SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF A POOL FORM ASSEMBLY

Abstract

Various embodiments are provided herein for a formwork system and corresponding assembly method, the formwork system including at least two C-shaped channel forms each having a first end and a second end, each C-shaped channel form comprising a web, a top flange, and a bottom flange, wherein the top flange and the bottom flange are separated by a channel distance, a C-shaped connector for connecting the second end of a first C-shaped channel form to the first end of a second C-shaped channel form, the C-shaped connector comprising a web, a top flange and a bottom flange, wherein the top flange and the bottom flange are separated by a connector distance, wherein the connector distance is smaller than the channel distance. In some embodiments, the top flanges and the bottom flanges include engagement members for alignment purposes.

Claims

1. A formwork system comprising: at least two C-shaped channel forms each having a first end and a second end, each C-shaped channel form comprising a web, a top flange, and a bottom flange, wherein the top flange and the bottom flange are separated by a channel distance; a C-shaped connector for connecting the second end of a first C-shaped channel form to the first end of a second C-shaped channel form, the C-shaped connector comprising a web, a top flange and a bottom flange, wherein the top flange and the bottom flange are separated by a connector distance; wherein the connector distance is smaller than the channel distance.

2. The formwork system of claim 1, wherein the top flange and the bottom flange of each of the C-shaped channel forms and the C-shaped connector comprise at least one engagement member for aligning the C-shaped connector with at least one of the C-shaped channel forms.

3. The formwork system of claim 2, wherein the at least one engagement member comprises alignment slots for aligning the C-shaped connector with at least one of the C-shaped channel forms, the alignment slots for receiving at least one forming stake, bolt, screw, stake or pin.

4. The formwork system of claim 1, the C-shaped connector is an angle C-shaped connector having a first arm extending along a first axis and a second arm extending along a second axis, the first arm for connecting to the second end of the first C-shaped channel form and the second arm for connecting to the first end of the second C-shaped channel form.

5. The formwork system of claim 4, wherein the angle C-shaped connector is at a 90 degree angle.

6. The formwork system of claim 1, wherein the C-shaped channel forms and the C-shaped connectors are formed of galvanized steel.

7. The formwork system of claim 1, wherein the C-shaped channel forms and the C-shaped connectors are formed of galvannealed steel.

8. The formwork system of claim 1, wherein the C-shaped channel forms are of a length anywhere between 12 inches and 120 inches.

9. The formwork system of claim 1, wherein the C-shaped channel forms are curved.

10. The formwork system of claim 1, wherein when the second end of the first C-shaped channel form is connected to the first end of the second C-shaped channel form, the second end of the first C-shaped channel form and the first end of the second C-shaped channel form align to create a smooth surface.

11. A kit for assembling a formwork system, the kit comprising: at least one C-shaped channel form as described in claim 1; at least one C-shaped connector as described in claim 1; and at least one angle C-shaped connector as described in claim 4.

12. The kit of claim 11, further comprising four angle C-shaped connectors, at least 12 C-shaped channel forms, and at least 10 C-shaped connectors.

13. The kit of claim 11, further comprising stakes, pins, screws or bolts for receiving within the C-shaped channel forms and C-shaped connectors.

14. A method of assembling a formwork system comprising: a) inserting a first end of a C-shaped connector within a first C-shaped channel form, b) inserting a second end of the C-shaped connector within a second C-shaped channel form; c) aligning at least one engagement member of the C-shaped channel forms and at least one engagement member of the C-shaped connector; d) securing the first and second C-shaped channel forms to the C-shaped connector using the respective engagement members.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising repeating steps (a) through (d) with additional C-shaped connectors and C-shaped channel forms to create a desired shape.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the C-shaped connector is an angle C-shaped connector having a first arm extending along a first axis and a second arm extending along a second axis, the first arm for connecting to the second end of the first C-shaped channel form and the second arm for connecting to the first end of the second C-shaped channel form.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein the C-shaped connectors and the C-shaped channel forms each comprise a web, a top flange, and a bottom flange, the top flange and the bottom flange each comprising at least one engagement member for aligning the C-shaped connector with at least one of the C-shaped channel forms.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein step (d) further comprises securing the C-shaped channel forms with the C-shaped connector with a stake, a screw, a pin, or a bolt.

19. The method of claim 14, further comprising (e) pouring a concrete material within the formwork, wherein the concrete material forms into a concrete slab.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising (f) removing the C-shaped channel forms and the C-shaped connector from the concrete slab for re-assembly.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] For a better understanding of the various embodiments described herein, and to show more clearly how these various embodiments may be carried into effect, reference will be made, by way of example, to the accompanying drawings which show at least one example embodiment, and which are now described. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the teachings described herein.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the assembled formwork system;

[0030] FIG. 2A is a front view of an example embodiment of a channel form;

[0031] FIG. 2B is a side view of the example channel form of FIG. 2A;

[0032] FIG. 2C is a top view of the example channel form of FIG. 2A;

[0033] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the example channel form of FIG. 2A;

[0034] FIG. 3A is a front view of another example embodiment of a channel form;

[0035] FIG. 3B is a side view of the example channel form of FIG. 3A;

[0036] FIG. 3C is a top view of the example channel form of FIG. 3A;

[0037] FIG. 3D is a perspective view of the example channel form of FIG. 3A;

[0038] FIG. 4A is a front view of an example embodiment of a connector;

[0039] FIG. 4B is a top view of the example connector of FIG. 4A;

[0040] FIG. 4C is a top view of the example connector of FIG. 4A;

[0041] FIG. 4D is a perspective view of the example connector of FIG. 4A;

[0042] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example connector assembled with two example channel forms;

[0043] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the first arm of an angle connector;

[0044] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the example angle connector of FIG. 6A;

[0045] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of another example embodiment of the first arm of an angle connector;

[0046] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the example angle connector of FIG. 7A;

[0047] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an example angle connector assembled with two example channel forms;

[0048] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a curved channel form;

[0049] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of an example embodiment of an angle connector having a variable angle;

[0050] FIG. 10B is an overhead view of the angle connector of FIG. 10A;

[0051] FIG. 10C is an elevation view of the angle connector of FIG. 10A;

[0052] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a connector according to one embodiment for use with flex forms, such as the flex forms shown in FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B;

[0053] FIG. 12A a is a perspective of a notched filler according to one embodiment;

[0054] FIG. 12B is an elevation view of the notched filler of FIG. 12A;

[0055] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an angle connector according to another embodiment;

[0056] FIG. 14A is an elevation view of a flexible form according to one embodiment;

[0057] FIG. 14B is an overhead view of the flexible form of FIG. 14A; and

[0058] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a straight beam according to another embodiment;

[0059] Further aspects and features of the example embodiments described herein will appear from the following description taken together with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0060] The headings and Abstract of the Disclosure provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

[0061] Various embodiments in accordance with the teachings herein will be described below to provide an example of at least one embodiment of the claimed subject matter. No embodiment described herein limits any claimed subject matter. The claimed subject matter is not limited to devices, systems, or methods having all of the features of any one of the devices, systems, or methods described below or to features common to multiple or all of the devices, systems, or methods described herein. It is possible that there may be a device, system, or method described herein that is not an embodiment of any claimed subject matter. Any subject matter that is described herein that is not claimed in this document may be the subject matter of another protective instrument, for example, a continuing patent application, and the applicants, inventors, or owners do not intend to abandon, disclaim, or dedicate to the public any such subject matter by its disclosure in this document.

[0062] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0063] It should also be noted that the terms coupled or coupling as used herein can have several different meanings depending in the context in which these terms are used. For example, the terms coupled or coupling can have a mechanical, structural or fluidic connotation. For example, as used herein, the terms coupled or coupling can indicate that two elements or devices can be directly connected to one another or connected to one another through one or more intermediate elements or devices via a mechanical element, a structural element, a gas flow or a fluid flow depending on the particular context.

[0064] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word comprise and variations thereof, such as, comprises and comprising are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as including, but not limited to.

[0065] It should also be noted that, as used herein, the wording and/or is intended to represent an inclusive-or. That is, X and/or Y is intended to mean X or Y or both, for example. As a further example, X, Y, and/or Z is intended to mean X or Y or Z or any combination thereof.

[0066] It should be noted that terms of degree such as substantially, about and approximately as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. These terms of degree may also be construed as including a deviation of the modified term, such as by 1%, 2%, 5%, or 20%, for example, if this deviation does not negate the meaning of the term it modifies.

[0067] Furthermore, the recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints herein includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.90, 4, and 5). It is also to be understood that all numbers and fractions thereof are presumed to be modified by the term about which means a variation of up to a certain amount of the number to which reference is being made if the end result is not significantly changed, such as 1%, 2%, 5%, or 10%, for example.

[0068] Reference throughout this specification to one embodiment, an embodiment, at least one embodiment or some embodiments means that one or more particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, unless otherwise specified to be not combinable or to be alternative options.

[0069] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms a, an, and the include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term or is generally employed in its broadest sense, that is, as meaning and/or unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0070] As mentioned, methods of assembling forms for concrete flatwork including: concrete decking, pools, firepits, sidewalks, shed pads, sidewalks & patios etc. can be a tedious process of finding non-warped wood for the forms, assembling with additional formwork pieces, lubricating with tape and/or spray lubricants, and disassembling the formwork after the concrete has cured. In each method, the formwork is able to be used once or twice at the most, and requires a higher level of manpower & labor costs to ensure that the alignment and level of the form is accurate. A formwork system and corresponding method of assembly is required to allow assembly and pouring of these concrete structures with a decreased assembly time and man power required and an ability to re-use the forms to decrease waste from these services.

[0071] In accordance with the teachings herein, there are provided various example embodiments of formwork systems that may be used to quickly assemble and disassemble formwork, while ensuring accuracy of the concrete pours.

[0072] Referring now to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an example embodiment of the formwork system 100 in accordance with the teachings herein is shown. The formwork system 100 can include multiple C-shaped channel forms 200, multiple C-shaped connectors 300, and multiple angle C-shaped connectors 400. In some embodiments, the formwork system 100 can include two C-shaped channel forms 200 and one C-shaped connector 300 or one angle C-shaped connector 400. In some embodiments, any combination of C-shaped channel forms 200, C-shaped connectors 300 and angle C-shaped connectors 400 can be used to create the desired formwork shape.

[0073] Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2D, shown are multiple views of an example embodiment of C-shaped channel forms 200. In FIGS. 2A-2C, shown is an example embodiment of channel form 200 having a length of 12 inches. As shown, in some examples the channel forms 200 can have a length of anywhere between around 12 inches (one foot) and around 120 inches (10 feet) and a height of around 5.5 inches. In some embodiments, channel forms 200 can have a length of around 24 inches (2 feet), 48 inches (4 feet), 72 inches (6 feet), or 96 inches (8 feet). In some embodiments, channel forms 200 can have a height of anywhere between 4 inches and 12 inches (one foot). These multiple length options for the channel forms 200 can allow for versatility in many different applications.

[0074] Channel form 200 is a C-shaped channel having a first end 220, a second end 222, web 202, a top flange 204, and a bottom flange 206. The web 202, top flange 204 and bottom flange 206 of channel form 200 can define an interior volume 214. In the illustrated embodiment, channel form 200 has two engagement members 208a, 208b on the top flange 204 and two engagement member 208c, 208d on the bottom flange 206. In some embodiments, top flange 204 and bottom flange 206 can each have more than two engagement members 208.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiments, top flange 204 and bottom flange 206 extend from web 202 in the same direction. Top flange 204 can further include a downwardly extending portion 210, which is substantially parallel to web 202 and substantially perpendicular to top flange 204. Bottom flange 206 can include an upwardly extending portion 212, which is substantially parallel to web 202 and substantially perpendicular to bottom flange 206. In some embodiments, downwardly extending portion 210 and upwardly extending portion 212 can be used to assist with keeping C-shaped connector 300 (discussed more in relation to FIGS. 4-5) held within the interior volume 208 between web 202, top flange 204 and bottom flange 206.

[0076] In some embodiments, the top flange 204 and the bottom flange 206 can have a length of 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the top flange 204 and the bottom flange 206 can have a length of anywhere between 1 inch and 2 inches. In some embodiments, the downwardly extending portion 210 and the upwardly extending portion 212 can have a length of of an inch. In some embodiments, the downwardly extending portion 210 and the upwardly extending portion 212 can have a length of anywhere between an inch and 1 inch.

[0077] Engagement members 208 may be located anywhere along the length of channel form 200. In the illustrated embodiments, engagement member 208a-d are circular slots. In some embodiments, engagement members 208 can be square, rectangular, oval, or any other shape able to receive a fastener (not illustrated). Engagement members 208 can be of any size to appropriately receive a fastener. For example, engagement members 208 can have a diameter of approximately of an inch.

[0078] FIGS. 3A-C show an additional example embodiment of channel form 200. In the illustrated embodiment, channel form 200 is 48 inches (4 feet) in length. In said embodiment, channel form 200 has five engagement members 208a-e along top flange 204 and six engagement members 208f-j along bottom flange 206.

[0079] In some embodiments, channel form 200 can include additional engagement members 208 along top flange 204 and bottom flange 206. These additional engagement members 208 can be used to provide stability to the formwork. In particular, with longer length channel forms 200, the additional engagement members 208 can receive a forming stake extending through an engagement member 208 within the top flange 204 through to an engagement member 208 within the bottom flange 206.

[0080] In some examples, as an alternative to a forming stake, a bolt, a pin, a screw, or any other fastener could also be used.

[0081] In general, this fastener can provide an increased strength and ensure the channel form 200 is level along the ground when in use.

[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 4, shown therein are multiple views of an example embodiment of connector 300. Connector 300 is a C-shaped channel having a first end 320, a second end 322, web 302, a top flange 304, and a bottom flange 306. In the illustrated embodiment, connector 300 has four engagement members 308a-d on the top flange 304 and four engagement member 308e-h on the bottom flange 306. In some embodiments, top flange 304 and bottom flange 306 can each have two engagement members 308.

[0083] Connector 300 is configured to be placed within interior volume 214 of channel forms 200. Connector 300 has a height smaller than the channel form height 200 of approximately 5.5 inches. As such, connector 300 can have a height of anywhere between 3.5 inches and 11.7 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, connector 300 has a height of approximately 5.3 inches. Connector 300 can have a length of anywhere between 9 inches and 24 inches.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiments, top flange 304 and bottom flange 306 extend from web 302 in the same direction. Top flange 304 can further include a downwardly extending portion 310, which is substantially parallel to web 302 and substantially perpendicular to top flange 304. Bottom flange 306 can include an upwardly extending portion 312, which is substantially parallel to web 302 and substantially perpendicular to bottom flange 306.

[0085] Referring now to FIG. 5, shown therein is an example embodiment of connector 300 in use. Connector 300 is illustrated to connect the second end 222 of first channel form 200a with first end 220 of second channel form 200b. Connector 300 can connect first channel form 200a and second channel form 200b to provide a completely flush web 202 surface. This can allow for the concrete, when poured within formwork system 100, to have a completely flat edge without any imperfections where the channel form 200 pieces are connected and/or abutting.

[0086] First end 320 of connector 300 can be connected to second end 222 of first channel form 200a by engagement members 208 of first channel form 200a and engagement members 308 of connector 300. In the illustrated embodiment, engagement members 208, 308 of first channel form 200a and connector 300, respectively, are aligned. This alignment can allow for a fastener (not illustrated), such as a stake, a pin, a bolt, a screw, or any other fastener, to extend through aligned engagement members 208, 308 to secure the second end 222 of first channel form 200a to the first end 320 of connector 300. In some embodiments, the fastener can be a inch forming stake to form a straight connection.

[0087] Second end 322 of connector 200 can then be connected to first end 220 of second channel form 200b by the corresponding engagement members 208, 308 of second channel form 200b and connector 300.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiments, connector 300 has two engagement members 308 on the first end 320 and two engagement members 308 on the second end 322, allowing for two secure points of connection between each channel form 200a, b and connector 300. In some embodiments, additional engagement members 208, 308 can be included on each channel forms 200a, b and on connector 300 to increase the connection between each piece. In some embodiments, fewer engagement members 208, 308 can be included on each channel form 200a, b and on connector 300 to increase the speed of assembly and dis-assembly of formwork system 100.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, engagement members 208, 308 are each slots to allow for a fastener to be received within the engagement members 208, 308 to connect the channel forms 200a, b and connector 300. In some embodiments, engagement members 308 within connector 300 can be of a larger size than engagement members 208 of channel forms 200. This can allow for increased accuracy of the spacing/abutting of channel forms 200 when assembling.

[0090] In other embodiments, engagement members 208, 308 can be any other style to allow for engagement between channel forms 200a, b and connectors 300. For example, in some embodiments, channel forms 200a, b can have a female connector component as an engagement member 208 and connectors 300 can have a male connector component as engagement member 308, such as a hook and eye, a snap, a button, or any other type of engagement mechanism.

[0091] In some embodiments, once connector 300 is placed within the interior volume 214 of channel forms 200, connector 300 can be manually moved within interior volume 214 to ensure correct alignment between connector 300 and channel forms 200. This can allow for the user to adjust spacing between channel forms 200 to ensure a flush web 202 prior to the concrete being poured.

[0092] Referring now to FIGS. 6A-B, shown therein are two perspective views of an example embodiment of angle connector 400. FIG. 6A illustrates an example embodiment of first arm 420 of angle connector 400. As shown in FIG. 6B, angle connector 400 can have a first arm 420 and a second arm 422 extending along separate axes, forming a connection between channel forms 200 to create a corner or an angular shape. Second arm 422 of angle connector 400 includes the same components as first arm 420, and as such, all reference to first arm 420 in the following description could be referring to second arm 422. First arm 420 of angle connector 400 is a C-shaped channel having a web 402, a top flange 404, and a bottom flange 406. In the illustrated embodiment, first arm 420 of angle connector 400 has two engagement members 408a-b on the top flange 404 and two engagement member 408c-d on the bottom flange 406. In some embodiments, top flange 404 and bottom flange 406 can each have more than two engagement members 408.

[0093] Angle connector 400 is configured to be placed within interior volume 214 of channel forms 200. Angle connector 400 has a height smaller than the channel form height 200 of approximately 5.5 inches. As such, angle connector 400 can have a height of anywhere between 3.5 inches and 11.7 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, angle connector 400 has a height of approximately 5.3 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, first arm 420 of angle connector 400 has a length of around 9 inches. In some embodiments, first arm 420 of angle connector 400 can have a length of anywhere between 9 inches and 12 inches.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiments, top flange 404 and bottom flange 406 extend from web 402 in the same direction. Top flange 404 can further include a downwardly extending portion 410, which is substantially parallel to web 402 and substantially perpendicular to top flange 404. Bottom flange 406 can include an upwardly extending portion 412, which is substantially parallel to web 402 and substantially perpendicular to bottom flange 406.

[0095] Engagement members 408 of each arm 420, 422 of angle connector 400 can have the same shape, size, and configuration as engagement members 308 of connector 300. In some embodiments, as illustrated, engagement members 408 are of an increased size in comparison to engagement members 208 of channel forms 200 to allow for increased accuracy of abutment of channel forms 200 during assembly.

[0096] Angle connector 400 can include end connectors 424 to join first arm 420 and second arm 422. In the illustrated embodiment, end connectors 424 are extensions from first arm 420 having connection point 426. In the illustrated embodiment, first arm 420 has two end connectors 424, one extending from top flange 404 and the second extending from bottom flange 406. In some embodiments, end connectors 424 can be any size or shape to allow for connection between first arm 420 and second arm 422.

[0097] For example, in some embodiments end connectors 424 can include welds, glue, snaps, buttons, hook and eye, or any other connection type.

[0098] End connectors 424 of first arm 420 and second arm 422 can be connected, in some embodiments, by a connection allowing rotation along a connector axis 430. For example, a stake (not illustrated) can be placed through connection point 426 of both end connectors 424 of first arm 420 and through connection point 426 of both end connectors 424 of second arm 422. The stake can allow first arm 420 and second arm 422 to be moveable relative to one another. This can allow for flexibility within the formwork systems 100, such that all corners formed are not restricted to a specific degree based on the angle connector 400. In some embodiments, the angle connector 400 can have a connector angle 432 (illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 8) of 90 degrees. In some embodiments, first arm 420 and second arm 422 can be moved such that angle connector 400 can have a connector angle 432 of anywhere between 15 degrees and 180 degrees. In some embodiments, connector angle 432 can be anywhere between 15 and 350 degrees. In some embodiments, the rotatable connection can be locked at the desired connector angle 432 to prevent movement of the first arm 420 and the second arm 422 of angle connector 400.

[0099] In some embodiments, first arm 420 and second arm 422 of angle connector 400 are in a fixed position. In some embodiments, angle connector 400 has a connector angle 432 of 90 degrees.

[0100] Referring now to FIGS. 7A-B, shown therein are multiple views of another example embodiment of angle connector 400. In said embodiment, end connector 424 is of a different shape than illustrated in FIGS. 6A-B. In the illustrated embodiment, end connector 424 can be used to provide a less variable connector angle 432 between first arm 420 and second arm 422. This can provide for increased accuracy in measurement of connector angle 432.

[0101] Referring now to FIG. 8, shown therein is an example embodiment of angle connector 400 in use. Angle connector 400 is illustrated to connect the second end 222 of first channel form 200a with first end 220 of second channel form 200b to form a corner of the formwork system 100. Angle connector 400 can connect first channel form 200a and second channel form 200b to provide a variety of corner angles.

[0102] First arm 420 of angle connector 400 can be connected to second end 222 of first channel form 200a by engagement members 208 of first channel form 200a and engagement members 408 of angle connector 400. In the illustrated embodiment, engagement members 208, 408 of first channel form 200a and angle connector 400, respectively, are aligned. This alignment can allow for a fastener (not illustrated), such as a forming stake, a pin, a bolt, a screw, or any other fastener, to extend through aligned engagement members 208, 408 to secure the second end 222 of first channel form 200a to the first arm 420 of angle connector 400.

[0103] Second arm 422 of angle connector 400 can then be connected to first end 220 of second channel form 200b by the corresponding engagement members 208, 408 of second channel form 200b and angle connector 400.

[0104] In some embodiments, once angle connector 400 is placed within the interior volume 214 of channel forms 200, angle connector 400 can be manually moved within interior volume 214 to ensure correct alignment between angle connector 400 and channel forms 200. This can allow for the user to adjust the connector angle 432 between channel forms 200 to ensure the desired angle has been achieved prior to pouring the concrete.

[0105] In an example embodiment, angle connector 400 can be used to connect channel forms 200 in different configurations. For example, when pouring the concrete pathway around a pool, two formwork systems 100 can be required. The first formwork system 100 can require a rectangular form with web 202 components of the channel forms 200 facing inwardly. The second formwork system 100 can require a smaller rectangular form with web 202 components of the channel forms 200 facing outwardly. This can form a pathway between each formwork system 100. In said embodiment, angle connectors 400 can be required for each formwork system 100. In the formwork system 100 with web 202 components facing inwardly, webs 402 of angle connectors 400 must also be facing inwardly, with the connector angle at 90 degrees. In the formwork system 100 with web 202 components facing outwardly, webs 402 of angle connectors 400 must also be facing outwardly, with the connector angle at 90 degrees. Angle connectors 400 can be adjustable to allow each angle connector 400 to rotate about connector axis 432 to achieve each required alignment.

[0106] In some embodiments, end connectors 424 can be separate from the arms 420, 422 of angle connector 400. In some embodiments, end connectors 424 can be attached to two connector 300 pieces to form angle connector 400.

[0107] In some embodiments, all components of formwork system 100 can be manufactured from galvanized steel. In some embodiments, all components of formwork system 100 can be manufactured from galvannealed steel. In some embodiments, all components of formwork system 100 can be manufactured of any other type of metal.

[0108] Referring now to FIG. 9, shown therein is an example embodiment of another formwork system 100. In the illustrated embodiment, curved C-shaped channel form 500 is shown. Curved channel form 500 includes web 502 extending along the radius of curved channel form 500. As illustrated, unlike channel forms 200, curved channel form 500 includes only areas having an upper flange 504, lower flange 506, and engagement members 508. Curved channel form 500 can have a first end 520 and a second end 522. In the illustrated embodiment, at first end 520 and second end 522 of curved channel form 504, the interior volume 512 between web 502, upper flange 504 and lower flange 506 is included to allow for connectors 300 and/or angle connectors 400 to be introduced to connect curved channel form 500 to additional formwork components.

[0109] In some embodiments, as illustrated, the radius of curved channel form 500 includes several connection points 530, each having a top flange 504, a bottom flange 506, and an engagement member 508. As with channel form 200, these engagement members 508 can be used to provide stability to the formwork. In particular, with longer radius curved channel forms 500, the additional engagement members 508 can receive a forming stake, a bolt, a pin, a screw, or any other fastener extending through an engagement member 508 within the top flange 504 through to an engagement member 508 within the bottom flange 506. In said embodiment, this fastener can provide an increased strength and ensure the curved channel form 500 is level along the ground when in use.

[0110] In some embodiments, the radius of the curved channel forms 500 is 2 feet. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved channel forms 500 is 4 feet. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved channel forms 500 is 8 feet.

[0111] In some embodiments, the curved channel forms 500 can be connected by connectors 300 to form firepits. In some embodiments, the curved channel forms 500 can be connected to channel forms 200 by connectors 300 to create a curved edge to a sidewalk, for example. In some embodiments, the curved channel forms 500 can be connected together or to channel forms 200 by angle connectors 400.

[0112] Referring now to FIGS. 1 to 9 when being assembled, channel forms 200, connectors 300 and angle connectors 400 are able to connect in multiple variations to create a formwork system 100.

[0113] At a first step, the first end 320 of connector 300 is placed within the interior volume 214 of the second end 222 of a first channel form 200. In some embodiments, the first arm 420 of the angle connector 400 can be placed within the interior volume 214 of the second end 222 of the first channel form 200.

[0114] At a second step, the second end 322 of connector 300 is placed within the interior volume 214 of the first end 220 of a second channel form 200. In some embodiments, the second arm 422 of the angle connector 400 can be placed within the interior volume 214 of the first end 220 of the second channel form 200.

[0115] At a third step, engagement members 208 of channel forms 200 are aligned with engagement members 308 of the connector 300. In some embodiments, engagement members 208 of channel forms 200 are aligned with engagement members 408 of the angle connector 400.

[0116] At a fourth step, the first and second channel forms 200 are secured to the connector 300 by the respective engagement members 208, 308. In some embodiments, the first and second channel forms 200 are secured to the angle connector 400 by the respective engagement members 208, 408.

[0117] In some embodiments, steps one through four can be repeated with additional channel forms 200, curved channel forms 500, connectors 300 and angle connectors 400 in any variation desired by the user to create a requested shape and/or form.

[0118] In some embodiments, step four further includes securing the channel forms 200 to the connector 300 or the angle connector 400 using a screw, a pin, or a bolt.

[0119] In some embodiments, after the desired shape and/or form has been created by the user, a concrete material can be poured within the formwork. In some embodiments, the concrete material can be left within the formwork to cure and form a concrete slab. In some embodiments, once the concrete material has formed the concrete slab, the formwork system 100 can be disassembled by the user by removing any fasteners within engagement members 208, 308, 408 and disconnecting channel forms 200 from connectors 300 and/or angle connectors 400. Once formwork system 100 has been fully disassembled, all components (channel forms 200, connectors 300, angle connectors 400, curved channel forms 500) can be re-used to construct additional formwork systems 100 having different configurations or shapes.

[0120] The above noted invention provides a user with a formwork system 100 that requires minimal time to set up and uses minimal tools and/or parts to assemble. Further, the connecting channel forms 200 in some cases may provide no overlap when connected using connectors 300, providing a smooth edge for the concrete once it has been poured and set.

[0121] Turning now to FIGS. 10A to 10C, illustrated therein is an angle connector 600 according to another embodiment. In particular, FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the angle connector 600 that is capable of having a variable angle. The connector 600 includes a first angle member 602 that is movably coupled to a second angle member 604 via a flexible connector, such as a pin connector 606. As will be appreciated, the angle members 602, 604 can be pivoted with respect to each other about the pin connector 606 so as to adopt a desired angle. In this manner, angles other than 90 degrees can be achieved, such as acute angles (i.e., 30 degrees, 45 degrees, etc.), and obtuse angles (i.e., 135 degrees).

[0122] FIG. 10B is an overhead view of the angle connector 600, while FIG. 10C is an elevation view of the angle connector 600.

[0123] Turning now to FIG. 11, illustrated therein is a perspective view of a connector 650 according to one embodiment. In some embodiments, for example, the connector 650 may be suitable for use with flexible forms, such as the flex form 800 shown in FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B. As shown, holes 652 in the connector 652 may be use to connect to corresponding holes (i.e., holes 802) in a flexible form, such as via a pin connector, bolt, and the like.

[0124] Turning now to FIGS. 12A and 12 B, illustrated therein is a notched filler member 700 according to one embodiment. In particular, FIG. 12A shows a perspective of view of the notched filler member 700, while FIG. 12B is an elevation view of the notched filler member 700. As more clearly shown in FIG. 12B, the member 700 may include a plurality of notches 702 in the webs of the member 700. In some cases, these notches 702 may improve the flexibility of the member 700. In some cases, these notches may allow for one or more segments of the member 700 to be broken or snapped off.

[0125] For example, in some cases the member 700 may be easily snapped off at the location of a particular notch 702. This may be useful for resizing the length of the member 700.

[0126] Turning now to FIG. 13, illustrated therein is a perspective view of an angle connector 750 according to another embodiment. In general, the connector 752 includes a first angle member 752 and a second angle member 754 that are fixedly connected at a particular angle 756 (in this example the angle 756 is approximately 90 degrees). In other cases, the angle 756 may have different values.

[0127] In some cases, the first and second angle members 752, 754 may have different sizes and lengths, and which may be the same and/or different. In some cases the first and second angle members 752, 754 may have a length of approximately 12 inches.

[0128] Turning now to FIGS. 14A and 14B, illustrated therein is a flexible form 800 according to one embodiment. As shown, the flexible form 800 includes a plurality of notches 802 (or slits) that allow the form 800 to be flexible and bend into different shapes (i.e., a C curve, an S curve, and so on). In some cases, as best shown in FIG. 14B, the form 800 may include one or more holes 804 to be connected with other members (for example using connector 650).

[0129] Turning now to FIG. 15, illustrated therein is a perspective view of a straight beam 850 according to another embodiment. The beam 850 may have various shapes and sizes as needed. For example, the beam 850 could be 8 inches high and 48 inches long in one embodiment.

[0130] In some cases, the teachings herein can increase the longevity of the products, as well as the speed at which the components can be assembled, particularly when compared with other formwork solutions. This can decrease labor costs and may provide other efficiencies that are generally desirable

[0131] While the applicant's teachings described herein are in conjunction with various embodiments for illustrative purposes, it is not intended that the applicant's teachings be limited to such embodiments as the embodiments described herein are intended to be examples. On the contrary, the applicant's teachings described and illustrated herein encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, without departing from the embodiments described herein, the general scope of which is defined in the appended claims.