US20070245678A1 - Adjustable cross-tie for construction of walls - Google Patents
Adjustable cross-tie for construction of walls Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070245678A1 US20070245678A1 US11/396,008 US39600806A US2007245678A1 US 20070245678 A1 US20070245678 A1 US 20070245678A1 US 39600806 A US39600806 A US 39600806A US 2007245678 A1 US2007245678 A1 US 2007245678A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- tie
- cross
- walls
- slots
- sleeve portion
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 title description 6
- 239000004567 concrete Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 36
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 26
- 239000003292 glue Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 239000011449 brick Substances 0.000 abstract description 5
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 11
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 6
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 6
- 229920000122 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 239000004570 mortar (masonry) Substances 0.000 description 4
- XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Chemical compound C=CC=C.C=CC#N.C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 3
- -1 blocks Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 3
- JEIPFZHSYJVQDO-UHFFFAOYSA-N iron(III) oxide Inorganic materials O=[Fe]O[Fe]=O JEIPFZHSYJVQDO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229910001294 Reinforcing steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000004566 building material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000009415 formwork Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011440 grout Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004575 stone Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004793 Polystyrene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000002411 adverse Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002706 hydrostatic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002223 polystyrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000915 polyvinyl chloride Polymers 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/41—Connecting devices specially adapted for embedding in concrete or masonry
- E04B1/4178—Masonry wall ties
- E04B1/4185—Masonry wall ties for cavity walls with both wall leaves made of masonry
Definitions
- the invention relates to devices used in construction to build walls.
- the invention is a cross-tie that is used to connect two walls so that concrete or a similar material can be poured into the cavity between the two walls to create a single wall.
- the invention also relates to devices to attach masonry or other veneers to a wall.
- One technique utilizes concrete blocks.
- the blocks have relatively thin sides and a large cavity within each block, and may have webs extending across the cavity.
- a wall is constructed using the concrete blocks and mortar, resulting in multiple vertical cavities.
- concrete grout is poured into the cavity, which creates a dense and strong wall. The lateral pressures of the fluid concrete are contained by the inherent tensile strength of the concrete blocks.
- insulated concrete forms Another technique utilizes insulated concrete forms.
- This more modern method uses hollow blocks made of synthetic foam with webs or ties.
- the external sides of the blocks are secured to each other with ties or connectors that are bound to the sides via slots, holes, or by passing through the foam (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,363,683; 6,314,696; 5,625,9894; 6,321,49; and 7,889,310).
- the insulated concrete foam blocks interlock to create walls with cavities into which concrete grout is poured, creating a dense and strong wall.
- the lateral pressures of the fluid concrete are contained by the webs or ties.
- Forms, or walls are made of plywood, wood planks, or steel, creating a continuous planer cavity into which fluid concrete is poured.
- the lateral pressures of the fluid concrete are contained by passing ties or connectors through the cavity and the form and then containing the outwood lateral pressures from the outside.
- Methods to connect the opposing walls include a variety of ties that cross the cavity and protrude to the outside of the forms with wedges inserted into slots in the tie outside of the form walls (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,755,960; 1,875,136; 3,288,428; and 5,547,163).
- the wedges provide a very limited means of adjustability.
- An alternative method of providing tension across form walls is to securely fasten wires to the outside of the wall and then either twist the wires between the walls to create tension (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,692,166 and 3,728,836) or twist the wires outside of the cavity (see U.S. Pat. No. 1,800,802).
- a rigid two-piece tie that uses pegs on one piece to lock into holes on an opposing piece has also been disclosed (see U.S. Pat. No. 4,765,109). This device provides only limited adjustability defined by the distance between the pegs or between the holes. Ties can be installed into the form walls that cross the cavity and provide a rigid tensional tie (see U.S. Pat. No. 4,698,947).
- the existing methods have several disadvantages. Most of the devices cannot be easily adjusted to fit variations in the distance between the walls, and, if they are adjustable, it is only to a limited extent. Another disadvantage is that most of the devices must be attached to the outside of the walls and, therefore, the exterior portion of the device must be either removed after the concrete hardens or left intact on the exterior of the wall. Yet another disadvantage is that many of the devices are made of metal, and therefore, will have a limited lifespan due to rust. Additional disadvantages are that the existing materials are typically costly and are not environmentally “friendly.”
- Veneers (masonry or other materials) must be securely fastened to any wall to prevent failure of the veneer in the event of seismic activity, high winds, or other adverse conditions.
- Existing methods of fastening masonry veneers to concrete walls involve placing metal fasteners into the mortar between masonry courses of the veneer that fastens to parts incorporated into a previously-poured concrete wall (see U.S. Pat. No. 3,377,764).
- Fasteners can be mechanically bound to brick or block units by inserting parts of the fastener or dowels into cavities in the masonry units (see U.S. Pat. No. 779,268).
- the invention is a cross-tie used to connect two walls made of multiple bricks or blocks together so that concrete or other material can be poured into the cavity between the walls to form a single strong, dense wall.
- the cross-tie can also be used to attach decorative veneers to a wall.
- One embodiment of the cross-tie of the invention includes an inserting portion, a sleeve portion, and a wedge that is used to link the inserting portion and the sleeve portion.
- Another embodiment of the cross-tie includes an inserting portion and a sleeve portion that are linked by being glued together.
- cross-tie of the invention allows two walls to be fastened together with sufficient tensile strength to withstand lateral pressure, so that concrete or other similar materials can be poured into the cavity between the two walls without outward failure of the walls during the pouring of the concrete.
- Another advantage of the invention is that it is easily adjusted to fit walls of different thicknesses and can also be made in different dimensions.
- the invention is also advantageous in that it provides a platform to which wire, reinforcing steel, or other building materials can be attached as necessary in the construction of walls.
- a further advantage of the invention is that it can be used to fasten veneers securely to a wall.
- Other advantages of the invention are that it can be made of a variety of materials, including plastics, recycled materials, and others that are more cost-effective, durable, and environmentally “friendly” than are those used to make existing ties and fasteners.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of the embodiment of the cross-tie of the invention assembled with the wedge in place.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the inserting portion of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the sleeve portion of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the wedge of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 with pins in place.
- FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 with blocks.
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 in use with blocks.
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the cross-tie of FIG. 1 in use with walls.
- FIG. 10 is a cross-section view of FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 11 is a cross-section view of FIG. 8 showing a different placement of the wedge.
