CN111373100A

CN111373100A - Shaping, drainage and ventilation system for agriculture, irrigation and sports fields

Info

Publication number: CN111373100A
Application number: CN201880066550.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: 查尔斯·莫耶尔
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-08-18
Filing date: 2018-08-20
Publication date: 2020-07-03
Also published as: CA3073273A1; WO2019036057A1; CA3073273C

Abstract

A system for retaining a flowable and curable building material to form a portion of a foundation, the system comprising a sidewall arranged in a predetermined configuration, the sidewall having a first sidewall and a second sidewall, and at least one component having an internal cavity disposed in one of the sidewalls. The bracket assembly includes an outwardly-defined reinforcement post for each of the side walls, a spacer bar having a plurality of apertures sized to receive and retain each of the reinforcement posts at a location corresponding to a nominal width of the at least one component. Barriers are provided between the outwardly defined posts. After the building material has cured, the components in the barrier and the sidewalls will remain in the foundation. The barrier prevents backfill material from filling the volume between the outwardly defined columns.

Description

Shaping, drainage and ventilation system for agriculture, irrigation and sports fields

Copyright notice

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the U.S. patent and trademark office file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

Technical Field

The present invention generally relates to a modeling system that builds structural components, such as the foundation or foundation of a structure, by maintaining a volume of at least partially liquid and curable building material, and that, when cured, is integrated within the structural component to provide drainage, ventilation, and/or to mitigate or remedy unhealthy conditions caused by poor air flow, harmful gases, moisture, etc. around and within the structure. In some aspects, the molding system and components included therein provide a conduit or duct that serves as a thermal barrier and/or passage for air and liquid flow to improve drainage, insulation, and ventilation. In an embodiment, the moulding system and its components used within the moulding system and as a stand-alone component provide moulding, drainage and ventilation of a structure comprising at least in part vegetation and growing media in applications including, for example, agriculture, irrigation, bridges, sidewalks, roads, mines, sports fields and special purpose landscapes such as golf courses or so-called "green roofs".

Background

As noted in commonly-owned U.S. patent No. 7,866,097, commonly-owned U.S. patent No. 8,627,615, and commonly-owned U.S. patent No. 9,228,365, conventional molding systems are known to receive and hold in place a quantity of concrete and/or other at least partially liquid construction material, which sets over time. Once cured, the molding system is typically removed from the cured building material to expose a molded structural component, which serves as, for example, a foundation or portion thereof, that supports the building or similar structure of interest.

As is generally known in the art of building construction, an area is excavated and a molding system is assembled therein to match the desired dimensions of the foundation or foundation. Conventional forms typically include panels of steel, wood, board or sheet material (e.g., plywood) or the like arranged in a parallel side-by-side configuration to define sidewalls and channels therebetween along one or more length sidewalls of the excavated area. The panels are stacked or otherwise secured in place to prevent deformation of the sidewalls when concrete is poured into the channels between the sidewalls. It will be appreciated that the dimensions (e.g., height, thickness, length and shape) of the foundation and foundation (and forming system) vary depending on the structure being constructed and the applicable building codes and industry standards.

Thus, while some aspects of conventional forms and their components may be standardized, some degree of customization is often required to meet the requirements of the structure being built and/or the building codes and standards being adopted at the site of a particular job or project. In addition, some building codes require the installation of drainage systems around profiled structural components, such as the foundations of the structure of interest. Typically, drainage tiles, gravel, crushed stone, perforated pipe or other systems or materials are installed at or below the formed structural components to facilitate drainage of fluids, such as groundwater, by gravity or mechanical means into approved drainage systems and away from the structural components.

Conventional drainage systems have also been used to remove excess ground or sub-surface water from sports fields, golf courses, and the like. The yard itself may include a vault, slope, or pitch (e.g., one to two percent (1-2%) or greater slope) from the center portion to the side portions to help direct groundwater out of the yard and to the drainage system at the side regions thereof. In some cases, the crown, slope, or pitch can affect the play and is therefore undesirable. In such cases, or as an additional function of the dome-shaped field, the drainage system may include additional underground pipes, conduits or drains below the playing surface to capture, retain and move groundwater beneath the playing surface to the drainage system. Furthermore, it is preferred that the area or field for athletic activities have a good foundation and traction to improve the performance and safety of the athlete. Soil quality (e.g., organic matter and nutrients) and proper irrigation to promote the growth of natural turf, as well as drainage of both natural and artificial turf, are important factors in maintaining a quality field. A good quality field not only provides better athletic performance, but also reduces injury and fatigue because the turf is more impact resistant.

Radon is a naturally radioactive gas that is carcinogenic and can lead to lung cancer. Radon and other gases (e.g., carbon dioxide, methane, etc.) may penetrate the soil beneath a formed structural component (e.g., a foundation or foundation) and often enter a supported building or similar structure through cracks in the foundation, windows, doors, or HVAC systems. Gas can be sucked into the building because the pressure inside the building is usually lower than the pressure in the soil around and below the foundation. After construction, a gas relieving system can be installed; however, such systems are often expensive, aesthetically unpleasing, cumbersome, and difficult to install. Further, if the installation is not properly performed after the construction, the installation may damage the structure.

In view of this, the inventors have recognized a need for a relatively inexpensive and easily configurable molding system for building structural components, such as foundations or foundations of a building or a portion thereof. The inventors have also recognized a need for a drainage and ventilation system that is similarly inexpensive and easy to configure, which may include insulation features, to be installed around a shaped structural component of a structure of interest, such as a building or a portion thereof.

Disclosure of Invention

One aspect of the present invention is a system for retaining a flowable and curable building material (e.g., concrete) to form a portion of a foundation for at least a portion of a structure of interest. The system includes sidewalls that receive and retain the construction material therebetween. The sidewalls are disposed in a predetermined configuration suitable for a portion of a foundation and include a first sidewall and a second sidewall disposed relative to the first sidewall and providing a space (e.g., distance) therebetween. At least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall includes at least one component having an internal cavity. A bracket assembly maintains the sidewalls in a predetermined configuration. The bracket assembly includes a first outwardly defined reinforcement column disposed adjacent the first sidewall and a second outwardly defined reinforcement column disposed adjacent the second sidewall. The separator bar includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a plurality of apertures disposed along a length of the separator bar. The plurality of apertures includes a first set of apertures disposed proximate the first end and a second set of apertures disposed proximate the second end. The first and second sets of holes are sized to receive and retain each of the reinforcement posts at a location corresponding to a nominal width of the at least one component. A barrier is disposed between the outwardly defined reinforcement column and the inwardly defined reinforcement column. The barrier is defined by an inner layer surrounded by an outer layer. The barrier may be permeable to liquid and/or air or gas (e.g., groundwater and/or heated or cooled air, or gas from soil, gravel, or other fill media outside the structure) permeating into and through the barrier to the internal channel in at least one direction, and in some embodiments in two directions, including into and through the barrier to the internal channel, and from the internal channel into and through the barrier to soil, gravel, or other fill media. After the building material cures, the barrier and the at least one component remain in the foundation, and the barrier prevents backfill (e.g., a fill medium such as soil, gravel, etc.) from filling the volume between a portion of the foundation and the outwardly-defined column.

One aspect of the present invention is a foundation drainage and ventilation system, comprising: a conduit; a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough; a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough; a fabric wrapped around each of the conduit, the first drainage core, and the second drainage core; and a drainage cavity bounded by the conduit and the first and second drainage cores; wherein the second drain core is disposed substantially vertically and adjacent the first side of the conduit and the second end of the second drain core is disposed adjacent the second end of the first drain core, wherein the first end of the first drain core is positioned upwardly from the second end of the first drain core and adjacent the second side of the conduit; and wherein at least one member is provided on the first end of each of the first and second drain cores.

One aspect of the present invention is a foundation drainage and ventilation system, comprising: a conduit; a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, a first plurality of channels extending therethrough, and a second plurality of channels extending therethrough, the second plurality of channels being substantially orthogonal to the first plurality of channels; a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, a first plurality of channels extending therethrough, and a second plurality of channels extending therethrough, the second plurality of channels being substantially orthogonal to the first plurality of channels; a fabric wrapped around each of the conduit, the first drainage core, and the second drainage core; wherein the conduit is disposed near a first end of each of the first and second drain cores, and a second end of each of the first and second drain cores extends outwardly from the conduit.

An aspect of the present invention is also the application of the above described foundation tray and molding system to provide and improve drainage, air and gas barriers, repair and improved air flow (into and out of the system) to structural components such as foundations, floor walls (both internal and external), and in some embodiments to provide and improve insulation and fire retardant properties, and to provide and improve irrigation systems, drainage, storm water management, septic leaching sites, and the like within applications including, but not limited to, agriculture, sports grounds, golf courses, landscaping soft and hard landscapes, and building structures for a variety of purposes including residential, commercial, industrial, governmental and educational purposes, and open air structures and environments including, but not limited to, driveways, parking lots, bridges, roads, sidewalks, slideways, parking lots, airports, roofing systems, mines, HVAC, and the like.

As described herein, in the application of use, the present invention provides an open area or passage within a structure or building envelope that allows for passive or substantial convection of air, liquids and gases with mechanical assistance. The inventors have discovered that this region or channel can be employed, and in some embodiments, can be used to improve thermal conductivity, flow, fire and impact resistance, insulation and flame retardant properties. The inventors contemplate applications within the numerous building sectors defined by the building code association (CSI), including for foundations, floor walls (both internal and external), improved agricultural and irrigation systems, drainage, storm water management, septic leaching sites and indoor and outdoor sports fields, golf courses, landscaping.

Drawings

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an inventive molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an inventive molding system according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of components of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the component of FIG. 2 taken along line 3-3;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the component of FIG. 4 taken along line 5-5;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the component of FIG. 6 taken along line 7-7;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are a plan view and a side view, respectively, of a spacer rod according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective and side views, respectively, of a reinforcement post according to one embodiment of the present invention;

10A-10E illustrate components of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

11A-11D depict the use of the molding system of the present invention;

FIG. 12A is a partial plan view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the component of FIG. 12A taken along line 12B-12B;

FIG. 12C is a partial cross-sectional view of the component of FIG. 12A according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12D is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12E is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12F is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12G is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12H is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of the molding system of FIG. 12D with a barrier installed therein according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12I is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of the molding system of FIG. 12E with a barrier installed therein according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12J is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of the molding system of FIG. 12F with a barrier installed therein according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12K is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of the molding system of FIG. 12G with a barrier installed therein according to one embodiment of the invention;

fig. 12L is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding, drainage, gas remediation, leaching site system according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12M is a detailed view of components of the molding system of FIG. 12L;

FIG. 12N is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12O is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12P is a depiction of several components of the molding system of FIG. 12N prior to assembly for installation in the molding system;

FIG. 12Q is a cross-sectional view of a drain core of the molding system of FIG. 12N;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of a spacer rod according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 14A and 14B are front and plan views of a reinforcement column according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15A is a partial cross-sectional view of a molding system having an integral ventilation system formed therein according to one embodiment of the molding system of the present invention in use;

FIGS. 15B and 15C are partial cross-sectional views of a molding system having an integral plenum formed therein according to one embodiment of the molding system of the present invention in use;

15D and 15E are partial cross-sectional views of another embodiment of the molding system of FIG. 15A;

FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of a component of a molding system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of a foundation drainage and ventilation system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18A is a detailed view of the molding system of FIG. 16 and components of the foundation base drainage and ventilation system of FIG. 17;

FIG. 18B is a diagrammatic view of several components of the molding system of FIG. 16 and the foundation base drainage and ventilation system of FIG. 17 prior to assembly for installation in the molding system;

FIG. 18C is a chart showing example characteristics of the components, geotextile and core of the molding system of FIG. 16 and the foundation base drainage and ventilation system of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a depiction of several methods of use of the molding system of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is an elevation view of a conventional foundation base and accompanying drainage components;

FIG. 21 is an elevation view of a gravel-free foundation integrally formed with a drainage and ventilation system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a front view of a bracket assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

figures 23A and 23B are front views of gravel-free foundation foundations and floor walls integrally formed with a drainage and ventilation system configured in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

24A, 24B, 24C and 24D are elevation views of gravel-free foundation drainage and ventilation systems according to embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 25A and 25B are a plan view and a detailed front view of a gravel-free drainage and ventilation system employed within a putting green, according to an embodiment of the invention;

26A, 26B, 26C and 26D are front, end, cross-sectional and detailed elevation views, respectively, of a gravel-free drainage and ventilation system employed within a field of motion in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

27A, 27B and 27C are cross-sectional views of a gravel-free drainage and ventilation system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 28A is a front view and FIG. 28B is a plan view of a drainage member component of the drainage and ventilation system of FIG. 26C, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a front view of a telescoping joint section of a drain core according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is an elevation view of a coupling and limiting member according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

figure 31 shows a cross-sectional view of components of a drainage and ventilation system according to an embodiment of the invention.

