L of panel 902, respectively.
  • flaps 946R, 946L, and barbs 948R, 948L may anchor coupling component 909 and panels 902 to curable materials introduced into apparatus 900.
  • apparatus 900 may be similar to apparatus 10 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 10.
  • FIG. 17A shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 1000 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 1000 is similar to apparatus 900 ( Figures 16A and 16B) and comprises a plurality of panels 1002 similar to panels 902 of apparatus 900, a plurality of standoff braces 1008 substantially similar to standoff braces 908 of apparatus 900 and a plurality of coupling components 1009 substantially similar to coupling components 909.
  • panels 1002, standoff braces 1008 and coupling components 1009 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 902, standoff braces 908 and/or coupling components 909.
  • standoff braces 908 and coupling components 909 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 1002, standoff braces 1008 and coupling components 909.
  • Panels 1002 of apparatus 1000 are connected in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 1008 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1002, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 1002 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 1002.
  • Standoff braces 1008 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g.
  • transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 1008 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1002.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 1008 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 1008 and panels 1002.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 1008 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 1002), permitting standoff braces 1008 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 1002.
  • Apparatus 1000 differs from apparatus 900 in that in addition to the connection provided by the interaction of coupling component 1009 with connector components 930L, 930R of edge-adjacent panels 1002, panels 1002 also comprise outward projections 1063L, 1063R at their respective transverse sides 22L, 22R and apparatus 1000 includes fasteners 1061 which engage a pair of outward projections 1063L, 1063R from edge-adjacent panels 1002 to assist with the coupling of edge-adjacent panels 1002.
  • panel 1002 comprises outward projection 1063L at one transverse side 22L and outward projection 1063R at the opposing transverse side 22R.
  • outward projections 1063R, 1063L comprise toothed rails having a plurality of teeth formed on transversely inward facing surfaces thereof and generally flat transversely outward facing surfaces.
  • fasteners 1061 comprise internally- toothed caps which couple a pair of edge-adjacent and abutting projections 1063R, 1063L of a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1002.
  • panel 1002 is connected to one edge-adjacent adjacent panel 1002A at one of its transverse sides 22L and to another edge-adjacent panel 1002B at the other one of its transverse sides 22R.
  • the internal teeth of one fastener 1061 engage corresponding teeth on the transversely inward surfaces of outward projections 1063RA of panel 1002A and 1063L of panel 1002 and the internal teeth of another fastener 1061 engage corresponding teeth on the transversely inward surfaces of outward projections 1063LB of panel 1002B and 1063R of panel 1002.
  • toothed fasteners 1061 and toothed rails of projections 1063L, 1063R may be configured for snap-fit engagement involving deformation of fasteners 1061 and/or projections 1063R, 1063L and the locking of the connection via corresponding restorative forces.
  • outward projections 1063L, 1063R and fasteners 1061 have different configurations.
  • outward projections 1063L, 1063R and fasteners 1061 may be configured for pin-locking engagement, tab-slot engagement, or the like.
  • apparatus 1000 may be similar to apparatus 900 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 900.
  • Figures 18 A and 18B show transverse cross-sectional and partial transverse cross-sectional views of a formwork apparatus 1100 in a contracted configuration and Figure 19 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of formwork apparatus 1100 in an expanded configuration.
  • Apparatus 1100 is similar to apparatus 10 ( Figures 1A and IB) and comprises a plurality of panels 1102 similar to panels 12 of apparatus 10 and a plurality of standoff braces 1108 substantially similar to standoff braces 18 of apparatus 10. Except where explicitly described as being different or the context dictates otherwise, panels 1102 and standoff braces 1108 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 12 and/or standoff braces 18.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 12 and standoff braces 18 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 1102 and standoff braces 1108.
  • Panels 1102 of apparatus 1100 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier.
  • Each of standoff braces 1108 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1102, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 1102 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 1102.
  • Standoff braces 1108 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g.
  • transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 1108 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1102.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 1108 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 1108 and panels 1102.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 1108 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 1102), permitting standoff braces 1108 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 1102.
  • apparatus 1100 forms a closed barrier 1106, and apparatus 1100 is located within a hollow cylindrical jacket J.
  • Jacket J may comprise a rigid tubular formwork or a portion thereof (e.g. a portion of a formwork corresponding to a portion of the resultant structure for which a lining of apparatus 1100 is desired).
  • Jacket J may be made from a variety of materials, depending on the desired strength thereof.
  • jacket J may be a so-called sonnet tube.
  • jacket J may have other shapes (e.g. rectangular) in transverse cross-section.
  • Apparatus 1100 differs from apparatus 10 in that: panels 1102 comprise first and second complementary panel connector components 1114R, 1114L that differ from panel connector components 30, 60 of panels 12; and panel connector components 1114R, 1114L permit apparatus 1100 to be configured in a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration.
  • Figures 18B and 19 show partial transverse cross-sectional views of formwork apparatus 1100 which show detail of the connector components 1114L, 1114R of panels 1102 in the contracted and expanded configurations, respectively.
  • a first panel 1102 is coupled to a second panel 1102A with panel connector component 1114R of panel 1102 connected to panel connector component 1114LA of panel 1102A.
  • a standoff brace 1108 is coupled at its transverse side 140L to standoff brace connector component 100 of first panel 1102 and at its second transverse side 140R to standoff brace connector component 100 A of second panel 1102 A in a manner similar to the connection of standoff brace 408 to standoff brace connector components 100 of edge-adjacent panels 402 ( Figure 11).
  • FIG. 20 shows a transverse cross-sectional view of panel 1102 in isolation.
  • Panel 1102 comprises a sheet 22 having first and second transverse sides 22R, 22L and inner and outer faces 221, 220.
  • Panel 1102 comprises first and second panel connector components 1114R, 1114L along its first and second transverse sides 22R, 22L, respectively.