- FIG. 12 is a cross-section view of FIG. 8 showing a different placement of the wedge.
- FIG. 13 is a cross-section view of FIG. 8 showing a different placement of the wedge.
- FIG. 14 is an enlarged detail of FIG. 13 .
- FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the cross-tie of the invention assembled with glue.
- the cross-tie 10 of the invention includes three separate components: an inserting portion 12 , a sleeve portion 14 , and a wedge 16 .
- Cross-tie 10 may be made any size that is desired. The measurements described herein are examples only. It should be understood that the cross-tie 10 of the invention may be used with walls constructed of different types of materials (including blocks, bricks, concrete, pressed earth, adobe, modified concrete, stone, and other materials), and that the term “block” 90 is intended to cover walls of any of these materials.
- the inserting portion 12 is a unitary, linear piece having a center portion 18 , an outer end 20 , and an inner end 22 .
- the inserting portion 12 may be virtually any shape, length, width, and thickness, depending on the dimensions and structural requirements of the wall to be built. The length will depend on the thickness of the two walls that the cross-tie 10 will be used to connect and the thickness of the resulting wall to be built. The width and thickness will depend on the tensile strength required and the material used to make the cross-tie 10 . Measurements of 1 inch wide by 11 inches long by 1 ⁇ 4 inch thick have been found to work well with various types of plastics, although many other dimensions can be used.
- the inserting portion 12 is described herein as being flat, it need not be flat; it may be curved in cross-section or tubular or other shapes, as long as the inserting portion 12 can fit snugly within the sleeve portion 14 .
- the center portion 18 is linear and has an upper surface 24 and a lower surface 26 .
- the center portion 18 is contiguous with the outer end 20 at one end and the inner end 22 at the other end.
- the center portion 18 has slots 28 in it along its length.
- the length L, width W, and number of slots 28 may vary, depending on the ultimate tensile strength required for the cross-tie 10 and the strength of the material used to make the cross-tie 10 .
- the slots 28 may be cut so that one side of the slot is tapered from the upper surface 24 to the lower surface 26 , so as to provide closer contact and a stronger connection with the wedge 16 which has tapered side 84 .
- the slots 28 are tapered on side 100 , the side closest to the inner end 22 , at the same angle as the angle of the tapered side 84 of the wedge 16 , as shown in FIG. 14 .
- the center portion 18 may optionally have tabs 30 projecting horizontally outward from one of its sides.
- the tabs 30 may vary in dimensions and spacing depending on the structural requirements of the walls. The purpose of the tabs 30 is to provide additional texture that will aid in forming a mechanical bond with the concrete.
- the outer end 20 of the inserting portion 12 is that end of the inserting portion 12 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, is placed on the blocks 90 of the wall 88 .
- the outer end 20 has a lip portion 32 and a dowel portion 34 .
- the lip portion 32 of the outer end 20 is essentially circular. It is the same thickness as the center portion 18 . It is larger in diameter than the openings or recesses 94 in the tops of the blocks 90 comprising the walls 88 , such that when the cross-tie 10 is in use, the lip portion 32 rests on top of an opening 94 in a block 90 .
- the lip portion 32 preferably has openings 36 and grooves 37 in it, some of which may extend all the way through the dowel portion 34 , for fastening additional items to the cross-tie 10 , such as pins 38 as shown in FIG. 5 , reinforcing wire, or stucco tiles.
- the dowel portion 34 of the outer end 20 projects downward from the lip portion 32 . It is cylindrical and may be of virtually any length and diameter, but should be smaller in diameter than the lip portion 32 and approximately the same diameter as the openings 94 in the tops of the blocks 90 comprising the two walls 88 , such that it fits snugly within the opening 94 of a block 90 .
- the dowel portion 34 preferably has openings and recesses in it, that may extend vertically through all or part of it, so as to allow pins 38 or other items to be placed through the lip portion 32 and the dowel portion 34 into the opening 94 in a block 90 to provide, with mortar, a mechanical tie for other objects or to the overlying blocks. (See FIGS. 7 and 8 .)
- the inner end 22 of the inserting portion 12 is that end of the inserting portion 12 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, extends into the cavity 92 between the walls 88 .
- the inner end 22 is preferably squared off, although it can be shaped in other ways as well.
- the sleeve portion 14 is a unitary, linear piece having a center portion 40 , a middle portion 42 , an outer end 44 , and an inner end 46 .
- the sleeve portion 14 may be virtually any shape, length, width, and thickness, depending on the dimensions and structural requirements of the wall to be built. The length will depend on the thickness of the two walls 88 that the cross-tie 10 will be used to connect and the thickness of the resulting wall. The width and thickness will depend on tensile strength required and the material used to make the cross-tie 10 .
- sleeve portion 14 is described herein as being flat with two prongs, it need not be flat or have any prongs; it may be curved in cross-section or tubular or other shapes, as long as the inserting portion 12 can fit snugly within the sleeve portion 14 .
- the center portion 40 is a linear, double-pronged piece, having an upper prong 48 , a lower prong 50 , and a connecting portion 52 .
- the center portion 40 is contiguous with the middle portion 42 at one end.
- the other end of the center portion 40 consists of the ends 54 and 56 of the two prongs 48 and 50 , both of which comprise the inner end 46 of the sleeve portion 14 .
- the two prongs 48 and 50 are preferably the same length, width, and thickness.
- the two prongs 48 and 50 are joined together via the connecting portion 52 that also joins the center portion 40 to the middle portion 42 .
- the connecting portion 40 is preferably at right angles to the two prongs 48 and 50 and to the middle portion 42 , although other angles will work as well.
- the two prongs 48 and 50 are parallel to each other with the upper prong 48 overlying the lower prong 50 , forming a center space 58 in between the two prongs 48 and 50 .
- the upper prong 48 and the lower prong 50 each have an interior surface 60 and an exterior surface 62 .
- Each interior surface 60 is adjacent to the center space 58 , such that the center space 58 is bounded by the interior surface 60 of each prong.
- Each exterior surface 62 is adjacent to the cavity 92 between the walls 88 .
- the distance between the two prongs 48 and 50 is approximately the same as the thickness of the inserting portion 12 .
- the upper prong 48 and the lower prong 50 are connected to each other.
- projections 64 that extend from the upper prong 48 to the lower prong 50 , although they could be connected by solid sides such that the sleeve portion 14 is tubular. If projections 64 are used, they are preferably only along one side of the prongs. These projections 64 help maintain the center space 58 between the upper and lower prongs 48 and 50 .
