Systems and methods for positioning and anchoring columns

A system for positioning and anchoring columns comprising:

• (a) a positioning template comprising:
• a u-shaped frame configured to support at least two horizontally hinged aligned panels;
• a plurality of jacking mechanisms, wherein the jacking mechanisms are configured for leveling the horizontally aligned panels;
• a plurality of posts, wherein each post is configured for anchoring a line coupled to the column when said column is positioned inside first opening;
• a first opening defined by the horizontally aligned panels, wherein the u-shaped frame is configured to guide a tubular sleeve when the tubular sleeve is driven downward below grade level through the first opening;
• (b) the tubular sleeve, wherein the tubular sleeve is configured for passing through the first opening of the first frame and for receiving a second frame inside the tubular sleeve;
• (c) the second frame comprising:
• a first end and an opposing second end, wherein each end of the second frame includes four frame members that define a square shaped opening;
• an elongated bar spanning between the first end and the second end along each frame member, wherein the second frame is configured to guide a pile when the pile is driven downward below grade level;
• (d) the pile having a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a first end of the pile is configured for receiving a connecting tube of a column;
• and,
• (e) a column, wherein the column has a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a connecting tube extends out from the second end.

A method for positioning and anchoring columns comprising:

• (a) positioning a template above an intended hole location, wherein the template comprises:
• a first frame configured to support a plurality of horizontally aligned panels;
• a plurality of jacking mechanisms, wherein the jacking mechanisms are configured for leveling the horizontally aligned panels;
• a first opening defined by the horizontally aligned panels, wherein the panels are configured to guide a tubular sleeve when the tubular sleeve is driven downward below grade level through the first opening;
• (b) leveling the horizontally aligned panels using the jacking mechanisms;
• (c) removing material from the intended hole location to form a hole;
• (d) guiding a tubular sleeve below grade level into the hole by passing the tubular sleeve through the first opening;
• (e) inserting a second frame into the tubular sleeve, wherein the second frame comprises:
• a first end and an opposing second end, wherein each end of the second frame includes a plurality of frame members that define a second opening;
• a plurality of elongated bars between the first end and the second end, wherein the elongated bars and frame members are configured to guide a pile when the pile is driven downward below grade level;
• (f) inserting the pile into the square shaped opening and forcing the pile downward until a first end of the pile is proximate to grade level;
• (g) removing the second frame;
• (h) driving the pile down until a second end of the pile reaches a desired depth;
• (i) positioning a connecting tube of a column into the first end of the pile;
• and,
• (j) filing the pile and hole with concrete in a flowable state.