Fabric tensioning frame

Abstract

Apparatus for attaching and bi-directionally tensioning a porous fabric over a flexible, rectangular form support. A frame comprises a pair of rigid, parallel frame members connected by a pair of parallel cross members. The ends of the frame members contain legs that contact the form support in each corner thereof. Suction cups located on the cross members allow the form support to be attached to the frame and pulled towards the frame such that the edges of the form support flex between adjacent legs. Once the form support has been flexed, the porous fabric is wrapped over and attached to the form support at the corners and along all sides. After the porous fabric is completely attached to the form support, the frame is removed so the form support can return to its flat unflexed, rectangular dimensions. The result is that the porous fabric is bi-directionally stretched over the form support such that a uniform tension of 50 to 300 kg/lineal meter is created. The tensioned fabric and form support are useful in concrete formliner applications.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.