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United States Patent Application	20070175174
Kind Code	A1
Bruno; Stephen M.	August 2, 2007

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Claims

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1. A retractable brace comprising: a telescoping portion including a first tube and a second tube, wherein the first tube includes a plurality of adjustment holes; a first bracket coupled to a first end of the telescoping portion; and a second bracket coupled to a second end of the telescoping portion, the second bracket including a plurality pin holes that align with the plurality of attachment holes.

2. The retractable brace of claim 1 wherein the first bracket comprises a first attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the first attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 4 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the first attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings; and wherein the second bracket comprises a second attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the second attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 4 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the second attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings.

3. The retractable brace of claim 1 wherein the first bracket comprises a first attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the first attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 2.5 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the first attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings; and wherein the second bracket comprises a second attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the second attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 4 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the second attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings.

4. The retractable brace of claim 1 wherein the first bracket comprises a first attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the first attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 2.5 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the first attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings; and wherein the second bracket comprises a second attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the second attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 2.5 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the second attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings.

5. The retractable brace of claim 1 further comprising: an adjustment support coupled between the telescoping portion and the first bracket, the adjustment support adapted to cause relative axial motion between the telescoping portion and the first bracket; wherein the first bracket comprises an attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 2.5 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings.

6. The retractable brace of claim 1 wherein the telescoping portion is made from at least 1/16 inch steel.

7. The retractable brace of claim 1 wherein the second bracket comprises: an attachment member; and a plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member; wherein the plurality of pin holes comprise at least two pin holes in each of the plurality of wings such that the second bracket is prevented from pivoting when two pins are placed through the at least two pin holes and through corresponding attachment holes.

8. The retractable brace of claim 7 wherein the attachment member further comprises a front face and a side face.

9. The retractable brace of claim 7 further comprising at least one hole in the attachment member.

10. A retractable brace comprising: a telescoping portion including a first tube and a second tube, wherein the first tube includes a plurality of adjustment holes; a footplate coupled to a first end of the telescoping portion; and a bracket coupled to a second end of the telescoping portion, the bracket comprising: an attachment member; a plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 6.25 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings; and at least two pin holes, in each of the plurality of wings, that align with the plurality of attachment holes such that the bracket is prevented from pivoting when two pins are placed through the at least two pin holes and through corresponding attachment holes.

11. The retractable brace of claim 10 further comprising an adjustment support coupled between the telescoping portion and the footplate, the adjustment support adapted to cause relative axial motion between the telescoping portion and the footplate.

12. The retractable brace of claim 10 wherein the telescoping portion is made from at least 1/16 inch steel.

13. The retractable brace of claim 10 wherein the attachment member further comprises a front face and a side face.

14. The retractable brace of claim 10 further comprising at least one hole in the attachment member.

15. A retractable brace comprising: a telescoping portion including a first tube and a second tube, wherein the first tube includes a plurality of adjustment holes; a footplate coupled to a first end of the telescoping portion; and a bracket coupled to a second end of the telescoping portion, the bracket comprising: an attachment member; a plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 4 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings; and at least two pin holes, in each of the plurality of wings, that align with the plurality of attachment holes such that the bracket is prevented from pivoting when two pins are placed through the at least two pin holes and through corresponding attachment holes.

16. The retractable brace of claim 15 further comprising an adjustment support coupled between the telescoping portion and the footplate, the adjustment support adapted to cause relative axial motion between the telescoping portion and the footplate.

17. The retractable brace of claim 15 wherein the telescoping portion is made from at least 1/16 inch steel.

18. The retractable brace of claim 15 wherein the attachment member further comprises a front face and a side face.

19. The retractable brace of claim 15 further comprising at least one hole in the attachment member.

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Description

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[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/081,903 filed Mar. 15, 2005, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to braces used in construction. More specifically, the present invention relates to retractable braces. Even more specifically, the present invention relates to retractable braces used with structure forms.