  • Panel 1102 comprises a standoff brace connector component 100, which may be substantially similar to second standoff brace connector component 100 of panels 12 and 402 described above.
  • First panel connector component 1114R comprises a penannular clip 1130.
  • Clip 1130 of the illustrated embodiment, has a double-J shaped transverse cross-section comprising hooks 1132A, 1132B which open into clip 1130.
  • hooks 1132 A, 1132B are spaced-apart and opposed, and define a mouth 1136 therebetween. Mouth 1136 opens away from transverse side 22R of panel 1102.
  • Second panel connector component 1114L of the illustrated embodiment, comprises a flanged projection 1140 having a central portion 1142 and a pair of opposed flanges 1144A, 1144B which extend from the distal end of central portion 1142.
  • flanges 1144A, 1144B both have generally J- shaped transverse cross sections with hook shapes complementary to hooks 1132A, 1132B of first panel connector component 1114R.
  • First and second panel connector components 1114R, 1114L are configured for inter-locking engagement (e.g. as shown in Figures 18B and 19, first panel connector component 1114R of a first panel 1102 and a second panel connector component 1114LA of a second panel 1102 A are configured for interlocking engagement by which the panels 1102, 1102A may be coupled to one another in edge-adjacent relationship).
  • Figures 18B and 19 show flanged projection 1140 of second panel connector component 1114LA of panel 1102A captured in clip 1130 of first panel connector component 1114R of panel 1102. Because flanged projection 1140 is inwardly offset from sheet 22, the outside faces 220 of panels 1102, 1102A are flush when panel connector components 1114R, 1114LA are engaged.
  • First and second panel connector components 1114R, 1114L may be inter-lockingly engaged by sliding engagement (e.g. longitudinally sliding second panel connector component 1114L into first panel connector component 1114R).
  • sliding engagement e.g. longitudinally sliding second panel connector component 1114L into first panel connector component 1114R.
  • clips 1130 and projection 1140 are resiliently deformable, such that first panel connector component 1114R and second panel connector component 1114L may be inter-lockingly engaged by snap fitting engagement (e.g. by transversely pressing second panel connector component
  • one or both of flanges 1144 A, 1144B are resiliently deformable such that they may be pressed against central portion 1142 to fit projection 1140 through mouth 1136.
  • one or both of hooks 1132A, 1132B are resiliently deformable such that mouth 1136 may be expanded to accommodate projection 1140.
  • sheet 22 is locally deformable in the vicinity of transverse side 22R such that that mouth 1136 may be expanded to accommodate projection 1140.
  • Clip 1130 and projection 1140 are configured so as to be capable of transverse displacement relative to one another when engaged. An example of such transverse displacement may be observed from comparing the contracted
  • FIG. 19 The configurability (permitted transverse expansion and contraction) of couplings between edge-adjacent panels 1102 allows barrier 1106 to be contracted and expanded.
  • the ends of flanges 1144A, 1144B are spaced apart from the bellies of hooks 1132A, 1132B (i.e. the ends of flanges 1144 A, 1144B do not extend fully into the hook concavities of hooks 1132A, 1132B).
  • the ends of flanges 1144A, 1144B are received in the hook concavities of hooks 1132A, 1132B and may contact the bellies of hooks 1132A, 1132B.
  • Standoff braces 1108 of apparatus 1100 may be configured to exert forces which tend to urge couplings between edge-adjacent panels 1102 toward one or the other of the contracted and expanded configurations.
  • standoff braces 1108 span couplings between edge- adjacent panels 1102.
  • Standoff braces 1108 may be configured to exert forces which encourage relative transverse displacement between edge-adjacent panels 1102.
  • standoff braces 1108 may be configured such that when coupled to standoff connector components 100 of edge-adjacent panels 1102, standoff braces 1108 are elastically deformed from their natural configuration.
  • standoff braces 1108 are configured to be compressively deformed (e.g.
  • Standoff braces 1108 may be configured so that the restorative forces associated with the deformation of standoff braces 1108 (when coupled to edge-adjacent panels 1102) promote displacement that increases contact forces between cooperating panel connector components of edge-adjacent panels 1102.
  • FIG 21 shows a flowchart of a method 1200 for using apparatus 1100 to line a column or the like by installing apparatus 1100 within a secondary forming member (e.g. a forming tube or sonnet tube like jacket J of Figures 18A, 18B, 19) according to an example embodiment.
  • Method 1200 begins in block 1210 which involves coupling panels 1102 in edge-adjacent relationship (e.g. coupling panel connector components 1114R, 1114L of edge-adjacent panels 1102 to one another).
  • Method 1200 then proceeds to block 1220 which involves optionally connecting some or all of standoff braces 1108 between edge-adjacent panels 1102. As discussed above, this may involve connection of the transverse side 140R of standoff brace 1108 to connector component 100 of one edge-adjacent panel 1102 and transverse side 140L of standoff brace 1108 to connector component 100 of the other edge-adjacent panel 1102.
  • the block 1220 connection of standoff braces 1108 to edge-adjacent panels 1102 may involve compressive deformation of standoff braces 1108 and may result in restorative forces that tend to cause panels 1102 to move transversely away from one another (e.g. into the expanded configuration of Figure 19).
  • Block 1230 involves contracting apparatus 1100 - e.g. into a configuration where at least one coupling between edge-adjacent panels 1102 is in a contracted configuration.
  • Block 1230 may comprise configuring formwork apparatus 1100 to its contracted configuration (e.g. with one or more circumferential bands applied to the outward face of barrier 1106 and/or the like).
  • block 1230 may actually be performed at the same time as blocks 1210, 1220 by constraining formwork apparatus 1110 to its contracted configuration during assembly.
  • Block 1230 may involve further deformation of standoff braces 1108 (e.g. toward greater convexity). In some instances (e.g.