- the prongs 48 and 50 preferably are not connected on their other sides, although projections could be utilized on the other sides if desired.
- the exterior surface 62 of the upper prong 48 may optionally include raised ribs 66 that extend across the upper prong 48 , perpendicular to the linear axis of the upper prong 48 . The purpose of the raised ribs 66 is to provide a mechanical bond with the concrete.
- the center portion 40 has slots 68 in it along its length, in both the upper prong 48 and the lower prong 50 .
- the length L′, width W′, number of slots 68 , and distance between the slots 68 may vary depending on the ultimate tensile strength required for the cross-tie 10 and the strength of the material used to make the cross-tie 10 ; however, these dimensions are the same for both the upper prong 48 and the lower prong 50 .
- the width W′ of the slots 68 in the sleeve portion 14 is the same as the width W of the slots 28 in the inserting portion 12 .
- the length L′ of the slots in the sleeve portion 14 may be the same as, or different from, the length L of the slots in the inserting portion 12 .
- the length L is greater than the length L′.
- the distance between the slots 68 in the sleeve portion 14 is different from the distance between the slots 28 in the inserting portion 12 .
- the ratio of the number of slots 28 located along a given distance in the inserting portion 12 to the number of slots 68 located along the same distance in the sleeve portion 14 is preferably about 3 : 4 , although ratios of 4:5, 5:6, and other ratios will also work well. The ratio can also be reversed, such that 4:3, 5:4, and 6:5 will also work.
- This arrangement of slots 28 and 68 is referred to herein as a vernier offset, as illustrated in FIGS. 11, 12 , 13 , and 14 .
- the middle portion 42 of the sleeve portion 14 is contiguous with the connecting portion 52 of the center portion 40 and the outer end 44 .
- the middle portion 42 is a flat piece that is continguous with, and the same thickness as, the lip portion 70 of the outer end 44 .
- the outer end 44 of the sleeve portion 14 is that end of the sleeve portion 14 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, is placed on the blocks 90 of the wall 88 .
- the outer end 44 has a lip portion 70 and a dowel portion 72 .
- the outer end 44 is preferably the same shape and dimensions as the outer end 20 of the inserting portion 12 .
- the lip portion 70 of the outer end 44 is essentially circular. It is the same thickness as the middle portion 42 . It is larger in diameter than the openings or recesses 94 in the tops of the blocks 90 of the walls 88 , such that when the cross-tie 10 is in use, the lip portion 70 rests on top of an opening 94 in a block 90 .
- the lip portion 70 preferably has openings 74 and grooves 76 in it, some of which may extend all the way through the dowel portion 72 , for fastening additional items to the cross-tie 10 , such as pins 38 as shown in FIG. 5 , reinforcing wire, or stucco tiles.
- the dowel portion 72 of the outer end 44 projects downward from the lip portion 70 . It is cylindrical and may be of virtually any length and diameter, but should be smaller in diameter than the lip portion 70 and approximately the same diameter as the openings or recesses 94 in the tops of the blocks 90 of the two walls 88 , such that it fits snugly within the opening 94 of a block 90 .
- the dowel portion 72 preferably has openings and recesses in it, that may extend vertically through all or part of it, so as to allow pins 38 or other items to be placed through the lip portion 70 and dowel portion 72 into the opening 94 in a block 90 to provide, with mortar, a mechanical tie for other objects or to the overlying blocks 90 . (See FIGS. 7 and 8 .)
- the dowel portion 72 is preferably the same shape and size as the dowel portion 34 of the inserting portion 12 .
- the inner end 46 of the sleeve portion 14 is that end of the sleeve portion 14 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, extends into the cavity 92 between the walls 88 .
- the inner end 46 consists of the ends 54 and 56 of the two prongs 48 and 50 .
- the inner end 46 is preferably squared off, although it can be shaped in other ways as well.
- the wedge 16 is a wedge-shaped piece.
- the wedge has a head 78 , a body 80 , and a tip 86 .
- the head 78 may be oval, rectangular, or circular and is essentially flat in order to allow it to be easily pushed into place by the user's hand, although other shapes will also work.
- the body 80 has a straight side 82 and a tapered side 84 that tapers from the head 80 to the tip 86 .
- the width W′′ of the body 80 is the same from the head 78 to the tip 86 , and is preferably about the same as the widths W and W′ of the slots 28 and 68 in the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 , respectively.
- the length L′′ of the body 80 decreases from the head 78 to the tip 86 due to angle of the tapered side 84 , and is about the same as the shorter of the lengths L and L′ of the slots 28 and 68 in the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 , respectively.
- the height H′′ of the body 80 of the wedge 16 is preferably approximately 33 ⁇ 4 inches, but may be longer or shorter depending on the slot dimensions and the size of the cross tie 10 .
- the cross-tie 10 is preferably made of ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic because of its low cost, glue-ability, high strength, and the availability of both pure and recycled feedstock for molding.
- ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
- Other moldable plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, polystyrene, and nylon may also be used.
- the cross-tie 10 may also be made of stamped metal or other ductile material, or other materials.
- FIGS. 7, 8 , 9 , and 10 show the cross-tie 10 in use.
- Two walls 88 with courses, or layers, of multiple blocks 90 are constructed to create a cavity 92 between the walls 88 into which concrete or another similar material can be poured.
- the blocks 90 must have openings or recesses 94 in them that are approximately the same diameter as the diameter of the dowel portions 34 and 72 of the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 of the cross-tie 10 .
- the cross-tie 10 is installed into the openings 94 in the blocks 90 along the walls 88 at fixed intervals.
- the number of courses and the length of the interval between cross-ties 10 may vary depending on the structural requirements and dimensions of the wall to be built.
- the dowel portion 34 of the inserting portion 12 is placed into the opening 94 in the top of a block 90 of one of the walls 88 , with the lower surface 26 of the center portion 18 in contact with the top of the block 90 and the inner end 22 extending into the cavity 92 between the two walls 88 .
- the dowel portion 72 of the sleeve portion 14 is similarly placed into the opening 94 in the top of a block 90 of the other wall 88 , located opposite the first block, with the inner end 46 extending into the cavity 92 between the walls 88 .
- the inserting portion 12 is then placed within the sleeve portion 14 .
