US 6,345,472 B1 · Apparatus and method for anchoring and erecting concrete or similar materials

Abstract

An apparatus for use in concrete construction is characterized by a body having a first portion configured to be set into concrete during the casting of that concrete, and which can be removed from the concrete after the concrete has set, and thereby may be reused in a similar manner with other concrete castings. The body of the apparatus is preferably generally cylindrical and preferably includes a serrated exterior surface. The body also preferably includes a second portion configured to facilitate removal of the apparatus from the concrete, and further includes an engagement member with which other devices may be engaged. The second portion may also be engageable with an alignment member to facilitate the accuracy of insertion and removal of the apparatus from the concrete. The serrated exterior preferably interferingly engages with at least one reinforcing element formed in the concrete, to assist in positioning of the concrete. The body may also be inflatable, and thus removable from the concrete by deflating. Inflatable and non-inflatable embodiments of the apparatus find use in “no-slump” or extrusion concrete applications. A preferred method of use of the apparatus is disclosed.

Claims27

Dependent claims

A method of creating void space in concrete material, including the steps of:

(a) providing concrete material;
(b) providing a form for casting said concrete material;
(c) providing a removable, reusable insert member, said insert member is attachable to machinery capable of providing a continuous supply of relatively rapid setting concrete, and said method includes the step of attaching said insert member to said machinery;
(d) positioning said insert in a selected position with respect to said form, to facilitate said removal and reuse of said insert member;
(e) casting said concrete material in said form and around said insert member;
(f) removing said insert member from said concrete material after said casting, said removal step consists of rotably removing said insert member from said concrete material;
(g) providing at least one reinforcing element;
and
(h) positioning said at least one reinforcing element in said form between adjacent serrations on said exterior surface of said insert member.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Apparatus and method for anchoring and erecting concrete or similar materials

Life of this patent

Apparatus and method for anchoring and erecting concrete or similar materials

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims27