U.S. patent application number 11/582473 was filed with the patent office on 2007-10-04 for pocket assembly for placing a flat dowel between cast in place concrete slabs.
This patent application is currently assigned to MMI Management Services, LP. Invention is credited to Sidney E. Francies, David L. Kelly.
Application Number | 20070231068 11/582473 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38559157 |
Filed Date | 2007-10-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070231068 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Francies; Sidney E. ; et
al. |
October 4, 2007 |
Pocket assembly for placing a flat dowel between cast in place
concrete slabs
Abstract
An assembly for use in the formation of adjacent concrete slabs
to provide a flat rectangular dowel engaged between the slabs. The
assembly comprises a pocket which is cast in place in the edge
portion of the first slab to be formed, with the dowel fully
confined within the pocket. After the formation of the first slab,
the dowel is partially withdraw from the pocket and the second slab
is formed in place against the first slab, with the dowel in
spanning relationship to the respective slabs. In the preferred
embodiments, the pocket comprises a monolithic plastic box having
complimental generally rigid upper and lower sections movable
between a closed condition defining the pocket therebetween and an
open condition exposing the pocket interiorly. One edge of the
pocket is formed with an opening through which the dowel passes as
it moves between the fully confined and the partially withdrawn
positions. In certain embodiments, a sealing element or door is
provided to close the opening during the formation of the first
slab. Seal elements are also provided to seal the pocket against
the intrusion of concrete during the formation-of the second
slab.
Inventors: |
Francies; Sidney E.;
(Lithia, FL) ; Kelly; David L.; (Sacramento,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
John K. Uilkema;Thelen Reid & Priest, LLP
P.O. Box 190187
San Francisco
CA
94119-0187
US
|
Assignee: |
MMI Management Services, LP
|
Family ID: |
38559157 |
Appl. No.: |
11/582473 |
Filed: |
October 16, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60787125 |
Mar 29, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
404/56 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E01C 11/14 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
404/56 |
International
Class: |
E01C 11/14 20060101
E01C011/14 |
Claims
1. A dowel assembly for use in for use in the formation of adjacent
concrete slabs to maintain the slabs in alignment, comprising: a. a
pocket forming member having a pocket therein, said member having
an opening in one end communicating with the pocket; b. a dowel
received within the pocket for movement between a first position
fully confined within the pocket and a second position extending
through the opening and partially out of the pocket; and, c. a
fastener for securing the member to a form with the opening in
apposition to the form and the dowel fully confined within the
pocket.
2. A dowel assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a
first stop on the pocket forming member for engagement with the
dowel to limit the degree to which the dowel can be withdrawn from
the pocket for movement to the second position.
3. A dowel assembly according to claim 2, further comprising a
second stop on the pocket forming member for engagement with the
dowel to prevent the dowel from moving from the second to the first
position.
4. A dowel assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a
latch interposed between the pocket member and dowel to lock the
dowel in the second position upon movement of the dowel from the
first position to the second position.
5. A dowel assembly according to claim 4, wherein the latch
comprises: a. a spring biased pin carried by the dowel; and, b. a
first pin receiving recess in the pocket member disposed for
engagement by the pin upon movement of the dowel to the second
position.
6. A dowel assembly according to claim 5, further comprising a
second pin receiving recess in the pocket forming member for
engagement with the pin to releasably secure the dowel in the first
position, said second recess having a ramped surface to release the
pin in response to force moving the dowel from the first position
to the second position.
7. A dowel assembly according to claim 2, wherein: a. the pocket is
of a generally rectangular configuration, as viewed in plan; and,
b. the dowel is of a rectangular planar configuration generally
complimental to that of the pocket.
8. A dowel assembly according to claim 7, wherein the dowel is
width less than that of the pocket to allow limited lateral
movement of the dowel relative to the pocket.
9. A dowel assembly according to claim 8, further comprising a
resilient element engaged between the pocket and dowel to urge the
dowel into alignment with the pocket while permitting limited
lateral movement of the dowel relative to the pocket.
10. A dowel assembly according to claim 9, wherein: a. the
resilient element comprises at least one detent engageable with a
lateral edge of the dowel; and, b. the lateral edge of the dowel is
formed with notches disposed for engagement with the detent to
selectively secure the dowel in either the first or second
position.
11. A dowel assembly according to claim 9, wherein the first stop
comprises interengageable surface on the dowel and resilient
element, disposed to engage one another when the dowel is moved to
the second position.
12. A dowel assembly according to claim 1 wherein the opening is so
disposed relative to the fastener that a form to which the fastener
is secured covers the opening.
13. A dowel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the member
comprises complimental upper and lower sections disposed for
movement between an open condition exposing the pocket interiorly
and a closed condition defining the pocket therebetween.
14. A dowel assembly according to claim 13, further comprising a
hinge connection securing the upper and lower sections together for
movement between the open and closed conditions.
15. A dowel assembly according to claim 13, wherein the upper and
lower sections are of different depths and may be assembled in
different combinations to alter the depth of the pocket formed
therebetween.
16. A dowel assembly according to claim 13, further comprising a
latch to secure the upper and lower sections in the closed
condition.
17. A dowel assembly according to claim 13, wherein the fastener
comprises flanges formed on the upper and lower sections for
alignment to form a collar around the pocket forming member when
the upper and lower sections are in closed condition.
18. A dowel assembly according to claim 17, further comprising
apertures formed in elements carried by the respective flanges for
alignment when the upper and lower sections are in closed
condition, said elements being adapted to have a nail extended
through the aligned apertures thereof to lock the sections in the
closed condition and secure the collar formed by the flanges to a
form element.
19. A dowel assembly according to claim 1, further comprising
protrusions formed on the member interiorly of the pocket for
engagement with the dowel to ease movement of the dowel between the
first and second positions.
20. A dowel assembly according to claim 19, wherein: a. the dowel
is disposed to move between the first and second positions in a
generally rectilinear path; and b. the protrusions comprise ribs
extending in a direction parallel to the path.
21. A dowel assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a
closure element on the member to close the opening.
22. A dowel assembly according to claim 21, wherein the closure
element comprises a door hingedly secured to the member to one side
of the opening for movement between open and closed conditions
relative to the opening.
23. A dowel assembly according to claim 22, wherein the door is
hingedly secured to the member by a friable connection and the
connection may be broken to completely remove the door from the
member.
24. A dowel assembly according to claim 21, wherein the closure
element comprises tape adhesively secured to the member.
25. A dowel assembly according to claim 1, wherein the fastener
comprises a flange on the housing extending laterally of the
opening.
26. A dowel assembly according to claim 25, wherein the flange
comprises tabs disposed around the opening at spaced intervals.
27. A dowel assembly according to claim 25, wherein the flange
comprises a collar extending around the opening.
28. A dowel assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a
seal element mutually engaged between the pocket forming member and
the dowel to seal the pocket against fluid intrusion when the dowel
is in the second position.
29. A dowel assembly for use in for use in the formation of
adjacent concrete slabs to maintain the slabs in alignment,
comprising: a. a pocket forming member having a pocket therein of a
generally rectangular configuration, as viewed in plan, said member
having an opening in one end communicating with the pocket; b. a
dowel received within the pocket for movement between a first
position fully confined within the pocket and a second condition
extending through the opening and partially out of the pocket, said
dowel being of a rectangular configuration generally complimental
to that of the pocket; c. a grip element on the dowel accessible
through the opening to enable to dowel to be accessed for select
manual movement between the first and second positions; and, d. a
fastener for securing the member to a form with the opening in
apposition to the form and the dowel fully confined within the
pocket.
30. A dowel assembly according to claim 29, wherein the dowel is
width less than that of the pocket to allow limited lateral
movement of the dowel relative to the pocket.
31. A dowel assembly according to claim 30, further comprising a
resilient element engaged between the pocket and dowel to urge the
dowel into alignment with the pocket while permitting limited
lateral movement of the dowel relative to the pocket.
32. A dowel assembly according to claim 31, wherein: a. the
resilient element comprises a detent engageable with a lateral edge
of the dowel; and, b. the lateral edge of the dowel is formed with
notches disposed for engagement with the detent to selectively
secure the dowel in either the first or second position.
33. A dowel assembly according to claim 31, further comprising
interengageable surfaces on the dowel and resilient element
disposed to stop the dowel when it moves from the first to the
second position.
34. A dowel assembly according to claim 33, further comprising
second interengageable surfaces on the dowel and resilient element
to prevent the dowel from moving from the second to the first
position.
35. A dowel assembly according to claim 29, wherein the opening is
so disposed relative to the fastener that a form to which the
fastener is secured covers the opening.
36. A dowel assembly according to claim 29, wherein the member
comprises complimental upper and lower sections disposed for
movement between a closed condition defining the pocket
therebetween and an open condition exposing the pocket
interiorly.
37. A dowel assembly according to claim 36, further comprising a
hinge connection securing the upper and lower sections together for
movement between the open and closed conditions.
38. A dowel assembly according to claim 36, further comprising a
latch to secure the upper and lower sections in the closed
condition.
39. A dowel assembly according to claim 29, further comprising
protrusions formed on the member interiorly of the pocket for
slidable engagement with the dowel to ease movement of the dowel
between the first and second positions.
40. A dowel assembly according to claim 39, wherein: a. the dowel
is disposed to move between the first and second positions in a
generally rectilinear path; and b. the protrusions comprise ribs
extending in a direction parallel to the path.
41. A dowel assembly according to claim 29, further comprising a
closure element on the member to close the opening.
42. A dowel assembly according to claim 41, wherein the closure
element comprises a door hingedly secured to the member to one side
of the opening for movement between open and closed conditions
relative to the opening.
43. A dowel assembly according to claim 42, wherein the door is
hingedly secured to the member by a friable connection and the
connection may be broken to completely remove the door from the
member.
44. A dowel assembly according to claim 41, wherein the closure
element comprises tape adhesively secured to the member.
45. A dowel assembly according to claim 29, wherein the fastener
comprises a flange on the housing extending laterally of the
opening.
46. A dowel assembly according to claim 45, wherein the flange
comprises tabs disposed around the opening at spaced intervals.
47. A dowel assembly according to claim 45, wherein the flange
comprises a collar extending around the opening.
48. A dowel assembly according to claim 29, further comprising a
seal element engaged between the pocket forming member and the
dowel to seal the pocket against fluid intrusion when the dowel is
in the second position.