[0004] 2. Discussion of the Related Art

[0005] When forming large concrete walls or other concrete structures, structure forms made from, for example, wood, steel, aluminum or any combination thereof, are used to create a barrier for which concrete is poured into to form the structure. The structure forms are used when forming the concrete structure (for example, a wall, a beam or a column) and are then stripped down and moved to another location where another concrete structure will be formed. The structure forms can be very large and heavy and thus require sturdy braces to hold them up. In many instances, large wooden braces are made to hold the wooden walls in place while the concrete is being poured. The wooden braces have weak points at cleats and turnbuckle attachments, making them undesirable. Additionally, the wooden braces are very heavy, are slow to adjust, and must be completely removed from the wooden wall forms every time the wooden wall form needs to be moved. Further, the wooden braces tend to get in the way of workers and can not be moved without completely removing them from the wooden wall form. In many cases the wooden braces are very large 4.times.6 pieces of wood. For example, the 4.times.6 wooden braces are laminated wood beams with a plywood cleat attachment at a top of the wood beam. The plywood cleat attachment has proven to be a weak point in supporting the structure form. Continually lifting, weather moving, installing or uninstalling the heavy and awkward wooden braces cut down on production and has been known to cause back and groin injures. Additionally, on many job sites there is little room for storage of the large wooden braces. Thus, the large wooden braces are continually in the way or continually being moved when not installed during a cement pour. The continual moving of the wooden braces is very labor intensive, tying up both men and forklifts.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] In one embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a retractable brace comprising a telescoping portion including a first tube and a second tube, wherein the first tube includes a plurality of adjustment holes; a first bracket coupled to a first end of the telescoping portion; and a second bracket coupled to a second end of the telescoping portion, the second bracket including a plurality pin holes that align with the plurality of attachment holes.

[0007] In another embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a retractable brace comprising a telescoping portion including a first tube and a second tube, wherein the first tube includes a plurality of adjustment holes; a footplate coupled to a first end of the telescoping portion; and a bracket coupled to a second end of the telescoping portion, the bracket comprising: an attachment member; a plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 6.25 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings; and at least two pin holes, in each of the plurality of wings, that align with the plurality of attachment holes such that the bracket is prevented from pivoting when two pins are placed through the at least two pin holes and through corresponding attachment holes.

[0008] In a subsequent embodiment, the invention can be characterized as a retractable brace comprising a telescoping portion including a first tube and a second tube, wherein the first tube includes a plurality of adjustment holes; a footplate coupled to a first end of the telescoping portion; and a bracket coupled to a second end of the telescoping portion, the bracket comprising: an attachment member; a plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member, each of the plurality of wings having a length of about 4 inches from the end of each of the plurality of wings coupled to the attachment member to the opposite end of each of the plurality of wings; and at least two pin holes, in each of the plurality of wings, that align with the plurality of attachment holes such that the bracket is prevented from pivoting when two pins are placed through the at least two pin holes and through corresponding attachment holes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following more particular description thereof, presented in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating a retractable brace in accordance with one embodiment;

[0011] FIG. 2 is an exploded view illustrating the retractable brace of FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment

[0012] FIG. 3 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating a bracket of the retractable brace shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment;

[0013] FIG. 4 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating the bracket shown in FIG. 3 in an alternate pivot position in accordance with one embodiment;

[0014] FIG. 5 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating the bracket shown in FIG. 3 secured with two pins in accordance with one embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 6 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating a swivel adjustment of the retractable brace shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 7 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating an adjustment pin in accordance with one embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating the retractable brace of FIG. 1 supporting a wall form in accordance with one embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 9 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating the retractable brace of FIG. 1 attached to a wall form in accordance with another embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 10 is a three dimensional diagram illustrating the retractable brace of FIG. 1 attached to a wall form in accordance with yet another embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of securing a retractable brace to a wall form in accordance with one embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of bracing a wall form for a concrete wall in accordance with one embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 13A is an illustration of a retractable brace in accordance with one embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 13B is an illustration of a retractable brace in accordance with one embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 13C is an illustration of a retractable brace in accordance with one embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 14 is an illustration of a retractable brace in accordance with one embodiment; and

[0026] FIG. 15 is an illustration of a retractable brace in accordance with one embodiment.

[0027] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several views of the drawings. Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions, sizing, and/or relative placement of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present invention. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is usually accorded to such terms and expressions by those skilled in the corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where other specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The following description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the claims. The present embodiments address the problems described in the background while also addressing other additional problems as will be seen from the following detailed description.

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1 a three dimensional diagram is shown illustrating a retractable brace 100 in accordance with one embodiment. FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the retractable brace 100 of FIG. 1. As shown, the retractable brace 100 includes a telescoping portion that includes a first tube 104 and a second tube 106, a bracket 108, a foot plate 110, a swivel 111, a first bracket hole 112, a second bracket hole 114, a third bracket hole 115, eight small bracket holes 113, an adjustment pin 11 6, and a first bracket pin 118.

[0030] The telescoping portion is pivotally coupled to the bracket 108 and is welded to the swivel 111. The telescoping portion is pivotally attached to the bracket 108 by placing the first bracket pin 118 through a first hole and a hole (not shown) in the first tube of the telescoping portion of the retractable brace. The swivel 111 is also welded to the foot plate 110 in the embodiment shown. The telescoping portion includes the first tube 104 and the second tube 106. The first tube 104 fits into the second tube 106. The first tube 104 includes a plurality of holes 117 that align with at least one hole (not shown) in the second tube 106. Alternatively, the second tube 106 includes the plurality of holes that are used to adjust the length of the telescoping portion. The adjustment pin 116 fits through the hole in the second tube 106 and one of the plurality of holes 117 in the first tube 104 to fix the length of the telescoping portion. In one embodiment, the plurality of holes 117 in the first tube 104 are spaced one inch apart. This allows for great versatility in the length of the retractable brace 100.