- the center portion 18 of the inserting portion 12 is then slipped in between the two prongs 48 and 50 of the sleeve portion 14 , in the center space 58 , and adjusted so that it fits snugly into the center space 58 in a linear fashion, and the cross-tie 10 extends across the cavity 92 between the two walls 88 .
- the amount of the center portion 18 of the inserting portion 12 that is placed between the two prongs 48 and 50 may vary from a very small amount to the entire length of the center portion 18 , depending on the distance between the two walls 88 .
- the inner end 22 of the inserting portion 12 need not make contact with the connecting portion of the sleeve portion 14 , and, in most uses will not be in contact with the connecting portion 52 .
- the wedge 16 is placed through the chosen slots 28 and 68 by inserting the tip 86 of the body 80 into the upper prong 48 , through the inserting portion 12 , through the lower prong 50 , and down into the cavity 92 between the walls 88 .
- the head 78 of the wedge 16 is then pushed down until the body 80 extends far enough through the slots 28 and 68 to create the desired tension between the dowel portion 34 of the inserting portion 12 and the dowel portion 72 of the sleeve portion 14 .
- the head 78 will be located on or above the cross-tie 10 , depending on how far the body 80 is pushed in.
- the difference in spacing of the slots 28 and 68 in the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 , respectively allows the wedge 16 to be placed in a number of different positions along the length of the cross-tie 10 , which permits minute adjustments to be made in the length of the cross-tie 10 . (See FIGS. 11, 12 , and 13 .)
- This high degree of adjustability is a significant advantage of the cross-tie 10 , as it compensates for variations in the distance between the openings 94 of the blocks 90 of the two opposing walls 88 resulting from variations in the cavity 92 width, the location of the openings 94 in the blocks 90 , and the elevations of the two walls 88 .
- the gluable cross-tie 96 includes two separate components: the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 . Because the wedge 16 is not used in this embodiment, the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 do not need to have any slots. They may be made without any slots, or with slots to reduce the cost of the materials, if desired. As discussed above, the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 may be virtually any shape, length, width, and thickness. They may be essentially flat or curved in cross-section or tubular or other shapes, as long as the inserting portion 12 can fit snugly within the sleeve portion 14 .
- this cross-tie 96 utilizes glue 98 to link the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 together.
- the glue 98 that is used should be compatible with the particular plastic used to construct the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 .
- the preferable glue 98 is ABS glue.
- the inserting portion 12 is placed within the sleeve portion 14 .
- the inserting portion 12 is slipped between the two prongs 48 and 50 of the sleeve portion 14 in the same fashion as with the cross-tie 10 when it is used with the wedge 16 .
- glue 98 is applied to either or both the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 as desired.
- Glue 98 may be applied to the interior surfaces 60 of the two prongs 48 and 50 of the sleeve portion 14 and/or along the upper surface 24 and the lower surface 26 of the inserting portion 12 .
- the wedge 16 is not necessary when glue 98 is used, the wedge 16 may be used with the glueable cross-tie 96 in the same fashion as it is used with the cross-tie 10 without the glue 98 . In that case, the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 must be made with slots 28 and 68 , respectively, as they are when used with the wedge 16 .
- the wedge 16 creates a positive mechanical lock between the inserting portion 12 and the sleeve portion 14 .
- the wedge 16 also creates tension between the two walls 88 to counteract the outward lateral forces of the poured concrete.
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Abstract
The invention is a cross-tie used to connect two walls made of multiple bricks or blocks together so that concrete or other material can be poured into the cavity between the walls to form a single strong, dense wall. The cross-tie can also be used to attach decorative veneers to a wall. One embodiment of the cross-tie of the invention includes an inserting portion, a sleeve portion, and a wedge that is used to link the inserting portion and the sleeve portion. Another embodiment of the cross-tie includes an inserting portion and a sleeve portion that are linked by being glued together.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The invention relates to devices used in construction to build walls. In particular, the invention is a cross-tie that is used to connect two walls so that concrete or a similar material can be poured into the cavity between the two walls to create a single wall. The invention also relates to devices to attach masonry or other veneers to a wall.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Walls Made by Filling Cavities With Concrete
- Current construction methods utilize several different techniques to create a cavity between two parallel walls into which concrete or a similar material can be poured to create a single rigid wall. Because concrete is a high-density fluid, when it is poured into a cavity, it creates lateral pressures that force the opposing walls outward. Several techniques are used to create cavities that have adequate strength to withstand the lateral hydrostatic pressures of the concrete.
- One technique utilizes concrete blocks. The blocks have relatively thin sides and a large cavity within each block, and may have webs extending across the cavity. First, a wall is constructed using the concrete blocks and mortar, resulting in multiple vertical cavities. Next, concrete grout is poured into the cavity, which creates a dense and strong wall. The lateral pressures of the fluid concrete are contained by the inherent tensile strength of the concrete blocks.
- Another technique utilizes insulated concrete forms. This more modern method uses hollow blocks made of synthetic foam with webs or ties. The external sides of the blocks are secured to each other with ties or connectors that are bound to the sides via slots, holes, or by passing through the foam (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,363,683; 6,314,696; 5,625,9894; 6,321,49; and 7,889,310). The insulated concrete foam blocks interlock to create walls with cavities into which concrete grout is poured, creating a dense and strong wall. The lateral pressures of the fluid concrete are contained by the webs or ties.
- Another technique utilizes formwork. Forms, or walls are made of plywood, wood planks, or steel, creating a continuous planer cavity into which fluid concrete is poured. The lateral pressures of the fluid concrete are contained by passing ties or connectors through the cavity and the form and then containing the outwood lateral pressures from the outside. Methods to connect the opposing walls include a variety of ties that cross the cavity and protrude to the outside of the forms with wedges inserted into slots in the tie outside of the form walls (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,755,960; 1,875,136; 3,288,428; and 5,547,163). The wedges provide a very limited means of adjustability. An alternative method of providing tension across form walls is to securely fasten wires to the outside of the wall and then either twist the wires between the walls to create tension (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,692,166 and 3,728,836) or twist the wires outside of the cavity (see U.S. Pat. No. 1,800,802). A rigid two-piece tie that uses pegs on one piece to lock into holes on an opposing piece has also been disclosed (see U.S. Pat. No. 4,765,109). This device provides only limited adjustability defined by the distance between the pegs or between the holes. Ties can be installed into the form walls that cross the cavity and provide a rigid tensional tie (see U.S. Pat. No. 4,698,947).