49. A method of forming adjacent concrete slabs with an dowel
engaged therebetween to maintain the slabs in alignment, said
method comprising: a. providing a pocket forming member having a
pocket therein slidably receiving a dowel for movement between a
first position fully confined within the pocket and a second
position extending partially out of the pocket and through an
opening formed in one end of the pocket; b. securing the pocket
forming member to an edge forming member of a form, with the dowel
fully confined within the pocket and the opening covered by the
form; c. forming concrete against the forming member to provide a
first concrete slab having the pocket forming member embedded
therein with the opening disposed at one edge of the slab; d.
removing the forming member to expose the opening; e. pulling a
portion of the dowel partially out of the pocket; and, f. forming
concrete against the one edge of the first concrete slab to provide
a second slab having the portion of the dowel embedded therein.
50. A method according to claim 49, wherein a closure element is
provided on the pocket forming member to cover the opening when the
dowel is fully confined within the pocket and further characterized
in that: a. when the pocket forming member is secured to the edge
forming member of a form, the closure element is in place over the
opening; and, b. when the forming member is removed, the closure
element is also removed.
51. A method according to claim 49, wherein: a. the pocket forming
member is secured to the edge forming member in a horizontal
disposition and is of an expansive generally rectangular
configuration, as viewed in plan; and, b. the dowel is of an
rectangular configuration generally complimental to that of the
pocket.
52. A method according to claim 49, further comprising providing a
seal between the pocket forming member and dowel to seal the pocket
against concrete intrusion during formation of the second slab.
53. A dowel for embedment in adjacent concrete slabs to maintain
the slabs in alignment, said dowel comprising: a. a rigid body of a
generally rectangular configuration, as viewed in plan, said body
having side and end edges, b. a recess formed in the body and
opening though an end edge thereof, said recess having a finger
grip disposed therein.
54. A dowel according to claim 53, wherein: a. the recess comprises
a notch formed in the end edge of the body through which the recess
opens; and, b. the grip comprises a rib extending across the
notch.
55. A dowel according to claim 54, wherein: a. the notch extends
through the body and is of a trapezoidal configuration, as viewed
in plan, with a narrow portion thereof at the edge of the body
through which the recess opens and a wider portion thereof disposed
internally of the body; and, b. the grip is formed on a member
received within and complimental to the notch.
56. A dowel according to claim 54, wherein a detent notch is formed
in a side edge of the body.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of
Provisional Application 60/787,125, filed Mar. 29, 2006.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to an assembly for use in the
formation of adjacent concrete slabs to provide an embedded flat
planar dowel to maintain the slabs in generally horizontal
alignment, while permitting limited lateral movement of the slabs
relative to one another. In its more specific aspects, the
invention is concerned with such an assembly which provides a
pocket cast in place within the first slab to be formed and a dowel
within the pocket which may be partially withdrawn for embedment
within the second slab to be formed.
[0003] The provision of dowels to transfer loads between adjacent
cast in place concrete slabs is well known. Generally these dowels
are a conventional cylindrical configuration. It is also known to
provide dowels for this purpose which are of a flat diamond-shape,
as may be seen from U.S. Pat. No. 6,354,760. The flat configuration
has the advantage that it increases the bearing area of the
dowel.
[0004] The prior art also teaches the provision of load
transferring dowels for adjacent concrete slabs where some type of
resilient spacer is provided around part of all of the dowel to
accommodate limited movement between the slabs and the dowel. Such
arrangements are seen, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,354,760;
6,145,262, 5,674,028; 5,040,350; and 4,733,513. In some instances,
these spacers comprise a sheath which is cast in place in the edge
of a slab, with the dowel in place in the sheath and extending
therefrom. The later arrangement may be seen in U.S. Pat. No.
6,354,760.
[0005] A disadvantage of the prior art spacers and sheaths is that
either the dowel, or some type of a mounting plate is disposed
within and extends from the dowel or sheath during its placement
within the slab being formed. This requires that the form be
configured to accommodate the plate or dowel and also risks that
cement may intrude around the dowel and the spacer, during the
formation of the concrete slab. Also, in the case where a mounting
plate is used, the plate is yet another piece of apparatus which
needs to be provided and, ultimately, removed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides an apparatus and method for
positioning a load transferring dowel between adjacent cast in
place concrete slabs. The apparatus comprises a pocket forming
member having a dowel received therein for movement between a first
position fully confined within the pocket of the member and a
second position extending partially out of an opening in the
pocket. A fastener is provided for securing the member to a form,
with the opening in juxtaposition to the form and the dowel fully
confined within the pocket. In this basic combination, the form
serves to close the opening in the pocket. Additionally, a door or
sealing element may be provided to close the pocket, prior to its
attachment to the form.
[0007] The method comprises first providing a pocket forming member
having a pocket therein slidably receiving a dowel for movement
between a first position confined within the pocket and a second
position extending through an opening formed in one end of the
pocket. The remaining method steps comprise: [0008] 1. securing the
pocket forming member to an edge forming member of a form, with the
dowel in the first position; [0009] 2. forming concrete against the
forming member to provide a first concrete slab having the pocket
forming member embedded therein, with the opening disposed at one
edge of the slab; [0010] 3. removing the forming member to expose
the opening; [0011] 4. pulling the dowel partially of the pocket;
and [0012] 5. forming concrete against the edge of the first
concrete slab to provide a second slab having the portion of the
dowel embedded therein.
