Method and system for constructing large, continuous, concrete slabs
AssigneeBuilding Innovations Pty Ltd
InventorsWarwick Ian Colefax, Robert Foster Colefax, Miro Getaldic
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Abstract
A method and system are provided for constructing large, continuous, concrete slabs without using conventional shrinkage joints. The system comprises a grid of closely-spaced crack inducers (2) arranged relative to a concrete-pouring surface and adapted to be covered by concrete. The crack inducers (2) may be connected to one another with connectors (10). The crack inducers (2) are of a size, shape and spacing to promote formation of fine cracks in the vicinity of the inducers (2) throughout the slab when the concrete sets.
Claims50
A method of constructing a large continuous concrete slab, said method comprising the steps of:
- arranging a plurality of closely spaced crack inducers relative to a concrete-pouring surface;
- pouring concrete onto said concrete-pouring surface to completely cover said inducers;
- and
- allowing said concrete to set to form a slab;
- wherein said inducers are of a size, shape and spacing to promote fine cracking in their vicinity throughout the area of the slab such that said slab has a continuous top surface and does not require the installation of shrinkage control joints through the top surface to prevent uncontrolled cracking.
A crack inducer system for inducing cracks in a large continuous concrete slab, said system comprising a plurality of closely spaced crack inducers arranged relative to a concrete-pouring surface and adapted to be completely covered by concrete, wherein said crack inducers are of a size, shape and spacing to promote fine cracking in their vicinity throughout the area of the slab when said concrete sets, and wherein said slab has a continuous top surface and does not require the installation of shrinkage control joints through the top surface to prevent uncontrolled cracking.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.