Patent ID: 7451579
Filing Date: 2008-11-18
Classification: E04C

Abstract:
1. A spacer wheel for use in construction using reinforcement rods cast into a compound, the spacer wheel spacing a reinforcement rod from adjacent surfaces, the spacer wheel having a first axial side, and an opposing second axial side, the spacer wheel comprising: a base section, the base section having a first saddle surface and a first outer circular edge; a first pivotable section, the first pivotable section having a second saddle surface, a second outer circular edge, and having a first guide ramp extending from the first axial side of the spacer wheel; a second pivotable section, the second pivotable section having a third saddle surface, a third outer circular edge and having a second guide ramp extending from the second axial side of the spacer wheel; a first hinge connection the first pivotable section to the base section; a second hinge connecting the second pivotable section to the base section; and wherein the first pivotable section and the second pivotable section pivot independently relative to the base section and the reinforcement rod is captured between the first, second and third saddle surfaces. wherein a portion of the first guide ramp overlaps a portion of the second guide ramp, at least when the spacer wheel is clamped about the reinforcement rod; wherein when the spacer wheel is positioned over the reinforcement rod, the first guide ramp urges the first pivotable section to pivot about the first hinge section away from the base section, and the second guide ramp urges the second pivotable section to pivot about the second hinge section away from the base section, thereby allowing placement of the spacer wheel over the reinforcement rod; and wherein after positioning the spacer wheel over the reinforcement rod, the first pivotable section pivots about the first hinge towards the base section, the second pivotable section pivots about the second hinge towards the base section, a portion of the first guide ramp overlaps a portion of the second guide ramp on opposing axial sides of the spacer wheel, thereby capturing the reinforcement rod between the first, second and third saddle surfaces and wherein and the reinforcement rod is spaced from adjacent surfaces by the first, second and third outer circular edges.