[0013] A principal object of the invention is to provide an
assembly which may be used to both form a pocket in the edge of a
cast in place concrete slab and provide a dowel which may be
partially withdrawn from the pocket and cast in place within an
adjacent concrete slab.
[0014] Another object of the invention is to provide such an
assembly wherein the dowel is of a generally planar configuration,
over the length thereof spanning the cast in place slabs.
[0015] Still another object of the invention is to provide such an
assembly wherein the dowel is laterally confined between resilient
members to accommodate relative lateral movement of the slabs.
[0016] Still another object of the invention is to provide such an
assembly wherein stop or detent elements are provided to enable the
dowel to be adjusted to a select position of extension relative to
the pocket forming member.
[0017] A further object of the invention is to provide such an
assembly wherein seals are provided to prevent the intrusion of
fluid concrete into the pocket forming member during the formation
of a concrete slab.
[0018] Yet another object of the invention is to provide such an
assembly wherein the pocket in the pocket forming member is fully
sealed during the formation of the first to be formed slab.
[0019] These and other objects will become more apparent when
viewed in light of the accompanying drawings and following detailed
description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the pocket forming member of
a first embodiment of the invention, with the member shown in an
open condition exposing the interior thereof;
[0021] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the pocket forming
member of FIG. 1, with the member shown in an open condition and a
dowel and resilient spacers in the process of being assembled into
place;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the FIG. 1 pocket forming
member, in the closed fully assembled condition;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the fully assembled
first embodiment pocket forming member, as it would appear when
viewed from the lower left side of FIG. 3;
[0024] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the fully assembled
first embodiment pocket forming member, secured in place to an edge
form with a first formed concrete slab poured in place against the
form and around the member;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the first embodiment pocket
forming member, cast in place within a first formed concrete slab,
with the dowel received within the member partially extended
therefrom;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 6, showing a
second formed concrete slab poured in place against the first
formed slab, with the partially extended portion of the dowel cast
in place within the second formed slab;
[0027] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the pocket forming member of
a second embodiment of the invention, with the member shown in an
open condition exposing the interior thereof;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken on the plane
designated by line 9-9 of FIG. 8;
[0029] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a metal dowel for
use in the second embodiment pocket forming member, with a grip
element for the dowel in the process of being placed in a recess
therefor formed in the dowel;
[0030] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the second
embodiment pocket forming member in the open condition, with the
dowel in the process of being placed therein;
[0031] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view, taken on the plane
designated by line 12-12 of FIG. 11;
[0032] FIG. 13A is a plan view of the second embodiment pocket
assembly, showing the assembly with the top of the pocket forming
member open and the dowel fully within the member;
[0033] FIG. 13B is a plan view similar to FIG. 13A, but showing the
dowel partially extended from the pocket in the pocket forming
member;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the second embodiment
pocket forming member, with the dowel of FIG. 10 shown on place
within the member and the door of the member shown in the open
condition;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
pocket forming member, shown secured to an edge form, with a first
formed concrete slab poured in place against the form and around
the pocket forming member;
[0036] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the second embodiment
pocket forming member cast in place within a first formed concrete
slab, with the door of the member removed and the dowel partially
withdrawn from the member;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a perspective view similar to that of FIG. 16,
showing a second formed concrete slab cast in place against the
first slab, with the portion of the dowel extending from the pocket
forming member embedded within the second formed slab;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a composite plastic dowel
which may be used in the second embodiment pocket forming member in
place of the metallic dowel shown in FIG. 10;
[0039] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken on the plane
designated by line 19-19 of FIG. 18;
[0040] FIG. 20A a plan view of a third embodiment pocket assembly,
showing the assembly with the pocket forming member open and the
dowel fully within the member;
[0041] FIG. 20B is a plan view similar to FIG. 20A, but showing the
dowel partially extended from the pocket in the pocket forming
member;
[0042] FIG. 21A is an exploded cross-sectional elevational view of
the pocket assembly of FIG. 20A, taken on a plane to the interior
of the flange of the pocket member;
[0043] FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional elevational view taken on the
plane designated by line 21B-21B of FIG. 20A;
[0044] FIG. 21C is a front elevational view of the fully assembled
pocket forming member of the third embodiment, with the door
removed and the mounting flange shown;
[0045] FIG. 22A is an exploded perspective view of a fourth
embodiment pocket assembly, showing the pocket in the open
condition and the dowel positioned for insertion into the
pocket;
[0046] FIG. 22B is a perspective view of the fourth embodiment
pocket assembly in the closed condition, with the dowel confined
within the pocket and sealing tape in the process of be placed over
the opening in the assembly;
[0047] FIG. 22C is a perspective view of the fourth embodiment
pocket assembly, with the dowel partially withdrawn from the pocket
of the assembly;
[0048] FIG. 22D is an exploded perspective view, with parts thereof
broken away, showing the connection between the upper and lower
parts of the mounting flange for the pocket assembly;
[0049] FIG. 22E is a side elevational view of the fourth embodiment
pocket assembly, with the dowel partially withdrawn from the
pocket;
[0050] FIG. 22F is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the
fourth embodiment pocket assembly, shown secured to a form element
with a first concrete slab cast therearound and the dowel confined
within the pocket of the assembly; and
[0051] FIG. 22G is a cross-sectional side elevational view taken on
the plane designated by line 22G-22G of FIG. 22C, showing the
fourth embodiment pocket assembly with the dowel partially removed
from the pocket and first and second concrete slabs cast in
place.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRST EMBODIMENT
[0052] This embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 1 to 7, comprises as it
basic elements a pocket forming member or box P.sub.1 and a dowel
D.sub.1. The member P.sub.1 is fabricated of a relatively ridged
injection molded polymer, such as low density polyethylene, high
density polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, or propriety polymers
known as K-Resin for PRe Tuf. The dowel may be formed of any
suitably strong metal, such as steel, or from a suitably strong
polymer, such as polyester, polyester with glass or carbon fillers,
nylon, or polycarbonate with fillers. The fillers may be a variety
of things, such as short or long strand glass, short or long strand
glass beads, mineral or talc. The various polymer materials may be
either prime, reprocessed, or a combination of prime and
reprocessed.
