Concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus and method of employing same

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a cast-in-place concrete slab load transfer and slab connection apparatus and method of employing same.

Claims

1. A concrete floor or roadway comprising: a first concrete slab; a second concrete slab longitudinally adjacent to the first concrete slab; a third concrete slab transversely adjacent to the first concrete slab; a fourth concrete slab longitudinally adjacent to the third concrete slab and transversely adjacent to the second concrete slab; and a slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: a first set of load transfer dowels positioned at a first contraction joint formed between the first concrete slab and the second concrete slab, the first set of load transfer dowels configured for load transfer between the longitudinally adjacent first and second concrete slabs; a second set of load transfer dowels spaced apart from the first set of load transfer dowels and positioned at a second contraction joint formed between the third concrete slab and the fourth concrete slab, the second set of load transfer dowels configured for load transfer between the longitudinally adjacent third and fourth concrete slab; and a basket supporting the first and second set of load transfer dowels said basket including: a first basket leg including an upper elongated member and a lower elongated member, wherein the first basket leg is partially encapsulated within the transversely adjacent first concrete slab and the third concrete slab; a second basket leg spaced apart from the first basket leg, the second basket leg including an upper elongated member and a lower elongated member, wherein the second basket leg is partially encapsulated within the transversely adjacent second concrete slab and the fourth concrete slab, such that movement of the first and third concrete slabs in a first direction away from the second and fourth concrete slabs causes movement of the first basket leg in the first direction but does not cause movement of the second basket leg in the first direction and does not cause movement of the second and fourth concrete slabs in the first direction; a first slab connection member positioned at a third contraction joint between the first concrete slab and the third concrete slab, the first slab connection member fixedly connecting the transversely adjacent first and third concrete slabs such that movement of one of the first concrete slab and the third concrete slab in a third direction causes movement of the other one of the first concrete slab and the third concrete slab in the third direction, wherein the first slab connection member is integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the first basket leg; and a second slab connection member positioned at a fourth contraction joint formed between the second concrete slab and the fourth concrete slab, the second slab connection member fixedly connecting the transversely adjacent second and fourth concrete slabs such that movement of one of the second concrete slab and the fourth concrete slab in a fourth direction causes movement of the other one of the second concrete slab and the fourth concrete slab in the fourth direction, wherein the second slab connection member is integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the second basket leg.

2. The concrete floor or roadway of claim 1, wherein the first basket leg further includes a first upper elongated member and a second upper elongated member and the second basket leg further includes a first upper elongated member and a second upper elongated member.

3. The concrete floor or roadway of claim 2, wherein the first slab connection member includes an elongated rod having two opposing ends integrally and respectively connected to the first upper elongated member and the second upper elongated member of the first basket leg and wherein the second slab connection member includes an elongated rod having two opposing ends integrally and respectively connected to the first upper elongated member and the second upper elongated member of the second basket leg.

4. The concrete floor or roadway of claim 1, wherein the first slab connection member includes an elongated body, a first downwardly extending leg, and a second downwardly extending leg spaced apart from the first downwardly extending leg, and wherein the second slab connection member includes an elongated body, a first downwardly extending leg, and a second downwardly extending leg spaced apart from the first downwardly extending leg.

5. The concrete floor or roadway of claim 4, wherein the first slab connection member elongated body is connected to the first basket leg upper elongated member and the first slab connection member first and second downwardly extending legs are each connected to the first basket leg upper elongated member and lower elongated member, and wherein the second slab connection member elongated body is connected to the second basket leg upper elongated member and the second slab connection member first and second downwardly extending legs are each connected to the second basket leg upper elongated member and lower elongated member.

6. The concrete floor or roadway of claim 1, wherein the first slab connection member includes a cylindrical rod having a first rod end connected to the first basket leg lower elongated member and a second rod end connected to the first basket leg upper elongated member, and wherein the second slab connection member includes a cylindrical rod having a first rod end connected to the second basket leg lower elongated member and a second rod end connected to the second basket leg upper elongated member.

7. A concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus comprising: a first slab load transfer and connection apparatus configured to transfer load of a first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs including: a first set of load transfer dowels configured for load transfer of a first pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs; a second set of load transfer dowels spaced apart from the first set of load transfer dowels configured for load transfer of a different second pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs; and a first basket supporting the first and second set of load transfer dowels, the first basket including: a first basket first leg including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member, wherein the first basket first leg is partially encapsulated within a first pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs; a first basket second leg spaced apart from the first basket first leg and including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member, wherein the first basket second leg is partially encapsulated within a different second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs such that movement of the first pair of transversely adjacent slabs in a first direction away from the different second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs causes movement of the first basket first leg in the first direction but does not cause movement of the first basket second leg in the first direction and does not cause movement of the different second pair of transversely adjacent slabs in the first direction; a first slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the first basket first leg, the first slab connection member configured to form a first fixed connection fixedly connecting the first pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs such that movement of one slab of the first pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in a second direction causes movement of the other slab of the first pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in the second direction; and a second slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the first basket second leg, the second slab connection member configured to form a second fixed connection fixedly connecting the different second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs such that movement of one slab of the different second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in a third direction causes movement of the other slab of the different second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in the third direction; a second slab load transfer and connection apparatus configured to transfer load of a different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs including: a third set of load transfer dowels configured for load transfer of a third pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs; a fourth set of load transfer dowels spaced apart from the third set of load transfer dowels configured for load transfer of a different fourth pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs; and a second basket supporting the third and fourth set of load transfer dowels, the second basket including: a second basket first leg including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member, wherein the second basket first leg is partially encapsulated within a third pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs; a second basket second leg spaced apart from the second basket first leg and including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member, wherein the second basket second leg is partially encapsulated within a different fourth pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs such that movement of the third pair of transversely adjacent slabs in a fourth direction away from the different fourth pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs causes movement of the second basket first leg in the fourth direction but does not cause movement of the second basket second leg in the fourth direction and does not cause movement of the different fourth pair of transversely adjacent slabs in the fourth direction; a third slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the second basket first leg, the third slab connection member configured to form a third fixed connection fixedly connecting the third pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs such that movement of one slab of the third pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in a fifth direction causes movement of the other slab of the third pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in the fifth direction; a fourth slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the second basket second leg, the fourth slab connection member configured to form a fourth fixed connection between the different fourth pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs such that movement of one slab of the different fourth pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in a sixth direction causes movement of the other slab of the different fourth pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in the sixth direction; and a plurality of basket and slab connection members connecting the first basket and the second basket, wherein a first one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members includes a cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the first basket first leg upper elongated member and the second basket first leg upper elongated member, the first one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members configured to form a fifth fixed connection fixedly connecting one slab of the second pair of longitudinally adjacent slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs and one slab of the third pair of longitudinally adjacent slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs, and wherein a second one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members includes a cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the first basket second leg upper elongated member and the second basket second leg upper elongated member, the second one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members configured to form a sixth fixed connection fixedly connecting the other slab of the second pair of longitudinally adjacent slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs and the other slab of the third pair of longitudinally adjacent slabs of the different second plurality of adjacent concrete slabs.

8. The concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first slab connection member is positionable at a first contraction joint between and for connecting the first pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of adjacent concrete slabs, and wherein the second slab connection member is positionable at a second contraction joint between and for connecting the second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of concrete slabs.

9. The concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first set of load transfer dowels is positionable at a third contraction joint for transferring loads of the first pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of concrete slabs, and wherein the second set of load transfer dowels is positionable at a fourth contraction joint for transferring loads of the second pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the first plurality of concrete slabs.

10. The concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of claim 7, wherein the third set of load transfer dowels is positionable at a fifth contraction joint for transferring loads of the third pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the different second plurality of concrete slabs, and wherein the fourth set of load transfer dowels is positionable a sixth contraction joint for transferring loads of the fourth pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the second plurality of concrete slabs.

11. The concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of claim 8, wherein the first and second contraction joints extend longitudinally between the first and second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in a roadway or a floor.

12. The concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a plurality of basket linkage members, wherein the first and second basket and slab connection members connect the first and second baskets using the plurality of basket linkage members.

13. The concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of claim 12, wherein the plurality of basket linkage members include tubular sleeves configured to fit around the respective ends of the first basket and slab connection member, the first basket first leg upper elongated member, the second basket first leg upper elongated member, the second basket and slab connection member, the first basket second leg upper elongated member, and the second basket second leg upper elongated member.

14. The concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of claim 12, wherein the plurality of basket linkage members each include a tubular ring and upwardly extending supporting arms, the tubular ring configured to fit around the respective ends of the first basket first leg upper elongated member, the second basket first leg upper elongated member, the first basket second leg upper elongated member and the second basket second leg upper elongated member, and the upwardly extending supporting arms defining a slot configured to receive the respective ends of the first basket and slab connection member and the second basket and slab connection member.

15. A concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus comprising: a first slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: a first set of load transfer dowels; a second set of load transfer dowels spaced apart from the first set of load transfer dowels; and a first basket supporting the first and second set of load transfer dowels, the first basket including: a first basket first leg including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; a first slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the first basket first leg; a first basket second leg spaced apart from the first basket first leg and including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; and a second slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the first basket second leg; a second slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: a third set of load transfer dowels; a fourth set of load transfer dowels spaced apart from the third set of load transfer dowels; and a second basket supporting the third and fourth set of load transfer dowels, the second basket including: a second basket first leg including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; a third slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the second basket first leg; a second basket second leg spaced apart from the second basket first leg and including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; a fourth slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the second basket second leg; a plurality of basket and slab connection members connecting the first basket and the second basket, wherein a first one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members includes a cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the first basket first leg upper elongated member and the second basket first leg upper elongated member and wherein a second one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members includes a cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the first basket second leg upper elongated member and the second basket second leg upper elongated member; and a plurality of basket linkage members, wherein the first and second basket and slab connection members connect the first and second baskets using the plurality of basket linkage members, and wherein the plurality of basket linkage members include tubular sleeves configured to fit around the respective ends of the first basket and slab connection member, the first basket first leg upper elongated member, the second basket first leg upper elongated member, the second basket and slab connection member, the first basket second leg upper elongated member, and the second basket second leg upper elongated member.

16. A concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus comprising: a first slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: a first set of load transfer dowels; a second set of load transfer dowels spaced apart from the first set of load transfer dowels; and a first basket supporting the first and second set of load transfer dowels, the first basket including: a first basket first leg including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; a first slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the first basket first leg; a first basket second leg spaced apart from the first basket first leg and including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; and a second slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the first basket second leg; a second slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: a third set of load transfer dowels; a fourth set of load transfer dowels spaced apart from the third set of load transfer dowels; and a second basket supporting the third and fourth set of load transfer dowels, the second basket including: a second basket first leg including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; a third slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the second basket first leg; a second basket second leg spaced apart from the second basket first leg and including a lower elongated member and an upper elongated member; a fourth slab connection member integrally formed with at least one of the upper elongated member and the lower elongated member of the second basket second leg; a plurality of basket and slab connection members connecting the first basket and the second basket, wherein a first one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members includes a cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the first basket first leg upper elongated member and the second basket first leg upper elongated member and wherein a second one of the plurality of basket and slab connection members includes a cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the first basket second leg upper elongated member and the second basket second leg upper elongated member; and a plurality of basket linkage members, wherein the first and second basket and slab connection members connect the first and second baskets using the plurality of basket linkage members, and wherein the plurality of basket linkage members each include a tubular ring and upwardly extending supporting arms, the tubular ring configured to fit around the respective ends of the first basket first leg upper elongated member, the second basket first leg upper elongated member, the first basket second leg upper elongated member and the second basket second leg upper elongated member, and the upwardly extending supporting arms defining a slot configured to receive the respective ends of the first basket and slab connection member and the second basket and slab connection member.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

(1) FIG. 1 is a fragmentary perspective view of a section of a known example roadway being constructed.

(2) FIG. 2A is top view of a section of the example roadway of FIG. 1 after the illustrated concrete slabs have been poured and formed, and after the contraction joints have been sawcut.

(3) FIG. 2B is top diagramatic view of a section of the example roadway of FIG. 1 after the illustrated concrete slabs have been poured and formed, after the contraction joints have been sawcut, and showing the respective series of dowels embedded in the concrete slabs relative to the construction and contraction joints.

(4) FIG. 3 is top view of a section of a new proposed roadway configuration after the illustrated concrete slabs have been poured and formed, and after the construction and contraction joints have been formed.

(5) FIG. 4 is top diagramatic view of a section of the new proposed roadway of FIG. 3 constructed employing one example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus and method of employing same of the present disclosure, and showing the relative positions of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of this example embodiment of the present disclosure.

(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure employed in the section of the roadway of FIG. 4.

(7) FIG. 6 is a fragmentary perspective view of the section of the roadway of FIG. 4 being constructed with the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of FIGS. 4 and 5.

(8) FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure.

(9) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure.

(10) FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure.

(11) FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure.

(12) FIG. 11 is a top diagramatic view of a section of roadway constructed with the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of FIG. 10.

(13) FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

(14) Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus and methods of employing same that solves the above problems. For brevity, the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus may sometimes be referred to herein as the transfer and connection apparatus or as the apparatus.

1.SUP.st .Example Embodiment

(15) One example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus and a method of employing same are generally illustrated in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6. This example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure is generally indicated by numeral 100. FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 also illustrate parts of a section of a roadway 10B. This section of roadway 10B includes: (a) lanes 52 and 54; (b) concrete slabs 60A, 60B, 60C, 60D, 60E, 60F, and 60G of lane 52; (c) concrete slabs 62A, 62B, 62C, 62D, 62E, 62F, and 62G of lane 52; (d) concrete slabs 64A, 64B, 64C, 64D, 64E, 64F, and 64G of lane 54; and (e) concrete slabs 66A, 66B, 66C, 66D, 66E, 66F, and 66G of lane 54. This section of the roadway 10B further includes: (a) transversely extending contraction joints 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D, 70E, 70F, 70G, and 70H in or of the lane 52; (b) transversely extending contraction joints 72A, 72B, 72C, 72D, 72E, 72F, 72G, and 72H in or of the lane 52; (c) transversely extending contraction joints 74A, 74B, 74C, 74D, 74E, 74F, 74G, and 74H in or of the lane 54; and (d) transversely extending contraction joints 76A, 76B, 76C, 76D, 76E, 76F, 76G, and 76H in or of the lane 54. This section of the roadway 10B further includes: (a) longitudinally extending contraction joints 80A, 80B, 80C, 80D, 80E, 80F, and 80G in or of the lane 52; and (b) longitudinally extending contraction joints 84A, 84B, 84C, 84D, 84E, 84F, and 84G, in or of the lane 54. This section of the roadway 10B further includes a longitudinally extending construction joint indicated by numerals 82A, 82B, 82C, 82D, 82E, 82F, and 82G at or extending between the lanes 52 and 54.

(16) This illustrated section of the roadway 10B employs sixteen of the same concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus that are each labeled with the same reference numeral 100. Each of these concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 100 simultaneously serves at least two separate functions in accordance with the present disclosure. The first function is to provide or position the dowels for the load transfer at each of the contraction joints formed between each respective set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs (such as for the contraction joint 74D at or between slabs 64C and 64D in or of lane 54 and for the contraction joint 76D at or between slabs 66C and 66D in or of lane 54). The second function is to provide the slab connection members or slab connectors for connecting a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in a lane (such as for the contraction joint indicated by 84C and 84D between concrete slabs 64C and 66C and 66C and 66D in or of lane 54). Thus, the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 100 simultaneously serves to provide load transfer between one or more sets or pairs of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs and to connect one of more sets or pairs of transversely adjacent concrete slabs (and wherein those concrete slabs can be from the same group of concrete slabs).

(17) More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, this concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 100 generally includes: (a) a plurality of load transfer dowels or members such as load transfer plates 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d; (b) a basket 110 configured to support the load transfer members (such as load transfer dowels or plates 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d); and (c) a plurality of slab connection members such as slab connection members 150 and 152.

(18) The basket 110 in this illustrated example embodiment includes a first leg 112 and a spaced apart second leg 122. The first leg 112 includes a lower elongated member 114, a first upper elongated member 116a, and a second upper elongated member 116b. The first leg 112 further includes four dowel holding hands 120a, 120b, 120c, and 120d respectively integrally connected to members 114, 116a, and 116b. Likewise, the second leg 122 includes a lower elongated member 124, a first upper elongated member 126a, and a second upper elongated member 126b. The second leg 122 further includes four dowel holding hands 130a, 130b, 130c, and 130d respectively integrally connected member 124, 126a, and 126b.

(19) The first and second legs 112 and 122 are configured to co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 140a and 140b at or along an area where a transversely extending contraction joint such as the transversely extending contraction joint 76D at or between longitudinally adjacent slabs 66C and 66D will be formed as generally shown in FIGS. 4 and 6.

(20) The first and second legs 112 and 122 are also configured to co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 140c and 140d at or along an area where a transversely extending contraction joint such as the transversely extending contraction joint 74D at or between longitudinally adjacent slabs 64C and 64D as generally shown in FIGS. 4 and 6.

(21) The tapered load transfer dowels or plates 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d, are supported by the basket 110 and specifically supported by the first leg 112 and the second leg 122 in opposing fashion in this illustrated example embodiment. More specifically; in this illustrated example embodiment: (a) the wider end of the tapered load transfer plate 140a is supported and held in place by the first upper elongated member 116a and the dowel holding hand 120a; (b) the narrower end of the tapered load transfer plate 140a is supported and held in place by the upper elongated member 126a and the dowel holding hand 130a; (c) the narrower end of the tapered load transfer plate 140b is supported and held in place by the first upper elongated member 116a and the dowel holding hand 120b; (d) the wider end of the tapered load transfer plate 140b is supported and held in place by the upper elongated member 126a and the dowel holding hand 130b; (e) the narrower end of the tapered load transfer plate 140c is supported and held in place by the first upper elongated member 116b and the dowel holding hand 120c; (f) the wider end of the tapered load transfer plate 140c is supported and held in place by the upper elongated member 126b and the dowel holding hand 130c; (g) the wider end of the tapered load transfer plate 140d is supported and held in place by the first upper elongated member 116b and the dowel holding hand 120d; and (h) the narrower end of the tapered load transfer plate 140d is supported and held in place by the upper elongated member 126b and the dowel holding hand 130d.

(22) It should be appreciated that the directions of the respective tapers of the load transfer plates 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d alternate from one tapered load transfer plate to the adjacent tapered load transfer plate. For contraction joints, if the center of the contraction joint ends up positioned somewhat off-center relative to these tapered load plates 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d, the alternating pattern of tapered load plates 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d in the basket 110 allows or compensates for this misalignment.

(23) In this illustrated embodiment, each tapered load plate 140a, 140b, 140c, and 140d has a top tapered planar surface and a bottom tapered planar surface. The top and bottom flat surfaces are substantially parallel to one another in this illustrated example embodiment. In this illustrated example embodiment, the top and bottom surfaces taper from approximately 4 inches wide to a narrow end approximately 1 inch wide over a length of approximately 12 inches. It should be appreciated that the other suitable tapered shapes and/or other suitable shapes and dimensions may also be employed in accordance with the present disclosure. The advantages provided by these tapered load transfer plates are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,716,890, 7,481,031, and 8,381,470.

(24) The plurality of slab connection members or slab connectors 150 and 152 of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 100 of this illustrated example embodiment in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, are respectively integrally formed with the legs 112 and 122 of the basket 110. More specifically, the slab connection member 150 includes an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends integrally respectively connected to the first upper elongated member 116a and the second upper elongated member 116b of the leg 112 of the basket 110. Likewise, the slab connection member 152 is an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends integrally respectively connected to the first upper elongated member 126a and the second upper elongated member 126b of the leg 122 of the basket 110. The dotted lines 153 and 155 in FIG. 5 generally indicate the respective connections areas between the slab connection members 150 and 152 and the legs 112 and 122 of the basket 110 in this illustrated example embodiment. It should be appreciated that the lengths of these members may vary in accordance with the present disclosure. The slab connection members 150 and 152 are made from rebar in certain embodiments and have suitable rough or irregular surfaces that increase the surface area engagement between such connection members and the respective concrete slabs. It should also be appreciated that the legs 112 and 122 of the basket 110 and the components thereof act to secure the apparatus 100 in the respective adjacent concrete slabs (such as the transversely adjacent concrete slabs).

(25) It should thus be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 100 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 100 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint will be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs (such as for the contraction joint 76D at or between slabs 66C and 66D in or of lane 54); and (b) the slab connection members 150 and 152 of the apparatus 100 are positioned at an area where another contraction joint will be formed and for connecting a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in a lane (such as for the contraction joint between slabs 64C and 66C in or of lane 54).

(26) It should further be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 100 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 100 are positioned for load transfer at areas where contraction joints will be formed between sets or pairs of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 150 and 152 of the apparatus 100 are positioned at areas where additional contraction joints will be formed and for connecting sets or pairs of transversely adjacent concrete slabs. It should further be appreciated from the above that these sets or pairs can be overlapping as illustrated in FIG. 4.

(27) It should further be appreciated from the above that after positioning the apparatus 100, after pouring the concrete, after saw cutting the contraction joints, and after the contraction joints have formed, the: (a) the load transfer plates of the apparatus 100 operate to transfer loads between sets or pairs of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs (such as slabs 66C and 66D in or of lane 54); and (b) the slab connection members or slab connector 150 and 152 of the apparatus 100 operate to connect one or more sets or pairs of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in or of a lane (such as slab 64C and 66C in or of lane 54).

(28) In this illustrated embodiment, (a) the load transfer plates are steel; (b) the basket is steel; and (c) the connection members or slab connectors are steel. It should be appreciated that one or more of these components can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure. It should also be appreciated that the connection members or slab connectors can have irregular or rough surfaces, can be deformed, or can otherwise be suitably configured to provide additional mechanical connection to the adjacent concrete slabs.

(29) It should also be appreciated that one or more of: (a) the plurality of load transfer plates; (b) the basket; and/or (c) the plurality of slab connection members, can be made in other suitable sizes, shapes, and configurations in accordance with the present disclosure.

(30) The present disclosure further provides a method of or for forming a roadway or a section of a roadway and or for employing a plurality of concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure such as apparatus 100. In various such embodiments, the method includes positioning each of a plurality of apparatus 100 on a grade or sub-surface to form part of a lane or section of a roadway such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 100 are positioned for load transfer at the area where a contraction joint will be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the roadway (such as for contraction joint 76D to be formed at or between slabs 66C and 66D in or of lane 54); and (b) the slab connection members 150 and 152 of the apparatus 100 are positioned at the area where a contraction joint will be formed between a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the roadway (such as for the contraction joint 84C between slab 64C and 66C in lane 54).

(31) In various such embodiments, the method further includes subsequently pouring the concrete to form the lane or section of the roadway (such as the section of the lane 54 of the roadway 10B shown in FIG. 4). In various such embodiments, the method subsequently includes allowing the poured concrete of the lane or section of the roadway to partially or fully set or cure. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method includes saw cutting the longitudinally extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate longitudinal lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 100 and specifically the positions of the various slab connection members 150 and 152 of each of the apparatus 100. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method also includes saw cutting the transversely extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate transverse lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 100 and specifically the positions of the load plates of each of the apparatus 100.

(32) It should be appreciated that the transversely extend cuts will be made before the longitudinally extending cuts are made in various embodiments of the present disclosure.

(33) This method of the present disclosure thus facilitates construction of a roadway or section of a roadway which includes one or more lanes, and wherein one or more of the lanes has transversely extending contraction joints and longitudinally extending contraction joints, and such that each concrete slab is sized such that only one wheel of a four wheeled vehicle (such as a truck) can be positioned on any one of the concrete slabs at any one time.

(34) It should also be appreciated from the above and as specifically shown in FIG. 4, that the apparatus of the present disclosure is particularly suited for contraction joints for each set of four adjacent concrete slabs (e.g., 64C, 64D, 66C, and 66D) including first and second longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs (e.g., 64C and 64D) and third and fourth longitudinally adjacent slabs (e.g., 66C and 66D) where the first and third concrete slabs (e.g., 64C and 66C) are transversely adjacent concrete slabs and where the second and fourth concrete slabs (e.g., 64D and 66D) are transversely adjacent concrete slabs. It should also be appreciated that: (a) the first set of dowels or plates of the apparatus provide load transfer for the transversely extending contraction joint (e.g., 74D) between the first and second longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs (e.g., 64C and 64D); (b) the second set of dowels or plates of the apparatus provide load transfer for the transversely extending contraction joint (e.g., 76D) between the third and fourth longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs (e.g., 66C and 66D); (c) the first slab connection member of the apparatus provides connection between the longitudinally extending contraction joint (e.g., 84C) between the first and third transversely adjacent concrete slabs (e.g., 64C and 66C); and (d) the second slab connection member of the apparatus provides connection between the longitudinally extending contraction joint (e.g., 84D) between the second and fourth transversely adjacent concrete slabs (e.g., 64D and 66D).

2.SUP.nd .Example Embodiment

(35) Referring now to FIG. 7, another example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure is generally indicated by numeral 200. The apparatus 200 is similar to apparatus 100 except in the form of the slab connection members.

(36) More specifically, in the illustrated example embodiment of FIG. 7, this concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 200 generally includes: (a) a plurality of load transfer members such as load transfer dowels or plates 240a, 240b, 240c, and 240d; (b) a basket 210 configured to support the load transfer plates (such as load transfer plates 240a, 240b, 240c, and 240d); and (c) a plurality of slab connection members such as slab connection members 250 and 252.

(37) The basket 210 in this illustrated example embodiment includes a first leg 212 and a spaced apart second leg 222. The first leg 212 includes a lower elongated member 214 and an upper elongated member 216. The first leg 212 further includes four dowel holding hands 220a, 220b, 220c, and 220d. Likewise, the second leg 222 includes a lower elongated member 224 and an upper elongated member 226. The second leg 222 further includes four dowel holding hands 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d.

(38) The first and second legs 212 and 222 co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members, and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 240a and 240b, at or along a transversely extending contraction joint will be formed.

(39) The first and second legs 212 and 222 also co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members, and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 240c and 240d, at or along an area where a transversely extending contraction joint will be formed.

(40) The tapered load transfer plates 240a, 240b, 240c, and 240d are supported by the basket 210 and specifically supported by the first leg 212 and the second leg 222 in opposing fashion in this illustrated example embodiment.

(41) The plurality of slab connection members 250 and 252 of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 200 of this illustrated example embodiment in FIG. 7, are respectively integrally connected to the legs 212 and 222 of the basket 210. More specifically, the slab connection member 250 includes an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends. The slab connection member 250 is integrally connected to the upper elongated member 216 of the basket 210. Likewise, the slab connection member 252 is an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends. The slab connection member 252 is integrally connected to the upper elongated member 226 of the basket 210. The slab connection members 250 and 252 are made from rebar in certain embodiments and have suitable surfaces that increase the surface area engagement between such connection members and the concrete slabs. It should also be appreciated that the legs 212 and 222 of the basket 210 and the components thereof act to secure the apparatus 200 in the respective adjacent concrete slabs (such as the transversely adjacent concrete slabs).

(42) It should thus be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 200 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 200 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint will formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 250 and 252 of the apparatus 200 are positioned at an area where a contraction joint that will be formed and for connecting a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(43) It should also thus be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 200 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 200 are positioned for load transfer at areas where contraction joints will formed between sets or pairs of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 250 and 252 of the apparatus 200 are positioned at areas where additional contraction joints will be formed and for connecting sets or pairs of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(44) It should further thus be appreciated from the above that after positioning the apparatus 200, after pouring the concrete, after saw cutting the contraction joints, and after the contraction joints have formed, the: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 200 can operate to transfer loads between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 250 and 252 of the apparatus 200 can operate to connect a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(45) In this illustrated embodiment, (a) the load transfer plates are steel; (b) the basket is steel; and (c) the connection members or slab connectors are steel. It should be appreciated that one or more of these components can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure. It should also be appreciated that the connection members or slab connectors can have irregular or rough surfaces, can be deformed, or can otherwise be suitably configured to provide additional mechanical connection to the adjacent concrete slabs.

(46) It should also be appreciated that one or more of: (a) the plurality of load transfer plates; (b) the basket; and/or (c) the plurality of slab connection members, can be made in other suitable sizes, shapes, and configurations in accordance with the present disclosure.

(47) The present disclosure further provides a method of or for forming a roadway or section of a roadway and or for employing a plurality of concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 200. In various such embodiments, the method includes positioning each of a plurality of apparatus 200 on a grade or sub-surface to form a lane or section of a roadway such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 200 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint is to be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of a lane or section of the roadway; and (b) the slab connection members 250 and 252 of the apparatus 200 are positioned at an area where a contraction joint is to be formed between a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in the lane or section of the roadway.

(48) In various such embodiments, the method further includes subsequently pouring the concrete to form the lane or section of the roadway. In various such embodiments, the method subsequently includes allowing the pouring concrete of the lane or section of the roadway to partially or fully set or cure. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method includes saw cutting the longitudinally extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate longitudinal lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 200 and specifically the positions of the slab connection members 250 and 252 of each of the apparatus 200. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method also includes saw cutting the transversely extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate transverse lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 200 and specifically the positions of the load plates 240a, 240b, 240c, and 240d of each of the apparatus 200.

(49) This method of the present disclosure thus facilitates construction of a roadway or section of a roadway which includes one or more lanes, and wherein for one or more of the lanes has transversely extending contraction joints and longitudinally extending contraction joints, and such that each concrete slab is sized such that only one wheel of a four wheeled vehicle (such as a truck) can be positioned on any one of the concrete slabs at any one time.

3.SUP.rd .Example Embodiment

(50) Referring now to FIG. 8, another example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure is generally indicated by numeral 300. The apparatus 300 is similar to apparatus 100 except in the form of the slab connection members

(51) More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 8, this concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 300 generally includes: (a) a plurality of load transfer members such as load transfer dowels or plates 340a, 340b, 340c, and 340d; (b) a basket 310 configured to support the load transfer plates (such as load transfer plates 340a, 340b, 340c, and 340d); and (c) a plurality of slab connection members such as slab connection members 350 and 352.

(52) The basket 310 in this illustrated example embodiment includes a first leg 312 and a spaced apart second leg 322. The first leg 312 includes a lower elongated member 314 and an upper elongated member 316. The first leg 312 further includes four dowel holding hands 320a, 320b, 320c, and 320d. Likewise, the second leg 322 includes a lower elongated member 324 and a first upper elongated member 326. The second leg 322 further includes four dowel holding hands 330a, 330b, 330c, and 330d.

(53) The first and second legs 312 and 322 co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members, and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 340a and 340b, at or along an area where a transversely extending contraction joint will be formed.

(54) The first and second legs 312 and 322 also co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members, and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 340c and 340d, at or along an area where a transversely extending contraction joint will be formed.

(55) The tapered load transfer plates 340a, 340b, 340c, and 340d, are supported by the basket 310 and specifically supported by the first leg 312 and the second leg 322 in opposing fashion in this illustrated example embodiment.

(56) The plurality of slab connection members or slab connectors 350 and 352 of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 300 of this illustrated example embodiment in FIG. 8, are respectively integrally connected to the legs 312 and 322 of the basket 310. More specifically, the slab connection member 350 includes a generally upside down U-shaped elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends. The slab connector 350 includes an elongated body 350a and spaced apart downwardly extending legs 350b and 350c. The body 350a is integrally connected to the upper elongated member 316 of the basket 310. The legs 350b and 350c are integrally connected to the upper elongated member 316 and the lower elongated member 314. Likewise, the slab connection member 352 includes an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends. The slab connector 352 includes an elongated body 352a and spaced apart downwardly extending legs 352b and 352c. The body is integrally connected to the upper elongated member 326 of the basket 310. The legs 352b and 352c are integrally connected to the upper elongated member 326 and the lower elongated member 324. The slab connection members 350 and 352 are made from rebar in certain embodiments and have suitable surfaces that increase the surface area engagement between such connection members and the concrete slabs. It should also be appreciated that the legs 312 and 322 of the basket 310 and the components thereof act to secure the apparatus 300 in the respective adjacent concrete slabs (such as the transversely adjacent concrete slabs).

(57) It should thus be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 300 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 300 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint will be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 350 and 352 of the apparatus 300 are positioned at an area where a contraction joint will be formed and for connecting a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(58) It should also be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 300 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 300 are positioned for load transfer at areas where contraction joints will be formed between sets or pairs of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 350 and 352 of the apparatus 300 are positioned at areas where additional contraction joints will be formed and for connecting sets or pairs of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(59) It should further thus be appreciated from the above that after positioning the apparatus 300, after pouring the concrete, after saw cutting the contraction joints, and after the contraction joints have formed, the (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 300 can operate to transfer loads between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 350 and 352 of the apparatus 300 can operate to connect a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(60) In this illustrated embodiment, (a) the load transfer plates are steel; (b) the basket is steel; and (c) the connection members or slab connectors are steel. It should be appreciated that one or more of these components can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure. It should also be appreciated that the connection members or slab connectors can have irregular or rough surfaces, can be deformed, or can otherwise be suitably configured to provide additional mechanical connection to the adjacent concrete slabs.

