System and method for concrete slab connection

Abstract

Systems and methods of transferring loads between adjacent cast-in-place slabs, such as concrete slabs, and for accurately positioning dowels between adjacent sections of slabs are provided. A generally planar plate-type dowel is used which may be positioned within a cutaway in a preexisting slab of concrete. The dowel is shaped to generally conform to the shape of the cutaway, which is made by a saw blade. Once the dowel is positioned within the preexisting slab, a new slab is poured adjacent the preexisting slab. Rubber seals are included on the edges of the dowels to provide spacing or a gap between the dowel and the preexisting slab to allow for lateral independent movement of the adjacent slabs, and to prevent concrete from the newly poured second slab from entering into the gap. A saw unit for making a generally planar cut horizontally into an edge of a hardened concrete slab is also provided.

1 . A method of connecting adjacent slabs, said method comprising the steps of: 
 cutting into an edge of a first existing slab to form a cutaway;    positioning a generally planar dowel into the cutaway such that a portion of the dowel extends from the edge of the first slab; and    pouring a second slab adjacent the first slab surrounding the portion of the dowel extending from the first slab.    
   
   
       2 . The method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein an end of the dowel generally conforms to an inner surface of the cutaway.  
   
   
       3 . The method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said cutting step is accomplished with a saw blade.  
   
   
       4 . A dowel for connecting adjacent slabs comprising, 
 a generally planar plate.    
   
   
       5 . The dowel as claimed in  claim 4  further comprising a seal protruding from said plate.  
   
   
       6 . The dowel as claimed in  claim 5  wherein said seal comprises a rubber material.  
   
   
       7 . The dowel as claimed in  claim 4  wherein said plate is shaped to conform generally to the shape of a cutaway in which the dowel is positioned.  
   
   
       8 . A saw unit for use in a system of connecting slabs, said saw unit comprising: 
 a saw blade;    a positioning mechanism for aligning said saw blade along an edge of a slab; and    an engaging mechanism for driving said saw blade into the edge of the slab.    
   
   
       9 . The saw unit as claimed in  claim 8  wherein said positioning mechanism comprises a vertical positioning mechanism for adjusting a height of said saw blade.  
   
   
       10 . The saw unit as claimed in  claim 8  wherein said positioning mechanism comprises an edge guide sensor.  
   
   
       11 . The saw unit as claimed in  claim 8  wherein said engaging mechanism comprises an engagement cylinder associated with said saw blade.