[0031] The first tube 104 of the telescoping portion of the retractable brace is made from 1/8 inch steel and the second tube 106 is made from 1/16 inch steel in accordance with one embodiment. This provides for a very strong retractable brace that will not give way under a large amount of force. Alternatively, the thickness of steel used for the telescoping portion of the retractable brace can be increased or decreased depending upon the necessary strength needed for different applications. Various tests, including compression tests, that were carried out to determine loading capacities of the brace at various lengths have been documented in the Kwicker-Kicker Structural Testing Report by Charles Chadwell, P. E., Ph.D. and Levi Gatsos, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. The plurality of holes 117 in the first tube 104 allow the telescoping portion to be secured in length while also being able to extend from a length X to varying lengths less than 2.times.. In some embodiments, the retractable brace extends from approximately 3.5 feet in length when fully retracted to 4 feet in length when fully extended. In some embodiments, the retractable brace extends from approximately 5.5 feet in length when fully retracted to 8 feet in length when fully extended. In some embodiments, the retractable brace extends from approximately 9.5 feet in length when fully retracted to 16 feet in length when fully extended. In some embodiments, the retractable brace extends from approximately 11.5 feet in length when fully retracted to 20 feet in length when fully extended. In some embodiments, the retractable brace extends from approximately 13.5 feet in length when fully retracted to 24 feet in length when fully extended. Some embodiments have retracted and extended lengths that are different than the examples given above. A large brace that extends up to, for example, 16 feet or more in length is very useful when supporting and aligning large wooden wall forms for concrete structures.

[0032] In some embodiments, when the retractable brace is fully extended, at least 16 inches of the first tube 104 is inside the second tube 106. That is, at least 16 inches of the first tube 104 is overlapped by the second tube 106. The overlapping portion provides for added stability when the telescoping portion is fully extended. In some embodiments the minimum overlapping portion of the first tube and the second tube varies in distance to greater than or less than 16 inches. Having a longer extension range is advantageous so long as the stability of the retractable brace is not compromised.

[0033] The swivel 111 includes a first threaded support attached to the telescoping portion of the retractable brace 100 and a second threaded support coupled to the foot plate. The swivel 111 also includes an adjustment member coupled to both the first winding and the second winding. Rotating the adjustment member causes relative motion between the telescoping portion of the retractable brace 100 and the foot plate 110. This allows for very fine adjustment in the length of the retractable brace 100. The swivel 111 is described and shown in greater detail herein below with reference to FIG. 6.

[0034] The bracket 108 is attached to the first tube 104 at a pivot point. The bracket 108, described in greater detail herein in reference to FIGS. 3-5 below, is used to attach the retractable brace 100 to a surface, for example, a wooden wall form. The bracket pin 118 is placed through either of a first hole or a second hole to create the pivot point. Additionally, a second bracket pin (shown in FIG. 5) can optionally be placed through the unused bracket hole such that the bracket 108 is attached to the first tube 104 without any pivotal motion. This feature is described in greater detail herein with reference to FIGS. 5 and 9.