In these figures, similar structures are given similar reference numerals but may not be referenced in the description of all the figures.

Detailed Description

General overview:

as taught and described herein, aspects of the present invention include: (1) molding systems for building structural members such as foundations, and portions thereof; (2) an integrated ventilation system included within the molding system that introduces conditioned air (e.g., heated, cooled, humidity controlled air) into the system and/or removes and remediates gases, moisture, etc. from the system and soil surrounding structural components formed with the system; (3) an integral drainage system that, in embodiments, includes a gravel-free feature and captures, retains, and directs fluid streams such as ground water and sub-surface water away from structures, sports fields, golf courses, and the like; and (4) in embodiments, one or more of the above-described molding, venting and drainage systems provide a barrier that includes thermal insulation and fire retardant properties.

As described herein, the present invention includes an improved drainage, air, gas (radon, methane and pipeline) mitigation or remediation system, thereby improving thermal conduction, insulation and barrier properties. As described herein, the present invention provides improved impact resistance and soil retention characteristics when used in drainage mat applications.

A molding system:

as shown in fig. 1A, 1B and 2, in one embodiment of the present invention, the molding system 100 of the present invention includes a pallet assembly 120 configured and operable to maintain a sidewall 160, such as a first sidewall 162 and a second sidewall 164, in a spaced relationship from one another in a predetermined configuration (e.g., height H1, width W1, length L1 and shape S1) within an excavation region 190. For example, the bracket assembly 120 maintains the first sidewall 162 in a configuration that includes a position that is parallel to the second sidewall 164 along at least a portion of the length L1 of the excavated area 190 and/or partially within the excavated area 190 and horizontally spaced apart (e.g., distal) from the second sidewall 164. As shown in fig. 1A, the bracket assembly 120 and the sidewall 160 cooperate to define a channel 192, the channel 192 receiving and retaining a flowable and at least partially liquid construction material 196, such as concrete, poured into the channel 192. As used herein, the channel 192 is configured to have a predetermined configuration (e.g., height H1, width W1, length L1, and shape S1) suitable for supporting the foundation and/or walls of the foundation or a portion thereof of the structure of interest.

It should be understood that although fig. 1A and 1B only show one bracket assembly 120 holding sidewall 160, it is within the scope of the present invention to employ one or more bracket assemblies 120 configured at different intervals along length L1 of excavated area 190 and/or within excavated area 190 to prevent sidewall 160 from moving (e.g., shifting) due to the pressure exerted on sidewall 160 by flowing concrete 196 introduced into trench 192. It is also understood that the sidewall 160 may be constructed of one single component or two or more stacked components as needed to form the predetermined configuration. The components include one or more lengths (e.g., sheets) of elongated building material, such as wood panels, boards or sheet-like materials (such as plywood), tubular members (such as round drain pipes or drainage tubes), square or rectangular pipes or conduits, drainage cores, and the like, as well as combinations thereof.

For example, fig. 2, 4, and 6 show two

bracket assemblies

120A and 120B disposed at opposite ends and retaining components of two

sidewalls

162 and 164 within the configuration or a portion thereof. As shown in fig. 2 and 3, two stacks of elongated building material, such as

drain pipes

162A and 162B including a first side wall 162, are held in a vertically stacked orientation and in horizontally spaced relation to two stacks of

drain pipes

164A and 164B including a deployed second wall 164. Fig. 4 and 5 show two

bracket assemblies

120A and 120B disposed at opposite ends and holding a plurality of elongated

wooden boards

162C and 164C including a first side wall 162 and a second side wall 164 in a vertically oriented and horizontally spaced apart relationship. Fig. 6, 7 and 12G show two

bracket assemblies

120A and 120B disposed at opposite ends and holding the two elongated

rectangular conduits

162D and 162E of the first side wall 162 in a vertically stacked orientation and in a horizontally spaced relationship from the two elongated

rectangular conduits

164D and 164E of the second wall 164.

Referring again to fig. 2, in one embodiment, the bracket assembly 120 (e.g., each of the

bracket assemblies

120A and 120B) includes one or more spacer rods 130 and two or more stiffening posts 140, shown in more detail in fig. 8, 9A and 9B, 10D, and 10E, respectively. The spacer bars 130 and the reinforcement posts 140 cooperate to maintain the side wall 160 and its components 162A-162E and 164A-164E in a vertically oriented and horizontally spaced (e.g., remote) relationship with a predetermined configuration or portion thereof. As shown in fig. 1-7, the spacer bar 130 and the first pair of reinforcement posts 140 cooperate to maintain a portion of the first side wall 162 in a substantially vertical orientation and in a horizontally distal relationship with the second side wall 164, which second side wall 164 is maintained by the spacer bar 130 and the second pair of reinforcement posts 140.

As shown in fig. 8A and 8B, in one embodiment, each of the one or more spacer bars 130 includes a plurality of

apertures

132 and 134 disposed at predetermined locations along the length L2 of the spacer bar 130. In one embodiment, apertures 132 are provided at opposite ends 136 and 138 of each spacer bar 130 and are sized to receive a peg or post 158 (fig. 1A) for securing the bracket assembly 120 in position within the excavated area 190. An aperture 134 (described below) is provided at a predetermined location along the length L2 of the spacer bar 130 and is sized to receive the reinforcement post 140. As shown in fig. 9A and 9B, in one embodiment, each of the reinforcement posts 140 includes serrations 144 disposed along at least a portion of the length L3 of the side 142 of the reinforcement post 140. The plurality of apertures 134 of the separator bar 130 and the serrations 144 of the reinforcement post 140 are sized to frictionally engage one another such that placement of the reinforcement bar 140 within the apertures 134 provides frictional engagement between the serrations 144 and the separator bar 130 to prevent shifting. In one embodiment, the stiffening post 140 includes a hole 146 through the side 142 of the post. The apertures 146 provide a means by which a length of wire (e.g., a horizontal wire) may be inserted through one or more reinforcement posts 140 and additional items (e.g., rebar, spacer bar 130) may be tethered to and/or supported by the reinforcement posts 140. In one embodiment, wires, pins, fasteners may be disposed within the apertures 146 to support the spacer bar 130 in a vertical orientation between the reinforcement posts 140. In one embodiment, the spacer bars 130 are otherwise clamped, fastened, or secured in a vertical orientation between the reinforcement posts 140. In one embodiment, the spacer bar 130 can include a plurality of tabs that can be selectively extended into the apertures 134 to lock the reinforcement posts 140 to the spacer 130. Other embodiments of the spacer bar 130 and the reinforcement column 140 are shown in fig. 10D and 10E, respectively.

In one aspect of the invention, the predetermined location of the aperture 134 of the spacer bar 130 corresponds to a nominal width of the elongated building material required, recommended or preferred for use as a component to construct the side wall 160. For example, when a first pair of reinforcement posts 140 are placed in corresponding ones of the apertures 134 near the end 136 of the spacer bar 130, the first side wall 162 is held in place between the first pair of posts 140, and when a second pair of reinforcement posts 140 are placed in corresponding ones of the apertures 134 near the opposite end 138 of the spacer bar 130, the second side wall 164 is held in place between the second pair of posts 140. As shown in FIG. 8, in one embodiment, the spacer bar 130 is stamped, marked or otherwise marked with indicia, generally indicated at 135, to identify the nominal width of a typical building material required, recommended or preferred for use as a component for constructing the side wall 160. For example, the spacer bar 130 includes a flag 135 near its

ends

136 and 138 to correspond to the location of each of the construct sidewalls. In one embodiment, the first set of landmarks 135A near the end 136 correspond to locations for constructing the first sidewall 162 and the second set of landmarks 135B near the end 138 correspond to locations for constructing the second sidewall 164.

As shown in fig. 2 and 3, for example, during construction of the first sidewall, a first column 140A of the first pair of reinforcement columns 140 is placed within the bore 134 near the end 136 of the spacer bar 130 such that the first reinforcement column 140A is disposed externally with respect to the channel 192 (e.g., disposed in a position generally shown at 192A), and a second column 140B of the first pair of reinforcement columns 140 is placed inwardly from the end 136 within the bore 134 such that the second reinforcement column 140B is disposed internally with respect to the channel 192 (e.g., disposed in a position generally shown at 192B) to externally and internally constrain the components used to construct the first sidewall 162 between the first pair of

reinforcement columns

140A and 140B. Similarly, during construction of the second sidewall, a first column 140C of the second pair of reinforcement columns 140 is placed within the aperture 134 near the end 138 of the spacer bar 130 such that the reinforcement column 140C is disposed externally with respect to the channel 192 (e.g., disposed at a location generally shown at 192C), and a second column 140D of the second pair of reinforcement columns 140 is placed inwardly within the aperture 134 from the end 138 such that the reinforcement column 140D is disposed internally with respect to the channel 192 (e.g., disposed approximately at location 192D) to externally and internally constrain the components used to construct the second sidewall 164 between the second pair of

reinforcement columns

140C and 140D.

In one embodiment, the flag 135 is comprised of an encoding system, such as a digital encoding system. For example, a first one of the apertures 134 near each

end

136 and 138 of the spacer bar 130 is identified by a "1" designation and a second one of the apertures 134 disposed inwardly from the first aperture is identified by a "2" designation, wherein the first and second apertures are disposed at locations corresponding to a nominal width of the plank (e.g., a common "two-by-one" plank material having a nominal width of about 1.5 inches (1.5 in; 3.81 cm)). The third of the first hole (labeled "1") and the hole 134 inward from the second hole (labeled "2") is identified by the "3" label, wherein the first hole and the third hole are disposed at locations corresponding to a nominal width of a rectangular conduit (e.g., a typical rectangular conduit having a nominal width of about two inches (2 in; 5.08 cm)); and a fourth of the first hole (labeled "1") and the hole 134 inward from the third hole (labeled "3") is identified by a "4" label, wherein the first and fourth holes are disposed at locations corresponding to a nominal width or diameter of a circular drain pipe (e.g., a typical drain pipe having a nominal diameter of about four inches (4.0 in; 10.16cm), six inches (6.0 in; 15.24cm), or other dimensions as would be required, recommended, or preferred by one of ordinary skill in the art). Although the present invention expressly discloses a numerical encoding system for the aperture 134, it should be understood that it is within the scope of the present invention to employ other encoding systems, including, for example, scales showing metrics in english (based on fractions or inches), metric (based on decimals), and other metric systems used in the art. Although not shown, it is understood that spacers or shims may be used to increase or decrease the distance between two or more holes 134 for securing non-standard width building materials between corresponding pairs of reinforcement columns 140.