[0053] The pocket forming member P.sub.1 is of a monolithic
construction and comprises upper and lower sections 10 and 12 with
an integral hinge 14 therebetween. The sections 10 and 12 are of a
generally trough-shaped cross-section and are formed with inwardly
extending protrusions, in the form ribs 16 extending longitudinally
thereof. Side walls 18 are formed on the upper section 10 and side
walls 20 are formed on the lower section 12. Fastening ears or
flanges 22 are formed on and extend outwardly from the sections 10
and 12. Mutually engagable latch elements 24 and 26 are also formed
on the upper and lower sections. The latch elements 24 extend
outwardly from the walls 18 and are of generally hooked shaped
configuration, as may be seen from FIG. 1. The latch elements 26
comprise short extensions extending outwardly from the side walls
20, as may also be seen from FIG. 1.
[0054] The dowel D.sub.1 of a rectangular configuration, as viewed
in plan, generally complimental to the interior of the pocket
forming member. It is movable between a first position fully
confined within the pocket forming member (see FIG. 3) and a second
position wherein approximately one-half of its length extends out
of the open end of the pocket forming member (see FIG. 6). Movement
to the second position is limited by resilient stop members 28
received within the pocket forming member P.sub.1 and ears 30
formed on and extending laterally from the rearward edge of dowel
D.sub.1. As can be seen from FIG. 2, the width of the dowel D.sub.1
is less than the interior width of the pocket forming member
P.sub.1, as measured between the side walls of the pocket forming
member. This accommodates limited lateral movement of the dowel
relative to the pocket forming member. Typical dimensions for the
dowel D.sub.1 are 5 inches deep by 3 inches wide by 3/8 inches
thick, with a clearance of 1/4 inch between the outside edges of
the dowel and the interior of the pocket. The stop members 28 are
fabricated of a resilient cushion like material, such as a foam
polymer, to accommodate such movement. The stop members are adhered
to the interior of the pocket forming member and have a length
approximately one-half the length of the pocket forming member.
When the dowel is partially withdrawn from the pocket forming
member, as seen in FIG. 6, the ears 30 engage with the innermost
edges of the members 28 to limit extension of the dowel.
[0055] FIG. 2 illustrates how the dowel assembly of the first
embodiment is put together. As there seen, the stop members 28
would first be adhered to the interior of the side walls 20 and the
dowel D.sub.1 would then be placed between these members in the
fully retracted condition. The upper section 10 is then swung to
the closed condition so that the latch elements 24, 26 engage to
lock the upper and lower sections together in the closed condition,
as seen in FIG. 3. In this condition, the dowel is fully confined
within the pocket forming member, as seen in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5.
[0056] FIG. 5 shows how the dowel assembly of the first embodiment
is secured to the edge forming member 32 of a concrete form. As
there shown, fastening nails or screws 34 are extended through the
ears 22 and into secure engagement with the member 32. This
functions to secure the outer surface 36 of the member 32 over the
open end of the pocket forming member P.sub.1, thus effectively
sealing the pocket against intrusion by the fluid concrete of a
first form slab C.sub.1. The step of forming the first formed slab
is depicted in FIG. 5. After the slab has sufficiently cured, the
next step comprises removing the edge forming member 32 so that the
end of the slab, with the pocket opening therethrough, is exposed,
as seen in FIG. 6. Then, the dowel D.sub.1 is partially withdrawn
through the open end of the pocket, as seen in FIG. 6 and depicted
by the arrow lines. Such withdrawal is limited to approximately
one-half of the length of the dowel D.sub.1, as seen in FIG. 6, by
engagement of the ears 30 with the resilient stop members 28.
[0057] The ribs 16 limit contact of the dowel D.sub.1 with the
interior of the pocket forming member. This, together with the
disposition of the ribs in a direction extending parallel to the
direction of movement of the dowel (the arrow lines in FIG. 6)
eases and facilitates movement of the dowel to the extended
position.
[0058] FIG. 7 depicts the placement of the second formed slab
C.sub.2 against the first formed slab C.sub.1. As there shown, the
slab C.sub.2 is cast directly around the extended end of the dowel
D.sub.1 and against the slab C.sub.1. Thus, the dowel has one-half
of its length embedded in direct engagement with the slab C.sub.2
and the other half of its length slidably received within the
pocket forming member P.sub.1. As so disposed, the upper and lower
planar surfaces of the dowel are generally parallel to the upper
surfaces of the slab C.sub.1 and C.sub.2 and function to maintain
these surfaces in alignment. At the same time, relative expansion
and contraction of the slabs towards and away from one another is
accommodated by sliding of the dowel within the pocket forming
member. The resilient stop members also accommodate limited
relative lateral movement of the slabs.