[0035] The retractable brace 100 has many different uses due to the adjustability of the entire brace. However, one preferred use is the support of wooden wall forms used to build concrete walls. The following description throughout the application will be described in terms of a wooden wall form, however, it should be understood that the wooden wall form is but one example of a form that can be used with the retractable brace 100 described herein. The wooden wall form is but one example of a form that is used to build a concrete structure. The form may be made from, for example, wood, aluminum, steel, fiberglass and any combination thereof. Additionally, the form can be used for building, for example, walls, beams, or columns. Returning to the specific example, wooden wall forms can be very large and thus, need large strong braces to secure them in place. Many of the wooden wall forms used to build concrete walls are so large and heavy that they require cranes to move the wooden wall forms from one location to another. One or more of the retractable braces 100 are used to align and support the wooden wall form once it has been place in a desired location. Prior braces used at construction sites include huge 4.times.6 wooden braces. These braces are very heavy and large. Additionally, the length of the brace is not adjustable without cutting the wooden brace; therefore the wooden braces are not very versatile. In contrast, the retractable brace 100 can be used in place of the 4.times.6 wooden braces. In one embodiment, the retractable brace 100 is attached to a wooden wall form at a first location. The wooden wall form is used as a barrier to pour a concrete structure, for example, a concrete wall. After the concrete wall is formed the wooden wall form is moved to a second location without detaching the bracket 108 (and preferably the entire retractable brace 100) from the wooden wall form. Leaving the entire retractable brace 100 secured to the wooden wall form is the most efficient method in many embodiments. A second concrete structure can then be formed. In contrast, prior wooden braces would have to be removed after each concrete wall was formed so that the wooden wall form could be moved. This created additional work and was very time consuming in contrast to the retractable brace 100 described herein. Additional processes for using the retractable brace 100 with wall forms are described herein below with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0036] In one embodiment, the wall form is constructed off site where there is often much more available space as compared to the construction site. The retractable braces can be secured to the wall form off site and then the wall form and attached braces are shipped to the construction site. As described, the wall form can then be moved for multiple cement pours at multiple locations without ever having to remove the retractable braces from the wall form. This saves a great amount of time and effort as compared to the normal wooden braces and frees up room on yard-to-job transport trucks since the braces occupy the same space as the forms instead of a large area where the large wooden and steel pipe braces have traditionally been stacked.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 3 a perspective diagram is shown illustrating the bracket 108 of the retractable brace shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective diagram illustrating the bracket 108 of FIG. 3 in an alterative pivotal position. The bracket 108 includes the first bracket hole 112 in a front face of the bracket 108. The bracket 108 also includes the second bracket hole 114 and third bracket hole 115 in a side face of the bracket 108. The bracket 108 also includes the eight small bracket holes 113. A first wing 206 and a second wing 208 are attached to the front face. The first wing 206 and the second wing 208 each have two holes that act as pivot points when used in conjunction with either the first bracket pin 118 or a second bracket pin 120 (shown in FIG. 5).

[0038] The first wing 206 and the second wing 208 are welded to the front face. The front face includes the first bracket hole 112 and four small bracket holes 113. The side face includes the second bracket hole 114, the third bracket hole 115 and four small bracket holes 113. The first bracket hole 112, the second and third bracket holes 114, 115, and the eight small bracket holes 113 are used to secure (for example, with a nail or screw) the bracket 108 to a surface (for example, a wooden wall form, a wooden beam, a concrete wall, etc.). In some embodiments, the bracket 108 includes only one bracket hole on either the front face or the side face. In some embodiments, the bracket 108 includes one bracket hole on both faces. Alternatively, more than three bracket holes are used in the bracket, for example, four or more bracket holes, and are placed in any combination on the front face and the side face. This allows for versatility in attaching the bracket 108 to a surface.

[0039] In normal operation the bracket 108 is pivotally attached to the first tube 104 of the telescoping portion of the retractable brace 100. The bracket 108 is attached through either of the two holes in the first wing 206 and the second wing 208. The bracket 108 is pivotally attached to the first tube 104 when only the first bracket pin 118 is used to secure the bracket 108 to the first tube 104. In one embodiment the bracket 108 is attached to the first tube 104 through both holes such that any pivotal motion is prevented (described and shown in greater detail herein with reference to FIG. 5).

[0040] In one embodiment, the two holes in the first wing 206 and the second wing 208 are positioned a sufficient distance away from the front face of the bracket 108 such that the telescoping portion can rotate between at least two vertical positions (i.e., straight up and straight down).

[0041] Referring to FIG. 5, a diagram is shown illustrating the bracket of FIG. 3 secured with two pins in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is the bracket 108, the first tube 104, the second tube 106, the first bracket hole 112, the second bracket hole 114, the third bracket hole 115, eight small bracket holes 113, the first bracket pin 118 and a second bracket pin 120.

[0042] The first bracket pin 118 and the second bracket pin 120 are placed through the holes in the first wing 206 and the second wing 208 and also through holes 117 in the first tube 104. In this configuration the first tube 104 is prevented from pivoting. When the bracket 108 is attached, for example, to a wooden wall form the retractable brace 100 is held approximately horizontal to the ground. It should be understood that the brace will hang slightly lower at the end with the foot plate because of the gravitational force on the brace 100. This feature is described and shown in greater detail herein with reference to FIG. 9.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 6 a perspective diagram is shown illustrating a swivel adjustment of the retractable brace shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment. Shown are a first threaded support 300, a second threaded support 302, an adjusting support 304, a foot plate 306, and a plurality of large attachment holes 308 and small attachment holes 307 in the foot plate 306.

[0044] The first threaded support 300 is welded to the telescoping portion (shown in FIG. 1) of the retractable brace. The second threaded support 302 is welded to the foot plate 306. The adjusting support 304 is threaded to both the first threaded support 300 and the second threaded support 302. The first threaded support 300 and the second threaded support 302 are threaded in opposite directions, thus, rotating the adjusting support 304 causes relative motion in an axial direction between the first threaded support 300 and the second threaded support 302. Advantageously, this allows for very fine adjustment in the length of the retractable brace. Additionally, it allows for adjustment to the length of the retractable brace without having to rotate the foot plate 306. Thus, adjustments to the length of the retractable brace can be made after both the bracket (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) and the foot plate 306 have been secured to a surface. This aids in aligning wooden wall forms for concrete structures.