  • the contracted formwork apparatus 1100 is inserted into the secondary formwork (e.g. jacket J). Because of the contracted
  • a space S may be provided between formwork apparatus 1100 and jacket J. Accordingly, formwork apparatus 1100 may be relatively easily slidably inserted into jacket J.
  • the block 1240 process of inserting formwork apparatus 1100 into jacket J may be accomplished before, or at the same time as, the corresponding processes of blocks 1210, 1220, 1230 - that is, formwork 1100 may be assembled within jacket J and may be contracted by the interaction of jacket J with formwork 1100.
  • Method 1200 then proceeds to block 1250 which involves permitting formwork apparatus 1100 to expand within jacket J.
  • the block 1250 expansion may involve reconfiguring at least one coupling between edge-adjacent panels 1102 from its contracted configuration to its expanded configuration.
  • the block 1250 expansion of formwork 1100 may be accomplished by removal of the mechanisms used to contract formwork apparatus 1100 (in block 1230) as formwork apparatus 1100 is being inserted into jacket J or after formwork apparatus 1100 is inserted into jacket J.
  • some or all of the block 1220 process of connecting standoff braces 1108 to panels 1102 is
  • At least one standoff brace 1108 may be coupled to edge-adjacent panels 1102 as a part of block 1250.
  • the outer faces of panels 1102 may be contacting (e.g. abutting against) an interior surface of jacket J.
  • Method 1200 concludes in block 1260 which involves introducing curable material (e.g. concrete) into formwork apparatus 1100 and allowing the concrete to cure to form a resultant structure.
  • curable material e.g. concrete
  • apparatus 1100 may be similar to apparatus 10 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 10.
  • FIGS 22A and 22B show transverse cross-sectional and partial transverse cross-sectional views of a formwork apparatus 1300 in a contracted configuration and Figure 23 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of formwork apparatus 1300 in an expanded configuration.
  • Apparatus 1300 is similar to apparatus 1100 ( Figures 18 A, 18B, 19, and 20) and comprises a plurality of panels 1302 which are similar to panels 1102 of apparatus 1100 and a plurality of standoff braces 1308 which are similar to standoff braces 1108 of apparatus 1100. .
  • panels 1302 and standoff braces 1308 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 1102 and/or standoff braces 1108.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 1102 and standoff braces 1108 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 1302 and standoff braces 1308.
  • Panels 1302 of apparatus 1300 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier.
  • Each of standoff braces 1308 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1302, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 1302 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 1302.
  • Standoff braces 1308 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g.
  • transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 1308 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1302.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 1308 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 1308 and panels 1302.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 1308 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 1302), permitting standoff braces 1308 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 1302.
  • Apparatus 1300 differs from apparatus 1100 described above, in that: standoff braces 1308 have a different transverse shape than standoff braces 1108 and different panel connector components 1352L, 1352R at their respective transverse sides 140L, 140R; and panels 1308 have different standoff brace connector components 1340 than panels 1108.
  • Figures 22B, 23 show partial transverse cross-sectional views of apparatus 1300 in which a panel 1302 is connected to an edge-adjacent panel 1302A. Panel connector components 1114L, 1114R of panels 1302 and their operation are similar to those of panels 1102 discussed above.
  • Standoff brace connector component 1340 of panel 1302 comprises a longitudinally extending rail 1342 that also extends from the inward face 221 of panel 1302 to provide hooks 1344R, 1344L.
  • panels 1302 are similar to panels 1102 described above.
  • Standoff brace 1308 comprises first and second longitudinally extending panel connector components 1352R, 1352L at its respective transverse sides 140R, 140L.
  • panel connector components 1352R, 1352L comprise hooks that are complementary to hooks 1344L, 1344R of standoff brace connector components 1340.
  • panel connector components 1352R, 1352L may be engaged with hooks 1344L, 1344R of standoff brace connector components 1340 by sliding engagement (e.g. longitudinally sliding standoff brace 1308 relative to panels 1302 to engage panel connector components 1352R, 1352L with hooks 1344L, 1344R).
  • standoff braces 1308 are resiliently deformable, such that panel connector components 1352R, 1352L may be set into hooks 1344L, 1344R of standoff brace connectors 1340 by hook-and-slot engagement or the like.
  • Standoff brace 1308 has an undulating arcuate shape in its transverse dimension.
  • standoff brace 1308 comprises two convexities 1358R, 1358L.
  • standoff braces 1308 of apparatus 1300 may be compressively deformed to connect to edge- adjacent panels 1302 (e.g. by moving the transverse sides of standoffs 1308 closer to one another) and the resultant restorative forces associated with such
  • apparatus 1300 may be similar to apparatus 1100 described above and may be used in accordance with method 1200 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 1100 and/or method 1200.
  • Figures 24A and 24B show transverse cross-sectional and partial transverse cross-sectional views of a formwork apparatus 1400 in a contracted configuration and Figure 25 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of formwork apparatus 1400 in an expanded configuration.
  • Apparatus 1400 is similar to apparatus 1100 ( Figures 18 A, 18B, 19, and 20) and comprises a plurality of panels 1402 which are similar to panels 1102 of apparatus 1100 and a plurality of standoff braces 1408 which are similar to standoff braces 1108 of apparatus 1100. Except where explicitly described as being different or the context dictates otherwise, panels 1402 and standoff braces 1408 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 1102 and/or standoff braces 1108.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 1102 and standoff braces 1108 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 1402 and standoff braces 1408.
  • Panels 1402 of apparatus 1400 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier.
  • Each of standoff braces 1408 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1402, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 1402 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 1402.
  • Standoff braces 1408 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g.
  • transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 1408 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1402.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 1408 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 1408 and panels 1402.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 1408 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 1402), permitting standoff braces 1408 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 1402.
  • Apparatus 1400 differs from apparatus 1100 described above, in that: panels 1408 have standoff brace connector components 1425, 1426, 1427, which are different in design and different in number than the standoff brace connector components of panels 1108; and standoff braces 1408 have panel connector components 1442R, 1442L at their respective transverse sides 140R, 140L which are different than the panel connector components of standoff braces 1108.
  • Figures 24B, 25 and 26 show partial transverse cross-sectional views of apparatus 1400 in which a panel 1402 is connected at its transverse sides to edge-adjacent panels 1402A, 1402B. Panel connector components 1114L, 1114R of panels 1402 and their operation are substantially similar to those of panels 1102 discussed above.
  • Standoff brace connector components 1426, 1427 are transversely spaced apart from one another and comprise longitudinally extending rails that also extend from the inward face 221 of panel 1402 in J-shapes to provide hooks.
  • Standoff brace connector component 1425 is similar to panel connector component 60 of panel 12 described above ( Figure 2D), except that standoff brace connector component 1425 has an orientation that is orthogonal to that of panel connector component 60 so that standoff brace connector component 1425 may be used for connecting to standoff braces 1408 as opposed to edge-adjacent panels.
  • panels 1402 are similar to panels 1102 described above.
  • FIGs 24B, 25, 26 also show detail of standoff brace 1408.
  • Standoff brace 1408 comprises a first panel connector component 1442R at one of its transverse edges 140R that is similar to panel connector component 30 of panel 12 described above ( Figurer 2C) and a second panel connector component 1442L at its opposing transverse edge 140L that comprises a hook similar to the hook provided by panel connector component 1352L of standoff brace 1308.
  • first panel connector component 1442R is complementary to standoff brace connector component 1425 of panel 1402 and that second panel connector component 1442L is complementary to either of standoff brace connector components 1426, 1427 of panel 1402.
  • connection of panel connector components 1442R, 1442L to their complementary standoff brace connector components 1425, 1426, 1427 may be similar to that described above for the similar complementary connector components.
  • the complementary shapes of brace connector component 1425 and panel connector component 1442R may be reversed - i.e. brace connector component 1425 may be shaped similar to panel connector component 30 of panel 12 and panel connector component 1442R may be shaped similar to panel connector component 60 of panel 12.
  • forming a connection between panel connector component 1442R and brace connector component 1425 may involve deforming one or both of connector components 1442R, 1425 (and optionally permitting partial restoration of this deformation) such that restorative forces (i.e.
  • connector components 1442R, 1425 may limit the relative movement in the longitudinal direction between standoff braces 1408 and panels 1402 - e.g. after connections are made between connector components 1442R, 1425, it may be relatively difficult to slide standoff braces 1408 in longitudinal directions relative to panels 1402. This may be due to the restorative forces between these connector components 1442R, 1425 which may in turn cause increased friction.
  • the forces associated with the connection between connector components 1442R, 1425 which tend to limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 1408 and panels 1402 are greater than the force of gravity associated with standoff braces 1408, such that standoff braces 1408 do not move under their own weight and can be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 1402, even in cases where the longitudinal direction of panels 1402 is vertically oriented.
  • Figure 26 shows how, in some circumstances, it may be desirable to connect first panel connector component 1442R at one transverse side 140R of standoff brace 1408 to standoff connector component 1425B of a first edge- adjacent panel 1402B.
  • standoff braces 1408 When only one of the sides 140R of standoff braces 1408 is connected to panels 1402, it may be relatively easy to compress or expand apparatus 1400 into its compressed or expanded states. This ease of compression may be because, when standoff braces 1408 are only connected at one side, moving panels 1402 toward one another (and apparatus 1400 into its compressed state) does not require deformation of standoff braces 1408.
  • the ease of expansion may be because standoff braces 1408 may be deformed and connected at their opposing sides 140L (i.e. by connecting hook 1442L to one of hooks 1426, 1427) and then restorative forces associated with this deformation may cause edge- adjacent panels 1402 to move away from one another such that apparatus 1400 moves to its expanded configuration.
  • apparatus 1400 may be similar to method 1200 described above. However, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to connect only first panel connector component 1442R at one transverse side 140R of standoff brace 1408 to standoff connector component 1425B of a first edge-adjacent panel 1402B as a part of block 1220, as this may facilitate ease of contracting formwork apparatus 1400 in block 1230.
  • second panel connector components 1442L of standoff braces 1408 may be connected to one of standoff brace connector components 1426, 1427 of panels 1402.
  • panel connector component (hook) 1442L of standoff brace 1408 may be connected to either one of standoff brace connector components 1426, 1427 of panel 1402. It will be appreciated that the convexity of standoff brace 1408 is greater when connected panel connector component 1442L is coupled to standoff brace connector 1426 as compared with when panel component 1442L is coupled to standoff brace connector 1427 - i.e. standoff brace 1408 is more compressively deformed when panel connector component 1442L is connected to standoff brace connector component 1427 than when panel connector component 1442L is connected to standoff brace connector component 1426.
  • FIG. 27 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 1900 according to another embodiment in its expanded configuration.
  • Apparatus 1900 is similar to apparatus 1100 ( Figures 18 A, 18B, 19, and 20) and comprises a plurality of panels 1902 which are similar to panels 1102 of apparatus 1100 and a plurality of standoff braces 1908 which are substantially similar to standoff braces 1108 of apparatus 1100. Except where explicitly described as being different or the context dictates otherwise, panels 1902 and standoff braces 1908 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 1102 and/or standoff braces 1108.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 1102 and standoff braces 1108 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 1902 and standoff braces 1908.
  • Panels 1902 of apparatus 1900 are connected to one another in edge- adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 1908 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1902, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 1902 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 1902.
  • Standoff braces 1908 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g. transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 1908 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1902.
  • FIG. 27 shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of apparatus 1900 in which a first panel 1902 is connected at its transverse sides to an edge- adjacent panel 1902.
  • Standoff brace connector components 100 of panels 1902 are similar to standoff brace connector components 100 of panels 1102 described above.