- The existing methods have several disadvantages. Most of the devices cannot be easily adjusted to fit variations in the distance between the walls, and, if they are adjustable, it is only to a limited extent. Another disadvantage is that most of the devices must be attached to the outside of the walls and, therefore, the exterior portion of the device must be either removed after the concrete hardens or left intact on the exterior of the wall. Yet another disadvantage is that many of the devices are made of metal, and therefore, will have a limited lifespan due to rust. Additional disadvantages are that the existing materials are typically costly and are not environmentally “friendly.”
- Attachment of Veneers to a Wall
- Veneers (masonry or other materials) must be securely fastened to any wall to prevent failure of the veneer in the event of seismic activity, high winds, or other adverse conditions. Existing methods of fastening masonry veneers to concrete walls involve placing metal fasteners into the mortar between masonry courses of the veneer that fastens to parts incorporated into a previously-poured concrete wall (see U.S. Pat. No. 3,377,764). Fasteners can be mechanically bound to brick or block units by inserting parts of the fastener or dowels into cavities in the masonry units (see U.S. Pat. No. 779,268).
- The disadvantages of the existing methods are that the form-work must be removed and the veneer wall constructed later, which increases the cost of construction. In addition, the metal fasteners rust and weaken over time.
- Thus, there is a need for a device that connects two walls together that will have sufficient tensile strength to withstand the lateral pressures of the fluid concrete or other materials used to create walls. There is also a need for a device that can be easily adjusted during the construction of a wall to fit walls of different widths or thicknesses. Further, there is a need for devices using materials that do not rust, and are long-lasting, cost-effective, and environmentally“friendly”.
- The invention is a cross-tie used to connect two walls made of multiple bricks or blocks together so that concrete or other material can be poured into the cavity between the walls to form a single strong, dense wall. The cross-tie can also be used to attach decorative veneers to a wall. One embodiment of the cross-tie of the invention includes an inserting portion, a sleeve portion, and a wedge that is used to link the inserting portion and the sleeve portion. Another embodiment of the cross-tie includes an inserting portion and a sleeve portion that are linked by being glued together.
- One advantage of the cross-tie of the invention is that it allows two walls to be fastened together with sufficient tensile strength to withstand lateral pressure, so that concrete or other similar materials can be poured into the cavity between the two walls without outward failure of the walls during the pouring of the concrete. Another advantage of the invention is that it is easily adjusted to fit walls of different thicknesses and can also be made in different dimensions. The invention is also advantageous in that it provides a platform to which wire, reinforcing steel, or other building materials can be attached as necessary in the construction of walls. A further advantage of the invention is that it can be used to fasten veneers securely to a wall. Other advantages of the invention are that it can be made of a variety of materials, including plastics, recycled materials, and others that are more cost-effective, durable, and environmentally “friendly” than are those used to make existing ties and fasteners.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of the embodiment of the cross-tie of the invention assembled with the wedge in place. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the inserting portion of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the sleeve portion of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the wedge of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 with pins in place. -
FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 with blocks. -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 in use with blocks. -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the cross-tie ofFIG. 1 in use with walls. -
FIG. 10 is a cross-section view ofFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 11 is a cross-section view ofFIG. 8 showing a different placement of the wedge. -
FIG. 12 is a cross-section view ofFIG. 8 showing a different placement of the wedge. -
FIG. 13 is a cross-section view ofFIG. 8 showing a different placement of the wedge. -
FIG. 14 is an enlarged detail ofFIG. 13 . -
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the cross-tie of the invention assembled with glue. - Cross-Tie With Wedge
- As shown in
FIGS. 1, 8 , and 9, thecross-tie 10 of the invention includes three separate components: an insertingportion 12, asleeve portion 14, and awedge 16.Cross-tie 10 may be made any size that is desired. The measurements described herein are examples only. It should be understood that thecross-tie 10 of the invention may be used with walls constructed of different types of materials (including blocks, bricks, concrete, pressed earth, adobe, modified concrete, stone, and other materials), and that the term “block” 90 is intended to cover walls of any of these materials. - As shown in
FIGS. 1, 2 , and 6, the insertingportion 12 is a unitary, linear piece having acenter portion 18, anouter end 20, and aninner end 22. The insertingportion 12 may be virtually any shape, length, width, and thickness, depending on the dimensions and structural requirements of the wall to be built. The length will depend on the thickness of the two walls that the cross-tie 10 will be used to connect and the thickness of the resulting wall to be built. The width and thickness will depend on the tensile strength required and the material used to make thecross-tie 10. Measurements of 1 inch wide by 11 inches long by ¼ inch thick have been found to work well with various types of plastics, although many other dimensions can be used. Although the insertingportion 12 is described herein as being flat, it need not be flat; it may be curved in cross-section or tubular or other shapes, as long as the insertingportion 12 can fit snugly within thesleeve portion 14. - The
center portion 18 is linear and has anupper surface 24 and alower surface 26. Thecenter portion 18 is contiguous with theouter end 20 at one end and theinner end 22 at the other end. Thecenter portion 18 hasslots 28 in it along its length. The length L, width W, and number ofslots 28 may vary, depending on the ultimate tensile strength required for the cross-tie 10 and the strength of the material used to make thecross-tie 10. Theslots 28 may be cut so that one side of the slot is tapered from theupper surface 24 to thelower surface 26, so as to provide closer contact and a stronger connection with thewedge 16 which has taperedside 84. Preferably, theslots 28 are tapered onside 100, the side closest to theinner end 22, at the same angle as the angle of the taperedside 84 of thewedge 16, as shown inFIG. 14 . - The
center portion 18 may optionally havetabs 30 projecting horizontally outward from one of its sides. Thetabs 30 may vary in dimensions and spacing depending on the structural requirements of the walls. The purpose of thetabs 30 is to provide additional texture that will aid in forming a mechanical bond with the concrete. - The
outer end 20 of the insertingportion 12 is that end of the insertingportion 12 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, is placed on theblocks 90 of thewall 88. Theouter end 20 has alip portion 32 and adowel portion 34. - The
lip portion 32 of theouter end 20 is essentially circular. It is the same thickness as thecenter portion 18. It is larger in diameter than the openings or recesses 94 in the tops of theblocks 90 comprising thewalls 88, such that when the cross-tie 10 is in use, thelip portion 32 rests on top of anopening 94 in ablock 90. Thelip portion 32 preferably hasopenings 36 andgrooves 37 in it, some of which may extend all the way through thedowel portion 34, for fastening additional items to the cross-tie 10, such aspins 38 as shown inFIG. 5 , reinforcing wire, or stucco tiles. - The