[0045] The foot plate 306 includes the plurality of large attachment holes 308 and small attachment holes 307. The plurality of large attachment holes 308 and small attachment holes 307 are used to secure (for example, with a nail or screw) the foot plate 306 to a surface (for example, a wooden wall form, a wooden beam, a concrete wall, the ground etc.). In other embodiments, the foot plate includes only one attachment hole. Alternatively, three or more attachment holes are used in the foot plate 306 to provide for versatility in attaching the foot plate 306 to the surface.

[0046] Referring to FIG. 7 a diagram is shown illustrating the adjustment pin 116 shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with one embodiment. Shown are a pin portion 700, a first side portion 702, a second side portion 704, a top portion 706, and a hooking portion 708.

[0047] The pin portion 700 is placed through one of the plurality of holes 117 in the first tube 104 and the hole in the second tube 106. The pin portion 700, when in place, prevents the first tube 104 and the second tube 106 from sliding relative to one another. The first side portion 702, the second side portion 704, and the top portion 706 of the adjustment pin wrap around a side and a top portion of the second tube 106. The hooking portion 708 hooks on a far side of the second tube 106, thus preventing the pin from slipping out of the holes in the first tube 104 and the second tube 106. The shape of the adjustment pin 116 provides for quick and easy adjustment of the length of the retractable brace and also helps to prevent the adjustment pin 116 from inadvertently slipping out of the holes in the first tube 104 and the second tube 106 when in use. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7, the first side portion 702, the second side portion 704, the top portion 706, and the hooking portion 708 have a relatively smaller diameter as compared to the pin portion 700 of the adjustment pin. This allows the first side portion 702, the second side portion 704, the top portion 706, and the hooking portion 708 to be slightly flexible and thus, the adjustment pin can squeeze the telescoping portion of the retractable brace 100. This prevents the pin from falling out of the holes in the telescoping portion regardless of the orientation of the retractable brace 100. Other pin configurations are used in alternative embodiments.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 8 a diagram is shown illustrating the retractable brace of FIG. 1 attached to a wooden wall form in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is a wall form 400 including an attachment block 402, a floor 404, the telescoping portion of the retractable brace 100 that includes the first tube 104 and the second tube 106, the bracket 108, the swivel 111, the foot plate 110, the first bracket hole 112, the second bracket hole 114, the third bracket hole 115, the eight small bracket holes 113, the adjustment pin 116 and the first bracket pin 118. Also shown is concrete reinforcing bar 150 (also referred to herein as rebar 150). As described above, the retractable brace 100 being used with a wooden wall form is but one exemplary embodiment. Generally, the retractable brace is used with a form to pour a concrete structure (for example, a wall, beam or column).

[0049] The retractable brace 100 is shown attached to the wooden wall form and also attached to the floor 404. The retractable brace 100 is shown partially extended and forms the hypotenuse of a right triangle where the wooden wall form 400 between the bracket 108 and the floor 404 is a first side of the right triangle and where the floor 404 between the wooden wall form 400 and the foot plate 110 is a second side of the right triangle. Advantageously, in one embodiment, the retractable brace 100 is capable of retracting to a length that is shorter than the first side of the right triangle that is formed on the wooden wall form 400 between the bracket 108 and the floor 404. Advantageously, as is shown and described in greater detail herein with reference to FIG. 10, this allows the retractable brace 100 to hang from the bracket 108 without touching the ground. This allows, for example, the wooden wall form 400 to be moved from a first location to a second location with the retractable brace 100 still attached to the wooden wall form 400. When forming concrete structures, much time and energy is saved by not having to detach the retractable braces from the wooden wall form 400 each time the wooden wall form is moved such as was required with prior braces, such as the 4.times.6 wooden braces described herein.

[0050] In some embodiments, the wooden wall form 400 has two or more retractable braces 100 attached for support. When the wooden wall form 400 is used to create a barrier for forming concrete walls one or more of the retractable braces 100 are used to hold the wooden wall form 400 in place and also to adjust the wooden wall form 400 to make sure it is vertical to the floor 404. For example, the wooden wall form 400 is placed next to the rebar 150. A similar wooden structure is also placed on the back side of the rebar 150. The wooden wall form 400 is then aligned and supported with one or more of the retractable braces 100. Concrete is then poured over the rebar 150 and is allowed to dry. The retractable brace 100 is then retracted to a horizontal position such as shown in FIG. 9 so that, for example, taper ties, wing nuts, and whalers can be installed or removed. The retractable brace 100 is then retracted to the position shown in FIG. 10. The wooden wall form 400 is then removed without having to remove the retractable brace 100 (or optionally, not removing only the bracket 108) from the wooden wall form 400. The wooden wall form 400 is then moved to a second location where another concrete structure (or a second portion of the first concrete structure) is formed.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 9 a diagram is shown illustrating the retractable brace of FIG. 1 attached to a wooden wall form in accordance with another embodiment. Shown is the wall form 400 including the attachment block 402, a floor 404, the telescoping portion of the retractable brace 100, the first tube 104, the second tube 106, the bracket 108, the swivel 111, the foot plate 110, the first bracket hole 112, the second bracket hole 114, the third bracket hole 115, the eight small bracket holes 113, the adjustment pin 116, the first bracket pin 118, the second bracket pin 120 and the rebar 150.

