Patent · US Expired

Trench forming assembly and method

US5393171A · kind A · utility

12Cited by
30References
25Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateJul 12, 1994
Grant dateFeb 28, 1995
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 12, 2014

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
  • CPC primaryE01C19/506
  • WIPO fieldCivil engineering
  • WIPO sectorOther fields

Abstract

An assembly (10) for forming a trench (T) includes one or more frame members (16) that cooperate with a removable form (12) around which a moldable trench forming composition (C) is poured. The form is made of deformable buoyant material such as expanded polystyrene. Rebar legs (18) are attached to the frame members to provide secure anchoring of the frame members to both the ground (E) and in the trench forming composition. Preferably, each frame member includes a horizontal leg that is received in a slot (22) formed in one of the opposing side walls of the form. The cooperating engagement between the frame member (16) and the form provides longitudinal support to prevent the buoyant form (12) from lifting within the trench composition (C) while also maintaining the proper spacing and planar alignment of the frame members. Wire strands (28) are placed within cooperating guide tracks (24) in the opposed ends of the form. The wire strands are pulled through to deform the form after the composition has hardened. To form the trench, a ditch (D) is prepared. The trench form assembly is prepared and then secured in the ditch. The moldable trench forming composition is poured around the …

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.