In one embodiment shown in fig. 10A, a conduit 170 is shown as a component of the construction of the sidewall 160. The conduit 170 includes a corrugated wall 172 defining an interior cavity 174. As shown in FIG. 10A, in one embodiment, the conduit 170 includes a male end 176 and a female end 178. The male and female ends 176, 178 are configured to allow end-to-end coupling of a plurality of conduits 170. In one embodiment, underground utilities may be carried within the interior cavity 174. In another embodiment, the plumbing may be carried within the interior cavity 174. As shown in fig. 10B and 10C, in one embodiment, one or both of a plurality of straps 150 and extenders 155 may be positioned about sidewall 160 and cooperate with bracket assembly 120 to help hold the components of sidewall 160 in place as concrete is received and cured within molding system 100 of the present invention.

A ventilation system:

as shown in fig. 11A-11D, the molding system 100 of the present invention receives and retains cured concrete 196 for use in constructing a foundation 200 that includes a foundation 202 and walls 204 for a structure of interest (e.g., a residential or commercial building) or a portion thereof. For example, the plurality of bracket assemblies 120 may be operated to maintain the plurality of sidewalls 160 in a predetermined configuration, including height H1 (extending in a plane outwardly perpendicular to the drawing sheet), width W1, length L1 (including legs L1A, L1B, L1C, etc.), and shape S1 within the excavated area 190 to receive concrete 196 to form one or both of the foundation 202 and the wall 202 of the foundation 200 of the structure of interest. As shown in fig. 11B, components of the side wall 160 (e.g., lengths of elongated building material such as wood panels, boards, or sheets of material, tubular members such as circular discharge or drainage pipes, square or rectangular pipes or conduits, drainage cores, etc.) are assembled, interconnected, or interlocked in an end-to-end manner by, for example, one or more connectors 210 to form a wall for retaining concrete or other building material 196.

As described in further detail below, when the side wall 160 comprises a tubular, square, or rectangular member (such as a pipe or conduit) having interior cavities 166 and 174 (as shown in fig. 2, 3, 6, and 7), assembled, interconnected, or interlocked side wall components are integrally formed within the structure and cooperate to define one or more channels 180 within the side wall 160 for air to flow at least around the exterior (e.g., within the area 192A) and interior (e.g., within the area 192C) of the base 202 and wall 204 and/or for air to flow within the base 202 or wall 204 itself (e.g., having the area 192B). For example, the inventors have discovered that, upon post-construction, the one or more channels 180 of the side walls facilitate providing ventilation to effectively and efficiently divert (e.g., remove and/or repair) a flow of radon or other unwanted gases, e.g., carbon dioxide, methane, from the constructed structure, and that, during construction, the one or more channels 180 facilitate providing a flow of air (e.g., conditioned air, such as cold and/or hot air, with or without humidity control) to aid in curing the construction material 196. In yet another embodiment, the inventors have discovered that the channel 180 allows conditioned air, such as heated or cooled air, to be transferred naturally by the sun's heat to the structural components or soil surrounding the structure or through mechanical conditions (HVAC system). The transfer within the system improves the environmental, residential conditions within the building envelope of the structure and may in some cases minimize the cost of maintaining the environmental conditions.

In one embodiment, the transfer of gas may be assisted by an additional volume of air flow introduced by, for example, an in-line force (in-line force) air system. In one embodiment, the flow rate through one and one-half inch (1/2 in; 1.27cm) drainage core described below is at least three hundred fifty to four hundred cubic feet (350-. Of course, in large systems, such as four inch pipes, the flow rate may increase significantly. In one embodiment shown in fig. 1B, 11C, and 11D, the inventors have discovered that one or more channels 180 of the sidewall can be used to provide heated or cooled air from an air exchange unit 184 (e.g., heating and/or cooling unit 184A) to an interior and/or exterior region around and/or within the foundation 202 and the wall, such as

regions

192A, 192B, and 192C described above, via a channel 186 in communication with at least one of the channels 180, to remove moisture, condensation, humidity, etc. in the region, to aid in the cure time during construction, to allow construction under adverse weather and/or air or soil conditions (e.g., heating building materials and/or surrounding soil, to allow construction at cold temperatures by allowing passive flow and/or curing without freezing, and/or vice versa, to cool the building material and/or surrounding soil to allow construction and stable curing during hot weather conditions), and to remove moisture that may cause mold and/or other damage. It should be appreciated that the channel 180 may be continuous, e.g., providing airflow about substantially all of the outer perimeter, the inner perimeter, or both the outer and inner perimeters (e.g.,

regions

192A, 192B, and/or 192C) of the formed base 202 and wall 204. Alternatively, one or more portions of the outer and inner perimeters of the formed base 202 and wall 204 may include integrally formed side walls that provide one or more of the channels 180 that may be accessed to divert, such as remove and/or repair radon or other undesirable gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane and other gases, moisture, etc., and/or introduce heated and/or cooled conditioned air from an area (e.g.,

areas

192A, 192B, and/or 192C) adjacent to the constructed building.

As described above, the molding system 100 of the present invention may be used to construct a foundation 200, the foundation 200 including one or both of a foundation 202 and a wall 204 for a structure of interest. For example, the plurality of bracket assemblies 120 and 220 (described below) may be operated to maintain the plurality of

sidewalls

160 and 260 and components thereof in a predetermined configuration to receive the concrete 196 to form one or both of the foundation 202 and the walls 204 of the foundation 200 of the structure of interest. When the means for constructing the

side walls

160 and 260 comprises a tubular, square, or rectangular member having

internal cavities

166 and 174, the

internal cavities

166 and 174 of the interconnecting means cooperate to define one or more of the channels 180 within the

side walls

160 and 260 for air to flow around at least a portion of the outer perimeter (e.g., within the region 192A) and/or the inner perimeter (e.g., within the region 192C) of the formed base 202 and wall 204. The inventors have discovered that when post-construction, one or more of the channels 180 are advantageous for providing ventilation for the effective and efficient transfer (e.g., removal and/or remediation) of radon or other undesirable gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, moisture, etc., and/or the introduction of heated or cooled air from external or internal portions of the constructed structure. In one embodiment, the additional conditioned air passing through the passage 180 may supplement and enhance the conventional HVAC system and improve its performance.

Turning now to fig. 12A and 12B, in one embodiment, the molding system 100 of the present invention includes one or more bracket assemblies 220, the bracket assemblies 220 being disposed at different intervals along a predetermined configured length L1 within the excavation area 190 (similar to bracket assembly 120) to prevent the sidewalls 260 from moving (e.g., shifting) due to pressure exerted on the sidewalls 260 by the flowing concrete 196 introduced into the channels 192 formed between the sidewalls 260. In one embodiment, each of the one or more bracket assemblies 220 includes one or more spacer rods 230 and two or more reinforcement posts 240, which are shown in more detail in fig. 13, 14A, and 14B, respectively. As with the spacer bars 130 and the reinforcement posts 140 described above, the spacer bars 230 and the reinforcement posts 240 cooperate to maintain the side walls 260 and components thereof (e.g., the above-described individual or stacked components of elongated building material, such as wood panels, sheet or sheet material, tubular members (such as circular drain pipes or drainage tubes), square or rectangular pipes or conduits, drainage cores, and the like, and combinations thereof) in a horizontally spaced (e.g., remote) relationship in a vertical orientation and a predetermined configuration. As shown in FIG. 13, each of the one or more spacer bars 230 includes a plurality of

apertures

232 and 234 disposed at predetermined locations along the length L4 of the spacer bar 230. In one embodiment, apertures 232 are provided at opposite ends 236 and 238 of each of the spacer bars 230 and are sized to receive the stakes or posts 158 (fig. 1A) for securing the bracket assembly 220 in position within the excavated area 190. The aperture 234 is positioned (as described below) at a predetermined location along the length L4 of the spacer bar 230 and is sized to receive one or more of the reinforcement posts 240. In one embodiment, the holes 234 may be used to support structural members, such as rebar supports 157.

As shown in fig. 14A and 14B, in one embodiment, each of the reinforcement posts 240 includes a protrusion or indentation 244 disposed along at least a portion of the length L5 of one or more sides 242 of the reinforcement post 240. Side 242 terminates at end 246. In one embodiment, end 246 includes a foot extending outwardly from side 242. In one embodiment, the foot may include a hole for receiving a pile to hold the reinforcement post 240 in place within the excavated area 190. Alternatively, the end 246 is tapered to terminate at a point or edge to hold the reinforcement post 240 in place. The plurality of apertures 234 of the separator bar 230 and the protrusions or serrations 244 of the reinforcement post 240 are sized to frictionally engage one another, whereby placement of the reinforcement post 240 within the apertures 234 provides frictional engagement between the protrusions or serrations 244 and the separator bar 230 to prevent shifting. In one embodiment, the spacer bar 230 may include a plurality of protrusions that may be selectively extended into the holes 234 to lock the reinforcement posts 240 to the spacer 230.

In one embodiment, the reinforcement post 240 comprises a U-shaped or rectangular tubular member (e.g., a polymeric U-shaped channel or tube) having a wall with a thickness to provide a relatively rigid structure (e.g., about 0.125in (3.175mm) thickness). In one embodiment, the reinforcement posts 240 are of uniform size and thus may be selectively interchangeable with one another and nestable within one another. For example, as shown in fig. 14B, two

posts

240A and 240B of reinforcement post 240 nest such that reinforcement post 240A is vertically adjustable at a height H2 within reinforcement post 240B. As can be appreciated by those skilled in the art, such vertical adjustment in the height H2 of the nested

reinforcement posts

240A and 240B provides a leveling feature when the slope of at least a portion of the excavated area 190 is not uniform. It should also be appreciated that the nested ones of the reinforcement posts 240 provide the selectively adjustable height required to maintain components (described below) of the spacer bar 230 and/or the side wall 260 in a predetermined configuration when configured. In one embodiment, nested

reinforcement posts

240A and 240B include means for securing the relative vertical relationship therebetween, such as holes for receiving fasteners or pins, a hook and/or ratchet arrangement, or similar coupling mechanisms.

In one aspect of the invention, the predetermined location of the aperture 234 of the spacer rod 230 corresponds to the nominal width of the elongated building material required, recommended or preferred for use as a component to construct the side wall 260 and the width of the constructed side wall 260. For example, as with bracket assembly 120, when a first pair of reinforcement posts 240 of bracket assembly 220 are placed in corresponding ones of apertures 234 near ends 236 of spacer bar 230, first sidewall 262 and its components are held in place between the first pair of posts 240, and when a second pair of reinforcement posts 240 are placed in corresponding ones of apertures 234 near opposite ends 238 of spacer bar 230, second sidewall 264 and its components are held in place between the second pair of posts 240. Similar to the spacer bar 130, as shown in FIG. 13, a logo is stamped, marked or otherwise marked on the spacer bar 230, generally indicated at 235, to identify the nominal width of a typical building material required, recommended or preferred for use as a component in constructing the side wall 260 and/or the side wall 260 itself. For example, the spacer bar 230 includes such markings 235 near its

ends

236 and 238 to correspond to the location of each of the

construct sidewalls

160 and 260. For example, a first set of landmarks 235A near the end 236 corresponds to locations for constructing the first sidewall 162 or the first sidewall 262, and a second set of landmarks 235B near the end 238 corresponds to locations for constructing the second sidewall 164 or the second sidewall 264.