[0052] The bracket 108 is attached to the first tube 104 at both the first hole and the second hole (such as is shown in FIG. 5). This allows the retractable brace 100 to be positioned substantially horizontal to the floor 404 while still attached to the wooden wall form 400. Depending upon the length of the retractable brace 100, the weight of the brace will cause the brace to sit at an angle below horizontal to the ground, however, the brace will be attached to a surface only at the bracket end of the brace and the end with the foot plate is suspended in the air. Advantageously, this provides a mechanism for moving the retractable brace 100 off of the floor without removing the retractable brace 100 from the wooden wall form 400. During construction of a building or other structure being able to suspend one end of the retractable brace off of the floor allows workmen to secure the wall form by installing all necessary hardware and materials (for example, taper ties, taper tie plates, wing nuts and whalers) to keep the wall form in place during the pouring of the concrete. Once all the necessary hardware is installed on the form, the second bracket pin 120 is removed allowing the foot plate to move down and be secured. The installation and removal of all needed hardware and materials generally can not be done if the retractable brace is in a position vertical to the ground. The installation of prior braces is done numerous times during the course of a building project. For example, if the project requires 100 concrete pours with 12 braces installed per pour, the prior braces needed to be installed and unistalled 1200 times. Having the retractable braces with the ability to suspend the retractable braces horizontally as well as the ability to retract the brace such that it can hang vertically from the wooden wall form greatly reduces the labor cost associated with the concrete pours. The ability to suspend the retractable brace in the horizontal position shown in FIG. 9 is a new, simple, efficient feature of the retractable brace that has proven to save time.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 10 a diagram is shown illustrating the retractable brace of FIG. 1 attached to a wooden wall form in accordance with one embodiment. Shown is the wall form 400 including the attachment block 402, a floor 404, the telescoping portion of the retractable brace 100, the first tube 104, the second tube 106, the bracket 108, the swivel 111, the foot plate 110, the first bracket hole 112, the second bracket hole 114, the third bracket hole 115, the eight small bracket holes 113, the adjustment pin 116, the first bracket pin 118, and the rebar 150.

[0054] The retractable brace 100 is shown hanging from the wooden wall form 400 while still attached with the bracket 108. In one embodiment, the retractable brace 100 is retracted to a length that is shorter than a distance from the bracket 108 to the floor 404. In one embodiment, the end of the brace with the foot plate 110 is also attached to the wooden form 400 after being moved to the retraced position. This keeps the brace from swinging away from the wooden wall form 400, for example, as the wooden wall form is moved from a first location to a second location. In one embodiment, a tie string is used to attach the foot plate 110 to the wooden wall form 400. Alternatively a nail or other attachment means is used to attach the foot plate 110 to the wooden wall form 400.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 11 a flow diagram is shown illustrating a method of securing a retractable brace to a wooden wall form in accordance with one embodiment.

[0056] In step 1100, a bracket that is pivotally attached to a first end of a retractable brace is attached to a first surface on the wall form. The wall form is positioned at a first location. For example, the wall form is positioned next to a rebar structure such that a concrete wall or beam can be formed next to the wall form. Generally, wall forms will be placed on all sides around where the concrete structure is going to be formed, thus providing a barrier for which concrete can be poured into. The retractable brace is used to align the wall form such that the concrete structure is properly formed. The retractable brace also supports the wall form in one embodiment. Optionally, more than one retractable brace is attached to the wall form.

[0057] In step 1102, the retractable brace is suspended in a horizontal position, such as is shown in FIG. 9. This allows for easy installation of all the hardware that is installed on the form. The hardware includes, for example, taper ties, taper tie plates, wing nuts and whalers. The retractable brace is then dropped from the horizontal position.

[0058] Next in step 1104 a second end of the retractable brace is attached to a second surface. For example, the second end of the retractable brace can be attached to the ground, a concrete structure, wood, or other available material. The telescoping portion of the retractable brace adjusts to different lengths and thus the second end can attach to many different locations. Next in step 1106, using the swivel and adjustable foot plate, the length of the brace can be adjusted to align the form before pouring any concrete.