dowel portion 34 of theouter end 20 projects downward from thelip portion 32. It is cylindrical and may be of virtually any length and diameter, but should be smaller in diameter than thelip portion 32 and approximately the same diameter as theopenings 94 in the tops of theblocks 90 comprising the twowalls 88, such that it fits snugly within theopening 94 of ablock 90. Thedowel portion 34 preferably has openings and recesses in it, that may extend vertically through all or part of it, so as to allowpins 38 or other items to be placed through thelip portion 32 and thedowel portion 34 into theopening 94 in ablock 90 to provide, with mortar, a mechanical tie for other objects or to the overlying blocks. (SeeFIGS. 7 and 8 .) - The
inner end 22 of the insertingportion 12 is that end of the insertingportion 12 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, extends into thecavity 92 between thewalls 88. Theinner end 22 is preferably squared off, although it can be shaped in other ways as well. - As shown in
FIGS. 1, 3 and 6, thesleeve portion 14 is a unitary, linear piece having acenter portion 40, amiddle portion 42, anouter end 44, and aninner end 46. Thesleeve portion 14 may be virtually any shape, length, width, and thickness, depending on the dimensions and structural requirements of the wall to be built. The length will depend on the thickness of the twowalls 88 that the cross-tie 10 will be used to connect and the thickness of the resulting wall. The width and thickness will depend on tensile strength required and the material used to make thecross-tie 10. Measurements of 1 inch wide by 8½ inches long by ½ inch thick (including the thickness of the twoprongs sleeve portion 14 is described herein as being flat with two prongs, it need not be flat or have any prongs; it may be curved in cross-section or tubular or other shapes, as long as the insertingportion 12 can fit snugly within thesleeve portion 14. - The
center portion 40 is a linear, double-pronged piece, having anupper prong 48, alower prong 50, and a connectingportion 52. Thecenter portion 40 is contiguous with themiddle portion 42 at one end. The other end of thecenter portion 40 consists of theends prongs inner end 46 of thesleeve portion 14. The twoprongs prongs portion 52 that also joins thecenter portion 40 to themiddle portion 42. The connectingportion 40 is preferably at right angles to the twoprongs middle portion 42, although other angles will work as well. The twoprongs upper prong 48 overlying thelower prong 50, forming acenter space 58 in between the twoprongs upper prong 48 and thelower prong 50 each have aninterior surface 60 and anexterior surface 62. Eachinterior surface 60 is adjacent to thecenter space 58, such that thecenter space 58 is bounded by theinterior surface 60 of each prong. Eachexterior surface 62 is adjacent to thecavity 92 between thewalls 88. The distance between the twoprongs portion 12. Theupper prong 48 and thelower prong 50 are connected to each other. They are shown as connected at various points along their lengths byprojections 64 that extend from theupper prong 48 to thelower prong 50, although they could be connected by solid sides such that thesleeve portion 14 is tubular. Ifprojections 64 are used, they are preferably only along one side of the prongs. Theseprojections 64 help maintain thecenter space 58 between the upper andlower prongs prongs exterior surface 62 of theupper prong 48 may optionally include raisedribs 66 that extend across theupper prong 48, perpendicular to the linear axis of theupper prong 48. The purpose of the raisedribs 66 is to provide a mechanical bond with the concrete. - The
center portion 40 hasslots 68 in it along its length, in both theupper prong 48 and thelower prong 50. The length L′, width W′, number ofslots 68, and distance between theslots 68 may vary depending on the ultimate tensile strength required for the cross-tie 10 and the strength of the material used to make the cross-tie 10; however, these dimensions are the same for both theupper prong 48 and thelower prong 50. The width W′ of theslots 68 in thesleeve portion 14 is the same as the width W of theslots 28 in the insertingportion 12. The length L′ of the slots in thesleeve portion 14 may be the same as, or different from, the length L of the slots in the insertingportion 12. In the embodiment illustrated here, the length L is greater than the length L′. Preferably, the distance between theslots 68 in thesleeve portion 14 is different from the distance between theslots 28 in the insertingportion 12. The ratio of the number ofslots 28 located along a given distance in the insertingportion 12 to the number ofslots 68 located along the same distance in thesleeve portion 14 is preferably about 3:4, although ratios of 4:5, 5:6, and other ratios will also work well. The ratio can also be reversed, such that 4:3, 5:4, and 6:5 will also work. This arrangement ofslots FIGS. 11, 12 , 13, and 14. - The
middle portion 42 of thesleeve portion 14 is contiguous with the connectingportion 52 of thecenter portion 40 and theouter end 44. Themiddle portion 42 is a flat piece that is continguous with, and the same thickness as, thelip portion 70 of theouter end 44. - The
outer end 44 of thesleeve portion 14 is that end of thesleeve portion 14 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, is placed on theblocks 90 of thewall 88. Theouter end 44 has alip portion 70 and adowel portion 72. Theouter end 44 is preferably the same shape and dimensions as theouter end 20 of the insertingportion 12. - The
lip portion 70 of theouter end 44 is essentially circular. It is the same thickness as themiddle portion 42. It is larger in diameter than the openings or recesses 94 in the tops of theblocks 90 of thewalls 88, such that when the cross-tie 10 is in use, thelip portion 70 rests on top of anopening 94 in ablock 90. Thelip portion 70 preferably hasopenings 74 andgrooves 76 in it, some of which may extend all the way through thedowel portion 72, for fastening additional items to the cross-tie 10, such aspins 38 as shown inFIG. 5 , reinforcing wire, or stucco tiles. - The
dowel portion 72 of theouter end 44 projects downward from thelip portion 70. It is cylindrical and may be of virtually any length and diameter, but should be smaller in diameter than thelip portion 70 and approximately the same diameter as the openings or recesses 94 in the tops of theblocks 90 of the twowalls 88, such that it fits snugly within theopening 94 of ablock 90. Thedowel portion 72 preferably has openings and recesses in it, that may extend vertically through all or part of it, so as to allowpins 38 or other items to be placed through thelip portion 70 anddowel portion 72 into theopening 94 in ablock 90 to provide, with mortar, a mechanical tie for other objects or to the overlying blocks 90. (SeeFIGS. 7 and 8 .) Thedowel portion 72 is preferably the same shape and size as thedowel portion 34 of the insertingportion 12. - The
inner end 46 of thesleeve portion 14 is that end of thesleeve portion 14 that, when the cross-tie 10 is in use, extends into thecavity 92 between thewalls 88. Theinner end 46 consists of theends prongs inner end 46 is preferably squared off, although it can be shaped in other ways as well. - As shown in
FIGS. 4 and 6 , thewedge 16 is a wedge-shaped piece. The wedge has ahead 78, abody 80, and atip 86. Thehead 78 may be oval, rectangular, or circular and is essentially flat in order to allow it to be easily pushed into place by the user's hand, although other shapes will also work. Thebody 80 has astraight side 82 and atapered side 84 that tapers from thehead 80 to thetip 86. The width W″ of thebody 80 is the same from thehead 78 to thetip 86, and is preferably about the same as the widths W and W′ of theslots portion 12 and thesleeve portion 14, respectively. The length L″ of thebody 80 decreases from thehead 78 to thetip 86 due to angle of the taperedside 84, and is about the same as the shorter of the lengths L and L′ of theslots portion 12 and thesleeve portion 14, respectively. The height H″ of thebody 80 of thewedge 16 is preferably approximately 3¾ inches, but may be longer or shorter depending on the slot dimensions and the size of thecross tie 10. - The cross-tie 10 is preferably made of ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic because of its low cost, glue-ability, high strength, and the availability of both pure and recycled feedstock for molding. Other moldable plastics such as polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, polystyrene, and nylon may also be used. The cross-tie 10 may also be made of stamped metal or other ductile material, or other materials.
-
FIGS. 7, 8 , 9, and 10 show the cross-tie 10 in use. Twowalls 88 with courses, or layers, of multiple blocks 90 (theblocks 90 may be bricks, concrete, pressed earth, adobe, modified concrete, stone, or other materials) are constructed to create acavity 92 between thewalls 88 into which concrete or another similar material can be poured. Theblocks 90 must have openings or recesses 94 in them that are approximately the same diameter as the diameter of thedowel portions portion 12 and thesleeve portion 14 of thecross-tie 10. After a predetermined number of courses have been laid, thecross-tie 10 is installed into theopenings 94 in theblocks 90 along thewalls 88 at fixed intervals. The number of courses and the length of the interval betweencross-ties 10 may vary depending on the structural requirements and dimensions of the wall to be built. - As shown in
FIGS. 7, 8 , 9, and 10, thedowel portion 34 of the insertingportion 12 is placed into theopening 94 in the top of ablock 90 of one of thewalls 88, with thelower surface 26 of thecenter portion 18 in contact with the top of theblock 90 and theinner end 22 extending into thecavity 92 between the twowalls 88. Thedowel portion 72 of thesleeve portion 14 is similarly placed into theopening 94 in the top of ablock 90 of theother wall 88, located opposite the first block, with theinner end 46 extending into thecavity 92 between thewalls 88. The insertingportion 12 is then placed within thesleeve portion 14. In the embodiment shown, thecenter portion 18 of the insertingportion 12 is then slipped in between the twoprongs sleeve portion 14, in thecenter space 58, and adjusted so that it fits snugly into thecenter space 58 in a linear fashion, and the cross-tie 10 extends across thecavity 92 between the twowalls 88. The amount of thecenter portion 18 of the insertingportion 12 that is placed between the twoprongs center portion 18, depending on the distance between the twowalls 88. Thus, theinner end 22 of the insertingportion 12 need not make contact with the connecting portion of thesleeve portion 14, and, in most uses will not be in contact with the connectingportion 52. - After the inserting
portion 12 is placed into thesleeve portion 14, because of the vernier offset arrangement of theslots 28 of the insertingportion 12 and theslots 68 of thesleeve portion 14, at least one pair of theslots 68 in the twoprongs sleeve portion 14 should be at least partially aligned with at least oneslot 28 in thecenter portion 18 of the insertingportion 12. In most cases, it will be possible to place thewedge 16 in more than one set ofslots wedge 16 in certain sets of slots will cause thedowel portion 34 of the insertingportion 12 and thedowel portion 72 of thesleeve portion 14 to pull apart, while placing thewedge 16 in other sets of slots will cause the twodowel portions walls 88 to withstand the lateral pressure created by concrete or other material poured into thecavity 92 between thewalls 88, it is desirable to create tension. Thus, thewedge 16 should be placed in a set ofslots slots wedge 16 can be placed to create the desired tension. (SeeFIGS. 11, 12 , and 14, which illustrate the vernier offset arrangement of theslots - The
wedge 16 is placed through the chosenslots tip 86 of thebody 80 into theupper prong 48, through the insertingportion 12, through thelower prong 50, and down into thecavity 92 between thewalls 88. Thehead 78 of thewedge 16 is then pushed down until thebody 80 extends far enough through theslots dowel portion 34 of the insertingportion 12 and thedowel portion 72 of thesleeve portion 14. Thehead 78 will be located on or above the cross-tie 10, depending on how far thebody 80 is pushed in. Once thecross-tie 10 is installed in twoblocks 90 with thewedge 16 inserted, a positive tensional lock is created between the blocks. - The difference in spacing of the
slots portion 12 and thesleeve portion 14, respectively (the arrangement of the slots in a vernier offset) allows thewedge 16 to be placed in a number of different positions along the length of the cross-tie 10, which permits minute adjustments to be made in the length of thecross-tie 10. (SeeFIGS. 11, 12 , and 13.) This high degree of adjustability is a significant advantage of the cross-tie 10, as it compensates for variations in the distance between theopenings 94 of theblocks 90 of the two opposingwalls 88 resulting from variations in thecavity 92 width, the location of theopenings 94 in theblocks 90, and the elevations of the twowalls 88. - Other building materials, including but not limited to, reinforcing steel, insulation, conduit for electrical wires, and pipe for plumbing can be installed in the
cavity 92 between the twowalls 88 before the concrete is poured. After the cross-ties 10 are installed, the concrete or other material is poured into thecavity 92 covering the cross-ties 10 in the lower courses and up to the cross-ties 10 in the top course. - Glueable Cross-Tie
- As shown in
FIG. 15 , thegluable cross-tie 96 includes two separate components: the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14. Because thewedge 16 is not used in this embodiment, the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14 do not need to have any slots. They may be made without any slots, or with slots to reduce the cost of the materials, if desired. As discussed above, the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14 may be virtually any shape, length, width, and thickness. They may be essentially flat or curved in cross-section or tubular or other shapes, as long as the insertingportion 12 can fit snugly within thesleeve portion 14. - Instead of utilizing
wedge 16, thiscross-tie 96 utilizesglue 98 to link the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14 together. Theglue 98 that is used should be compatible with the particular plastic used to construct the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14. For example, if ABS plastic is used, thepreferable glue 98 is ABS glue. - To use the
gluable cross-tie 96, the insertingportion 12 is placed within thesleeve portion 14. In the embodiment shown, the insertingportion 12 is slipped between the twoprongs sleeve portion 14 in the same fashion as with the cross-tie 10 when it is used with thewedge 16. Before placing the insertingportion 12, however,glue 98 is applied to either or both the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14 as desired.Glue 98 may be applied to the interior surfaces 60 of the twoprongs sleeve portion 14 and/or along theupper surface 24 and thelower surface 26 of the insertingportion 12. - Although the
wedge 16 is not necessary whenglue 98 is used, thewedge 16 may be used with theglueable cross-tie 96 in the same fashion as it is used with the cross-tie 10 without theglue 98. In that case, the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14 must be made withslots wedge 16. Thewedge 16 creates a positive mechanical lock between the insertingportion 12 and thesleeve portion 14. Thewedge 16 also creates tension between the twowalls 88 to counteract the outward lateral forces of the poured concrete. - The invention has been described above with the reference to the preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art may envision other embodiments and variations of the invention that fall within the scope of the claims.