In one aspect of the invention, the bracket assembly 220 allows for the construction of the base 202 and the wall 204 of the foundation 200 with vertical sidewalls 162 and 164 (e.g., as shown in fig. 3 and 6) of generally rectangular or square cross-section, and sidewalls 262 and 264 of generally trapezoidal cross-section, and/or combinations and variations thereof, such as a base or wall having a first sidewall (e.g., wall 262) approximating a leg of a trapezoid (e.g., a trapezoidal cross-section inclined at an angle less than ninety degrees (90 °)), and a second sidewall (e.g., wall 164) approximating a leg of a rectangle (e.g., a rectangular cross-section inclined at an angle of 90 degrees (90 °)), as shown in fig. 12B and 12C. In one embodiment, cradle assembly 220 includes one or more spacers 280 mounted on or coupleable to reinforcement column 240 at a desired vertical position around column 240 to allow for offsets (e.g., horizontal offset HOF1 and vertical offset VOF1) in one or more component configurations for constructing side wall 260 configured to approximate a trapezoidal leg (fig. 12B). As shown in fig. 12D. One or more of the features used to construct the sidewall 260 itself may be configured to approximate a trapezoidal leg by, for example, stacking a larger diameter feature over a smaller diameter feature.

As shown in fig. 12A and 12B, during construction of the first sidewall 262; the first reinforcement post 240A nests within the second reinforcement post 240B and the nested posts are disposed within the apertures 234 near the end 236 of the separator bar 230 such that the nested

reinforcement posts

240A and 240B are disposed externally with respect to the channel 192 (e.g., disposed near the location 192A). A third post 240C is then placed within another aperture 234 inward from the end 236 such that the third reinforcement post 240C is disposed internally (e.g., disposed proximate to the location 192B) relative to the channel 192 to define, externally and internally, a first component 262A and a second member 262B (e.g., a tubular member) for constructing the first sidewall 262 between the nested, externally disposed

reinforcement posts

240A and 240B and the internally disposed reinforcement post 240C. As shown in fig. 12B, the spacer 280A is disposed over the nested, externally disposed

reinforcement posts

240A and 240B and cooperates with the fourth reinforcement post 240D to maintain an offset relationship between the first and

second members

262A and 262B of the first sidewall 262, e.g., a horizontal offset HOF1 and a vertical offset VOF 1. Similarly, during construction of the second sidewall 264, the fifth reinforcing post 240E is nested within the sixth reinforcing post 240F, and the nested posts are disposed within the apertures 234 near the end 238 of the spacer rod 230, such that the nested reinforcing

posts

240E and 240F are disposed externally with respect to the channel 192 (e.g., disposed near the location 192C). A seventh reinforcing column 240G is then placed within the aperture 234 inwardly from the end 238 such that the seventh reinforcing column 240G is disposed inwardly (e.g., disposed adjacent to the location 192B) relative to the channel 192 to inwardly bound a first component 264A and a second component 264B (e.g., a tubular member) for constructing the second sidewall 264 between the nested, externally disposed reinforcing

columns

240E and 240F and the internally disposed reinforcing column 240G. As shown in fig. 12B, a spacer 280B is disposed over the nested, externally disposed

reinforcement posts

240E and 240F and cooperates with the eighth reinforcement post 240H to maintain an offset relationship between the first and

second pieces

264A and 264B of the second sidewall 264, e.g., a horizontal offset HOF1 and a vertical offset VOF 1. 12A, 12B, and 12D, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the illustrated configuration of the bracket assembly 220 allows for the construction of

sidewalls

262 and 264 that form a foundation or foundation having a generally trapezoidal cross-section.

It should be understood that a plurality of spacers 280 of varying lengths (distances measured from their coupling with the reinforcement posts) and a plurality of reinforcement posts 240 of varying heights may be employed to form a foundation and/or wall having a generally trapezoidal cross-section over at least a portion of the predetermined height and the predetermined height. For example, as shown in the partial cross-sectional view of fig. 12C, the spacer 280C is disposed over the nested, externally disposed

reinforcement posts

240A and 240B and cooperates with the ninth reinforcement post 2401 to maintain the offset relationship between the first, second, and

third members

262A, 262B, 262C of the first sidewall 262, e.g., the horizontal offset HOF1 and the vertical offset VOF1 between the first and

second members

262A, 262B, the horizontal offset HOF2 between the first and

third members

262A, 262C, and the vertical offset VOF2 between the second and

third members

262B, 262C. In one embodiment, when the fourth and

fifth members

262D and 262E are added to increase the height of the first sidewall 262, a plurality of spacers having a similar length as the spacer 280C (e.g., spacers 280C1 and 280C2) may be employed to maintain the common offset. Thus, the first sidewall 262 of fig. 12C includes a lower portion having a generally trapezoidal cross-section and an upper portion having a generally rectangular cross-section.

Although fig. 12A-12C show relatively similar vertical and horizontal offsets (e.g., HOF1, HOF2, VOF1, VOF2) between components (e.g., 262A, 262B, 262C, 264A, 264B, 264C) of sidewall 260 for clarity, it is within the scope of the present invention to vary one or more such offsets as needed, recommended, or preferred to achieve various configurations of sidewalls. As such, the offset relationship between the components of the side wall 260 should be broadly considered to include various horizontal and vertical spacings of the components of the side wall 260. For example, while not shown in fig. 12A-12C, it is also within the scope of the present invention to provide one or more of the spacers 280 on one or more of the internally positioned (relative to the channel 192) reinforcement posts 240 (e.g., reinforcement post 240C), which reinforcement posts 240 inwardly bound a component of the sidewall 260 (e.g., the second component 262B). In one embodiment, the spacers 280 may offset the components both internally and externally, such that the cross-section of the sidewall 260 is configured to approximate a ribbed or corrugated sidewall. It should be appreciated that the ribbed or corrugated configuration of the side walls 260 may assist in the flow of water around the side walls 260 and the structure constructed thereon, and thus may be an integral part of a drainage system or other water remediation system for the structure.

It should also be appreciated that as the height H1 of the

sidewalls

162, 164, 262, and 264 increases, two or more of the

bracket assemblies

120 and 220 may be stacked and coupled together. For example,

apertures

134 and 234 may be used to receive a post or tie used to couple two or more

stacked bracket assemblies

120 and 220. Further, one or more of the reinforcement posts 140 and 240 may be coupled, interconnected, or nested to support the stacked arrangement.

It should also be understood that while the above describes that the vertical and horizontal offsets (e.g., HOF1, HOF2, VOF1, VOF2) between the components (e.g., 262A, 262B, 262C, 264A, 264B, 264C) of the sidewall 260 are achieved by using one or more of the plurality of spacers 280 coupled to the reinforcement column 240 and having varying lengths, in one embodiment, the assembly itself may provide one or more of the desired vertical and horizontal offsets. For example, as shown in FIG. 12D,

large diameter conduits

462B and 464B (e.g., six inches (6 ")/(15.24 cm) outer diameter conduits) are stacked on

smaller diameter conduits

462A and 464A (e.g., four inches (4")/(10.16 cm outer diameter conduits) that are held in place between outwardly and inwardly defined reinforcement posts 440A, 440B, 440C, and 440D. in one embodiment, mating reinforcement posts (e.g., outwardly and inwardly defined

posts

440A and 440B, and outwardly and inwardly defined

posts

440C and 440D) are coupled by respective foot portions and held in place by spacer bars 430. alternatively, the pair of reinforcement posts may be formed of a one-piece construction. in yet another embodiment shown in FIG. 12E, the plurality of spacers 280 are replaced by conventional building materials 450 such as wood, elongated plastic or foam members, to provide one or more of the desired vertical and/or horizontal offsets between one or more components, such as

conduits

562A and 564A.

The barrier provides thermal conductivity, insulation and/or fire resistance properties

In yet another embodiment shown in fig. 12F, a barrier 510 is disposed between the outwardly and inwardly defined posts, e.g., 440A and 440B and 440C and 440D, to support the

conduits

462A, 462B, 464A, and 464B. For example, in one embodiment shown in FIG. 12F, the barrier 510 may be comprised of a foam insulation board 510A, such as

A brand foam or other polystyrene foam board, or any other suitable rigid synthetic or organic material ("Styrofoam" is a trademark of dow chemical company, midland, michigan). As shown in fig. 12H, the barrier 510 may be constructed of a fabric or sheet material 510B, such as a landscape fabric. In one embodiment, fabric or sheet material 510B is comprised of or treated to provide flame retardant properties. In one embodiment, fabric 510B is secured to the soil via, for example, stakes 512. In the embodiment shown in fig. 12H, the fabric 510 is wrapped around the

large diameter conduits

462B and 464B and around the

smaller diameter conduits

462A and 464A, thereby forming the channels 192. In the embodiment shown in fig. 121, the fabric 510B is wrapped around the

large diameter conduits

462B and 464B and adjacent to the construction material 450. In one embodiment as shown in fig. 12J, the foam panel 510A and the sheet-form material 510B cooperate to form a first and second layer of the barrier 510, with the fabric 510B wrapped around the

conduits

462A and 462B and adjacent to the foam panel 510A. In one embodiment as shown in fig. 12K, fabric 510B is wrapped around

conduits

162D and 162E.

It should be appreciated that in one embodiment, the barrier 510 acts to prevent backfill, such as gravel, from inadvertently filling the channel 192 and increasing the airflow and/or drainage area in the volume 520 surrounding the

conduits

462A, 462B, 464A, and 464B (fig. 12H). For example, the barrier 510 prevents backfill from entering a volume 520 between an outwardly defined column (e.g., 140A, 440A) and an inwardly defined column (e.g., 140B, 440B). In one embodiment, barrier 510 surrounds or encapsulates

conduits

462A, 462B, 464A, and 464B to prevent the backfill from entering volume 520. In one embodiment shown in fig. 12L and 12M, one or more of the

conduits

462A, 462B, 464A, and 464B may be included in a gravel-free conduit configuration 652 in which the outer diameter of the conduit has a protrusion 654 extending therefrom.

As shown in fig. 15A and 15B, cross-sectional views of an embodiment of the inventive molding 100 for forming elements of a foundation 200 are shown, namely, a foundation 202A having a substantially rectangular cross-section and a foundation 202B having a substantially trapezoidal cross-section. The sidewall 160 of the foundation 202A is formed by spaced apart conduits 170 having corrugated walls 172 and an internal cavity 174, and the sidewall 260 of the foundation 202B is formed by stacked offset conduits (e.g.,

members

162A, 162B, 164A, 164B, 262A, 262B, 264A, and 264B) having an internal cavity 166. One or more of a plurality of straps 150 and extenders 155 are disposed around

sidewalls

160 and 260 to prevent the connected conduits from expanding apart as concrete 196 is poured. Once the concrete 196 cures, the band 150 and expander 155 also help to hold the integrally formed foundation 202 and its components in place. For example, once cured, the band 150 and expander 155 may be used, for example, in a permanent installation, for example, to support a rebar support 157 placed in the channel 192 prior to pouring cement.

As described above, the interior cavity 174 of the interconnecting conduit 170 cooperates with the interior cavities 166 of the interconnecting

members

262A, 262B, 264A and 264B to provide a passage 180 for air flow around the interior and exterior of the foundation 202 when, after the structure is completed, the passage is accessed through another conduit or other conduit 310, such as on the exterior or interior (e.g., through the floor or panel 206), and an unacceptable level of radon or other gas is detected to expel radon-laden air or other undesirable gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, into the atmosphere. In one embodiment, conduit 170 and one or both of

members

262A, 262B, 264A, and 264B include a means for receiving gas from soil 194, which soil 194 is external and internal to foundation 202 and within

areas

192A and 192C below slab 206. For example, corrugated wall 172 of conduit 170 includes holes or slots 175 to receive gas that permeates from soil 194, which soil 194 is outside and inside foundation 202 and within

regions

192A and 192C below slab 206. Similarly, one or more of the stacking

members

262A, 262B, 264A, 264B include holes or slots 168 to receive gas that permeates from soil 194, the soil 194 being adjacent the foundation 202 and within the

areas

192A and 192C below the sheet 206.

As shown in fig. 15A-15E, one or more cross-bleed ducts or conduits 320 are installed in communication between two corrugated conduits 170 and/or

components

262A, 262B, 264A, 264B of foundation 202 during construction to provide passages 180 for air flow communication between corresponding conduits 170 and/or

components

262A, 262B, 264A, 264B to facilitate venting and/or removal of gases, moisture, etc. (fig. 15A, 15B, and 15D), and/or the addition of air that is heated or cooled within the structure and external to the structure when coupled to conduit 310 (fig. 11C, 11D, 15C, and 15E). Thus, the crossover exhaust duct or conduit 320 provides a reverse air flow. Such reverse air flow provides for directing outside air to the area beneath the slab or similar foundation base. As a result, the temperatures may be equalized to substantially reduce or eliminate condensation and moisture formation in the area beneath the slab or similar foundation base. Thus, the formation of mold and other harmful microorganisms is prevented. In one embodiment, an in-line forced air system 330 is coupled to the conduit 310 to increase the flow of air within the passage 180 and facilitate the remediation of undesired gases and/or the addition of desired air (e.g., heated or cooled air).

Draining:

as shown in fig. 20 and 21, a conventional foundation footing system 1000 (fig. 20) including an accompanying drainage member and a gravel-free foundation footing system 10 (fig. 21) integrally formed with a drainage and ventilation system according to an embodiment of the present invention were compared. In the conventional system 1000 shown in fig. 20, conventional building forms are installed and a foundation base 1012 is formed to support the walls 1013 and panels 1014 of the structure of interest. After foundation 1012 is formed, gravel 1016 is used to backfill the excavated area near foundation 1012. Traditionally, gravel is used to facilitate drainage of liquids, such as ground water and sub-surface water, away from the foundation. Generally, a conduit 1018 is mounted adjacent to and inwardly of the foundation 1012 below the panels 1014 to receive, capture and thereby mitigate radon and/or other undesirable gases (e.g., carbon dioxide, methane, etc.) from entering the building. Typically, a drain 1020 is mounted adjacent to the foundation 1012 and outwardly from the foundation 1012 to receive, capture, and thereby drain water from the structure. Additional gravel 1016 acts as backfill around the drain 1020 and above the foundation 1012 to further promote water drainage from the foundation. In some cases, fabric is placed over the gravel 1016 and the pipe 1020 to prevent sludge and debris from entering and blocking the passage through the gravel 1016 and the pipe 1020. It will be appreciated that installing a conventional foundation footing system 1000 including an accompanying drainage component is a multi-step, time-consuming process requiring multiple construction materials, both of which add to the cost of construction.

Alternatively and as shown in fig. 21, a foundation footing system 10 integrally formed with a drainage and ventilation system enables the formation of a footing 12 to support the walls 13 and panels 14 of a structure without the need to backfill or place gravel under the panels 14 or around the footing 12 to assist in drainage. Foundation footing system 10 is a gravel-free foundation footing system and includes first and

second molding assemblies

16A and 16B that form sidewalls that form foundation 12, for example by cooperating with racking system 220 to form sidewalls 260 of fig. 15B and 15C, while integrally forming drainage system 18 and ventilation system 20, as further described below.

One embodiment of a gravel-free molding system 500 according to the present invention is shown in fig. 12N and 12O and includes a first molding assembly 502 and a second molding assembly 504 that form a sidewall, such as sidewall 260 of fig. 15B and 15C. Referring first to fig. 12N, barrier 510 includes sheet material 510B disposed about first drain core 550, second drain core 560, and conduits, such as

conduits

562A and 564A. In one embodiment, the

conduits

562A and 564A are perforated conduits such that a flow of groundwater or sub-surface water may be received therein. In one embodiment, sheet material 510B is formed into a sleeve or bag 563, thereby eliminating the need for a catheter wrapped by a barrier material. Alternatively, the

conduits

562A and 564A extend through the sleeve 563. Thereby forming an open volume or drain cavity 570 bounded by first drain core 550, second drain core 560, and

respective conduits

562A and 564A. In one embodiment, the first drain core 550 is a single drain core 550A (e.g., allowing liquid flow through the core in one direction) and the second drain core 560 is a dual drain core 560A (e.g., allowing liquid to pass through the core in two directions). Thus, a passage through dual drainage core 560A is created at the penetration point of the foundation in the direction indicated by arrow X1, where the foundation intersects the wall, advantageously creating a flow exiting the penetration point into drainage cavity 570. As a result, water (e.g., ground water or sub-surface water) may enter drainage cavity 570 via respective

fabric wrap conduits

562A and 564A and respective dual drainage wicks 560A, and be diverted from the structure along its perimeter (e.g., in the direction of the in and out of the drawing sheet). In one embodiment, the first and

second drain cores

550, 560 are in fluid communication, or joined at a connection point 555, such that water may pass from one drain core to the other. Liquid entering the drainage cavity 570 may pass to the first drainage core 550 in the direction indicated by the arrow X2 and to the second drainage core 560 in the direction indicated by the arrow X3, such that the volume of liquid flowing in the first and

second drainage cores

550 and 560 is equal to the volume of liquid flowing in the drainage cavity 570 along the perimeter of the structure (e.g., ground water or sub-surface water). In one embodiment, the second drainage core 560 provides a pathway for air and other gases (e.g., carbon dioxide, radon, methane, etc.) as well as water to permeate.

In one embodiment and as shown in fig. 12O, first drain core 550 is configured as an extended first drain core 550B that extends to an upper point 550X near the top of the

respective conduit

562A or 564A. In one embodiment, the second drain core 560 is an extended second drain core 560B that extends to an upper point 560X near the top of the

respective conduit

562A or 564A. In one embodiment, both an extended first drain core 550B and an extended second drain core 560B are employed.

The bottom portion of the molding system shown defines an overall length L_FORM. First length L_FORM1Defined by the combined thickness of each of the first and

second drain cores

550 and 560. Second length L_FORM2Defined by the horizontal distance traversed by the first drain core 550. A third length L_FORM3Defined by the distance between the drain core assemblies, or from a second length L defined by a first drain core 550_FORM2To another second length L defined by another first drainage core 550_FORM2Is defined. In FIG. 12O, the total length L_FORMIs L_FORM1、L_FORM2、L_FORM3、L_FORM2And L_FORM1The sum of (a) and (b). In one embodiment, the overall lengthDegree L_FORMUp to about thirty-six (36) inches (91.44 cm). In one embodiment, the total length L_FORMAbout twenty-eight (28) inches (71.12 cm). In one embodiment, each of the first and

second drainage cores

550, 560 defines a thickness T1 of about one (1) inch (2.54 cm); thus, the first length L_FORM1About two (2) inches (5.08 cm). In one embodiment, the second length L_FORM2About six (6) inches (15.24 cm). In one embodiment, the third length L_FORM3About twelve (12) inches (30.48 cm).

As shown in fig. 12N and 12O, the arrangement of the first and

second drain cores

550, 560 and the

respective conduits

562A and 564A forms the channel 592 and eliminates the double reinforcement column arrangement. As shown in fig. 12N and 12O, this configuration includes only outwardly defined

reinforcement posts

440A and 440D, and does not require corresponding inwardly defined reinforcement posts 440B and 440C, respectively. However, the use of corresponding inwardly defined reinforcement posts 440B and 440C, respectively, with the configuration of first drain core 550, second drain core 560, and

respective conduits

562A and 564A is another embodiment of the configuration and is considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

The configuration of first drain core 550, second drain core 560, and

respective conduits

562A and 564A further provides the described configuration for installation at varying heights/depths and with varying widths/conduit diameters. Thus, effective gravel-free drainage can be configured for various drainage applications.

As shown in fig. 12P, one embodiment of the first drain core 550, the second drain core 560, and the conduit 564A includes wrapping the components individually with a barrier 510 or sheet material 510C of fabric 510B, and positioning the components relative to each other. As shown in fig. 12P, that is, the first and

second drain cores

550 and 560 are disposed adjacent to each other and substantially flat in one plane (e.g., horizontal or vertical), and the conduit 564A is disposed adjacent to the second drain core 560 on the opposite side of the position of the first drain core 550. The wrapped first drain core 550 rotates in the direction indicated by the arrow R from the first position R1 to the second position R2. The wrapped conduit 564A moves in the direction indicated by the arrow Q from the first position Q1 to the second position Q2 toward the first and

second drain cores

550 and 560.

One embodiment of a drain core 580 for use as the first drain core 550 and/or the second drain core 560 is shown in fig. 12Q. The drain core 580 includes a base 582 and a protrusion 584 extending outwardly from at least one side thereof. In one embodiment, the protrusion 584 extends outward from both sides thereof. In one embodiment, the base 582 is permeable and defines one or more apertures 583 extending therethrough for increasing drainage through the core 580. In one embodiment, one or more of the projections 584 includes an aperture 585 extending therethrough for increasing drainage through the core 580. In one embodiment, aperture 585 is in fluid communication with one of apertures 583 for increased drainage through core 580.

In one embodiment, the core 580 is made of a polyethylene thermoplastic. In one embodiment, the core 580 is a structural foam polyethylene. In one embodiment, the core 580 is a recessed polymeric core. In one embodiment, the core 580 is a recessed high impact polystyrene core. In one embodiment, the wrapped first and

second drainage cores

550, 560 are formed using a geocomposite, such as a geotextile-geonet composite, a geotextile-geomembrane composite, a geomembrane-geogrid composite, and a geotextile-polymer core composite. In one embodiment, the wrapped first and

second drainage cores

550, 560 are formed using a polystyrene core wrapped with a polypropylene filter fabric.

Fig. 16 illustrates one embodiment of a gravel-free molding system 600 according to the present invention and includes a first molding assembly 602 and a second molding assembly 604 that form a sidewall, such as sidewall 260 of fig. 15B and 15C. Barrier 610 includes an inner layer 611A surrounded by an outer layer 611B. In one embodiment, the inner layer 611A includes a first drainage core 650 and a second drainage core 660. In one embodiment, outer layer 611B is fabric 610B. The fabric 610B is wrapped around the first drainage core 650, the second drainage core 660, and conduits, such as

conduits

662A and 664A. In one embodiment, the

conduits

662A and 664A are perforated conduits. In one embodiment, the fabric 610B is formed into a sleeve or bag 663 through which the

conduits

662A and 664A extend. Thereby forming an open volume or drainage cavity 670 bounded by the first and

second drainage cores

650, 660 and the

respective conduits

662A and 664A.

Fig. 17 illustrates one embodiment of a gravel-free foundation drainage and ventilation system 700 that may be employed without the

aforementioned bracket assemblies

120 and 220 in accordance with aspects of the present invention. The barrier 710 includes an inner layer 711A surrounded by an outer layer 711B. In one embodiment, the inner layer 711A includes a first drainage core 750 and a second drainage core 760. In one embodiment, the outer layer 711B is a fabric 710B. The fabric 710B is wrapped around the first drain core 750, the second drain core 760, and the conduit 762. In one embodiment, the conduit 762 is a perforated conduit. In one embodiment, the fabric 710B is formed into a sleeve or pocket 763 through which the conduit 762 extends. Thereby forming an open volume or drainage cavity 770 bounded by the first drain core 750, the second drain core 760, and the conduit 762. As described below, in addition to use within or near building structure components, the inventors have discovered a number of innovative uses for the drainage and ventilation system 700 and other components described above in athletic fields, golf courses, and other applications.

In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 16 and 17, one or both of the first and

second drainage cores

650, 660 and/or the first and

second drainage cores

750, 760 include surface projections and/or depressions therein that form corresponding

channels

655 and 755 extending vertically and horizontally through the respective drainage core. As a result, water (e.g., ground water or sub-surface water) as well as permeated air and other gases may enter the

drainage cavities

670, 770 via the respective fabric-wrapped drainage cores 650 and/or 660 and 750 and/or 760. In one embodiment, one or both of the first and

second drainage cores

650, 660 and/or the first and

second drainage cores

750, 760 include one or more apertures extending therethrough for increasing drainage through the core relative to the core 580 shown in fig. 12Q. Fig. 18A illustrates one embodiment of a drain core 850 for use with any of the systems described herein above. The drainage core 850 is constructed from a sheet 852 having a shape formed, for example, by stamping, punching or moldingA plurality of dimples 854. In one embodiment, the dimples 854 are formed in a row-column configuration including a first plurality of channels 855A extending through the core 850 in a first direction (e.g., along a row of dimples 854), and a second plurality of channels 855B extending through the core 850 in a second direction in a substantially orthogonal orientation to the first plurality of channels 855A (e.g., along a column of dimples 854). It should be understood that the

passages

855A and 855B allow liquid and gas to traverse the core 850 vertically and horizontally depending on the orientation of the drainage core 850. In one embodiment, each of the dimples 854 extends upwardly from the sheet 852 a height H of about 0.437in (1.110cm)_DIMPLE. It should be understood that the height H of the dimples 854 is varied (e.g., increased or decreased)_DIMPLEGenerally changing (e.g., increasing or decreasing, respectively) the volume of air, gas, and/or liquid captured, retained, and moved/carried in the drainage core 850. E.g. a greater height H_DIMPLEThe flow rate of the drain core 850 is increased and the height H is smaller_DIMPLEThe flow rate of the drain core 850 is reduced. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to a particular height H_DIMPLEAnd the height may be varied to accommodate certain drainage designs and specific parameters for achieving good water management specifications. Fig. 18C generally illustrates various characteristics of an example geotextile at 870 and an example height (H) at 880_DIMPLE) (referred to as "tip height") and corresponding liquid flow rate (gal/min per foot width).

As shown in fig. 18B, one embodiment of a molding system, the

barriers

610, 710 include a sheet 610C providing a fabric 610B integrally formed with a sleeve 663 extending between

portions

610D and 610E of the fabric sheet 610C, wherein such portions respectively enclose or wrap a respective drainage core, such as a first drainage core. In one embodiment, one of the conduits, for example conduit 662A, is disposed within sleeve 663. In one embodiment, fabric 610B is a thermally bonded nonwoven geotextile that exhibits high grab tensile strength and elongation as described in ASTM D4632, grab load and elongation of geotextiles. In one embodiment, the fabric 610B exhibits a grab tensile strength of greater than 100lbs and an elongation of greater than fifty percent (50%)And (4) long rate. In one embodiment, fabric 610B provides hydraulic conductivity therethrough as described in ASTM D4491, standard test method for measuring the water permeability of geotextiles by dielectric constant. In one embodiment, fabric 610B exhibits greater than 1s^-1And a permeability of at least 0.05 cm/s. In one embodiment, fabric 610A is commercially available from DuPont

SF geotextile. ("Typar" is a trademark of DuPont).

The inventors have discovered that in some embodiments, the

barriers

510, 610, and 710 form thermal fractures when disposed, for example, as an interface between a siding or floor and a filler (e.g., in a vertical and/or horizontal configuration), and/or as a drainage blanket or pad disposed at or below the backfill surface (e.g., in a horizontal configuration). For example, as shown in fig. 18A and 18B,

barriers

610 and 710 include

inner drainage cores

650 or 660 and 750 or 760 (shown generally at 850) surrounded by

outer fabrics

610B and 710B (shown generally at 860) such that

fabrics

610B and 710B (fabric 860) enclose

cores

650 or 660 and 750 or 760 (core 850). The inventors have recognized that in such a fabric-core-fabric "layered" or "sandwich" configuration, thermal breaks are formed between the surfaces disposed therebetween. For example, the opposing fabric layers at least partially, if not completely, insulate the temperature of the adjoining materials. One side is a siding or floor and the opposite side is a fill of gravel or soil. The

inner drainage core

650 or 660 and 750 or 760 (e.g., core 850) allows the air flow to further serve to isolate the temperature differential between the opposing fabric layers 610B and 710B (fabric 860) and the adjacent material. The inventors have also discovered that this isolation can be further enhanced, supplemented or controlled as desired by introducing conditioned air or liquid within the

drainage cores

650 or 660 and 750 or 760 (core 850). For example, warm or cold air or liquid may be passed through the

drainage cores

650 or 660 and 750 or 760 to adjust the temperature differential between the adjoining materials.

In one embodiment, the

drainage core

550, 560, 650, 660, 750, and/or 760 is manufactured by, for example: (i) continuously thermoforming the core; (ii) perforating the core; (iii) cutting the core to a desired width; (iv) the

fabric

610B, 710B or fabric sheet 610C is laminated to the core in a desired configuration. In one embodiment, the adhesive 673 is disposed on one or both of the outer surfaces 672 and 674 of the

respective drainage core

650, 660 prior to application of the fabric 610B or fabric sheet 610C. In one embodiment, adhesive 673 meets the compositional requirements specified in 21c.f.r. § 175.105 ("indirect food additive: adhesive and coating ingredients; adhesive"). In one embodiment, the adhesive 673 exhibits an open time (i.e., the time to make a viable bond after the adhesive is applied) of greater than thirty (30) seconds. In one embodiment, adhesive 673 is a hot melt 1066 commercially available from custom chemical products company.

Fig. 19 illustrates various methods of using the molding system 600 of fig. 16 and the gravel-free foundation, drainage, and ventilation system 700 (fig. 17). As described herein above, constructing a building or other structure of interest includes forming foundation foundations 2 to support foundation walls 4 and panels 6 extending therebetween. In one embodiment, the molding system 600 is employed to form a new foundation base 2A having drainage and ventilation systems integrally formed therein, as described herein above. In one embodiment, one molding assembly 602A configured similarly to molding assembly 602 is employed to further provide drainage and ventilation capabilities beneath the panel 6. In one embodiment, one molding assembly 602B is configured such that the first core 650 and the second core 660 extend substantially horizontally outward from the conduit 662A to further provide drainage and ventilation capabilities beneath the panel 6. In one embodiment, the molding assembly of the present invention is used to provide drainage and ventilation capabilities around existing foundation base 2B. In one such embodiment, one molding assembly 602C is positioned on the inboard side 2C of the foundation 2B; and a second molding assembly 602D is positioned on the outward facing side 2D of the foundation 2B. In one embodiment, the first and

second drainage cores

650 and 660 may be positioned near an existing foundation base 2B. While FIG. 19 illustrates various methods of use of the molding system 600 and the vent system 700, it should be understood that all embodiments of the molding system according to the present invention may be employed, as illustrated in FIG. 19.

As described herein, the present invention provides a concrete molding system for building foundations and portions thereof, wherein the walls of the foundation are constructed using building material segments that interlock end-to-end to form a channel (e.g., channel 180). The channel is useful for providing ventilation for the effective and efficient abatement or remediation of radon or other undesirable gases, such as carbon dioxide, methane, from the structure being constructed. The molding system of the present invention allows for the construction of foundations and walls that may have substantially vertical sidewalls of generally rectangular or square cross-section, sidewalls of generally trapezoidal cross-section, and/or combinations and variations thereof. The inventors have recognized that the molding system allows for the construction of, for example, a subplate depressurization system (e.g., the introduction of conditioned air and/or the removal of air and other gases) that is a minimum of about fifty percent (50%) reduction compared to prior art systems.

In one aspect of the present invention, the present invention (e.g., bracket assembly 220) provides a relatively easy leveling feature when installing a base form that requires leveling to minimize the labor required to level the form prior to use.

In yet another aspect of the invention, once the concrete has cured, the molded parts need not be removed, as they are integrally formed within the foundation or wall to provide additional structural support. In one embodiment, self-leveling reinforcing posts are used as vertical brackets if material is needed to prevent concrete from flowing out under the form.

In yet another aspect, the components of the molding system of the present invention are vertically stackable and horizontally expandable to accommodate foundations and/or walls of various heights and widths.

Some recognized benefits of constructing a base and/or wall having a trapezoidal profile include, for example:

A. adding a support having a standard base size.

B. The amount of material having standard base dimensions is reduced.

C. The standard base size is reduced but the same support is achieved.

D. The amount of material is reduced to achieve a reduced size for the same support.

For example, typical rectangular base dimensions are: a width of about twenty-four inches (24 in; 60.96cm), a height of twelve inches (12 in; 30.48cm), and a length of ten feet (10 feet; 3.048m) provide a cubic volume of 20 cubic feet (20cu.ft), while a trapezoidal foundation may be configured to carry the same support by the following dimensions: an upper width of about sixteen inches (16 in; 40.64cm) and a lower width of twenty-four inches (24 in; 60.96cm), a height of twelve inches (12 in; 30.48cm) and a length of ten feet (10 ft; 3.048m), providing a cubic volume of 16 cubic feet (16 cu.ft).

Barriers and molding systems for forming foundation foundations integrally formed with drainage and ventilation systems in accordance with the present invention provide a portion of the foundation that retains flowable and curable building materials to form at least a portion of a structure of interest. The system includes sidewalls that receive and retain the construction material therebetween. The sidewalls are disposed in a predetermined configuration suitable for the foundation portion and include a first sidewall and a second sidewall. At least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall includes at least one component having an interior cavity. The bracket assembly maintains the sidewalls in a predetermined configuration. The mount assembly includes a first outwardly-defined reinforcement column disposed adjacent the first sidewall and a second outwardly-defined reinforcement column disposed adjacent the second sidewall. The separator bar includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a plurality of apertures disposed along a length of the separator bar. The plurality of apertures includes a first set of apertures disposed proximate the first end and a second set of apertures disposed proximate the second end. The first and second sets of holes are sized to receive and retain each of the reinforcement posts at a location corresponding to a nominal width of the at least one component. Barriers are provided between the outwardly defined posts. The barrier is defined by an inner layer surrounded by an outer layer and the barrier is permeable. After the building material cures, the barrier and the at least one component remain in the foundation, and the barrier prevents backfill from filling a volume between a portion of the foundation and the outwardly-defined column.

In one embodiment, the barrier inner layer includes a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough; and a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough. In one embodiment, a system includes a drainage cavity defined by at least one component and first and second drainage cores, wherein the second drainage core is disposed substantially vertically and adjacent to at least one of a first and second outwardly defined reinforcement column, a second end of the second drainage core is disposed adjacent to a second end of the first drainage core, and a first end of the first drainage core is positioned upward from the second end of the first drainage core and positioned inward from at least one of the first and second outwardly defined reinforcement column, and wherein the at least one component is disposed on the first end of each of the first and second drainage cores.

In one embodiment, the barrier outer layer is a fabric. In one embodiment, the outer barrier layer is a geotextile having a grab tensile strength of greater than 100lbs and an elongation of greater than fifty percent (50%). In one embodiment, the barrier outer layer is a dielectric constant greater than 1s^-1And the permeability is at least 0.05 cm/s. In one embodiment, the barrier further comprises an adhesive disposed between the barrier inner layer and the barrier outer layer. In one embodiment, the at least one component is a perforated catheter.

A foundation base drainage and ventilation system according to the present invention includes a duct, a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough; and a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough. The fabric is wrapped around each of the conduit, the first drainage core and the second drainage core. The drain cavity is bounded by the conduit and a first drain core and a second drain core, wherein the second drain core is disposed substantially vertically and adjacent a first side of the conduit and a second end of the second drain core is disposed adjacent a second end of the first drain core, wherein the first end of the first drain core is positioned upward from the second end of the first drain core and adjacent a second side of the conduit; and wherein at least one member is provided on the first end of each of the first and second drain cores.

The foundation drainage and ventilation system comprises a duct; a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, a first plurality of channels extending therethrough, and a second plurality of channels extending therethrough, the second plurality of channels being substantially orthogonal to the first plurality of channels; a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, a first plurality of channels extending therethrough, and a second plurality of channels extending therethrough, the second plurality of channels being substantially orthogonal to the first plurality of channels; a fabric wrapped around each of the conduit, the first drainage core, and the second drainage core; wherein the conduit is disposed near a first end of each of the first and second drain cores, and a second end of each of the first and second drain cores extends outwardly from the conduit.