[0059] In step 1108, the second end of the brace is detached from the second surface. For example, after the concrete structure is poured, the wall form will be taken down and moved to a new location. The second end of the brace that is attached, for example, to the ground is thus removed to allow the wall form to be moved. In step 1110, the retractable brace is retracted and again suspended in a horizontal position, such as is shown in FIG. 9. This allows for easy removal of all the hardware that is installed on the form. As stated above, the hardware includes, for example, taper ties, taper tie plates, wing nuts and whalers. Again, the retractable brace is then dropped from the horizontal position.

[0060] Following in step 1112, a telescoping portion of the retractable brace is retracted while the bracket is still attached to the first surface on the wall form. The retractable brace is retracted to a distance that is shorter than a distance on the wall form from the bracket to a bottom of the wall form. Advantageously, the retractable brace is left attached to the wall form when the wall form is being moved to a new location. In contrast, prior wooden braces would have to be removed from the wall form each time the wall form was being moved. As described above, this is time consuming and can lead to injuries when moving the wooden braces because of the heavy weight of the wooden braces.

[0061] Optionally, the second end of the retractable brace is attached to the wooden wall form after being retraced. This keeps the retractable brace securely against the wall form as the wall form is being moved from one location to another. In one embodiment, the second end of the retractable brace is secured to the wall form with a tie string. Alternatively, the second end of the retractable brace is secured to the wall form with a nail driven through a hole in, for example, the foot plate shown in FIG. 1. Once the wall form is at the second location, the process repeats starting with step 1102.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 12 a flow diagram is shown illustrating a method of bracing a wooden wall form for a concrete wall in accordance with one embodiment.

[0063] In step 1200, the wall form is placed at a first location. For example, the wall form is placed in such that a concrete structure can be formed next to the wall form. In step 1202 a bracket that is pivotally attached to a first end of a retractable brace is attached to a first surface on the wall form.

[0064] In step 1204, a first concrete structure is formed adjacent to the wall form. For example, a concrete wall is formed next to the wall form. After the concrete structure has been formed, in step 1206 the wall form is moved to a second location without removing the brace from the wall form. As described above, prior braces were large wooden 4.times.6 beams or heavy steel pipes that would be completely removed from the wall form every time the wall form was moved from one location to another location.

[0065] Following, in step 1208, a second concrete structure is formed adjacent to the wall form when positioned at the second location. Advantageously, the bracket does not need to be reattached to the wall form every time the wall form is moved. This saves considerable time and effort in building concrete walls.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 13A, 13B and 13C, diagrams are shown of retractable braces 1300A, 1300B, 1300C in accordance with three embodiments. The retractable braces 1300A, 1300B, 1300C include a telescoping portion that includes, respectively, a first tube 1304A, 1304B,1304C and a second tube 1306A, 1306B, 1306C, a first bracket 1308A, 1308B, 1308C, a second bracket 1310A, 1310B, 1310C and a swivel 1311A, 13111B, 1311C. The retractable braces 1300A, 1300B, 1300C are substantially similar to the retractable brace 100 of FIG. 1 except instead of a bracket 108 coupled to one end of the retractable brace 100 and a footplate 110 to the opposite end, the retractable braces 1300A, 1300B, 1300C have a first bracket 1308A, 1308B, 1308C coupled to one end and a second bracket 1310A, 1310B, 1310C coupled to the opposite end. That is, the footplate is replaced by a second bracket in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C. Retractable braces 1300A, 1300B and 1300C also include wings of particular lengths, as discussed below.

[0067] In some embodiments, a plurality of wings couple the first bracket 1308A, 1308B, 1308C to the telescoping portion. In the embodiments shown, a first wing 1302A, 1302B, 1302C and a second wing 1303A, 1303B, 1303C couple the first bracket 1308A, 1308B, 1308C, respectively, to the telescoping portion. The first wing 1302A, 1302B, 1302C and the second wing 1303A, 1303B, 1303C of the retractable braces 1300A, 1300B, 1300C are substantially similar to the first wing 206 and second wing 208, respectively, of the retractable brace 100. A third wing 1309A, 1309B, 1309C couples the second bracket 1310A, 13010B, 1310C to the swivel 1311A, 1311B, 1311C. In some embodiments, a plurality of wings couple the bracket 1310A, 1310B, 1310C to the swivel 1311A, 13111B, 1311C. In some embodiments, the bracket 1310A, 1310B, 1310C is welded to the swivel 1311A, 1311B, 1311C.

[0068] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13A, the first wing 1302A and the second wing 1303A each have a length of about 4 inches from the end 1320A of the first wing 1302A and the end of the second wing 1303A coupled to the first bracket 1308A to the opposite end 1330A of the first wing 1302A and opposite end of the second wing 1303A. In some embodiments, the third wing 1309A has a length of about 4 inches from the end of the third wing 1309A coupled to the second bracket 1310A to the end of the third wing 1309A coupled to the swivel 1311A.