DESCRIPTION OF THE SECOND EMBODIMENT
[0059] The pocket forming member of this embodiment is illustrated
in FIG. 8 and identified, in its entirety, by the reference letter
P.sub.2. The member P.sub.2 is injection molded from the same type
of polymer described with reference to the pocket forming member
P.sub.1 of the first embodiment. It differs from the first
embodiment primarily in that it does not have longitudinally
extending ribs within the pocket and in the structure of the stop
members and fastening structure. It also differs in that a door 36
is provided to close the opening in the pocket forming member
P.sub.2.
[0060] The pocket forming member P.sub.2 is similar to the member
P.sub.1 in that it comprises upper and lower sections 40 and 42,
respectively, hingedly secured together by an integrally formed
hinge 44. The upper section is formed with side walls 48 and the
lower section is formed with side walls 50. The fastener member of
the second embodiment comprises flanges 52 and 54 which provide a
collar extending around at the open end of the member P.sub.2.
These flanges have open ended slots 56, 58, 60 and 62 extending
therethrough for the receipt of nail or screw fasteners used to
secure the pocket forming member to the edge forming member of the
form. The door 36 is integrally formed with the pocket forming
member P.sub.2 and is joined to the flange 54 by an integral hinge
64. Openings 66 extend through the door 36 for alignment with the
open ended slots in the flanges 52 and 54 and cutout portions at
the lateral edges of the flanges. The cutout portions are seen in
FIG. 14 and designated 68.
[0061] Latch elements 70, 72, corresponding to the elements 24, 26
of the pocket forming member P.sub.1 are secured to the exterior of
the pocket forming member P.sub.2. Interiorally, the pocket forming
member P.sub.2 has integrally formed resilient detent members 74,
76. These members are disposed to engage grooves 78, 80 and 82 in
the lateral edges of a dowel D.sub.2 received within the pocket
forming member P.sub.2 (see FIG. 11). The detents engage the
grooves 78, 80 to hold the dowel D.sub.2 in a position fully
confined within the pocket forming member P.sub.2, as seen in FIG.
13A, and are inwardly deflectable responsive to pulling of the
dowel to enable the dowel to be partially withdrawn from the pocket
forming member, as seen in FIG. 13B. In the later condition, the
detent members 76 are held in a compressed condition against the
sides of the dowel to form a seal against the intrusion of fluid
concrete into the pocket forming member and the detent members 74
are engaged with a flange 84 on the inner end of the dowel D.sub.2
to limit extension of the dowel from the pocket forming member.
[0062] FIG. 9 shows a thin wiper edge 86 which extends around the
opening in the pocket forming member P.sub.2. This edge is disposed
to engage the side surfaces of the dowel D.sub.2 to seal the pocket
within the member P.sub.2 against the intrusion of fluid
concrete.
[0063] FIG. 14 shows the pocket forming member P.sub.2 in the
closed condition with the dowel D.sub.2 fully received within the
pocket. As there shown, the latch elements 70, 72 are engaged to
hold the upper and lower sections of the pocket forming member
together and the door 36 is in the open condition. The curved line
depicts how the door 36 hingedly moves to a closed condition
disposed over the open end of the pocket forming member.
[0064] FIG. 15 shows the pocket forming member P.sub.2 secured to
an edge forming member 32, with the door 36 closed so as to be
interposed between the member 32 and flanges 52 and 54. Nails or
screws 34 extend through the openings therefore in the flanges and
into secure engagement with the member 32.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 15, a first formed slab C.sub.1 is formed
in place around the pocket forming member P.sub.2 and against the
edge forming member 32. FIG. 16 depicts the next step wherein the
edge forming member 32 has been removed, the door 36 has been torn
away, and the dowel D.sub.2 has been partially withdrawn from the
pocket forming member, as depicted by the arrow line. As shown, the
partially withdrawn position is that of FIG. 13B wherein the flange
84 is engaged with the detent member 74 and the detent members 76
are compressed into sealing engagement with the side surfaces of
the dowel. FIG. 17 shows the next step wherein a second formed slab
C.sub.2 is formed in place against the edge surface of the slab
C.sub.1. As there shown, the dowel D.sub.2, has its distal half
directly embedded in the slab C.sub.2 and its proximal end received
in the pocket forming member P.sub.2. As thus positioned, the dowel
functions to maintain the slabs C.sub.1, and C.sub.2 in horizontal
alignment, while permitting their expansion and contraction
relative to one another and also permitting limited lateral
movement therebetween. Such limited lateral movement is
accommodated by compression of the detent members 74, 76.
[0066] The dowel D.sub.2 is manufactured of a metallic material,
such as steel. In plan view, it is of a rectangular configuration
generally complimental to that of the pocket formed within the
pocket forming member P.sub.2. Typical dimensions for the dowel
D.sub.2 are 3 inches deep, by 5 inches wide, by 3/8 inch thick,
with a clearance of 1/4 inch between the side edges of the dowel
and the interior of the pocket. The forward edge of the dowel is
formed with a trapezoidal cutout 88 for receipt of a complimental
finger grip insert 90. The insert may be formed of any suitable
material, such as injected molded polymer. Its cross-section is
shown in FIG. 12, wherein recesses 92 are formed to either side of
a flared web 94.