Claims (6)
1. A cross-tie, comprising:
(a) an inserting portion having an outer end for placing into an opening in a block of a first wall, an inner end, and a center portion with slots;
(b) a sleeve portion having an outer end for placing into an opening in a block of a second wall, an inner end, and a center portion with slots; and
(c) a wedge;
(d) wherein said center portion of said inserting portion is placed within said sleeve portion such that said cross-tie extends across a cavity between the first and second walls, and further, wherein said wedge is placed through said slots in said inserting portion and said slots in said sleeve portion to link said inserting portion and said sleeve portion.
2. The cross-tie of claim 1 , wherein said slots in said inserting portion and said slots in said sleeve portion are arranged in a vernier offset, such that at least one pair of said slots in said sleeve portion is at least partially aligned with at least one slot in said inserting portion.
3. The cross-tie of claim 1 , wherein said center portion of said sleeve portion includes an upper prong and a lower prong; wherein said slots are located in both said upper prong and said lower prong; and further, wherein said wedge is placed through a slot in said upper prong, a slot in said inserting portion, and a slot in said lower prong.
4. The cross-tie of claim 1 , wherein said wedge includes a head, a body having a straight side and a tapered side, and a tip.
5. The cross-tie of claim 1 , wherein said cross-tie is used to connect the first wall and the second wall, and concrete or other material is poured into the cavity between the first and second walls to create a single wall.
6. A cross-tie, comprising:
(a) an inserting portion having an outer end for placing into an opening in a block of a first wall, an inner end, and a center portion;
(b) a sleeve portion having an outer end for placing into an opening in a block of a second wall, an inner end, and a center portion, wherein said center portion of said inserting portion is placed within said sleeve portion; and
(c) glue that is applied to link said inserting portion and said sleeve portion.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/396,008 US20070245678A1 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2006-03-31 | Adjustable cross-tie for construction of walls |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/396,008 US20070245678A1 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2006-03-31 | Adjustable cross-tie for construction of walls |
Publications (1)
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US20070245678A1 true US20070245678A1 (en) | 2007-10-25 |
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ID=38618121
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US11/396,008 Abandoned US20070245678A1 (en) | 2006-03-31 | 2006-03-31 | Adjustable cross-tie for construction of walls |
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US20090041552A1 (en) * | 2007-08-10 | 2009-02-12 | Westblock Systems, Inc. | Retaining wall system |
US20150354234A1 (en) * | 2013-01-25 | 2015-12-10 | Jong Woo Kang | Flat tie and method of constructing form using flat tie and nonmetallic form board |
GB2546297A (en) * | 2016-01-14 | 2017-07-19 | Hubert Jenkins & Partners | Retaining structure assembly |
US20180371744A1 (en) * | 2013-12-07 | 2018-12-27 | Dean Holding Corporation | Bridge For Use In Constructing A Multi-Stage Block Wall |
US10458092B1 (en) * | 2018-06-06 | 2019-10-29 | Horacio Correia | Modular retaining wall system and façade |
CN110984396A (en) * | 2019-12-24 | 2020-04-10 | 福州鼓楼纹英建筑工程有限责任公司 | Rear-mounted anchor net and operation method thereof |
CN113463933A (en) * | 2021-07-01 | 2021-10-01 | 玉溪市明瑞建设工程有限公司 | House building wall structure and construction method |
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Cited By (10)
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US20090041552A1 (en) * | 2007-08-10 | 2009-02-12 | Westblock Systems, Inc. | Retaining wall system |
US20150354234A1 (en) * | 2013-01-25 | 2015-12-10 | Jong Woo Kang | Flat tie and method of constructing form using flat tie and nonmetallic form board |
US20180371744A1 (en) * | 2013-12-07 | 2018-12-27 | Dean Holding Corporation | Bridge For Use In Constructing A Multi-Stage Block Wall |
US10718108B2 (en) * | 2013-12-07 | 2020-07-21 | Dean Holding Corporation | Bridge for use in constructing a multi-stage block wall |
US10889980B2 (en) | 2013-12-07 | 2021-01-12 | Dean Holding Corporation | Method for constructing a multi-stage block wall |
GB2546297A (en) * | 2016-01-14 | 2017-07-19 | Hubert Jenkins & Partners | Retaining structure assembly |
GB2546297B (en) * | 2016-01-14 | 2020-10-07 | Hubert Jenkins & Partners | Retaining structure assembly |
US10458092B1 (en) * | 2018-06-06 | 2019-10-29 | Horacio Correia | Modular retaining wall system and façade |
CN110984396A (en) * | 2019-12-24 | 2020-04-10 | 福州鼓楼纹英建筑工程有限责任公司 | Rear-mounted anchor net and operation method thereof |
CN113463933A (en) * | 2021-07-01 | 2021-10-01 | 玉溪市明瑞建设工程有限公司 | House building wall structure and construction method |
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