[0069] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13B, the first wing 1302B and the second wing 1303B each have a length of about 4 inches from the end 1320B of the first wing 1302B and the end of the second wing 1303B coupled to the first bracket 130B to the opposite end 1330B of the first wing 1302B and opposite end of the second wing 1303B. In some embodiments, the third wing 1309B has a length of about 2.5 inches from the end of the third wing 1309B coupled to the second bracket 1310B to the end of the third wing 1309B coupled to the swivel 1311B.

[0070] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13C, the first wing 1302C and the second wing 1303C each have a length of about 2.5 inches from the end 1320C of the first wing 1302C and the end of the second wing 1303C coupled to the first bracket 1308C to the opposite end 1330C of the first wing 1302C and opposite end of the second wing 1303C. In some embodiments, the third wing 1309C has a length of about 2.5 inches from the end of the third wing 1309C coupled to the second bracket 1310C to the end of the third wing 1309C coupled to the swivel 1311C.

[0071] In some embodiments, the lengths-of the wings 1302, 1303 and 1309 vary from greater than 4 inches to less than 2.5 inches, or between 2.5 inches and 4 inches, depending upon the use of the brace 1300A, 1300B, 1300C.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 14, an illustration is shown of a retractable brace 1400 in accordance with one embodiment. The retractable brace 1400 includes a telescoping portion that includes a first tube 1404 and a second tube 1406, a bracket 1408, a footplate 1410 and a swivel 1411. The retractable brace 1400 is substantially similar to the retractable brace 100 of FIG. 1 except the former includes wings of particular lengths, as discussed below.

[0073] In some embodiments, a plurality of wings couple the bracket 1408 to the telescoping portion. In the embodiment shown, a first wing 1402 and a second wing 1403 couple the bracket 1408 to the telescoping portion. The first wing 1402 and the second wing 1403 of retractable brace 1400 are substantially similar to the first wing 206 and second wing 208, respectively, of the retractable brace 100. In some embodiments, the first wing 1402 and the second wing 1403 each have a length of about 6.25 inches from the end 1420 of the first wing 1402 and the end of the second wing 1403 coupled to the bracket 1408 to the opposite end 1430 of the first wing 1402 and opposite end of the second wing 1403.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 15, an illustration is shown of a retractable brace 1500 in accordance with one embodiment. The retractable brace 1500 includes a telescoping portion that includes a first tube 1504 and a second tube 1506, a bracket 1508, a footplate 1510 and a swivel 1511. The retractable brace 1500 is substantially similar to the retractable brace 100 of FIG. 1 except the former includes wings of particular lengths, as discussed below.

[0075] In some embodiments, a plurality of wings couple the bracket 1508 to the telescoping portion. In the embodiment shown, a first wing 1502 and a second wing 1503 couple the bracket 1508 to the telescoping portion. The first wing 1502 and the second wing 1503 of retractable brace 1500 are substantially similar to the first wing 206 and second wing 208, respectively, of the retractable brace 100. In some embodiments, the first wing 1502 and the second wing 1503 each have a length of about 4 inches from the end 1520 of the first wing 1502 and the end of the second wing 1503 coupled to the bracket 1508 to the opposite end 1530 of the first wing 1502 and opposite end of the second wing 1503.

[0076] The retractable brace has been described herein for use with forms and concrete structures. However, the retractable brace are also used in many different applications because of the strength and adjustability of the retractable brace. For example, the retractable braces can be used for shoring, pushing, pulling, spreading, squaring and many other applications as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In one example, the retractable brace is used to pull or push a form back into proper alignment. This is useful when, for example, the bottom of a wooden wall form is bowed. In order to remove the bowing from the wall, the retractable brace is attached to the wall form and also attached, for example, to the ground. Next the swivel portion of the retractable brace is adjusted to shorten the length of the brace. This pulls on the bowed portion of the wall form brining back into proper alignment. The cement can now be poured and will be properly formed.

[0077] In yet another example, the retractable brace is used between two wall forms, that are, for example, 6 feet apart. Previously, lumber would have to be cut to the proper length in order to have proper alignment and support between the two wall forms. Cutting lumber to such a short length for a one time use is very uneconomical and time consuming. In still another example, the retractable braces can be used to support below a floor as concrete is poured to make the next level of a building. Further, the retractable braces are also used for both wood and steel frame construction of buildings and for use in plumbing (e.g., aligning vertically) many types of structures. Many other uses such as the ones specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0078] While the invention herein disclosed has been described by means of specific embodiments and applications thereof, other modifications, variations, and arrangements of the present invention may be made in accordance with the above teachings other than as specifically described to practice the invention within the spirit and scope defined by the following claims.

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