Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A structure is described for supporting concrete reinforcement bars in a substantially orthogonal relationship above a surface. The structure includes a base member having a central opening. At least a pair of long leg members extend upward from the base member on opposite sides of the central opening. At least a pair of short leg members also extend upward from the base member on opposite sides of the central opening, where the short leg members are positioned at about 90 degrees about the central opening relative to the long leg members. Attached to the upper extremities of the long leg members are upper bar-support members having opposing sidewalls which together form a upper channel therebetween. Similarly, attached to the upper extremities of the short leg members are lower bar-support members having opposing sidewalls which together form a lower channel therebetween. Each of the sidewalls of the upper bar-support members meet and are attached to an adjacent sidewall of one of the lower bar-support members at an angle of about 90 degrees. The upper bar-support members form an upper cradle for receiving an upper reinforcement bar, and the lower bar-support members form a lower cradle for receiving a lower reinforcement bar. To retain the reinforcement bars within the cradles, preferred embodiments of the invention include retaining members that protrude inward from the inner surfaces of the opposing sidewalls. These retaining members offer interference to any upward movement of the reinforcement bars.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim