METHOD OF INSTALLING AND SUPPORTING A FABRIC FORM, AND A BRACKET THEREFOR

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

There is provided a method of installing and supporting of a form. In particular, there is provided a method of installing of and supporting a fabric form, and a bracket therefor.

Description of the Related Art

United States Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0128922 A1 to Fearn discloses a lightweight and flexible concrete forming tube for columns and pads. The tube has a very thin wall of high strength fabric and a longitudinal fabric tab running the length of the tube. The tab is sandwiched between two vertical support members made of lumber. The vertical support members and attached fabric tube are then accurately located and braced. As the interior of the tube is filled with concrete, the hydrostatic pressure causes the tube to form a cylindrical shape, thereby accurately aligning itself across from the vertical support members. The use of fabric prevents the problems associated with using cardboard forms, which weaken when exposed to moisture.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,790,509 to Cardwell et al. discloses a collar for supporting a tubular concrete form for cylindrical bridge supports or the like. The collar includes cooperating sections dimensioned for receiving the circumference of a tubular concrete form. The sections can be adjusted to receive forms having various diameters. In the preferred embodiment, the collar includes brackets suitable for being connected to a frame which support the collar while concrete cures in the form. As necessary or desired, a template is mounted on the collar for positioning anchor bolts and at selected locations in concrete curing in the form.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,368,269 to Boisseau discloses a brace plate for bracing concrete column forms includes a flexible base and an extension extending at an angle therefrom. The extension has a slot for receiving a tightening strap and holes to receive fasteners for fastening the brace plate to a brace. In use, a plurality of brace plates are disposed around the circumference of a column form so that the bases conform to the outer surface of the column form. The tightening strap is inserted through each of the brace plates and drawn snugly around the column form. Each brace plate is fastened to its corresponding brace in such a way as to allow relative movement between the brace plate and the brace. Once the braces are secured and the column form is aligned, each brace plate is further fastened to each brace so as to prevent relative movement between each brace plate and its corresponding brace.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,983,077 to Sorge et al. discloses a method of producing structural supports for use particularly in mining applications includes the use of a relatively rigid and cylindrical shell casing. The shell casing is separable along the plane parallel to its axis, has open ends and is closed about a fabric tube which is axially supported therein. The fabric tube is filled with pressurized liquid building materials such as concrete. Once filled within the casing, the pressure of the building material forces the liquid component thereof out of the tube laterally and through perforations provided in the shell casing to drain the liquid away from the building material in the tube. The casing and tube are of size such that the remaining building material, which will constitute a pillar, extends completely between the surfaces it is to separate and support. Once the liquid has been drained from the building material within the fabric tube and shell casing, the shell casing can be removed even before the remaining building material is hardened into a pillar reinforced with an outer fabric tube. The shell casing can then be reused for producing additional fabric reinforced pillars.

The above-described prior art may suffer a number of disadvantages.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

There is provided, and it is an object to provide, an improved method of installing and/or supporting a fabric form, and a bracket therefor, disclosed herein.

There is accordingly provided according to one aspect a connector for a fabric form. The connector includes a first elongate member connectable to the fabric form. The connector includes a second elongate member coupled to the first elongate member. The second elongate member is configured to cantilever outwards from the first elongate member so as to operatively connect to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork.

There is also provided according to another aspect a connector for a fabric form. The connector includes a first elongate member. The connector includes a protrusion coupled to and extending outwards from the first elongate member. The connector includes a second elongate member coupled to and configured to cantilever outwards from the first elongate member. The second elongate member has one or more of apertures extending therethrough.

There is further provided according to an additional aspect a connector for a fabric form. The connector has a first position which is substantially planar. The connector in the first position thereof is configured to extend parallel to and pierce the fabric form. The connector has a second position which is L-shaped.

There is yet also provided according to a further aspect a connector for a fabric form. The connector has a first position which is substantially planar. The connector has a second position in which the connector snap-fit couples to the fabric form and is L-shaped.

There is additionally provided according to another aspect a connector for a fabric form and/or tubular form. The connector includes a first elongate member connectable to the fabric form. The connector is configured to snap-fit couple and/or clamp to the fabric form via the first elongate member. In addition or alternatively, the first elongate member is foldable on itself and/or about an end portion of the fabric form. The connector includes a second elongate member pivotally, hingedly and/or foldably coupled to the first elongate member. The connector has a first position which is substantially planar so to extend parallel to and pierce the fabric form. The connector has a second position which is L-shaped. The second elongate member in the second position cantilevers outwards from the first elongate member so as to operatively connect to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork. The first and second elongate members are configured to lock in place in the second position.

There is also provided a formwork assembly according to one aspect. The formwork assembly includes a fabric form. The formwork assembly includes any one of the above or below connectors described herein.

There is further provided according to one aspect a method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form. The method includes aligning a connector so as to extend parallel to a longitudinal axis and/or indicia thereof of the fabric form. The method includes coupling a first elongate member of the connector so aligned to the fabric form. The method includes abutting a second elongate member at least in part to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form.

There is also provided according to another aspect a method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form. The method includes aligning a connector so as to extend parallel to a longitudinal axis and/or indicia thereof of the fabric form. The method includes coupling a first elongate member of the connector so aligned to the fabric form. The method includes positioning a second elongate member of the connector to cantilever outwards from the first elongate member. The method includes abutting the second elongate member so positioned to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form.

There is additionally provided according yet another aspect a method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form. The method includes snap-fit coupling a first elongate member of a connector to an end portion of the fabric form. The method includes positioning a second elongate member to be cantilevered from the first elongate member. The method includes coupling the second elongate member to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form.

There is yet also provided according to a further aspect a method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form. The method includes folding a first elongate member of a connector about an end portion of the fabric form so as to couple thereto. The method includes positioning a second elongate member to be cantilevered from the first elongate member. The method includes coupling the second elongate member to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form.

It is emphasized that the invention relates to all combinations of the above features, even if these are recited in different claims.

Further aspects and example embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or described in the following description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings illustrate non-limiting example embodiments of the invention:

FIG. 1 is a front, top, left side perspective view of a connector in the form of a bracket for supporting a fabric form, the bracket being according to a first aspect and being shown in a stored or planar position with the bracket including first and second elongate members extending substantially in parallel;

FIG. 2 is a front, top, left side perspective view thereof, with the bracket being shown in a deployed or angled position in which the first elongate member of the bracket is folded together and substantially perpendicular to the second elongate member of the bracket;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the bracket of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a left side elevation view thereof;

FIG. 5 is a rear, bottom, right side perspective view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a front, top, left side perspective view of a base formwork;

FIG. 7 is a front, top, left side perspective view of the base formwork of FIG. 6, together with a pair of spaced-apart, horizontally extending temporary supports in the form of dimensioned lumber shown in the process of coupling to the top thereof;

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a fabric form shown in fragment and in a substantially flat or planar position and in the process of cut to a desired length;

FIG. 9 is a proximal end, front, left side perspective view of the fabric form of FIG. 8 shown in fragment together with the bracket of FIG. 1, with the fabric form being shown in an three-dimensional and/or tubular position, with the bracket being shown aligning with longitudinal indicia of the fabric form, with a protrusion of the bracket being shown in the process of piercing the longitudinal indicia and with first elongate member of the bracket being shown in the process folding about a proximal end portion of the fabric form;

FIG. 10 is a proximal end, front, left side perspective view of the fabric form shown in fragment together with the bracket of FIG. 9, with the first elongate member of the bracket shown snap-fit coupled to the end portion of the fabric form and with the second elongate member of the bracket being shown extending radially outwards relative to the fabric form in a deployed or angled position relative to the first elongate member;

FIG. 11 is a rear, bottom, right side perspective view of the bracket of FIGS. 2 and 10 shown in the deployed or angled position;

FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of the fabric form in the substantially flat or planar position of FIG. 8, with a first longitudinally-extending piece of dimensioned lumber being shown in the process of being stapled to a first side of a longitudinally-extending tab of the fabric form;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the fabric form and first longitudinally-extending piece of dimensioned lumber of FIG. 12, together with a second longitudinally-extending piece of dimensioned lumber shown in the process of coupling to the first longitudinally-extending piece of dimensioned lumber and a second side of the longitudinally-extending tab of the fabric form via a plurality of fasteners;

FIG. 14 is a front, top, left side perspective view of the base formwork of FIG. 7, together with the fabric form shown in fragment and longitudinally-extending pieces of dimensioned lumber so coupled thereto being positioned vertically, with the vertically-positioned lumber being shown in the process of coupling to a first of the horizontally-extending pieces of dimensioned lumber and with the second elongate member of the bracket being shown abutting a second of the horizontally-extending pieces of dimensioned lumber;

FIG. 15 is a rear, top, left side perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 14 shown in the deployed or angled position;

FIG. 16 is a front, top, left side perspective view of the base formwork, fabric form shown in fragment, and dimensioned lumber of FIG. 14, with the second elongate member of the bracket being shown in the process of being coupled to the second of the horizontally-extending pieces of dimensioned lumber via one or more fasteners;

FIG. 17 is a front, top, left side perspective view of the base formwork, fabric form shown in fragment, and dimensioned lumber of FIG. 16, with concrete being shown in the process of being poured into an upper open end of the fabric form so secured to the base formwork;

FIG. 18 is a front, top, left side perspective view of a connector in the form of a bracket for supporting a fabric form, the bracket being according to a second aspect and being shown in a stored or planar position, with the bracket including first and second elongate members extending substantially in parallel;

FIG. 19 is a rear, bottom, right side perspective view thereof;

FIG. 20 is a front, top, left side perspective view thereof, with the bracket being shown in a deployed or angled position in which the first elongate member of the bracket is folded together and substantially perpendicular to the second elongate member of the bracket;

FIG. 21 is a rear, bottom, right side perspective view thereof; and

FIG. 22 is a sectional view taken along lines 22-22 of the bracket shown in FIG. 21.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Throughout the following description, specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced without these particulars. In other instances, well known elements have not been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive sense.

Referring to the drawings and first to FIG. 6 there is shown a formwork 30. The formwork includes in this non-limiting embodiment a base formwork 32. The base formwork may comprise a foundation formwork and/or be referred to as a pad formwork; however, this is not strictly required. Base formwork 32 is configured to form a base 34; alternatively, the base may operatively couple to the base formwork. The base formwork is not strictly required and alternatively, there may be provided a base in the form of ground 36 or some other such underlying and/or existing structure. The latter may be planar and/or horizontally extending for example and with the base thus extending horizontally at least in part.

Base formwork 32 in this non-limiting example comprises a plurality of temporary support members, in this non-limiting embodiment wooden support members, in this case dimensioned lumber: a first pair of spaced-apart, upright dimensioned lumber 32A and 32B and a second pair of spaced-apart, upright dimensioned lumber 32C and 32D coupled to respective ends of the first pair of dimensioned lumber so as to form a rectangular form shape in this non-limiting example. A pourable/flowable and settable foundation material, in this non-limiting embodiment concrete 33 may be received within base formwork 32 so shaped, which when set forms base 34. Base formwork 26 is thus shaped to receive concrete therein, with the base being a rectangular prism in shape in this non-limiting embodiment. Base formwork 32 and base 34 extend about a longitudinal axis, in this example a vertical axis 37.

Still referring to FIG. 6, base 34 may include indicia 38 thereon, in this non-limiting embodiment a centered cross 38A with a circle 38B extending about an intersection point 38C thereof. The indicia may be created by determining midway points of dimensioned lumber 32A and 32B and dimensioned lumber 32C and 32D and drawings lines 38D and 38E extending therebetween, respectively, with the intersection point indicating a center point of the base. Intersection point 38C is configured to substantially align and intersect with vertical axis 37 in this non-limiting example.

As seen in FIG. 7, base 34 includes at least one and in this example a first pair of temporary support members, in this non-limiting embodiment wooden support members, in this case first and second pieces of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A and 34B. The first piece of dimensioned lumber in this non-limiting example is situated so its width W₁ extends horizontally and with spaced-apart ends thereof coupling to dimensioned lumber 32C and 32D of base formwork 32 via fasteners 40. The first piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A is spaced a distance D₁ from intersection point 38C of indicia 38. The second piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34B in this non-limiting example is situated so its thickness T₁ extends horizontally. Spaced-apart ends of the second piece of dimensioned lumber couple to lumber 32C and 32D of base formwork 32 via fasteners 42, which may angle downwards through each side of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34B and into the base formwork. The second piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34B is spaced a distance D₂ from intersection point 38C of indicia 38.

Referring now to FIG. 8, formwork 30 includes a fabric form 44. The fabric form is made of a longitudinally-extending fabric material or element 46. The fabric element comprises a flexible sheet of indefinite length and is made of a woven fabric in this non-limiting example. Fabric form 44 in its unassembled state seen in FIG. 8 may be substantially planar and rectangular in this non-limiting example. The fabric form when in its substantially flat or planar position may be cut to a desired length L, in this non-limiting example as via a utility knife 47. Fabric form 44 so cut to length, has a first or proximal end 44A, a second or distal end 44B spaced-apart from the proximal end thereof and a longitudinal axis 45 extending between the ends thereof. The fabric form includes an end portion, in this example a proximal end portion 44C adjacent or near the proximal end thereof and which extends from the proximal towards the distal end thereof.

Referring back to FIG. 9, fabric form 44 has an inner surface 44D in fluid communication with interior 48 thereof and an outer surface 44E opposite the inner surface thereof. The inner surface of fabric form is outwardly concave and the outer surface of the fabric form is outwardly convex in this non-limiting embodiment; however, this is not strictly required and the inner and/or outer surfaces may be planar at least in part in other non-limiting examples. Fabric form 44 includes in this non-limiting embodiment indicia, in this example alignment indicia 56 along outer surface 44E thereof. The alignment indicia is longitudinally-extending, aligning parallel to longitudinal axis 45 of the fabric form.

As seen in FIG. 9, fabric form 44 is shaped to enclose and/or form a longitudinally-extending interior 48. The fabric form may be referred to as a concrete cover. Fabric form 44 is tubular in this non-limiting embodiment so as to form an interior shape that is substantially or generally cylindrical and may thus be referred to as a tubular form, flexible tube form element and/or concrete column forming member. The following is non-limiting embodiment for creating one or more of the above-mentioned three-dimensional shapes of fabric form.

Fabric element 46 has longitudinally-extending first and second peripheral portions 50 and 52 which are rectangular in shape in this example and which may be overlaid upon each other. Distal edge 50A of the first peripheral portion of the fabric element may bond with proximal region 52A of the second peripheral portion of the fabric element so as to result in the second peripheral portion of the fabric element substantially extending outwards therefrom and form a longitudinally-extending portion or tab 54. As seen in FIG. 12, the tab is substantially rectangular in this non-limiting example and has a width W₂. A non-limiting example of fabric form 44 as herein described is FastFoot®, a high density polyethylene fabric which may be purchased at Fab-Form Industries Ltd., having an address of 1610 Derwent Way #19, Delta, BC, V3M 6W1, Canada. More details for this product are found via the link https://www.fab-form.com/fastfoot/fastfootOverview.php, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIG. 7, distance D₂ from which the second piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34B is laterally spaced from intersection point 38C, is equal to distance D₁ (the distance from which the first piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A is laterally spaced from intersection point 38C) plus width W₂ of tab 54 in this non-limiting example.

Referring now to FIG. 13, tab 54 may couple to at least one and in this example between a second pair of temporary support members, in this example a second pair of dimensioned lumber 58A and 58B. The dimensioned lumber is positioned so as to extend parallel to longitudinal axis 45. Dimensioned lumber 58A and 58B in use may be positioned vertically and may accordingly be referred to as vertically-extending dimensioned lumber. As seen in FIG. 12, the first piece of dimensioned lumber 58A may couple to and extend along a first or lower surface 54A of tab 54 of fabric form 44 in this non-limiting example via stapling, as shown by staples 60A coupling the tab to the lumber via a staple gun or hammer tacker 60B. The second lumber piece of dimensioned lumber 58B may next overlay a second or upper surface 54B of the tab and be fastened in place in this non-limiting example via fasteners 62, which may comprise nails, screws or the like. Dimensioned lumber 58A and 58B is coextensive with tab 54 in this non-limiting embodiment.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, there is provided a connector, in this non-limiting example a bracket 64 for the fabric form. Alternatively, the connector may be referred to as a mount or clip. Referring to FIG. 10, fabric form 44 and bracket 64 may collectively be referred to as a formwork assembly 66.

The bracket includes a first elongate member 68 selectively connectable to fabric form 44. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

As seen in FIG. 1, first elongate member 68 includes a first portion 68A and a second portion 68B which couple together. The first and second portions of the first elongate member are each substantially planar. Bracket 64 has a longitudinal axis 65 along which first portion 68A and second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 are extendable. First portion 68A of first elongate member 68 couples to and tapers outwards relative to second portion 68B of the first elongate member in this non-limiting example; however, this is not strictly required. The first portion of the first elongate member includes an end portion 68C that is arc-shaped and/or outwardly convex in this non-limiting embodiment; however, here too this is not strictly required. Second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 is substantially rectangular in this non-limiting example.

Still referring to FIG. 1, one of first and second portions of first elongate member 68, in this example first portion 68A of the first elongate member has an aperture 68D extending therethrough. The aperture is non-circular in this non-limiting embodiment, in this example rectangular in top/bottom profile; however, this is not strictly required. First portion 68A of first elongate member 68 has a recessed region 68E in this non-limiting embodiment through which aperture 68D thereof extends; however, this too is not strictly required.

As seen with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, first elongate member 68 in this example is foldable on itself, in this example via first portion 68A and second portion 68B thereof. The first and second portions of the first elongate member are thus moveable relative to each other. First portion 68A and second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 are bendable relative to each other in this non-limiting embodiment via a first flexible member extending therebetween, in this example a first living hinge 70A. However, this is not strictly required and the first flexible member may comprise a material more resilient than first portion 68A and second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 in other non-limiting embodiments.

In addition or alternatively, the first and second portions of the first elongate member may be bendable relative to each other via a second laterally-extending recessed portion or groove 70B extending therebetween as best seen in FIG. 5. The groove extends parallel to and adjacent first living hinge 70A in this example. Referring to FIG. 4, first living hinge 70A and the first and second portions of the first elongate member comprise the same material in this non-limiting embodiment with the first living hinge having a reduced thickness T₂ relative to that of the first and second portions of the first elongate member to facilitate/promote bending of the first portion relative to the second portion of the first elongate member. Bracket 64 according to one non-limiting embodiment may be made via a plastic mold, with all of the material injected therein being the same. The bracket according to one non-limiting example is made of a polymer, in this non-limiting example a thermoplastic polymer, in this case polypropylene (PP); however, this is not strictly required and other materials or combinations of materials may be used in other embodiments. Thickness T₂ of first living hinge 70A is generally or substantially equal to 0.25 inches in one non-limiting example; however, the latter is not strictly required and this may be more or less in other embodiments. Referring back to FIG. 1, first portion 68A of first elongate member 68 is bendable in a first direction 72 relative to second portion 68B of the first elongate member.

As seen in FIG. 9, the first elongate member in this example is configured to extend along inner surface 44D and outer surface 44E of fabric form 44, respectively, in this example via first portion 68A and second portion 68B thereof. First elongate member 68 is configured to selectively clamp to proximal end portion 44C of the fabric form. In this example via the first and second portions thereof. The first elongate member selectively folds about the proximal end portion of fabric form 44.

First elongate member 68 of bracket 64 is configured to fold on itself and snap fit couple in place. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

As seen in FIG. 1, bracket 64 includes a protrusion 74. The protrusion may be referred to as a barb in one non-limiting embodiment. Referring to FIG. 9, protrusion 74 is shaped to selectively pierce and extend through at least in part fabric form 44. The protrusion is also configured to selectively couple together, in this example snap-fit couple together, first portion 68A and second portion 68B of first elongate member 68. The following are yet further non-limiting particulars of an embodiment which achieves this functionality.

Referring back to FIG. 1, protrusion 74 couples to and extends outwards from first elongate member 68, in this non-limiting example coupling to second portion 68B of the first elongate member. First portion 68A of the first elongate member is shaped to receive and snap-fit connect with the protrusion, in this example via aperture 68D. Protrusion 74 has a first or proximal end 74A coupled to and adjacent second portion 68B of first elongate member 68, a second or distal end 74B spaced-apart from the proximal end thereof and a longitudinal axis 75 extending between the ends thereof. The protrusion in this non-limiting embodiment is integrally connected with second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 so as to form a unitary whole; however, this is not strictly required. Protrusion 74 extends substantially perpendicular to the second portion of the first elongate member. Longitudinal axis 75 of the protrusion extends perpendicular to longitudinal axis 65 of bracket 64 in this non-limiting example.

Second end 74B of protrusion 74 is a pointed and/or sharp. The protrusion includes an enlarged end portion 74C which extends from second end 74B towards first end 74A thereof. The enlarged end portion may thus be referred to as a pointed end portion. Enlarged end portion 74C of protrusion 74 tapers outwards relative to second portion 68B of first elongate member 68. The enlarged end portion of the protrusion is non-circular in top/bottom profile in this non-limiting embodiment, in this example being pyramid shaped, in this case being a rectangular pyramid in shape; however, this is not strictly required. Enlarged end portion 74C of protrusion 74 couples to second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 via an elongate shaft 74D. The elongate shaft of the protrusion extends parallel to axis 75 and is non-circular in lateral section in this non-limiting example, in this case being rectangular in lateral section; however, this is not strictly required. Enlarged end portion 74C of protrusion 74 extends laterally outwards to a greater extent than that of shaft 74D in this example.

As seen with reference to FIGS. 2 and 9, first elongate member 68 is configured to fold on itself and/or snap fit couple in place via the protrusion. First portion 68A and second portion 68B of the first elongate member are configured to be held in place in a folded position seen in FIG. 2 via protrusion 74. As seen in FIG. 9, the protrusion in use is inwardly facing towards and/or in fluid communication with interior 48 of fabric form 44. Referring back to FIG. 2, aperture 68D of second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 when folded relative to first portion 68A of the first elongate member, is shaped to align with and selectively receive enlarged end portion 74C of protrusion 74 therethrough so as to enable second portion 68B to fold/overlay-against first portion 68A of first elongate member 68. The enlarged end portion of the protrusion is configured to inhibit removal of the protrusion therefrom thereafter and inhibit separation of the first and second portions of the first elongate member so positioned/folded-together thereafter. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

As seen in FIG. 1, enlarged end portion 74C of protrusion 74 has a shoulder 74E which faces second portion 68B of first elongate member 68. The shoulder is laterally-extending, being configured to extend laterally outwards from shaft 74D. Aperture 68D may be substantially equal in lateral span as that of the enlarged end portion of the protrusion (or shoulder thereof). Alternatively, enlarged end portion 74C of protrusion 74 (or shoulder 74E thereof) may be slightly larger than the span of the aperture, with insertion of the enlarged end portion of the protrusion therethrough causing either the protrusion and/or first portion 68A of first elongate member 68 to temporarily/resiliently deflect to enable passage of enlarged end portion 74C of the protrusion through aperture 68D in a first instance. As seen in FIG. 2, shoulder 74E may be configured to abut recessed region 68E of the first portion of the first elongate member thereafter, with removal of the enlarged end portion of the protrusion from its coupling with the first portion of the first elongate member thus being inhibited. When the fabric or fabric element 46 of fabric form 44 is pierced or punctured by protrusion 74 as seen in FIG. 9, the fabric element so pierced will thicken around and/or adjacent enlarged end portion 74C of the protrusion and recessed region 68E is shaped to accommodate this thickening.

Referring back to FIG. 1, bracket 64 includes a second elongate member 76 operatively connected to first elongate member 68 thereof. The second elongate member is substantially planar and rectangular in this non-limiting embodiment. Elongate members 68 and 76 are moveable relative to each other from a first, stored or planar position seen in FIG. 1 to a second, deployed, bent or angled position seen in FIG. 2. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

First elongate member 68 extends substantially parallel to second elongate member 76 in the planar position of bracket 64 seen in FIG. 1, with the elongate members thus extending substantially within a plane. Protrusion 74 extends substantially perpendicular to the first and second elongate members in the planar position of the bracket seen in FIG. 1. Second elongate member 76 in the angled position thereof seen in FIG. 2 extends parallel to and/or in a direction substantially opposite the protrusion in this non-limiting example.

As seen with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, the second elongate member is foldable in part towards the first elongate member as shown by arrow 78 in FIG. 10. First elongate member 68 pivotally or hingedly couples to second elongate member 76. As seen in FIG. 2, the first elongate member is bendable relative to the second elongate member in this non-limiting embodiment via a second flexible member extending therebetween, in this non-limiting example via a second living hinge 80A. However, this is not strictly required and the second flexible member may comprise a material more resilient than first elongate member 68 and second elongate member 76 in other non-limiting embodiments. Living hinges 70A and 80A seen in FIG. 5 may be referred to integral hinges.

In addition or alternatively, first elongate member 68 is bendable relative to second elongate member 76 via a second laterally-extending recessed portion or groove 80B therebetween. The second groove extends adjacent second living hinge 80A in this example. As seen in FIG. 1, living hinges 70A and 80A and grooves 70B and 80B extend in parallel with each other and laterally relative to longitudinal axes 65 and 75 in this non-limiting example.

Second elongate member 76 seen in FIG. 1 is bendable in a second direction 78 relative to second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 from the planar position to the angled position seen in FIG. 2. The second direction is the same as first direction 72 seen in FIG. 1 in this example. First elongate member 68 extends substantially perpendicular to second elongate member 76 in the angled position thereof seen in FIG. 2. The elongate members are substantially L-shaped in the angled position thereof. In the angled position, first elongate member 68 is configured to extend substantially downwards and/or vertically in use in this non-limiting example and from the perspective of FIG. 2. In the angled position, second elongate member 76 is configured to extend substantially horizontally in use in this non-limiting embodiment and from the perspective of FIG. 2.

Bracket 64 is configured to inhibit movement or dislodgement of first elongate member 68 and second elongate member 76 from the angled position to the planar position. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

First elongate member 68 and second elongate member 76 couple together in the angled position thereof in a manner which inhibits separation thereof, in this non-limiting embodiment via a locking mechanism 82. The locking mechanism in this non-limiting example comprises female and male members, in this case in the form of one or more catches 84A and 84B best seen in FIG. 5. A first of the first and second elongate members, in this non-limiting example second elongate member 76 includes the one or more and in this example a pair of spaced-apart catches. A second of the first and second elongate members, in this non-limiting example first elongate member 68 is shaped to be received by and/or couple with catches 84A and 84B as seen in FIG. 2.

The catches are shaped to enable or facilitate positioning or bending of the first elongate member relative to second elongate member 76 from the planar position of bracket 64 seen in FIG. 1 to the angled position of the bracket seen in FIG. 2. Each catch is a triangular prism, a trapezoidal prism, a right angled prism and/or a right trapezoidal prism in shape in this non-limiting example. Catches 84A and 84B face each other in this non-limiting embodiment. The catches couple to planar body 77A of the second elongate member via braces, mounts or flanges, in this non-limiting example in the form of a pair of spaced-apart flanges 86A and 86B. The flanges couple to the planar body of the second elongate member, with the planar body extending therebetween. Referring to FIG. 2, each flange 86A is L-shaped in this non-limiting example, with a first portion 86A′ thereof coupling to peripheral portions or sides 77A′ of planar body 77A of second elongate member 76 and a second portion 86A″ thereof extending outwards from the sides of the second elongate member. The flanges in this non-limiting embodiment are integrally connected with the planar body of the second elongate member so as to form a unitary whole; however, this is not strictly required. Protrusion 74 aligns with and/or is positioned between catches 84A and 84B and flanges 86A and 86B in this non-limiting example. The protrusion aligns with and/or is positioned between second portions 86A″ of the flanges in this non-limiting embodiment. The catches and flanges align with a proximal end of second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 in this example.

As seen in FIG. 5, the second portion of the first elongate member includes a strengthener, in this example in the form of a truss 89 comprising a pair of braces 89A and 89B, aligned with, between and/or adjacent catches 84A and 84B and flanges 86A and 86B in this non-limiting example.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5, catches 84A and 84B are shaped and positioned to receive therebetween peripheral portions or sides 68B′ and 68B″ of second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 moving in a first direction 78 and inhibit movement of the second portion of the first elongate member thereafter in a second direction 79, opposite the first direction, thereafter. As seen in FIG. 5, each catch 84A has a first or forward end 85A, has a second or rearward end 85B, has an angled or sloped surface 85C extending between the ends thereof and which tapers from the rearward towards the forward end thereof. Referring to FIG. 3, the lateral distance of separation D₃ between the forward ends of catches is equal to or less than lateral distance or width W₃ between sides of second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 seen in FIG. 5. Referring back to FIG. 3, lateral distance D₄ between rearward ends 85B of catches 84A and 84B is less than that of distance D₃. Thus, the catches enable second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 therethrough from forward ends 85A thereof as seen in FIG. 2. Catches 84A and 84B are configured to be resilient and/or deflect laterally outwards, as seen by arrows 87A and 87B in FIG. 5 as the second portion of the first elongate member continues to push past the catches. This thereby temporarily enlarges distance D₄ between rearward ends 85B of the catches seen in FIG. 3 and enables the second portion of the first elongate member to temporarily extend therepast. Catches 84A and 84B thereafter revert back to their non-deflected positions within the elastic limit of the plastic, with planar rear faces or rearward ends 85B thereof seen in FIG. 2 functioning as stops to inhibit passage of second portion 68B of first elongate member 68 therethrough anew. First elongate member 68 of bracket 64 may thus be said to couple to second elongate member 76 of the bracket via male members (in this non-limiting embodiment catches 84A and 84B) which deflect laterally in opposite directions prior to and/or so as to couple with the second elongate member in this embodiment.

The first and second elongate members may thus be said to snap-fit couple together in the angled position seen in FIG. 2. Catches 84A and 84B so configured thus inhibit movement of first elongate member 76 from the angled position seen in FIG. 2 back to the planar position seen in FIG. 1 thereafter. Dimensioned lumber 34A seen in FIG. 14 functions as a stop which inhibits first elongate member 68 from moving further angularly/inwardly towards second elongate member 76 in direction 91 seen in FIG. 2.

Bracket 64 as herein described may thus be said to have a first position seen in FIG. 1 which is substantially planar and a second position in which the bracket snap-fit couples to the fabric form and is L-shaped as seen in FIG. 10.

Second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 in the angled position thereof seen in FIG. 2 thus couples to and is configured to cantilever outwards from first elongate member 68. Referring to FIG. 14, the second elongate member so cantilevered is configured to operatively connect to a base or base formwork 32, in this non-limiting embodiment via horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

Second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 is configured to extend along and abut horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A. Fabric form 44 may at least be coupled to the dimensioned lumber thereby.

As seen in FIG. 15, second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 in this non-limiting embodiment has at least one and in this non-limiting example a pair of spaced-apart apertures 76A and 76B extending through planar body 77A thereof. As seen in FIG. 16, the second elongate member may further couple to horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A via at least one and in this example a pair of fasteners, in this case nails 88 extending/nailed through the apertures thereof and into the dimensioned lumber such as via a hammer 90. However, this is not strictly required, second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 may couple to the dimensioned lumber in other manners in other embodiments, such as via frictional engagement and/or via one or more other mechanical mechanisms or the like. Apertures 76A of second elongate member 76 and longitudinal axis 65 of bracket 64 are configured align with the lengthwise midway point 34A′ of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A in this non-limiting example. The longitudinal axis of the bracket so coupled in place extends substantially perpendicular to and/or radially outwards from longitudinal axes 37 and 45 of base formwork 32 and fabric form 44, respectively.

Referring to FIG. 2, first elongate member 68 and second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 are configured in this non-limiting embodiment to be rigid on the one hand, while inhibiting weight and/or material costs on the other hand. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

As seen in FIG. 5, elongate members 68 and 76 are recessed along a rear 92 thereof in this non-limiting embodiment; however, this is not strictly required. Each portion of the first elongate member includes a planar body and an outwardly-extending stiffener or rib coupled to and extending outwards from the planar body thereof adjacent a periphery thereof: this is shown for first portion 68A of elongate member 68 by planar body 69A thereof, rib 69B thereof and periphery 69C thereof. Second elongate member 76 includes planar body 77A and an outwardly-extending stiffener or rib 77B coupled to and extending outwards from the planar body thereof adjacent a periphery 77C thereof. Annular stiffeners or ribs 77D and 77E in this non-limiting example extend about respective apertures 76A and 76B and couple to and extend outwards from the planar body of the second elongate member. One or more central stiffeners or ribs 77F, 77G, 77H and 77I couple to and extend outwards from planar body 77A of second elongate member 76, couple to rib 77B and couple to respective annular ribs 77D and 77E in this non-limiting example. In this non-limiting embodiment: for each portion 68A of first elongate member 68, ribs 69B thereof are integrally connected to planar body 69A thereof so as to form a unitary whole in this non-limiting embodiment; and for second elongate member 76, ribs 77B, 77D, 77E, 77F, 77G, 77H and 77I thereof are integrally connected to planar body 77A thereof so as to form a unitary whole in this non-limiting example. The ribs allow/facilitate the transfer of force from apertures 76A and 76B (and/or annular ribs 77D and 77E adjacent thereto) to protrusion 74 seen in FIG. 4.

In operation and referring to FIG. 14, there is thus accordingly also provided a method of installing and/or supporting fabric form 44. As seen in FIG. 8, the method may include laying the fabric form in a substantially flat or planar position and thereafter cutting the fabric form so positioned to a desired length L, such as via a utility knife 47. As seen in FIG. 9, the method next includes aligning bracket 64 so as to extend parallel to longitudinal axis 45 and/or alignment indicia 56 of fabric form 44. The method includes coupling first elongate member 68 of the bracket so aligned, to the fabric form. Within the coupling the first elongate member step, the method includes piercing fabric form 44 with protrusion 74 of bracket 64, in this non-limiting example so as to extend/pierce through indicia 56.

Within the coupling the first elongate member step, the method may include folding first elongate member 68 (or portions 68A and 68B thereof) of the bracket about end portion 44C of the fabric form so as to couple thereto.

The method may include snap-fit coupling the first elongate member of bracket 64 to the end portion of fabric form 44.

Referring now to FIG. 13, the method may next include coupling tab 54 of fabric form 44 to and/or between first and second pieces of dimensioned lumber 58A and 58B. As seen in FIG. 12 and within the coupling the tab to the first and second pieces of dimensioned lumber step, the method may include stapling lower surface 54A of the tab of the fabric form to the first piece of dimensioned lumber 58A, such as for example via a stapler or hammer tacker 60B. Referring back to FIG. 13, the method may include next overlaying the second piece of dimensioned lumber 58B along upper surface 54B of tab 54 of fabric form 44. The method may next include fastening the second piece of dimensioned lumber so overlaid to the tab and first piece of dimensioned lumber 58A, in this example via fasteners 62. Alternatively, longitudinally-extending tab 54 of fabric form 44 may be coupled to dimensioned lumber 58A and 58B first prior to the above aligning of bracket 64 and coupling of first elongate member of the bracket to fabric form steps discussed above and shown in FIG. 9.

Referring to FIG. 10, the method next includes positioning second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 to cantilever outwards from first elongate member 68 of the bracket. Within the positioning the second elongate member step, the method may include snap-fit coupling in position the first elongate member so as to be substantially perpendicular to the second elongate member via locking mechanism 82.

Referring now to FIG. 14, the method may next include positioning in a vertical position fabric form 44 upon base, foundation and/or base formwork 32. Within the positioning in the vertical position step, the method may include fastening the fabric form to the base formwork via dimensioned lumber 58A so coupled together. Within the positioning in the vertical position step, the method may include positioning horizontally at least one and in this example first pair of temporary support members and/or horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A and 34B between fabric form 44. The method may include positioning the fabric form vertically upwards so as to be adjacent to and couple with the horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber. Within the positioning horizontally step, the method may include coupling a first piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A to vertically-extending dimensioned lumber 58A, in this example via fasteners 94.

The method may include abutting second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 at least in part against the first piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A. Within the abutting step, the method may include abutting first portions 86A′ of flanges 86A and 86B seen in FIG. 15 against the second piece of dimensioned lumber.

Referring to FIG. 16, the method includes thereafter coupling second elongate member 76 of bracket 64 to base, lumber and/or formwork 32 via one or more fasteners, in this non-limiting example nails 88. Within the positioning horizontally step, the method may thus include coupling the first piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34A to fabric form 44 via the bracket. The method may include positioning bracket 64 to be substantially opposite or circumferentially spaced by 180 degrees from the second piece of horizontally-extending dimensioned lumber 34B.

As seen in FIG. 17, the method may next include pouring concrete 96 into fabric form 44 via open, distal end 44B of the fabric form. The concrete may be pumped into the top of the fabric form via a pump, such as a small grout pump 98; however, this is not strictly required. Concrete 96 may thereafter cure, with formwork 30 thus being configured to form a concrete structural member 100. The concrete structural member may comprise a column, window lintel, structural member or the like. In other non-limiting embodiments, reinforcement bars (“rebar”) may be incorporated into the formworks, with concrete reinforced structures being formed as a result thereof.

FIGS. 18 to 22 show a connector or bracket 64.1 and formwork assembly 66.1 according to another aspect. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the connector or bracket 64 and formwork assembly 66 shown in FIGS. 1 to 17 with the addition of decimal extension “0.1”. Bracket 64.1 and formwork assembly 66.1 are substantially the same as bracket 64 and formwork assembly 66 shown in FIGS. 1 to 17 with at least the following exceptions.

As seen with reference to FIGS. 19 and 22, first elongate member 68.1 and second elongate member 76.1 are configured to snap-fit together in the second, deployed, bent or angled position seen in FIG. 22 so as to inhibit further angular rotation or movement of the first elongate member relative to the second elongate member thereafter. The following is a non-limiting embodiment which achieves this functionality.

First elongate member 68.1 of connector or bracket 64.1 couples to second elongate member 76.1 of the bracket via male members which deflect laterally in opposite directions prior to and/or so as to couple with corresponding female members. In this non-limiting example, the second elongate member includes a first or outer pair of male members or catches 84A.1 and 84B.1 which align along and/or adjacent periphery 77C.1 thereof. The outer pair of catches in this non-limiting embodiment are integrally connected with the periphery of second elongate member 76.1 so as to form a unitary whole. The outer pair of catches 84A.1 and 84B.1 face each other in this non-limiting example.

The outer pair of catches are configured to deflect laterally in first, outward or opposite directions 87A.1 and 87B.1 seen in FIG. 19 prior to and/or so as to couple with a corresponding one or more female members: in this example first or outer female members or recessed portions of second elongate member 76.1 seen in FIG. 22: in this case via a first or outer pair of elongate portions or tabs 102A and 102B having apertures 104A and 104B extending therethrough. The outer pair of catches 84A.1 and 84B.1 of second elongate member 76.1 are thus configured to bias angularly and/or laterally outwards in this non-limiting example so as to snap-fit connect or couple to first elongate member 68.1 via apertures 104A and 104B. Each catch is shaped to mate with and/or be snugly received within each corresponding aperture, with each catch in this non-limiting example being shaped to be substantially similar in span as that of the aperture.

Referring back to FIG. 19, the outer pair of tabs 102A and 102B in this non-limiting embodiment align with and in this non-limiting example are integrally connected to peripheral portions or sides 68B′.1 and 68B″.1 of second portion 68B.1 of first elongate member 68.1. The outer pair of catches 84A.1 and 84B.1 and outer pair of apertures 104A and 104B thus align along peripheries of first elongate member 68.1 and second elongate member 76.1 in this example.

First elongate member 68.1 of bracket 64.1 couples to second elongate member 76.1 of the bracket in this non-limiting example via additional male members which deflect laterally in second directions 106A and 106B seen in FIG. 22 prior to and/or so as to couple with a corresponding one or more additional female members, with the second directions being opposite first directions 87A.1 and 87B.1 seen in FIG. 19. In this non-limiting example and referring back to FIG. 22, the second elongate member includes a second or inner pair of male members or catches 84C and 84D. The inner pair of catches face away from each other in this non-limiting example.

The inner pair of catches 84C and 84D couple to annular stiffener or rib 77D.1 in this non-limiting example via a pair of angled stiffeners or ribs 77H.1 and 77I.1 which are configured to position the catches laterally outwards. The inner pair of catches are configured to deflecting laterally in second or inward directions 106A and 106B prior to and/or so as to couple with a corresponding one or more and in this example second or inner female members or recessed portions of second elongate member 76.1: in this example via a second or inner pair of elongate portions or tabs 102C and 102D having apertures 104C and 104D extending therethrough. The inner pair of catches 84C and 84D are thus configured to bias angularly and/or laterally inwards in this non-limiting example so as to snap-fit connect or couple to first elongate member 68.1 via apertures 104C and 104D.

Referring back to FIG. 19, the inner pair of catches as well as the inner pair of tabs in this non-limiting embodiment are inwardly spaced from sides 68B′.1 and 68B″.1 and peripheries 77C.1 of the first and second elongate members. The female members as described in the above non-limiting embodiment may be said to comprise a plurality of longitudinally-extending and laterally spaced-apart elongate portions or tabs 102A, 102B, 102C and 102D having recessed portions or apertures 104A, 104B, 104C and 104D extending therethrough, with each tab extends substantially parallel to longitudinal axis 65.1 in this example when bracket 64.1 is in its planar position seen in FIG. 19. The inner pair of tabs 102C and 102D are supported in place in this example via truss 89.1, including one or more braces 89A.1 and 89B.1 thereof.

Many advantages result from the structure of the present invention. For example, bracket 64.1 as herein described may be able to withstand loads of about 100 lbs. force or more according to one non-limiting example. The male and female members as herein described such as in the form of catches 84A.1, 84B.1, 84C and 84D and elongate portions or tabs 102A, 102B, 102C and 102D having recessed portions or apertures 104A, 104B, 104C and 104D, and/or together with living hinge 80A.1, may be said to comprise an articulating joint that may support lateral and vertical loads of 1,700 N or more according to another non-limiting example.

It will be appreciated that many variations are possible within the scope of the invention described herein. For example, formwork 30 as herein described comprising a collapsible fabric form 44 in one non-limiting example. In other embodiments, bracket 64 as herein described may used with a non-collapsible form made of a non-fabric material, with the formwork in this case thus comprising a non-collapsible and/or non-fabric tubular form.

Where a component (e.g. a member, assembly, device, portion etc.) is referred to herein, unless otherwise indicated, reference to that component (including a reference to a “means”) should be interpreted as including as equivalents of that component any component which performs the function of the described component (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), including components which are not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Interpretation of Terms

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims:

• • “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”;
  • “connected”, “coupled”, or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof;
  • “herein”, “above”, “below”, and words of similar import, when used to describe this specification, shall refer to this specification as a whole, and not to any particular portions of this specification;
  • “or”, in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list;
  • the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” also include the meaning of any appropriate plural forms. These terms (“a”, “an”, and “the”) mean one or more unless stated otherwise;
  • “and/or” is used to indicate one or both stated cases may occur, for example A and/or B includes both (A and B) and (A or B);
  • “approximately” when applied to a numerical value means the numerical value ±10%;
  • where a feature is described as being “optional” or “optionally” present or described as being present “in some embodiments” it is intended that the present disclosure encompasses embodiments where that feature is present and other embodiments where that feature is not necessarily present and other embodiments where that feature is excluded. Further, where any combination of features is described in this application this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for the use of exclusive terminology such as “solely,” “only” and the like in relation to the combination of features as well as the use of “negative” limitation(s)” to exclude the presence of other features; and
  • “first” and “second” are used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or indicating the number of indicated technical features.

Words that indicate directions such as “vertical”, “transverse”, “horizontal”, “upward”, “downward”, “forward”, “backward”, “inward”, “outward”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom”, “below”, “above”, “under”, and the like, used in this description and any accompanying claims (where present), depend on the specific orientation of the apparatus described and illustrated. The subject matter described herein may assume various alternative orientations. Accordingly, these directional terms are not strictly defined and should not be interpreted narrowly.

Where a range for a value is stated, the stated range includes all sub-ranges of the range. It is intended that the statement of a range supports the value being at an endpoint of the range as well as at any intervening value to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit of the range, as well as any subrange or sets of sub ranges of the range unless the context clearly dictates otherwise or any portion(s) of the stated range is specifically excluded. Where the stated range includes one or both endpoints of the range, ranges excluding either or both of those included endpoints are also included in the invention.

Certain numerical values described herein are preceded by “about”. In this context, “about” provides literal support for the exact numerical value that it precedes, the exact numerical value ±5%, as well as all other numerical values that are near to or approximately equal to that numerical value. Unless otherwise indicated a particular numerical value is included in “about” a specifically recited numerical value where the particular numerical value provides the substantial equivalent of the specifically recited numerical value in the context in which the specifically recited numerical value is presented. For example, a statement that something has the numerical value of “about 10” is to be interpreted as: the set of statements:

• • in some embodiments the numerical value is 10;
  • in some embodiments the numerical value is in the range of 9.5 to 10.5;
    and if from the context the person of ordinary skill in the art would understand that values within a certain range are substantially equivalent to 10 because the values with the range would be understood to provide substantially the same result as the value 10 then “about 10” also includes:
  • in some embodiments the numerical value is in the range of C to D where C and D are respectively lower and upper endpoints of the range that encompasses all of those values that provide a substantial equivalent to the value 10

Specific examples of systems, methods and apparatus have been described herein for purposes of illustration. These are only examples. The technology provided herein can be applied to systems other than the example systems described above. Many alterations, modifications, additions, omissions, and permutations are possible within the practice of this invention. This invention includes variations on described embodiments that would be apparent to the skilled addressee, including variations obtained by: replacing features, elements and/or acts with equivalent features, elements and/or acts; mixing and matching of features, elements and/or acts from different embodiments; combining features, elements and/or acts from embodiments as described herein with features, elements and/or acts of other technology; and/or omitting combining features, elements and/or acts from described embodiments.

As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any other described embodiment(s) without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Any aspects described above in reference to apparatus may also apply to methods and vice versa.

Any recited method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order which is logically possible. For example, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order, alternative examples may perform routines having steps, or employ systems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes or blocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternatives or subcombinations. Each of these processes or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways. Also, while processes or blocks are at times shown as being performed in series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed in parallel, simultaneously or at different times.

Various features are described herein as being present in “some embodiments”. Such features are not mandatory and may not be present in all embodiments. Embodiments of the invention may include zero, any one or any combination of two or more of such features. All possible combinations of such features are contemplated by this disclosure even where such features are shown in different drawings and/or described in different sections or paragraphs. This is limited only to the extent that certain ones of such features are incompatible with other ones of such features in the sense that it would be impossible for a person of ordinary skill in the art to construct a practical embodiment that combines such incompatible features. Consequently, the description that “some embodiments” possess feature A and “some embodiments” possess feature B should be interpreted as an express indication that the inventors also contemplate embodiments which combine features A and B (unless the description states otherwise or features A and B are fundamentally incompatible). This is the case even if features A and B are illustrated in different drawings and/or mentioned in different paragraphs, sections or sentences.

ADDITIONAL DESCRIPTION

Examples of methods of installing and supporting a fabric form, together with a bracket therefor, have been described. The following clauses are offered as further description.

• • (1) A connector for a fabric form and/or tubular form, the connector comprising: a first elongate member connectable to the fabric form and/or tubular form; and a second elongate member coupled to and configured to cantilever outwards from the first elongate member so as to operatively connect to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork.
  • (2) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the base and/or temporary support member is adjacent the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (3) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the elongate members are moveable from a first, stored or planar position which is substantially planar, to a second, deployed, bent or angled position which is substantially L-shaped.
  • (4) A connector according to any clause herein, including a protrusion coupled to the first elongate member.
  • (5) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion has a pointed and/or sharp end.
  • (6) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion is shaped to pierce the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (7) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion includes an enlarged end portion.
  • (8) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion tapers outwards.
  • (9) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the end portion of the protrusion is pyramid shaped.
  • (10) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the end portion of the protrusion is a rectangular pyramid in shape.
  • (11) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member is foldable on itself.
  • (12) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member selectively folds about an end portion of the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (13) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second elongate member is foldable towards the first elongate member.
  • (14) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member pivotally or hingedly couples to the second elongate member.
  • (15) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the base comprises a temporary support member.
  • (16) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the base comprises part of a formwork and/or operatively couples to said formwork.
  • (17) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the base extends horizontally.
  • (18) A connector for a fabric form and/or tubular form, the connector comprising: a first elongate member; a protrusion coupled to and extending outwards from the first elongate member; and a second elongate member coupled to and configured to cantilever outwards from the first elongate member, with one or more of apertures extending through the second elongate member.
  • (19) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second elongate member in a second, deployed, bent or angled position thereof extends parallel to and/or in a direction substantially opposite the protrusion.
  • (20) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion includes a pointed end portion.
  • (21) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion is configured to selectively pierce and extend through the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (22) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member is configured to fold on itself and/or snap fit couple in place via the protrusion.
  • (23) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member includes first and second portions which are moveable relative to each other and configured to be held in place in a folded position via the protrusion.
  • (24) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second portions of the first elongate member are configured to selectively extend along inner and outer surfaces of the fabric form and/or tubular form, respectively.
  • (25) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second portions of the first elongate member are configured to selectively clamp to an end portion of the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (26) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second portions of the first elongate member and/or the second elongate member are substantially planar.
  • (27) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second portion of the first elongate member and/or the second elongate member are substantially rectangular.
  • (28) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second elongate member is bendable in a first direction relative to the second portion of the first elongate member and wherein the first portion of the first elongate member is bendable in a second direction relative to the second portion of the first elongate member.
  • (29) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first portion of the elongate member couples to and tapers outwards relative to the second portion of the first elongate member.
  • (30) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first portion of the elongate member includes an end portion that is arc-shaped and/or outwardly convex.
  • (31) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion couples to a first of the first and second portions of the first elongate member and wherein a second of the first and second portions of the first elongate member has an aperture shaped to receive the protrusion therethrough.
  • (32) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second of the first and second portions of the first elongate member has a recessed region through which the aperture thereof extends.
  • (33) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein piercing of the fabric form and/or tubular form via the protrusion causes fabric or a fabric element adjacent thereto to thicken around and/or adjacent enlarged end portion of the protrusion and wherein the recessed region is shaped to accommodate said thickening.
  • (34) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion couples to a first of the first and second portions of the first elongate member and wherein a second of the first and second portions of the first elongate member is shaped to receive and snap-fit connect with the protrusion.
  • (35) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said elongate member is recessed along one side thereof.
  • (36) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein an annular stiffener or rib extends about each aperture of the second elongate member.
  • (37) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein one or more central stiffeners or ribs couple to a respective said annular stiffener or rib.
  • (38) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said elongate member includes a planar body and an outwardly-extending stiffener or rib coupled to and extending outwards from the planar body thereof adjacent a periphery thereof.
  • (39) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the stiffeners or ribs are configured to facilitate a transfer of force to the protrusion and/or a transfer of force from adjacent each aperture (and/or an annular stiffener or rib extending thereabout) to the protrusion and/or a transfer of force to the protrusion from a fastener extending through said aperture.
  • (40) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion in use is inwardly facing towards and/or in fluid communication with the interior of the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (41) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the fabric form and/or tubular form is tubular.
  • (42) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second portions of the first elongate member are bendable relative to each other via a first flexible member extending therebetween and/or wherein the first elongate member is bendable relative to the second elongate member via a second flexible member extending therebetween.
  • (43) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first flexible member has a reduced thickness relative to that of the first and second portions of the first elongate member to facilitate/promote bending of the first portion relative to the second portion of the first elongate member.
  • (44) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second flexible member has a reduced thickness relative to that of the first and second elongate members to facilitate/promote bending of the first elongate member relative to the second elongate member.
  • (45) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said flexible member comprises a living hinge.
  • (46) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said flexible member comprises an integral hinge.
  • (47) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member is bendable relative to the second elongate member via a first laterally-extending recessed portion or groove therebetween and/or wherein the first and second portions of the first elongate member are bendable relative to each other via a second laterally-extending recessed portion or groove extending therebetween.
  • (48) A connector according to any clause herein, including a locking mechanism configured to enable positioning of the first and second elongate members in the second, deployed, bent or angled position and/or inhibit movement from the deployed to the first, stored or planar position of the elongate members.
  • (49) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second elongate member includes one or more catches shaped to enable bending of the first elongate member relative to the second elongate member from a first, stored or planar position to a second, deployed, bent or angled position, with the one or more catches inhibiting movement of the first elongate member from the second, deployed, bent or angled position back to the first, stored or planar position thereafter.
  • (50) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second elongate members couple together in the second, deployed, bent or angled position thereof via one or more catches.
  • (51) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein a first of the first and second elongate members includes said one or more catches and wherein a second of the first and second elongate members is shaped to be received by the one or more catches.
  • (52) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second elongate member includes a pair of spaced-apart catches shaped to receive therebetween the first elongate member and inhibit movement of the first elongate member thereafter.
  • (53) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second elongate member includes a planar body and a pair of spaced-apart flanges coupled to and between which extends the planar body.
  • (54) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said flange is L-shaped.
  • (55) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said catch couples to the planar body of the second elongate member via a respective said flange of the second elongate member.
  • (56) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second elongate members couple together in the second, deployed, bent or angled position thereof via male and female members.
  • (57) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein a first of the first and second elongate members includes one or more said female members and a second of the first and second elongate members includes one or more said male members shaped to be received by the one or more said female members.
  • (58) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein one or more first male members are configured to deflecting laterally in a first direction prior to and/or so as to couple with a corresponding one or more first female members and/or wherein one or more second male members are configured to deflecting laterally in a second direction prior to and/or so as to couple with a corresponding one or more second female members, with said first direction being opposite said second direction.
  • (59) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein a first pair of male members are configured to deflecting laterally in a first or outward direction prior to and/or so as to couple with a corresponding first pair of female members and/or wherein a second pair of male members are configured to deflecting laterally in a second or inward direction prior to and/or so as to couple with a corresponding second pair of female members, with said first or outward direction being opposite said second or inward direction.
  • (60) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said female member comprises an aperture or recessed portion shaped to receive at least partially therein and/or therethrough a corresponding said male member.
  • (61) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said male member comprises a catch.
  • (62) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein a first or outer pair of male members couple with a corresponding first or outer pair of female members and/or wherein a second or inner pair of male members couple with a corresponding second or inner pair of female members.
  • (63) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first or outer pair of male and female members align along and/or adjacent peripheries of the first and second elongate members.
  • (64) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first or outer pair of male members are integrally connected to a periphery of the second elongate member so as to form a unitary whole.
  • (65) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second or inner pair of male and female members are inwardly spaced from peripheries of the first and second elongate members.
  • (66) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first or outer pair of male members are configured to bias angularly and/or laterally outwards in opposite directions.
  • (67) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second or inner pair of male members are configured to bias angularly and/or laterally inwards.
  • (68) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first or outer pair of male members face each other.
  • (69) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second or inner pair of male members face away from each other.
  • (70) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second or inner pair of female members are supported in place via a truss and/or one or more braces.
  • (71) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second or inner pair of male members couple to an annular stiffener or rib via a pair of angled stiffeners or ribs.
  • (72) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the annular stiffener or rib extends about an aperture of the second elongate member.
  • (73) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said male member or catch is a triangular prism, a trapezoidal prism, a right angled prism and/or a right trapezoidal prism in shape.
  • (74) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second elongate members couple together in the second, deployed, bent or angled position via a plurality of longitudinally extending and laterally spaced apart female members and a corresponding plurality of male members shaped to couple thereto.
  • (75) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein one of the first and second elongate members comprises the first plurality of female members and another of the first and second elongate members comprises the plurality of male members.
  • (76) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said female member comprises an elongate portion or tab with an aperture or recessed portion extending therethrough.
  • (77) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the male and female members when coupled together are shaped to inhibit further angular rotation or movement of the first elongate member relative to the second elongate member.
  • (78) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said male member is shaped to mate with and/or be snugly received within each corresponding said female member.
  • (79) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said male member is shaped to be substantially similar in span as the aperture or recessed portion of the corresponding said female member.
  • (80) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member is shaped to snap-fit connect to the second elongate member in the second, deployed, bent or angled position.
  • (81) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second elongate members snap-fit connect together in the second, deployed, bent or angled position via the male and female members.
  • (82) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein each said flange includes a first portion which extends parallel of the planar body of the second elongate member and a second portion which extends outwards from the planar body of the second elongate member.
  • (83) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion aligns with and/or is positioned between the flanges of the second elongate member.
  • (84) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion aligns with and/or is positioned between the second portions of the flange of the second elongate member.
  • (85) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first elongate member extends substantially parallel to the second elongate member in the first, stored or planar position and wherein the first elongate member extends substantially perpendicular to the second elongate member in the second, deployed, bent or angled position thereof.
  • (86) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the protrusion extends substantially perpendicular to the second elongate member in the first, stored or planar position and/or wherein the protrusion extends substantially parallel to the second elongate member in the second, deployed, bent or angled position thereof.
  • (87) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein in the second, deployed, bent or angled position, the first elongate member is configured to extend substantially downwards and/or vertically in use and the second elongate member is configured to extend substantially horizontally in use.
  • (88) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the second elongate member includes a pair of spaced-apart catches shaped to receive therebetween the first elongate member in a first direction and inhibit movement of the first elongate member therepast in a second direction, opposite the first direction, thereafter.
  • (89) A connector for a fabric form and/or tubular form, the connector having a first position which is substantially planar and which is configured to extend parallel to and pierce the fabric form and/or tubular form, and the connector having a second position which is L-shaped.
  • (90) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector is selectively moveable from the first position to the second position thereof.
  • (91) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector is configured to inhibit movement from the second position to the first position thereof.
  • (92) A connector for a fabric form and/or tubular form, the connector having a first position which is substantially planar, and the connector having a second position in which the connector snap-fit couples to the fabric form and/or tubular form and is L-shaped.
  • (93) A connector for a fabric form and/or tubular form, the connector comprising a first elongate member connectable to the fabric form, the connector being configured to snap-fit couple and/or clamp to the fabric form via the first elongate member and/or the first elongate member is foldable on itself and/or about an end portion of the fabric form; and a second elongate member pivotally, hingedly and/or foldably coupled to the first elongate member, the connector having a first position which is substantially planar so to extend parallel to and pierce the fabric form, the connector having a second position which is L-shaped, the second elongate member in the second position cantilevering outwards from the first elongate member so as to operatively connect to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork, and the first and second elongate members being configured to lock in place in the second position.
  • (94) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector comprises a bracket.
  • (95) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector comprises a mount.
  • (96) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector comprises a clip.
  • (97) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the first and second elongate members and the first and second flexible members are made of the same material.
  • (98) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector is made of a polymer.
  • (99) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector is made of a thermoplastic polymer.
  • (100) A connector according to any clause herein, wherein the connector is made of polypropylene (PP).
  • (101) In combination, a fabric form and/or tubular form according to any clause herein together with a connector according to any clause herein.
  • (102) A formwork assembly comprising: a fabric form and/or tubular form according to any clause herein; and a connector therefor according to any clause herein.
  • (103) A formwork assembly according to any clause herein, including a base, foundation and/or base formwork upon which the fabric form and/or tubular form couples and extends upwards therefrom.
  • (104) A method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form and/or tubular form, the method comprising: aligning a connector so as to extend parallel to a longitudinal axis and/or indicia thereof of the fabric form and/or tubular form; coupling a first elongate member of the connector so aligned to the fabric form and/or tubular form; and abutting a second elongate member at least in part to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (105) A method according to any clause herein, including providing the second elongate member with a planar body and a pair of spaced-apart flanges coupled to and extending outwards from the planar body, and within the abutting the second elongate member step, abutting the flanges against the base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (106) A method according to any clause herein, wherein each said flange is L-shaped.
  • (107) A method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form and/or tubular form, the method comprising: aligning a connector so as to extend parallel to a longitudinal axis and/or indicia thereof of the fabric form and/or tubular form; coupling a first elongate member of the connector so aligned to the fabric form and/or tubular form; positioning a second elongate member of the connector to cantilever outwards from the first elongate member; and abutting the second elongate member so positioned to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (108) A method according to any clause herein, including within the coupling the first elongate member step, piercing the fabric form and/or tubular form with a protrusion of the connector.
  • (109) A method according to any clause herein, including within the coupling the first elongate member step, folding the first elongate member about an end portion of the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (110) A method according to any clause herein, including after the abutting step, coupling the second elongate member to the base, temporary support member and/or formwork via one or more fasteners.
  • (111) A method according to any clause herein, including within the coupling the second elongate member step, coupling the second elongate member to the base, temporary support member and/or formwork via one or more fasteners.
  • (112) A method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form and/or tubular form, the method comprising: snap-fit coupling a first elongate member of a connector to an end portion of the fabric form and/or tubular form; positioning a second elongate member to be cantilevered from the first elongate member; and coupling the second elongate member to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (113) A method of installing of and/or supporting a fabric form and/or tubular form, the method comprising: folding a first elongate member of a connector about an end portion of the fabric form and/or tubular form so as to couple thereto; positioning a second elongate member to be cantilevered from the first elongate member; and coupling the second elongate member to a base, temporary support member and/or formwork the fabric form and/or tubular form.
  • (114) A method according to any clause herein, including within the positioning step, snap-fit coupling in position the first elongate member so as to be substantially perpendicular to the second elongate member.
  • (115) A method according to any clause herein, including coupling a longitudinally-extending portion or tab of the fabric form and/or tubular form between a first pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber.
  • (116) A method according to any clause herein, including within the coupling the longitudinally-extending portion or tab of the fabric form and/or tubular form step, stapling the longitudinally-extending portion or tab to a first of said first pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber, overlaying a second of said first pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber on the longitudinally-extending portion or tab of the fabric form and/or tubular form so stapled, and fastening the second of said first pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber so overlaid to the longitudinally-extending portion or tab of the fabric form and/or tubular form and the first of said first pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber.
  • (117) A method according to any clause herein, including positioning in a vertical position the fabric form and/or tubular form upon a base, foundation and/or base formwork, and fastening the first pair of second of said pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber so coupled together, to said base, foundation and/or base formwork.
  • (118) A method according to any clause herein, including positioning horizontally a second of pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber between the fabric form and/or tubular form, coupling a first of the second pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber to the first pair of said temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber, and coupling a second of the second pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber to the fabric form and/or tubular form via the connector.
  • (119) A method according to any clause herein, including positioning the connector to be substantially opposite or circumferentially spaced by 180 degrees from the first of the second pair of temporary support members and/or pieces of lumber.
  • (120) A method according to any clause herein, wherein the connector comprises a bracket.
  • (121) A method according to any clause herein, wherein the connector comprises a mount.
  • (122) A method according to any clause herein, wherein the connector comprises a clip.
  • (123) Apparatus including any new and inventive feature, combination of features, or sub-combination of features as described herein.
  • (124) Methods including any new and inventive steps, acts, combination of steps and/or acts or sub-combination of steps and/or acts as described herein.

It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions, omissions, and sub-combinations as may reasonably be inferred. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.