  • Standoffs 1908 and their connection to edge-adjacent panels 1902 are substantially similar to standoffs 1108.
  • Apparatus 1900 differs from apparatus 1100 described above, in that panels 1908 have different panel connector components 1924R, 1924L at their respective transverse sides 22R, 22L.
  • First panel connector component 1924R of the illustrated embodiment comprises a transversely opening and interiorly-flanged channel 1940 comprising a plurality of flanges 1944 that extend into channel 1940.
  • first panel connector component 1924R comprises a plurality of transversely spaced apart pairs of flanges 1944, each pair of which is similar to hooks 1132A, 1132B of panel connector component 1114R ( Figure 20).
  • Second panel connector 1924L of the illustrated embodiment comprises a flanged projection 1960 comprising a transversely extending central portion 1962 and a plurality of flanges 1964 that extend away from central portion 1962.
  • second panel connector component 1924L comprises a plurality of transversely spaced apart pairs of flanges 1964, each pair of which is similar to flanges 1144A, 1144B of panel connector components 1114L ( Figure 20) and each pair of which are complementary to flanges 1944 of first panel connector components 1924R.
  • first panel connector component 1924R and second connector 1924L are configured for inter-locking engagement (e.g. first panel connector component of 1924R a first panel 1902 and a second panel connector component 1924L of a second, edge-adjacent panel 1902 are configured for inter-locking engagement by which the edge-adjacent panels 1902 may be coupled together).
  • First panel connector component 1924R and second panel connector component 1924L may be inter-lockingly engaged by sliding
  • panel connector components 1924R, 1924L are resiliently deformable, such that first panel connector component 1924R and second panel connector component 1924L may be inter-lockingly engaged by snap fitting engagement (e.g. by transversely pressing second panel connector component 1924L into first panel connector component 1924R).
  • Channel 1940 of panel connector component 1924R and projection 1960 of panel connector component 1924L are configured to be susceptible to transverse displacement relative to one another when engaged - i.e. in a manner similar to panel connector components 1114R, 1114L of apparatus 1100. Because panel connector components 1924R, 1924L are susceptible to relative transverse displacement, couplings between panels 1902 are configurable between an expanded configuration and a contracted configuration similar to that of apparatus 1100 discussed above. Standoff brace 1908 spans the coupling between edge- adjacent panels 1902. Standoff brace 1908 may be configured such that when so connected, standoff brace 1908 exerts restorative forces which urge the coupling between edge-adjacent panels 1902 toward the expanded configuration.
  • apparatus 1900 may be similar to apparatus 1100 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 1100.
  • FIG 31 A shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 1500 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 1500 is similar to apparatus 10 ( Figures 1A and IB) and comprises a plurality of arcuate panels 1502 similar to panels 12 of apparatus 10 and a plurality of standoff braces 1508 similar to standoff braces 18 of apparatus 10. Except where explicitly described as being different or the context dictates otherwise, panels 1502 and standoff braces 1508 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 12 and/or standoff braces 18.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 12 and standoff braces 18 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 1502 and standoff braces 1508.
  • Panels 1502 of apparatus 1500 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 1508 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1502, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 1502 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge- adjacent panels 1502.
  • Standoff braces 1508 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g. transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 1508 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1502.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 1508 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 1508 and panels 1502.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 1508 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 1502), permitting standoff braces 1508 to be positioned at desired
  • Apparatus 1500 differs from apparatus 10 in that panels 1502 are generally flat (as opposed to arcuate) in their transverse extent similar to panels 212 of apparatus 200 ( Figure 6A) and in that standoff braces 1508 have an undulating arcuate shape in their transverse dimension having a plurality of convexities similar to standoff braces 1308 of apparatus 1300.
  • Apparatus 1500 also differs from apparatus 10 in that standoff braces 1508 comprise panel connector components 1510L, 1510R at their respective transverse ends 140L, 140R that differ from panel connector components 152L, 152R of standoff braces 18.
  • panel connector components 1510L, 1510R of standoff braces 1508 may connect to corresponding ones of T transverse cross- sectional shaped standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518.
  • one panel connector component 1510L of standoff brace 1508 is connected to standoff brace connector component 1512 of one edge- adjacent panel 1502 A and the other panel connector component 1510R of standoff brace 1508 is connected to standoff brace connector component 1518 of the other one of edge-adjacent panels 1502.
  • panel connector components 1510L, 1510R could be connected to other ones of standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518.
  • the particular connections may depend, for example, on a desired amount of deformation of standoff braces 1508.
  • Unused standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518 may continue to function in the manner of anchors 110 described above for apparatus 10.
  • FIG 3 IB is a magnified transverse cross-sectional view of a connection 1515 between a panel connector component 1510L and a standoff brace connector component 1512.
  • panel connector component 1510L of the illustrated embodiment comprises a clip having a pair of arms 1520A, 1520B that define a space 1519 therebetween.
  • Each of arms 1520 A, 1520B may be shaped to provide one or more concavities 1524A, 1524B which open into space 1519 and one or more convexities 1522A, 1522B that project into space 1519.
  • connection 1515 may be a snap- together connection, where restorative forces associated with the deformation of panel connector component 1510L and/or standoff brace connector component 1512 lock or otherwise reinforce connection 1515. More particularly, when standoff brace connector component 1512 is introduced into space 1519 between arms 1520A, 1520B, standoff brace connector component 1512 and/or panel connector component 1510L may be deformed (e.g. when standoff brace connector component 1512 is pushed past projections 1522A, 1522B). Once connection 1515 is made (e.g. connector component 1512 is seated in concavities 1524A, 1524B), restorative forces may cause connector components 1510L, 1512 to return toward (but not all the way to) their natural (un-deformed) states. The remaining
  • connection 1515 tends to lock or otherwise reinforce connection 1515 (e.g. by forcing arms 1524A, 1524B against transverse extensions 1521 A, 1521B), preventing the withdrawal of standoff brace connector component 1512 from concavities 1524A, 1524B.