[0067] FIGS. 18 and 19 show a dowel D.sub.3 formed in its entirety
of a polymer and designed for use as a substitute for the dowel
D.sub.2. Dowel D.sub.3 may be formed of any of the high strength
polyesters heretofore described for use in making such a dowel. It
has a configuration essentially identical to that of the dowel
D.sub.2, except that the grip portion thereof is integrally formed
with the dowel and the recess for the grip is flared outwardly,
rather than inwardly. Elements of the dowel D.sub.3 corresponding
to those of the dowel D.sub.2 are designated by like reference
characters. In the cross-section of FIG. 19, the flared web is
designated 96 and the recesses to either side thereof are
designated 98.
DESCRIPTION OF THE THIRD EMBODIMENT
[0068] The pocket forming member of this embodiment is identified,
in its entirety, by the reference letter P.sub.3. The member
P.sub.3 is injected molded from the same type of polymer described
with reference to the pocket forming members P.sub.1 and P.sub.2 of
the first and second embodiments. It comprises an upper section 100
and a lower section 102 disposed for movement toward one another,
as depicted in FIG. 21A, and is similar to the second embodiment in
that it has a flanged open end (see FIG. 21C). The flanged open end
is provided by a first flange 104 on the upper section 100 and a
second flange 106 on the lower section 102, These flanges are
similar to the flanges 52, 54 and are formed with open ended slots
105, 107.
[0069] The sections 100 and 102 differ from the sections 40 and 42
of the second embodiment in that the upper section 100 is of a
shallower depth than the upper section 40 and in that the sections
are not hingedly joined. Rather, they are provided with four sets
of paired latch elements 70, 72. These elements snap into
engagement, to secure the sections 100 and 102 together, as seen in
FIG. 21B. Dowel D.sub.4 is positioned so as to be fully within the
lower section 102, before the sections 100, 102 are snapped
together.
[0070] The dowel D.sub.4 is of a thinner construction then the
dowels D.sub.1, D.sub.2 and D.sub.3 and also differs in
construction from these dowels in that it is so proportioned that
spaces 108 and 110 are provided to the sides and rear of the dowel,
when it is received within the pocket member P.sub.3 (see FIG.
20A). Typical dimensions for the dowel D.sub.4 are 3 inches deep,
by 5 inches wide, by 1/4 inch thick, with the spaces 108 and 110
measuring approximately 1/4 inch. Another difference is that the
left hand side of the dowel D.sub.4, as viewed in FIG. 20A, is
smooth. This side is designated by the numeral 112. The right side
of the dowel D.sub.4 is formed with paired notches, designated 114,
116, 118 and 120. These notches cooperate with a bifurcated detent
spring having legs 122 and 124 for engagement with the paired
notches to secure the dowel in either the extended or retracted
position. When in the extended position, the legs 122, 124 engage
sharp edges 126, 128 on the recesses 118, 120 to lock the dowel
D.sub.4 in the condition shown in FIG. 20B and against both inward
and outward movement relative to the pocket member P.sub.3.
[0071] The lower section 102 of is formed with spring leaves 130
and 132 (see FIG. 20A). The leaves 130 permit some compression of
the dowel D.sub.4 into the pocket forming member P.sub.3. The
leaves 132 engage the side 112 and force the dowel into engagement
with the legs 122 and 124 (see FIGS. 20A and 20B). Leaves 132 also
permit lateral movement of the dowel D.sub.4 relative to the pocket
forming member P.sub.3, when the assembly is cast and placed
between adjacent concrete slabs.
[0072] In use, the third embodiment pocket assembly and dowel is
placed in first and second formed concrete slabs in a manner
identical to that of the pocket forming member P.sub.2 and dowel
D.sub.2 of the second embodiment. In the resulting concrete
structure, the only difference being that the dowel is of a thinner
configuration and that the leaves and detent members operate
somewhat differently, as described above.
[0073] The different depths of the upper and lower sections 100 and
102, and the absence of a hinged connection therebetween, enable
two sections corresponding generally to the section 100 to be mated
together to accommodate a thinner dowel, or that two thick
sections, such as the section 106, to be mated together to
accommodate an thicker dowel. This adds to the versatility of the
third embodiment, without the necessity of providing special molds
for the manufacture of different upper and lower sections. To
accommodate such a combination of two thin or two thick sections,
the latch elements 70, 72 would be constructed so that they could
snap together, irrespectively of the combination in which the
sections were assembled.
DESCRIPTION OF THE THIRD EMBODIMENT
[0074] The pocket forming member of this embodiment is identified
by the reference letter P.sub.4. The member P.sub.4 is injection
molded from the same type of polymer described with reference to
the pocket forming members P.sub.1, P.sub.2 and P.sub.3. It is
similar to the pocket member P.sub.1 in that it comprises upper and
lower sections 132 and 134, respectively, hingedly secured together
by an integrally formed hinge 136. The upper section is formed with
sidewalls 138 and the lower section is formed with sidewalls 140.
An end wall 142 extends between the sidewalls 138 and an end wall
144 extends between the sidewalls 140.