(61) It should also be appreciated that one or more of: (a) the plurality of load transfer plates; (b) the basket; and/or (c) the plurality of slab connection members, can be made in other suitable sizes, shapes, and configurations in accordance with the present disclosure.

(62) The present disclosure further provides a method of or for forming a roadway or section of a roadway and or for employing a plurality of concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 300. In various such embodiments, the method includes positioning each of a plurality of apparatus 300 on a grade or sub-surface to form a lane or section of a roadway such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 300 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint is to be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of a lane or section of the roadway; and (b) the slab connection members 350 and 352 of the apparatus 300 are positioned at an area where the contraction joint is to be formed between a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in the lane or section of the roadway.

(63) In various such embodiments, the method further includes subsequently pouring the concrete to form the lane of the roadway or section of the roadway. In various such embodiments, the method subsequently includes allowing the poured concrete of the lane or section of the roadway to partially or fully set or cure. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method includes saw cutting the longitudinally extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate longitudinal lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 300 and specifically the positions of the slab connection members 350 and 352 of each of the apparatus 300. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method also includes saw cutting the transversely extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate transverse lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 300 and specifically the positions of the load plates 340a, 340b, 340c, and 340d of each of the apparatus 300.

(64) This method of the present disclosure thus facilitates construction of a roadway or section of a roadway which includes one or more lanes, and wherein one or more of the lanes has transversely extending contraction joints and longitudinally extending contraction joints, and such that each concrete slab is sized such that only one wheel of a four wheeled vehicle (such as a truck) can be positioned on any one of the concrete slabs at any one time.

4.SUP.th .Example Embodiment

(65) Referring now to FIG. 9, another example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure is generally indicated by numeral 400. The apparatus 400 is similar to apparatus 100 except in the form of the slab connection members.

(66) More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9, this concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 400 generally includes: (a) a plurality of load transfer members such as load transfer dowels or plates 440a, 440b, 440c, and 440d; (b) a basket 410 configured to support the load transfer plates (such as load transfer plates 440a, 440b, 440c, and 440d); and (c) a plurality of slab connection members such as slab connection members 450 and 452.

(67) The basket 410 in this illustrated example embodiment includes a first leg 412 and a spaced apart second leg 422. The first leg 412 includes a lower elongated member 414 and an upper elongated member 416. The first leg 412 further includes four dowel holding hands 420a, 420b, 420c, and 420d. Likewise, the second leg 422 includes a lower elongated member 424 and an upper elongated member 426. The second leg 422 further includes four dowel holding hands 430a, 430b, 430c, and 430d.

(68) The first and second legs 412 and 422 co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members, and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 440a and 440b, at or along an area where a transversely extending contraction joint will be formed.

(69) The first and second legs 412 and 422 also co-act to hold and support a plurality of load transfer members, and particularly the load transfer dowels or plates 440c and 440d, at or along an area where a transversely extending contraction joint will be formed.

(70) The tapered load transfer plates 440a, 440b, 440c, and 440d are supported by the basket 410 and specifically supported by the first leg 412 and the second leg 422 in opposing fashion in this illustrated example embodiment.

(71) The plurality of slab connection members or slab connectors 450 and 452 of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 400 of this illustrated example embodiment in FIG. 9 are respectively integrally connected to the legs 412 and 422 of the basket 410. More specifically, the slab connection member 450 includes an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends. A first one of the ends is integrally connected to the lower elongated member 414 and a second one of the ends is integrally connected to the upper elongated member 416. Likewise, the slab connection member 452 includes an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends. A first one of the ends is integrally connected to the lower elongated member 424 and a second one of the ends is integrally connected to the upper elongated member 426. The slab connection members 450 and 452 are made from rebar in certain embodiments and have suitable surfaces that increase the surface area engagement between such connection members and the concrete slabs. It should also be appreciated that the legs 412 and 422 of the basket 410 and the components thereof act to secure the apparatus 400 in the respective adjacent concrete slabs (such as the transversely adjacent concrete slabs).

(72) It should thus be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 400 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 400 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint will be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 450 and 452 of the apparatus 400 are positioned at an area where a contraction joint will be formed and for connecting a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(73) It should further be appreciated from the above that in this illustrated example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 400 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 400 are positioned for load transfer at areas where contraction joints will be formed between sets or pairs of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 450 and 452 of the apparatus 400 are positioned at areas where additional contraction joints will be formed and for connecting sets or pairs of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(74) It should further thus be appreciated from the above that after positioning the apparatus 400, after pouring the concrete, after saw cutting the contraction joints, and after the contraction joints have formed, the (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 400 can operate to transfer loads between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 450 and 452 of the apparatus 400 can operate to connect a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs.

(75) In this illustrated embodiment, (a) the load transfer plates are steel; (b) the basket is steel; and (c) the connection members or slab connectors are steel. It should be appreciated that one or more of these components can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure. It should also be appreciated that the connection members or slab connectors can have irregular or rough surfaces, can be deformed, or can otherwise be suitably configured to provide additional mechanical connection to the adjacent concrete slabs.

(76) It should also be appreciated that one or more of: (a) the plurality of load transfer plates; (b) the basket; and/or (c) the plurality of slab connection members, can be made in other suitable sizes, shapes, and configurations in accordance with the present disclosure.

(77) The present disclosure further provides a method of or for forming a roadway or section of a roadway and or for employing a plurality of concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 400. In various such embodiments, the method includes positioning each of a plurality of apparatus 400 on a grade or sub-surface to form a lane or section of a roadway such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 400 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint is to be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of a lane or section of the roadway; and (b) the slab connection members 450 and 452 of the apparatus 400 are positioned at an area where a contraction joint is to be formed between a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs in the lane or section of the roadway.

(78) In various such embodiments, the method further includes subsequently pouring the concrete to form the lane of the roadway. In various such embodiments, the method subsequently includes allowing the poured concrete of the lane or section of the roadway to partially or fully set or cure. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method includes saw cutting the longitudinally extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate longitudinal lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 400 and specifically the positions of the slab connection members 450 and 452 of each of the apparatus 400. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the lane or section of the roadway, the method also includes saw cutting the transversely extending contraction joints in the lane or section of the roadway along the appropriate transverse lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 400 and specifically the positions of the load plates 440a, 440b, 440c, and 440d of each of the apparatus 400.

(79) This method of the present disclosure thus facilitates construction of a roadway or section of a roadway which includes one or more lanes, and wherein for one or more of the lanes has transversely extending contraction joints and longitudinally extending contraction joints, and such that each concrete slab is sized such that only one wheel of a four wheeled vehicle (such as a truck) can be positioned on any one of the concrete slabs at any one time.

5.SUP.th .Example Embodiment

(80) Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, another example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure is generally indicated by numeral 500. This apparatus 500 is somewhat similar to apparatus 100, except that it employs a plurality of (such as two) baskets (which can be any of the baskets 110, 210, 310, or 410 in various embodiments). In other words, the illustrated example embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11 can in certain embodiments include any two of concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus such as any of apparatus 100, 200, 300, or 400.

(81) More specifically, this illustrated slab load transfer and connection apparatus 500 generally includes two baskets 510 and 610 each configured to respectively support a plurality of load transfer members (such as illustrated load transfer plates 540a and 640d). This apparatus 500 also include a plurality of slab connection members such as slab connection members 560 and 570, and a plurality of basket linkage members or basket linkers 580, 582, 584, and 586.

(82) The plurality of slab connection members 560 and 570 of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 500 of this illustrated example embodiment in FIGS. 10 and 11, are respectively attached to the legs 512 and 522 of the basket 510 and the legs 612 and 622 of the basket 610. More specifically, the slab connection member 560 includes an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the upper elongated member 516 of the basket 510 and the upper elongated member 616 of the basket 610. Likewise, the slab connection member 570 includes an elongated generally cylindrical rod having two opposing ends respectively connected to the upper elongated member 526 of the basket 510 and the upper elongated member 626 of the basket 610. The slab connection members 560 and 570 are made from rebar in certain embodiments and have suitable surfaces that increase the surface area engagement between such connection members and the concrete slabs. It should also be appreciated that the legs of the baskets and the components thereof can act to secure the apparatus in the respective adjacent concrete slabs (such as the transversely adjacent concrete slabs).

(83) These example plurality of basket linkage members or basket linkers 580, 582, 584, and 586 are tubular sleeves in this illustrated embodiment configured to fit around the respective ends of the baskets and the slab connection members 560 and 570, and thus removably connect such components. More specifically, (a) basket linkage member or basket linker 580 is configured to link or connect one end of the slab connection member 560 to the basket 610 and specifically to elongated member 616; and (b) basket linkage member or basket linker 584 is configured to link or connect the opposite end of the slab connection member 560 to the basket 510 and specifically to elongated member 516. Likewise, (a) basket linkage member or basket linker 582 is configured to link or connect one end of the slab connection member 570 to the basket 610 and specifically to elongated member 626; and (b) basket linkage member or basket linker 586 is configured to link or connect the opposite end of the slab connection member 570 to the basket 510 and specifically to elongated member 526.

(84) It should be appreciated from the above that in this example embodiment of present disclosure, each concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 500 is configured to be used or positioned such that: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 500 are positioned for load transfer at an area where a contraction joint will be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 560 and 570 of the apparatus 500 are positioned for slab connection at an area where another contraction joint (such as contraction joint 530) will be formed for connecting a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs such as for adjacent lanes (such as lanes 552 and 554) of a section of a roadway 10C as shown in FIG. 11.

(85) It should further be appreciated from the above that after positioning the various apparatuses 500, after pouring the concrete, after saw cutting the contraction joints, and after the contraction joints have formed: (a) the load transfer plates of that apparatus 500 operate to transfer loads between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs; and (b) the slab connection members 560 and 570 of the apparatus 500 operate to connect a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs at a construction joint.

(86) In this illustrated embodiment: (a) the load transfer plates are steel; (b) the basket is steel; and (c) the connection members or slab connectors are steel. It should be appreciated that one or more of these components can be made from other suitable materials in accordance with the present disclosure. It should also be appreciated that the connection members or slab connectors can have irregular or rough surfaces, can be deformed, or can otherwise be suitably configured to provide additional mechanical connection to the adjacent concrete slabs.

(87) It should also be appreciated that one or more of: (a) the plurality of load transfer plates; (b) the basket; and/or (c) the plurality of slab connection members, can be made in other suitable sizes, shapes, and configurations in accordance with the present disclosure.

(88) The present disclosure further provides a method of or for forming a roadway or section of a roadway and or for employing a plurality of concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus 500. In various such embodiments, the method includes positioning each of a plurality of apparatus 500 on a grade or sub-surface to form a plurality of lanes or sections of a roadway such that: (a) the load transfer members or plates of that apparatus 500 are positioned for load transfer at the area where a contraction joint is to be formed between a set or pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the roadway or section of the roadway; and (b) the slab connection members 560 and 570 of the apparatus 500 are positioned at another contraction joint to be formed between a set or pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the roadway or section of the roadway. This method may employ an of the methods and apparatus explained above.

(89) In various such embodiments, the method further includes subsequently pouring the concrete to form the roadway or section of the roadway. In various such embodiments, the method subsequently includes allowing the poured concrete of the roadway or section of the roadway to partially or fully set or cure. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the roadway or section of the roadway, the method includes saw cutting the transversely and longitudinally extending contraction joints the roadway or section of the roadway along the appropriate longitudinal lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 500 and specifically the positions of the slab connection members 560 and 570 of each of the apparatus 500. In various such embodiments, after the partial or full setting or curing of the concrete of the roadway or section of the roadway, the method also includes saw cutting the transversely extending contraction joints in the lane of the roadway or section of the roadway along the appropriate transverse lines based on the positions of each of the apparatus 500 and specifically the positions of the load plates of each of the apparatus 500.

(90) This method of the present disclosure thus facilitates construction of a roadway or section of a roadway which includes one or more lanes, and wherein for one or more of the lanes has transversely extending contraction joints and longitudinally extending contraction joints, and such that each concrete slab is sized such that only one wheel of a four wheeled vehicle (such as a truck) is position on any one of the concrete slabs at any one time.

6.SUP.th .Example Embodiment

(91) Referring now to FIG. 12, another one example embodiment of the concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure is generally indicated by numeral 700. This apparatus is similar to the apparatus 500, except that the basket linkage members or basket linkers 780, 782, 784, and 786 are different. In other words, the illustrated example embodiment of FIG. 12 can in various embodiments includes any two of concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus of the present disclosure such as apparatus 100, 200, 300, or 400.

(92) More specifically, this example slab load transfer and connection apparatus 700 generally includes two baskets 710 and 810 configured to respectively support a plurality of load transfer members such as load transfer plates 740a and 840d, and also including a plurality of slab connection members such as slab connection members 760 and 770, and basket linkage members or basket linkers 780, 782, 784, and 786.

(93) These alternative basket linkage members or basket linkers 780, 782, 784, and 786 include a tubular ring configured to fit around the respective ends of the baskets and upwardly extending supporting arms that define a slot for receiving the slab connection members 760 and 770, and thus removably connect such components. More specifically, (a) basket linkage member or basket linker 780 is configured to link or connect one end of the slab connection member 760 to the basket 710 and specifically to elongated member 716; and (b) basket linkage member or basket linker 784 is configured to link or connect the opposite end of the slab connection member 760 to the basket 710 and specifically to elongated member 716. Likewise, (a) basket linkage member or basket linker 782 is configured to link or connect one end of the slab connection member 770 to the basket 810 and specifically to elongated member 826; and (b) basket linkage member or basket linker 786 is configured to link or connect the opposite end of the slab connection member 770 to the basket 710 and specifically to elongated member 726. It should be appreciated that the extending supporting arms could alternatively extend in other directions besides upwardly.

(94) Thus, this illustrated embodiment performs in the same manner and can be used in the same methods as the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11.

(95) It should be appreciated from the above example embodiments, that the present disclosure contemplates an apparatus for employing certain parts of a basket (configured to support dowels for one or more contraction joints) as the slab connection members for a contraction joint at or between adjacent concrete slabs. Likewise, it should be appreciated from the above example embodiments, that the present disclosure contemplates a method of using such a basket such that the slab connection members are positioned in the area where a contraction joint will be formed at or between adjacent concrete slabs.

(96) It should further be appreciated from the above example embodiments, that the present disclosure contemplates employing slab connection members attached to certain parts of a basket (configured to support dowels for one or more contraction joints) for a contraction joint at or between adjacent concrete slabs. Likewise, it should be appreciated from the above example embodiments, that the present disclosure contemplates a method of using such a basket such that the slab connection members are positioned in the area where a contraction joint will be formed at or between adjacent concrete slabs.

(97) It should further be appreciated from the above example embodiments, that the present disclosure contemplates employing slab connection members attached to multiple baskets for a contraction joint at or between adjacent concrete slabs. Likewise, it should be appreciated from the above example embodiments, that the present disclosure contemplates a method of using such baskets such that the slab connection members are positioned in the area where a contraction joint will be formed at or between adjacent concrete slabs.

(98) It should further be appreciated from the above that the present disclosure provides in certain embodiments a concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus including a plurality of load transfer dowels, a basket supporting the load transfer dowels, and a plurality of slab connection members forming part of or connected to the basket.

(99) In certain such embodiments, a plurality of the load transfer dowels are positionable at a first contraction joint between and configured for load transfer between a first pair of adjacent concrete slabs.

(100) In certain such embodiments, a plurality of the load transfer dowels are positionable at a second contraction joint between and for connecting a second pair of adjacent concrete slabs.

(101) In certain such embodiments, one of the slab connection members is positionable at a third contraction joint between and for connecting one of the first pair of adjacent concrete slabs and one of the second pair of adjacent concrete slabs.

(102) In certain such embodiments, the first pair of adjacent concrete slabs are longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs in a roadway or a floor, and the second pair of adjacent concrete slabs are longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs in the roadway or the floor.

(103) It should further be appreciated from the above that the present disclosure provides in certain embodiments concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus including a plurality of load transfer dowels, a plurality of baskets supporting the load transfer dowels, and a plurality of slab connection members connecting the plurality of baskets.

(104) In certain such embodiments, one of the slab connection members is positionable at a contraction joint between and for connecting adjacent concrete slabs.

(105) In certain such embodiments, the load transfer dowels are positionable at first and second contraction joints.

(106) In certain such embodiments, the slab connection members are positionable at third and fourth contraction joints.

(107) In certain such embodiments, the first and second contraction joints extend transversely in a roadway or a floor, and the third and fourth contraction joints extend longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs in the roadway or the floor.

(108) It should further be appreciated from the above that the present disclosure provides in certain embodiments a method of forming a section of a roadway or floor, wherein the method includes positioning a concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus on a sub-grade, said concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: (i) a plurality of load transfer dowels, (ii) a basket supporting the load transfer dowels, and (iii) a plurality of slab connection members forming part of or connected to the basket, wherein the positioning includes: (a) positioning a plurality of the load transfer dowels at a first area where a first contraction joint will be formed between a first pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, and (b) positioning one of the slab connection members at a second area where a second contraction joint will be formed between a second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, and such that the slab connection members will connect the second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs; pouring the concrete for the adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor; and forming cuts for the contraction joints.

(109) It should further be appreciated from the above that the present disclosure provides in certain embodiment a method of forming a section of a roadway or floor, wherein the method includes positioning a concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus on a sub-grade, said concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: (i) a plurality of load transfer dowels, (ii) a basket supporting the load transfer dowels, and (iii) a plurality of slab connection members forming part of or connected to the basket, wherein the positioning includes: (a) positioning a first plurality of the load transfer dowels at a first area where a first contraction joint will be formed between first and second longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, (b) positioning a second plurality of the load transfer dowels at a second area where a second contraction joint will be formed between third and fourth longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, (c) positioning one of the slab connection members at a third area where a third contraction joint will be formed between the first and third concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, and such that said slab connection member will connect said transversely adjacent first and third concrete slabs; and (d) positioning one of the slab connection members at a fourth area where a fourth contraction joint will be formed between the second and fourth concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, and such that said slab connection member will connect said transversely adjacent second and fourth concrete slabs; pouring the concrete for the first, second, third, and fourth concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor; and forming cuts for the contraction joints.

(110) It should further be appreciated from the above that the present disclosure provides in certain embodiments a method of forming a section of a roadway or floor, wherein the method includes positioning a concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus on a sub-grade, said concrete slab load transfer and connection apparatus including: (i) a plurality of load transfer dowels, (ii) a basket supporting the load transfer dowels, and (iii) a plurality of slab connection members forming part of or connected to the basket, wherein the positioning includes: (a) positioning a plurality of the load transfer dowels at a first area where a first contraction joint will be formed between a first pair of longitudinally adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, and (b) positioning one of the slab connection members at a second area where a second contraction joint will be formed between a second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor, and such that said slab connection member will connect the second pair of transversely adjacent concrete slabs; pouring the concrete for the adjacent concrete slabs of the section of the roadway or floor; and forming cut the first and second contraction joints.

(111) Various changes and modifications to the above-described embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. These changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this present subject matter and without diminishing its intended advantages. Not all of the depicted components described in this disclosure may be required, and some implementations may include additional, different, or fewer components from those expressly described in this disclosure. Variations in the arrangement and type of the components; the shapes, sizes, and materials of the components; and the manners of attachment and connections of the components may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims as set forth herein. Also, unless otherwise indicated, any directions referred to herein reflect the orientations of the components shown in the corresponding drawings and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. This specification is intended to be taken as a whole and interpreted in accordance with the principles of the invention as taught herein and understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.