  • connection 1515 The connections between panel connector components 1510L, 1510R and other ones of standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518 may be similar to connection 1515.
  • components 1510L, 1510R and standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518 may be similar to the connections between connector components 1442R, 1425 of apparatus 1400 described above in that the restorative forces associated with such connections may limit the relative movement in the
  • the forces associated with the connection between panel connector components 1510L, 1510R and standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518 are greater than the force of gravity associated with standoff braces 1508, such that standoff braces 1508 do not move under their own weight and can be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 1502, even in cases where the longitudinal direction of panels 1502 is vertically oriented. This is shown, for example, in Figure 31 A where standoff braces 1508 are positioned at desired longitudinal locations relative to panels 1502.
  • FIG 31C shows a formwork apparatus 1550 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 1550 is a modified version of apparatus 1500 ( Figure 31 A) which incorporates additional standoff braces 1558.
  • Additional standoff braces 1558 are substantially similar to standoff braces 1508 (and similar reference numerals are used to designate similar features of standoff braces 1558).
  • Additional standoff braces 1558 differ from standoff braces 1508 in that panel connector components 1510L, 1510R of additional standoff braces 1558 are connected to a pair of standoff brace connector components 1516, 1514 on the same one of panels 1502.
  • apparatus 1550 may be similar to apparatus 1500 described above.
  • Formwork apparatus 1550 comprises additional standoff braces 1558 (i.e.
  • standoff braces that connect at both of their transverse ends to one of panels 1502 and standoff braces 1508 i.e. standoff braces that connect at one of their transverse ends to a first panel and to another of their transverse ends to an edge-adjacent panel.
  • formwork apparatus may be provided with standoff braces 1558 only - i.e. standoff braces 1558 that connect at both of their transverse ends to one of panels 1502.
  • panel connector components 1510L, 1510R of additional standoff braces 1558 may connect to any available pair of standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518.
  • apparatus 1500 and 1550 may be similar to apparatus 100 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 100.
  • Figure 32A shows a partial transverse cross-sectional view of a formwork apparatus 1600 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 1600 is similar to apparatus 1500 ( Figures 31 A and 3 IB) and comprises a plurality of arcuate panels 1602 similar to panels 1502 of apparatus 1500 and a plurality of standoff braces 1608 similar to standoff braces 1508 of apparatus 1500.
  • panels 1602 and standoff braces 1608 may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for panels 1502 and/or standoff braces 1508.
  • the reference numerals used to identify features of panels 1502 and standoff braces 1508 are used to identify corresponding features of panels 1602 and standoff braces 1608.
  • Panels 1602 of apparatus 1600 are connected to one another in edge-adjacent relationship and may form a closed barrier (not shown in full).
  • Each of standoff braces 1608 is connected at its transverse sides 140L, 140R to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1602, with one transverse side 140L connected to one of the edge-adjacent panels 1602 and the other transverse side 140R connected to the other one of the edge-adjacent panels 1602.
  • Standoff braces 1608 may be deformed from their natural state (e.g. transverse sides 140L, 140R of standoff braces 1608 may be brought closer to one another) to facilitate their connection to a pair of edge-adjacent panels 1602.
  • Such compressive deformation of standoff braces 1608 and corresponding restorative forces may cause pressure between connector components which may in turn limit relative longitudinal movement between standoff braces 1608 and panels 1602.
  • such restorative forces may be sufficient to prevent standoff braces 1608 from moving under their own weight (relative to panels 1602), permitting standoff braces 1608 to be positioned at desired longitudinal locations on panels 1602.
  • Apparatus 1600 differs from apparatus 1500 primarily in that: panel connector components 1610L, 1610R have different shapes than panel connector components 1510L, 1510R; and standoff brace connector components 1612, 1614, 1616, 1618 have different shapes than standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518.
  • FIG 32B shows is a magnified transverse cross-sectional view of a connection 1615 between a panel connector component 1610L and a standoff brace connector component 1612. While connector components 1610L, 1612 of apparatus 1600 have different shapes than connector components 1510L, 1512 of apparatus 1500, connection 1615 is similar in many respects to connection 1515. More particularly, panel connector component 1610L comprises a clip having a pair of arms 1620 A, 1620B that define a space 1619 therebetween. Each of arms 1620 A, 1620B may be shaped to provide one or more concavities 1624 A, 1624B which open into space 1619 and one or more convexities 1622 A, 1622B that project into space 1619.
  • Transverse extensions 1621A, 1621B of arrow-shaped standoff brace connector component 1612 may extend into concavities 1624A, 1624B when connection 1615 is formed between connector components 1610L, 1612. Restorative forces associated with connection 1615 (and the features of connection 1615 which provide such restorative forces) may be analogous to those described above for connection 1515. Restorative forces associated with
  • connection 1615 may limit relative transverse movement between standoff braces 1608 and panels 1602 in a manner analogous to restorative forces associated with connection 1515 described above.
  • Figure 32C shows a formwork apparatus 1650 according to another example embodiment.
  • Apparatus 1650 is a modified version of apparatus 1600 ( Figure 32A) which incorporates additional standoff braces 1658.
  • Formwork apparatus 1650 is analogous to formwork 1600 in a similar manner that forward apparatus 1550 is analogous to formwork 1500.
  • additional standoff braces 1658 are substantially similar to standoff braces 1608 (and similar reference numerals are used to designate similar features of standoff braces 1658).
  • Additional standoff braces 1658 differ from standoff braces 1608 in that panel connector components 1610L, 1610R of additional standoff braces 1658 are connected to a pair of standoff brace connector components 1618, 1614 on the same one of panels 1602.
  • apparatus 1650 may be similar to apparatus 1600 described above.