[0075] The fastener member of the fourth embodiment comprises
flanges 146 and 148 which provide a collar extending around the
open end of the member P.sub.4. These flanges have integrally
formed complimental U-shaped fasteners 150, 152 formed on the
interior surfaces thereof (see FIG. 22D). When the fasteners are
complementally engaged, as seen in FIG. 22C, a nail 154 is extended
through the fasteners and two-part aperture 156 aligned therewith.
The nail serves to lock the fasteners 150, 152 together and hold
the upper and lower sections of the member P.sub.4 in the closed
condition. In use, the nail 154 extends fully through the flanges
146, 148 and into engagement with the edge forming member 32 of a
concrete form. Nails or screws may also be extended through a
centrally disposed support 158 on the upper section 132 (see FIG.
22C) to centrally fasten the flange 148 to the edge forming member
32. The support 158 is integrally formed with the upper section 132
and functions to reinforce the flange 148. Similar reinforcements
are provided by triangular elements 160, integrally formed with the
respective upper and lower sections 132 and 134 (see FIG. 22E).
[0076] The dowel of the fourth embodiment, designated D.sub.5, may
be fabricated of metal or a polymer material similar to that
described with reference to the dowel D.sub.1. It also has similar
dimensions to the dowel D.sub.1 and is of a plan configuration
complimental to that of the pocket in the pocket forming member
P.sub.4, with space provided for between the dowel and the interior
sidewalls of the pocket to accommodate limited lateral movement of
the dowel relative to the pocket. Resilient spacers 161 are formed
integrally with the section 134 to, at least initially, maintain
the dowel D.sub.5 in alignment with the member P.sub.4. A tongue
162 is integrally formed with the dowel D.sub.5. When the dowel is
retracted into the pocket member P.sub.4, the tongue 162 is fully
confined within the member (see FIG. 22B). The tongue serves as
means to pull the dowel to the extended position, as seen in FIG.
22G. Pulling may be achieved through means of a plier-like
tool.
[0077] The dowel D.sub.5 has an aperture 164 extending therethrough
for receipt of an expansible spring pin 166. Grooves 170, 172 are
formed in the upper and lower sections 132, 134, respectively, in
alignment with the aperture 164 for slidable receipt with the ends
of the pin 166. The grooves have integrally formed detent ramps
174, 176 for engagement by the ends of the spring pin 166. Ramps
176 are tapered on their forward and trailing edges to enable the
pin to slide thereover in either direction. The ramps 174 are
tapered on the side thereof facing to the interior of the pocket
and are formed with abrupt edges 178 on the sides thereof facing
the open end of the pocket member P.sub.4. As a result of this
construction, the pin 166 may ride over the ramps as the dowel
D.sub.5 is pulled out of the pocket forming member P.sub.4 from the
retracted (first) position. When the pin reaches a position to the
outside of the ramp 174, it snaps into place in the recess between
the edges 178 and an end wall 179, as seen in FIG. 22G, to latch
the dowel in the extended (second) position and hold the dowel
against further withdrawal or retraction relative to the member
P.sub.4.
[0078] The manner of assembling the fourth embodiment may be seen
from FIG. 22A. As there seen, the dowel D.sub.5 would be lowered
into the lower section 134, with the pin 166 in place within the
aperture 164. The upper section would then be swung to the closed
condition, as depicted by the arcuate arrow line. As the upper
section swings into the closed condition, latch elements 180
thereon engage over the edges of the lower section 134 to lock the
upper and lower sections together.
[0079] The final step of conditioning the fourth embodiment for use
is shown in FIG. 22B, wherein adhesive tape is being placed over
the open end of the pocket to close the end against fluid intrusion
by concrete. The tape has a tear line 182 extending longitudinally
thereof to facilitate its tearing when access to the dowel is
desired.
[0080] Tapered edges 183 on the flanges 146, 148 engage the sides
of the dowel D.sub.5 (see FIG. 22A). These edges provide wipers
which engage the dowel D.sub.5 as it is drawn out of the pocket
forming member. They serve to seal the interior of the pocket
against intrusion by fluid concrete, when a second slab C.sub.2 is
formed.
[0081] In use, the member P.sub.4 is fastened to an edge forming
member 32, as seen in FIG. 32. A first concrete slab C.sub.1, is
then formed therearound, with the result that the pocket forming
member P.sub.4 is cast within the slab, with the mounting flange
thereof juxtaposed to the edge forming member 32. Once the concrete
of the slab C.sub.1 has sufficiently cured, the edge forming member
32 is removed, the tape T is torn away, and the dowel D.sub.5 is
moved to the extended position, as shown in FIG. 22G. A slab
C.sub.2 is then formed in place, resulting in approximately
one-half of the length of the dowel D.sub.5, being embedded within
the slab C.sub.2 and the other half being disposed in the pocket
member P.sub.4, within the slab C.sub.1.
[0082] As shown the rearward end dowel D.sub.5 is shown formed with
a cutout of the same shape as tongue 162. This cutout performs no
function. It is the result of a stamping process wherein successive
dowels D.sub.5 are stamped from a common sheet of metal.
CONCLUSION
[0083] While preferred embodiments have been illustrated and
described, it should be understood that the invention is not
limited to these embodiments, but rather is defined by the
accompanying claims.
* * * * *