In one embodiment, the conduit is perforated. In one embodiment, the first and second drainage cores are permeable. In one embodiment, the fabric is permeable. In one embodiment, the fabric comprises a geotextile that exhibits a grab tensile strength of greater than 100lbs and an elongation of greater than fifty percent (50%). In one embodiment, the fabric comprises a fabric exhibiting a time greater than 1 second^-1And a permeability of at least 0.05 cm/s. In one embodiment, an adhesive is disposed between the fabric and the first and second drainage cores.

Additional embodiments are provided.

The inventors have discovered that the above-described brackets and molding systems can be used in a novel and non-obvious manner to provide and improve drainage, air and gas barriers, as air and thermal insulation sleeves, dry-faced interior walls and ceiling tiles to provide repair and improve air flow (into and out of the system), to provide and improve conditions within building/structural enclosures, irrigation, septic leaching sites, and the like, some of which have gravel-free embodiments. Applications for such systems may include, but are not limited to, agriculture, indoor and outdoor sports arenas, building structures for various purposes, and open-air structures and environments, including, but not limited to, driveways, parking lots, sidewalks, parking garages, airport runways, bridges, mines, roof systems, and the like.

The inventors have found that the above systems can be used together and individually in many commercial products. For example, a Bracket assembly 220 including one or more of the spacer rods 230 and two or more of the stiffening columns 240 may be purchased under the trademark Dri-Bracket, as generally shown at 1220 in fig. 22. As used herein, Dri-Bracket system 1220 may be used as a molding system to support components of sidewalls 262 and 264 (not shown in fig. 22) and rebar supports 157. As shown in fig. 16, 19, and 21, Dri-packer system 1220 may be used to form building structural components, such as the foundation and foundation of a structure of interest. When used with components such as

conduits

662A and 664A and

drainage cores

650 and 660, the Dri-packer system 1220 provides an integrated ventilation and drainage molding system (e.g., as shown in fig. 16 and 19) available under the trademark Dri-Form. As shown in FIG. 17, the conduit 762A and the

Drain cores

750 and 760 provide a separate Drain and vent system 700, which may be purchased under the trademark Dri-Drain. Dri-Bracket, Dri-Form and Dri-Drain are trademarks of DRFF, Seldton, Conn.

As shown in fig. 23A and 23B, the

barriers

610 and 710, including

drainage cores

650, 660, 750, 760, 850 and

outer fabrics

610B, 710B, 860 (fig. 16, 17, 18A, and 18B) may be used as an interface between a panel wall 1004 or floor 1006 and a filler (e.g., vertical and/or horizontal and internal and/or external configurations), and/or as a drainage blanket or pad (e.g., horizontal configuration) disposed at or below the surface of the backfill or foundation 12, and additionally as a ceiling, sub-floor component, etc. within a structure. For example, as shown in fig. 16, 17, 18A, and 18B, the

barriers

610 and 710 include an

inner drainage core

650 or 660, and 750 or 760, 850, surrounded by an

outer fabric

610B, 710B, and 860, such that the

fabrics

610B, 710B, and 860 enclose the

cores

650 or 660, 750 or 760, and 850. As mentioned above, the inventors have recognized that in such a fabric-core-fabric, a "layered" or "sandwich" configuration creates thermal breaks between the surfaces on which the configuration is disposed. For example, the temperature of the adjoining material is at least partially (if not completely) insulated by the opposing fabric layer; on one side is a siding or floor and on the opposite side is a fill of gravel or soil. The

inner drainage core

650, 660, 750, 760, 850 allows the air flow to further serve to isolate the temperature differential between the opposing fabric layers 610B, 710B, 860 and the adjoining material. The inventors have also discovered that this isolation can be further enhanced, supplemented or controlled as desired by introducing conditioned air or liquid within the

drainage cores

650 or 660 and 750 or 760. For example, warm or cold air or liquid may be passed through the

drainage cores

650, 660, 750, 760, 850 to adjust the temperature differential between adjoining materials. In one embodiment, the installation of the "layered" or "sandwich" configuration of the present invention from an underlying grade (e.g., as a drainage mat or foundation molding) to the ridge or uppermost roof component of the component promotes a healthier environment with the structure by moving stagnant air or gas within the building envelope that continues to traverse the channels formed by the

drainage cores

650, 660, 750, 760, 850. In another embodiment, the

fabric

660, 760, 860 is installed on only one side of the layer arrangement, e.g., leaving an exposed surface of the

drainage core

650, 750, 850 to provide an internal or external "batten system" for painting plaster, plaster (scratch or finish), tile, stone, brick or line.

In yet another embodiment, the inventors have recognized that the liquid, foam, or fire extinguishing chemical may be provided from, for example, a sprinkler or other fire extinguishing system disposed within the structure (not shown) such that the

barriers

610 and 710 may enhance the fire retardancy of the structure to help contain the structure fire. Still further, in one embodiment, a flame retardant material may be applied to the

fabric

610B, 710B, 860 to aid in the flame retardancy of the

barrier

610, 710. In yet another embodiment, the

barrier

610, 710 may include only one

fabric layer

610B, 710B, leaving a surface of the

drainage core

650, 660, 750, 760, 850 exposed. In this embodiment, the fabric layers 610B, 710B are installed facing an adjacent surface, for example, the inside or outside of the siding 1004, to receive gypsum, stucco or mortar to adhere the stone veneer thereto.

As shown in fig. 17 and 19, the conduit 762 and

drainage cores

750 and 760 encased in fabric 710B provide a separate drainage and ventilation system 700, also known as Dri-Drain. The inventors have discovered that in various configurations (shown in fig. 24A-24D), a system 700 including fabric wrapped

drainage cores

750, 760 and conduits 762 in a substantially flat and/or inclined horizontal 700A and vertical 700B configuration may be employed in agriculture, sports fields, golf course applications, and the like, to provide improved overall aeration, irrigation, drainage and ventilation systems. In this standalone embodiment, the system 700 is provided under the trademark Dri-Turf. For example, in one embodiment, a putting green 1100 is shown in fig. 25A and 25B and includes a subterranean arrangement 1160 of interconnected drainage and ventilation systems 700, Dri-Turf systems (e.g.,

drainage cores

750 and 760 and conduits 762 encased in fabric 710B). Dri-Turf is a trademark of DRFF, Selton, Connecticut, USA. As shown in FIG. 25B, a putting green 1100 comprising an arrangement 1160 of interconnected drainage and ventilation systems 700 includes a relatively short (in elevation) top layer 1110 of grass or synthetic material, a soil layer 1120, and a subsurface drainage and ventilation layer 1130. As shown in fig. 25B, various portions of the underground arrangement 1160 of the interconnected drainage and ventilation system 700 may carry drainage or flow capabilities such that the system 700 may capture, retain, and move a quantity of water, such as groundwater and sub-surface water, to an attached drainage system, enclosure, reservoir, or the like (not shown). As shown in fig. 25B, the drainage capacity of the drainage pad (horizontal) configuration of the

drainage cores

750 and 760 at point a where it meets the vertical configuration of the

drainage cores

750 and 760 is about twenty to fifty gallons per minute (20 to 50 gallons per minute; 75.71 to 189.27 liters per minute), the drainage capacity of the drainage cavity 770 is about one hundred twenty to four hundred eighty gallons per minute (120 to 480 gallons per minute; 454.25 to 1817 liters per minute), and the drainage capacity of the conduit 762 is about two hundred forty to nine hundred gallons per minute (240 to 900 gallons per minute; 908.50 to 3406.87 liters per minute).

Similarly, as shown in fig. 26A-26D, interconnected drainage and ventilation systems 700, Dri-Turf may be employed with a plurality of drainage conduits 1240 deployed underground below a playing field 1200. In one embodiment, as shown in fig. 26A and 26B, motion field 1200 has a width W from one edge 1202 to an opposite edge 1204_FIELDTwo hundred twenty feet (220 ft; 67.06 meters) and a centerline 1201 at one hundred and ten feet (110 ft; 33.53 meters).Playfield 1200 also includes a length L in playfield 1200_FIELDAnd opposite ends 1206 and 1208. In this embodiment, the inventors have found that an effective drainage and ventilation system would include interconnected piping for drainage and ventilation systems 700, Dri-Turf, which systems 700 are disposed at

opposite ends

1206 and 1208 of sports field 1200, and across length L_FIELDAnd across its width W_FIELDIn a plurality of rows 1210. Each of the systems 700 is coupled to a conduit 1242 within a plurality of conduits 1240 along a length L of the field 1200 from end 1206 to end 1208_FIELDArranged in a plurality of columns 1220. At the intersection of each of the respective rows 1210 and columns 1220, as shown in fig. 26D, the drainage and ventilation systems 700, Dri-Turf are arranged in a stacked configuration. In one embodiment shown in fig. 26A and 26B, the multiple rows 1210 of drainage and ventilation systems 700 are eight feet (8 ft; 2.44 meters) apart at the centerline 1201 of the sports field 1200 and then equally spaced sixteen feet (16 ft; 4.88 meters) apart between the centerlines of the respective systems 700 traveling from the centerline 1201 to each of the opposing

side lines

1202 and 1204 of the field 1200. In one embodiment, the last row of the rows 1210 near each

respective side line

1202, 1204 is six feet (6 in; 1.83 meters) from the

side line

1202 or 1204. In one embodiment, the plurality of posts 1220 of conduit 1242 are constructed of, for example, four to six inches (4 to 6 in; 10.16cm to 15.24cm) solid (non-perforated) tubing and run along the length L of the field 1200 from end 1206 to end 1208_FIELDSpaced 60 feet (60 ft; 18.29 meters) (center line of stack to center line of stack). In one embodiment, the plurality of conduits 1240 includes at least one conduit 1244 disposed at one or both of the

side wires

1202 and 1204 and coupled to each of the plurality of columns 1220 of conduits 1242. In one embodiment, the conduit 1244 is comprised of a solid (non-perforated) pipe, such as twelve inches (12 in; 30.48cm), that runs along the length L of the playing field 1200_FIELDExtended to carry or drain a volume of water, such as ground water and sub-surface water, the system 700 may capture, retain, and move the volume of water through the drainage and ventilation system 700 to an attached drainage system, enclosure, reservoir 1246, or the like.

A cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a playing field 1200 is shown in fig. 26C (along line 26C-26C). As shown in fig. 26C, playground 1200 includes a crown or hump at centerline 1201 and tapers down from centerline 1201 to

respective side lines

1202 and 1204. As shown in fig. 26C and 26D. A stacked configuration of drainage and ventilation systems 700 is provided at each intersection of a respective row 1210 and column 1220. As shown in fig. 26D, the drainage and venting system 700 includes

drainage cores

750 and 760 and a conduit 762 wrapped in a fabric 710B, as in the previous embodiment. In one embodiment, each of the stacks includes a system 700 that couples to one of the conduits 1242 arranged vertically at an intersection of one of the plurality of rows 1210 and one of the plurality of columns 1220, and then couples it to one of the conduits 1242 arranged horizontally and defining one of the plurality of columns 1220. As shown in fig. 26A and 26C, each of the conduits 1242 arranged horizontally within the plurality of columns 1220 is coupled to a conduit 1244 (shown at 1204) at one or both of the

side lines

1202 and 1204. As shown in fig. 26C and 26D, the sports field 1200 includes a top layer 1260 (which includes turf or synthetic turf), a soil layer 1270, and an underground drainage and ventilation layer including a stack of drainage and ventilation systems 700 and respective ones of the conduits 1242. As shown in fig. 26D, the stacked drainage and ventilation systems 700 are disposed in trenches 1300, the trenches 1300 forming rows 1210 in, for example, compacted soil 1290. In one embodiment, once the system 700 is installed, the trench 1300 is backfilled with sand 1280 or other media to allow later access to the system 700 if desired.

Figures 27A-27C illustrate examples of embodiments of a drainage and venting system 700 that may be disposed within a trench 1300. In fig. 27A, for example, the drainage and venting system 700 is configured wherein the conduit 762 is wrapped therearound by a drainage core 750 and fabric 710B, and wherein the drainage core 850 is disposed in a substantially horizontal drainage mat configuration over the wrapped conduit 762. For example, in fig. 27B, the drainage and ventilation system 700 is configured wherein the conduit 762 is wrapped therearound by the

drainage cores

750 and 760 and the fabric 710B, and then they extend vertically and upwardly from the conduit 762 at an oblique angle toward the top surface. Then, in a similar manner to that shown in fig. 24B, the

drain cores

750 and 760 are horizontally arranged. Alternatively, the vertically and upwardly extending

drainage cores

750 and 760 wrapped in the fabric 710B terminate in a drainage core 850 that is disposed in a substantially horizontal drainage mat configuration above the wrapped

cores

750 and 760. In yet another embodiment shown in fig. 27C, for example, the drainage and venting system 700 is configured wherein the conduits 762 are wrapped therearound by the

drainage cores

750 and 760 and the fabric 710B, which then extend vertically and upwardly from the conduits 762 toward the top surface (e.g., substantially non-angled vertical) parallel to the sidewalls of the channel 1300. The central portion 1302 of the channel 1300 above the conduit 762 and between the

drainage cores

750 and 760 is then filled in a side-by-side or back-to-back arrangement of the

drainage cores

750 and 760. The substantially vertical and side-by-side or back-to-back arrangement of the

drainage cores

750 and 760 wrapped in the fabric 710B terminates in a drainage core 850, which drainage core 850 is disposed in a substantially horizontal drainage pad configuration above the wrapped

cores

750 and 760. In one embodiment, as with the embodiment of fig. 26D, once the system 700 is installed in any of the example embodiments shown in fig. 27A-27C, the trench 1300 is backfilled with sand 1280 or other media to allow later access to the system 700, if desired. The inventors have found that the exemplary embodiment of fig. 27C is particularly useful for entering the drain and vent system 700 after initial installation. For example for maintenance or repair. The inventors have also discovered that improved drainage, ventilation, thermal conductivity, and other characteristics may be achieved by one or more arrangements, such as side-by-side and/or back-to-back configurations of the

drainage cores

650, 750, and 850, as shown in fig. 31. In one embodiment, the

drainage core

650, 750, 850 comprises a flat sheet 1852 similar to sheet 852 (which has a plurality of dimples 854 formed therein), wherein the dimples 854 are not formed. The flat sheet 1852 can be secured to portions of the dimples 854 in the sheet 852 to define channels formed between the dimples 852. In yet another embodiment, a mesh or grid sheet 1860 is added to a "layered" or "sandwich" configuration of, for example, the core 850 and fabric 860. In one embodiment, the mesh or grid sheet 1860 may be coupled to a low pressure source (not shown). The grid sheet 1860 may conduct a low voltage across the sheet, e.g., in rows and columns, and provide a notification system, e.g., when a change in conductivity and/or impedance is detected, e.g., at a point (the intersection of the respective row and column). The inventors have recognized that when the

drainage cores

650, 750, 850 comprising the grid sheet 1860 are disposed adjacent to a panel wall, for example, a change in conductivity or impedance may indicate a liquid, such as groundwater, leaking through the panel wall. In this embodiment, the drainage core is used, for example, as a notification and/or detection system of defects in the foundation.

Fig. 26A and 26C are referred to again. Larger conduits, such as conduit 1244, may be provided at one or both of the

side lines

1202 and 1204 of the playing field 1200. In one embodiment, a plurality of drainage members 1250 (shown in fig. 28A and 28B) are disposed at one or both of the

side wires

1202 and 1204 in a stacked configuration, wherein one of the vertically arranged conduits 1242 couples the respective drainage member 1250 to the conduit 1244. In one embodiment, the drainage member 1250 comprises a drain grid or screen 1252 having a plurality of apertures 1253 and a drain-receiving chamber 1254 to help prevent debris from flowing into the subterranean arrangement of the drainage system 700 and drain conduit 1240 beneath the athletic field 1200.

The inventors have discovered that certain environmental conditions, such as high temperature days and cooler nights, allow heat to radiate to and through the

drain cores

750, 760, 850, which can cause thermal expansion of the

cores

750, 760, 850 during thermal exposure and subsequently shrink as heat dissipates at night. If this movement is not otherwise accounted for in the installation of the drainage and ventilation system 700, the cycling of thermal expansion and contraction may cause the

cores

750, 760, and 850 to buckle or otherwise displace. In one embodiment shown in fig. 29, the expansion joints 1400 are configured within the structure of the

drain cores

750, 760 and 850. As illustrated above with reference to fig. 18A and 18B, the drainage core 850 is constructed of a sheet 852 having a plurality of dimples 854 formed therein in, for example, a row-column configuration. As shown in fig. 29, portions 1410 of sheet 852 do not include dimples 854, and are comprised of thinner, more flexible walls that allow and otherwise accommodate expansion and contraction by, for example, bending or folding inward and upward in response to expansion. In one embodiment, portion 1410 may include a configuration, pattern, or profile to more easily accommodate expansion and contraction, such as a series of raised portions forming a saw-tooth or saw-tooth profile.

In one embodiment, one or more of the

drainage cores

750, 760 and 850 of the horizontal drainage mat configuration are bonded or coupled using a bonding and restraining member 1450 as shown in fig. 30. In one embodiment, the coupling and restraining member 1450 includes an upper flange 1452 and a lower flange 1454 coupled by a central wall 1456 and defining a first interior cavity 1458A and a second interior cavity 1458B therebetween. The

interior cavities

1458A and 1458B of the coupling and limiting member 1450 are adapted to receive the horizontally-configured drain core 850. In one embodiment, the coupling and limiting member 1450 couples

adjacent drainage cores

850A and 850B and limits the flow of liquid, air, gas, etc., between the

cores

850A and 850B. In one aspect of the present invention, the coupling and restraining member 1450 prevents flow through the core 850 and may be used to allow even drainage.

In a further embodiment, it is seen that the drainage and ventilation system of the present invention provides a rain screen, outer and inner sheathing, also in place of gypsum board and ceiling tiles. The Dri-Drain wall system described above is easier and faster to install, in part because of its relatively low weight compared to conventional systems. The system has less influence on the environment, the transportation amount of the load of each truck is larger, and the system is enhanced to adapt to different building departments or industries. Embodiments provide improved fire resistance, thermal conductivity, and/or barrier, improved ventilation to remove poor air quality or gases in residential, commercial, industrial applications of use.

In addition, in applications involving athletic fields, the present invention provides reduced impact (G-MAX) to the field, thereby causing less injury, fatigue and wear to the player's body, as well as higher drainage flow and thermal conductivity and/or barrier to extend the seasonal use of the field. The systems described herein provide water retention, thermal conductivity, and/or a barrier in irrigated agriculture. Many irrigation and environmental problems in the agricultural and mining industries are addressed. When used with a low voltage applied across the core, may be used as a leak detection system for low-grade applications. The system may be used as a ceiling tile, as an improvement/supplement to HVAC systems, air repair and ventilation systems, and the like. The system described herein can be used as an inner jacket or plasterboard with light weight, faster installation, higher traffic per truck load, environmental friendliness, HVAC vents, air remediation, moisture protection. The system may also be used as an outer jacket and/or siding, battens and rain netting, each of which have light weight, thermal conductivity and/or barrier and moisture barrier properties.

The terms "first," "second," and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. Furthermore, the terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments thereof, one of ordinary skill in the art, upon reading and understanding the foregoing disclosure, will appreciate that various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments are within the spirit and scope of the present invention and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for retaining a flowable and curable building material to form a portion of a foundation for at least a portion of a structure of interest, the system comprising:

a sidewall to receive and retain the building material therebetween, the sidewall being disposed in a predetermined configuration to fit the portion of the foundation, the sidewall including a first sidewall and a second sidewall, at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall including at least one component having an internal cavity;

a bracket assembly to hold the sidewall in the predetermined configuration, the bracket assembly comprising:

a first outwardly-defined reinforcement column disposed adjacent the first sidewall,

a second externally-determined stiffening post disposed adjacent the second sidewall, an

A spacer bar having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a plurality of apertures disposed along a length of the spacer bar, the plurality of apertures including a first set of apertures disposed proximate the first end and a second set of apertures disposed proximate the second end, the first and second sets of apertures sized to receive and retain each of the reinforcement posts at a location corresponding to a nominal width of the at least one component; and

a barrier disposed between the outwardly bounded posts, the barrier defined by an inner layer surrounded by an outer layer, the barrier being permeable;

wherein the barrier and the at least one component remain in the foundation after the building material is cured; and

wherein the barrier prevents backfill from filling a volume between the portion of the foundation and the outwardly-defined column.

2. The system of claim 1, the barrier inner layer comprising:

a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough; and

a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough.

3. The system of claim 2, further comprising:

a drainage cavity defined by the at least one component and the first and second drainage cores;

wherein the second drain core is disposed substantially vertically and adjacent at least one of the first and second outwardly defined reinforcing posts, the second end of the second drain core is disposed adjacent the second end of the first drain core, and

wherein the first end of the first drain core is positioned upwardly from the second end of the first drain core and is positioned inwardly from at least one of the first and second outwardly defined stiffening posts; and

wherein the at least one member is disposed on the first end of each of the first and second drain cores.

4. The system of claim 1, the barrier outer layer comprising a fabric.

5. The system of claim 1, the outer barrier layer comprising:

geotextiles having a grab tensile strength of greater than 100lbs and an elongation of greater than fifty percent (50%).

6. The system of claim 1, the barrier outer layer comprising:

dielectric constant greater than 1s^-1And a permeability of at least 0.05 cm/s.

7. The system of claim 1, the barrier further comprising:

an adhesive disposed between the barrier inner layer and the barrier outer layer.

8. The system of claim 1, the at least one component comprising a perforated catheter.

9. A drainage and ventilation system for a foundation base, the system comprising:

a conduit;

a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough;

a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, and a plurality of channels extending therethrough;

a fabric wrapped around each of the conduit, the first and second drainage cores; and

a drain cavity defined by the conduit and the first and second drain cores;

wherein the second drain core is disposed substantially vertically and adjacent a first side of the conduit, the second end of the second drain core being disposed adjacent the second end of the first drain core,

wherein the first end of the first drainage core is positioned upward from the second end of the first drainage core and is positioned adjacent a second side of the conduit; and

10. A foundation drainage and ventilation system, the system comprising:

a conduit;

a first drainage core having a first end, a second end, a first plurality of channels extending therethrough, and a second plurality of channels extending therethrough, the second plurality of channels being substantially orthogonal to the first plurality of channels;

a second drainage core having a first end, a second end, a first plurality of channels extending therethrough, and a second plurality of channels extending therethrough, the second plurality of channels being substantially orthogonal to the first plurality of channels;

a fabric wrapped around each of the conduit, the first and second drainage cores;

wherein the conduit is disposed near the first end of each of the first and second drain cores, and the second end of each of the first and second drain cores extends outwardly from the conduit.

11. The system of claim 9, the conduit being perforated.

12. The system of claim 9, the first and second drainage cores being permeable.

13. The system of claim 9, the fabric being permeable.

14. The system of claim 9, the fabric comprising:

15. The system of claim 9, the fabric comprising:

dielectric constant greater than 1s^-1And a permeability of at least 0.05 cm/s.

16. The system of claim 9, further comprising:

an adhesive disposed between the fabric and the first and second drainage cores.