  • Formwork apparatus 1650 comprises additional standoff braces 1658 (i.e. standoff braces that connect at both of their transverse ends to one of panels 1602) and standoff braces 1608 (i.e. standoff braces that connect at one of their transverse ends to a first panel and to another of their transverse ends to an edge-adjacent panel).
  • standoff braces 1658 i.e. standoff braces that connect at both of their transverse ends to one of panels 1602
  • standoff braces 1608 i.e. standoff braces that connect at one of their transverse ends to a first panel and to another of their transverse ends to an edge-adjacent panel.
  • panel connector components 1610L, 1610R of additional standoff braces 1658 may connect to any available pair of standoff brace connector components 1612, 1614, 1616, 1618.
  • apparatus 1600 and 1650 may be similar to apparatus 1500 described above and, except where the context dictates otherwise, may comprise any of the features, modifications and/or alternatives described herein for apparatus 1500.
  • FIG 32D shows a magnified transverse cross-sectional view of a connection 1715 between a panel connector component 1710 and a standoff brace connector component 1712 according to another embodiment.
  • Connection 1715 may be implemented in a formwork apparatus similar to formwork apparatus 1500, 1550, 1600, 1650 by substituting panel connector component 1710 for the panel connector components of standoff braces 1508, 1158, 1608, 1658 of apparatus 1500, 1550, 1600, 1650 and standoff brace connector component 1712 for any of standoff brace connector components 1512, 1514, 1516, 1518, 1612, 1614, 1616, 1618 of panels 1502, 1602 of apparatus 1500, 1550, 1600, 1650.
  • connection 1715 is similar in many respects to connections 1515, 1615 described above. More particularly, panel connector component 1710 comprises a clip having a pair of arms 1720A, 1720B that define a space 1719 therebetween. Each of arms 1720A, 1720B may be shaped to provide one or more concavities 1724 A, 1724B which open into space 1719 and one or more convexities 1722A, 1722B that project into space 1719.
  • Transverse extensions 1721 A, 1721B of ball-shaped standoff brace connector component 1712 may extend into concavities 1724A, 1724B when connection 1715 is formed between connector components 1710, 1712. Restorative forces associated with connection 1715 (and the features of connection 1715 which provide such restorative forces) may be analogous to those described above for connections 1515, 1615. Restorative forces associated with connection 1715 may limit relative transverse movement between corresponding standoff brace 1708 and panels 1702 in a manner analogous to restorative forces associated with
  • standoff brace 1810 which is shown in Figure 28 is similar to standoff brace 18, described above, but lacks anchor components
  • standoff brace 1820 which is shown in Figure 29 is similar to standoff brace 1810, described above, but has an arcuate configuration defined by rectilinear sections 1622, 1624 and 1626
  • standoff brace 1830 which is shown in Figure 30 is substantially similar to standoff brace 1308, described above, but has panel connector components 1832R, 1832L whose configuration is the same as panel connector components 152R, 152L of standoff brace 18
  • a standoff brace connector component may comprise a plurality of clips longitudinally- spaced apart along the length of a panel;
  • a panel connector component may comprise a plurality of clips
  • an anchor component may comprise a plurality of projections longitudinally-spaced apart along the length of a panel or standoff brace; and/or (iv) the like.
  • panels may have greater or fewer or no standoff brace connector components; and (ii) standoff braces and panels may have greater or fewer or no anchor components.
  • standoff braces are connected at their transverse sides to a pair of edge-adjacent panels - e.g. a first transverse side of a standoff brace is connected to a first one of a pair of edge-adjacent panels and a second one of the pair of edge-adjacent panels.
  • standoff braces may be connected to the same panel at both of their transverse sides.
  • the distance between the connections of the transverse sides of a standoff brace to a single panel may be greater than or equal to 25% of the transverse width of the panel.
  • the distance between the connections of the transverse sides of a standoff brace to a single panel may be greater than or equal to 40% of the transverse width of the panel.
  • standoff braces may be connected at only one other their sides to a corresponding single panel.
  • panels may be provided with a standoff connector components similar to standoff connector component 1425 ( Figure 26) and standoffs may be connected at one of their sides to a single panel using a complementary panel connector component similar to panel connector component 1442R or any of the other complementary sets of standoff connector components and panel connector components described above (e.g. shown in Figures 31A- 32D).
  • standoff braces may comprise one panel connector component only.
  • standoff braces may be coupled to more than two panels.
  • standoff braces may comprise more than two panel connector components.
  • Panels and standoff braces may be configured such that standoff braces may be coupled to the exterior of a barrier.
  • standoff braces may have convexity greater than the convexity of panels and be coupled to the exterior of a barrier formed by coupled panels.
  • standoff braces are configured to provide resiliently separation between a barrier and a workpiece outside (e.g. surrounding) the barrier.
  • standoff braces are coupled to both the interior and the exterior of a barrier.
  • embodiments described herein comprise features which may be interchanged to provide other embodiments which may not be particularly shown in drawings or described above.
  • features such as panel connector components, standoff brace connector components and anchor components may be interchanged between various panels and standoff braces to provide various embodiments not particularly described herein.
  • panels 1102 of apparatus 1100 may be modified to provide dual standoff brace connector components similar to standoff brace connector components 519, 521 of panels 502 ( Figure 12).
  • standoff braces may compressively deformed from their natural states to effect connection to panels - i.e. the transverse sides of standoff braces may be brought closer to one another to effect connection to panels.
  • the restorative forces associated with the deformation of standoff braces may tend to pull adjacent panels apart from one another.
  • standoff braces may be deformed by expansion to effect connection to panels - i.e. the transverse sides of standoff braces may be separated from one another to effect connection to panels.
  • the restorative forces associated with the deformation of standoff braces may tend to push edge adjacent panels toward one another.
  • Figures 11 and 12 could be modified to provide flat panels, corner panels and stub panels similar to thereby provide rectangular shaped formworks similar to those of Figures 6 A and 6B.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Electrochemistry (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Forms Removed On Construction Sites Or Auxiliary Members Thereof (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un appareil de coffrage qui comprend : une pluralité de panneaux accouplés les uns aux autres dans une relation à bords adjacents pour former une barrière ; et au moins une contrefiche éloignée, la ou les contrefiches éloignées comprenant : un premier côté transversal raccordé à la barrière dans un premier emplacement ; un second côté transversal raccordé à la barrière dans un second emplacement espacé du premier emplacement ; et une section médiane espacée de la barrière. Les premier et second emplacements peuvent être de chaque côté transversal d'un accouplement entre des premier et second panneaux à bords adjacents.
PCT/CA2013/050476 2012-06-20 2013-06-20 Appareil de coffrage comportant des contrefiches éloignées résilientes et procédés associés WO2013188980A1 (fr)

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US9206614B2 (en) 2011-11-24 2015-12-08 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Stay-in-place formwork with engaging and abutting connections
US9315987B2 (en) 2012-01-05 2016-04-19 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Systems for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding structures with locatable stand-off components
US9359780B2 (en) 2009-01-07 2016-06-07 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Methods and apparatus for restoring, repairing, reinforcing and/or protecting structures using concrete
US9441365B2 (en) 2011-11-24 2016-09-13 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Stay-in-place formwork with anti-deformation panels
US9453345B2 (en) 2012-01-05 2016-09-27 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Panel-to-panel connections for stay-in-place liners used to repair structures
US9982444B2 (en) 2014-04-04 2018-05-29 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Liquid and gas-impermeable connections for panels of stay-in-place form-work systems
CN109509200A (zh) * 2018-12-26 2019-03-22 深圳市繁维医疗科技有限公司 基于轮廓提取的棋盘格角点检测方法、装置以及计算机可读存储介质
US10407895B2 (en) * 2016-12-23 2019-09-10 Dieter Krohmer Portable modular system for structural assemblies
US10731333B2 (en) 2015-12-31 2020-08-04 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Structure-lining apparatus with adjustable width and tool for same
EP3710649A4 (fr) * 2017-11-14 2021-11-10 Piccone Holdings Ltd. Système de coffrage de stuc prêt à l'emploi permanent
US11180915B2 (en) 2017-04-03 2021-11-23 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Longspan stay-in-place liners
US11313135B1 (en) * 2020-09-23 2022-04-26 Jeffrey S. Kenny Panel assembly
US11512483B2 (en) 2017-12-22 2022-11-29 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Snap-together standoffs for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding structures
US11674322B2 (en) 2019-02-08 2023-06-13 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Retainers for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding structures
US12037801B2 (en) 2022-10-20 2024-07-16 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Methods and apparatus for restoring, repairing, reinforcing and/or protecting structures using concrete

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US20110131914A1 (en) * 2009-04-27 2011-06-09 Richardson George David Methods and apparatus for restoring, repairing, reinforcing and/or protecting structures using concrete

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Cited By (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9359780B2 (en) 2009-01-07 2016-06-07 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Methods and apparatus for restoring, repairing, reinforcing and/or protecting structures using concrete
US9206614B2 (en) 2011-11-24 2015-12-08 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Stay-in-place formwork with engaging and abutting connections
US9441365B2 (en) 2011-11-24 2016-09-13 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Stay-in-place formwork with anti-deformation panels
US9315987B2 (en) 2012-01-05 2016-04-19 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Systems for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding structures with locatable stand-off components
US9453345B2 (en) 2012-01-05 2016-09-27 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Panel-to-panel connections for stay-in-place liners used to repair structures
AU2019206056B2 (en) * 2014-04-04 2021-01-07 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Liquid and gas-impermeable connections for panels of stay-in-place form-work systems
US10450763B2 (en) 2014-04-04 2019-10-22 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Liquid and gas-impermeable connections for panels of stay-in-place form-work systems
US9982444B2 (en) 2014-04-04 2018-05-29 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Liquid and gas-impermeable connections for panels of stay-in-place form-work systems
US11499308B2 (en) 2015-12-31 2022-11-15 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Structure-lining apparatus with adjustable width and tool for same
US10731333B2 (en) 2015-12-31 2020-08-04 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Structure-lining apparatus with adjustable width and tool for same
US11053676B2 (en) 2015-12-31 2021-07-06 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Structure-lining apparatus with adjustable width and tool for same
US10407895B2 (en) * 2016-12-23 2019-09-10 Dieter Krohmer Portable modular system for structural assemblies
US11180915B2 (en) 2017-04-03 2021-11-23 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Longspan stay-in-place liners
US11821204B2 (en) 2017-04-03 2023-11-21 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Longspan stay-in-place liners
EP3710649A4 (fr) * 2017-11-14 2021-11-10 Piccone Holdings Ltd. Système de coffrage de stuc prêt à l'emploi permanent
US11761220B2 (en) 2017-12-22 2023-09-19 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Snap-together standoffs for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding structures
US11512483B2 (en) 2017-12-22 2022-11-29 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Snap-together standoffs for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding structures
CN109509200A (zh) * 2018-12-26 2019-03-22 深圳市繁维医疗科技有限公司 基于轮廓提取的棋盘格角点检测方法、装置以及计算机可读存储介质
CN109509200B (zh) * 2018-12-26 2023-09-29 深圳市繁维医疗科技有限公司 基于轮廓提取的棋盘格角点检测方法以及计算机可读存储介质
US11674322B2 (en) 2019-02-08 2023-06-13 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Retainers for restoring, repairing, reinforcing, protecting, insulating and/or cladding structures
US11313135B1 (en) * 2020-09-23 2022-04-26 Jeffrey S. Kenny Panel assembly
US12037801B2 (en) 2022-10-20 2024-07-16 Cfs Concrete Forming Systems Inc. Methods and apparatus for restoring, repairing, reinforcing and/or protecting structures using concrete

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