Patent Publication Number: US-8978343-B1

Title: Method and system for transporting a cast panel

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a method for transporting a cast panel, and, more particularly, relates to a method for transporting a cast panel with a lift device so as to minimize the risk of damage to the cast panel. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     It is well known that prefabricated or cast-in-place concrete or composite-type panels are often used in building construction to form floors or other horizontal surfaces. Usually, such panels are adjacently placed in abutting, or nearly abutting relationship, on a grid of horizontal steel beams to form the horizontal surfaces. Alternatively, they may be used to create walls or other structures. The voids between adjacent panels are then partially, or wholly, filled with caulking compound or other joining materials. 
     The panels are often transported using various machines such as cranes, tractors, trucks, or other similar devices. The transportation of such panels can be time consuming and complicated, often resulting in damage to the panels. The manner of transportation often depends on the type, dimension, and weight of the panels. It is beneficial to transport the panels in such a way so as to lift the panels directly with minimal change in position and arrangement. 
     Some known cast panels are normally prepared for transportation using supports, casings, padding, and other safeguards to prevent damage during transportation. Typical casings and paddings include polythene wrapping, cushion packaging, and timber. This obviously creates more time to prepare each individual panel, which is problematic for many users under construction completion deadlines. Moreover, damage often occurs in the location of the contact areas between the prefabricated elements and the supporting frames during, or associated with, transportation of the panels. When utilizing bolts during the transportation process, it is important to protect any threaded portions of the bolts against rust and thread loss. 
     With reference to  FIG. 1  of the instant application, some known techniques and methods for transporting cast panels are depicted. Transportation of such panels typically occurs in a series of steps. Initially, the panels are produced by casting concrete in a reusable mold or form, which is then cured in a controlled environment. The panels and prefabricated elements are removed from the mold, transported to the desired location, and unloaded for assembly. The panels should be handled with care when removed from the mold as the panels are more susceptible to damage at this stage of transportation. 
     When transporting the panels, it is important to lift and balance the panels in line with their center of gravity. In order to transports the panels, lifting inserts  104  are often utilized to attach the lines of a lifting assembly, such as a crane, to the panels. The lifting inserts, e.g.,  104 A, should be placed according to the type of panel. If the lifting inserts are not designed in the appropriate manner, the panel may become bent, the panel may be exposed to unwarranted stress, or the panels may be unintentionally released during the lifting and transportation process. The aforementioned issues may cause destruction of the panels and even unwarranted safety hazards on construction sites. Several factors should be considered when deciding the transportation method, including, but not limited to, the position of the casting mold; the size and weight of the panels; the number, size and location of the lifting inserts; the types of lifting inserts  104 ; the method of lifting; and the type of lifting equipment. 
     As seen in  FIG. 1 , the inserts are required not only to be fastened to the panel in precise locations, but, by the nature of removing material of the body of the panel during the fastening process and after the casting process of the panels, the inserts also decrease the structural integrity of the cast panel. Furthermore, once the cast panel is placed in its desired location, the one or more inserts are then either subjected to the time-intensive task of being removed from the panel or built over with existing material. As mentioned previously, not only is the integrity of cast panels important, due to the load-bearing nature of their applications, but the time to install, prepare, and transport these cast panels is also very important for many users. 
     Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the prior art as discussed above. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides a method for transporting cast panels, where the method includes providing a cast panel having a body with a first side and a second side, opposite the first side, the body defining a first recess disposed on the first side and defining a second recess disposed on the second side, inserting a first hook-like member into the first recess to couple the first hook-like member with the body, the first hook-like member operably coupled to a lifting assembly, inserting a second hook-like member into the second recess to couple the second hook-like member with the body, the second hook-like member operably coupled to the lifting assembly and transporting the cast panel by applying a lifting force, through the lifting assembly, to the first and second hook-like members. As used herein, the term “providing” is defined in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, make available, or supplying someone or something. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the method includes providing the cast panel with a first inlaid rib member affixed to the first side of the cast panel and a second inlaid rib member affixed to the second side of the cast panel, wherein the first and second inlaid rib members define the first recess and the second recess, respectively. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the first and second inlaid rib members are of a material different than a material of the cast panel. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes providing the cast panel with a first inlaid rib member affixed to the first side of the cast panel and a second inlaid rib member affixed to the second side of the cast panel, the first and second inlaid rib members defining a first recess and second recess on the first side, and a third recess and a fourth recess on the second side, and a flange extending upwardly away from the bottom surface and with a portion terminating within the second and fourth recesses, respectively. The method further includes inserting a clip over the flange. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the first and second inlaid rib members define a U-shaped channel within the body of the cast panel. The U-shaped channel substantially spans an entire length of the first and second sides, respectively, of the cast panel. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the first and second inlaid rib members include a top surface extending inwardly toward a center of the body of the cast panel, a side surface extending downwardly away from the top surface of the first and second inlaid rib members, and a flange extending downwardly away from the top surface of the first and second inlaid rib members and with a portion terminating within the first and second recesses, respectively. The method further includes inserting the first and second hook-like members into the first and second recesses, respectively, such that a portion of the first and second hook-like members is interposed between the side surface and the flange of the first and second inlaid rib members, respectively. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes inserting the first and second hook-like members into the first and second recesses, respectively, such that the portion of the first and second hook-like members is abutted with the flange of the first and second inlaid rib members, respectively. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes providing a second cast panel having a body with a first side and a second side, opposite the first side of the second cast panel, the body of the second cast panel defining a first recess disposed on the first side of the second cast panel and defining a second recess disposed on the second side of the second cast panel. The method further includes inserting at least one of a plurality of hook-like members into the first recess of the second cast panel to couple the at least one of the plurality hook-like members with the body of the second cast panel, the plurality of hook-like members operably coupled to the lifting assembly and including the first hook-like member. The method further includes inserting at least one of a second plurality of hook-like members into the second recess of the second cast panel to couple the at least one of the second plurality of hook-like members with the body of the second cast panel, the second plurality of hook-like members operably coupled to the lifting assembly and including the second hook-like member; and transporting the cast panel and the second cast panel by applying the lifting force, through the lifting assembly, to the plurality and second plurality of hook-like members. 
     In accordance with an additional feature, the plurality of hook-like members are integrally formed together as one piece of material and the second plurality of hook-like members are integrally formed together as one piece of material. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes providing the cast panel and the second cast panel with a first inlaid rib member affixed to each of the first side of the cast panel and the first side of the second cast panel and a second inlaid rib member affixed to each of the second side of the cast panel and the second side of the second cast panel, the first and second inlaid rib members defining the first recess and the second recess, respectively, on each of the cast panel and second cast panel. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes providing the body of the cast panel with a third side and a fourth side, opposite the third side, the body of the cast panel defining a third recess disposed on the third side of the cast panel and defining a fourth recess disposed on the fourth side of the cast panel, wherein the first and second hook-like members are operably configured to be inserted within the third and fourth recesses, respectively, to couple the first and second hook-like members with the body. 
     In accordance with an additional feature, the first recess, second recess, third recess, and fourth recess are joined together to span a periphery of the body. 
     In accordance with yet another feature, the first and second recesses form a U-shaped channel within the body of the cast panel, the U-shaped channel openly facing in a direction outwardly away from a center of the body. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes providing the cast panel with a first inlaid rib member affixed to the first side of the cast panel and a second inlaid rib member affixed to the second side of the cast panel, the first and second inlaid rib members defining the first recess and the second recess, respectively. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes inserting the first and second hook-like members into the first and second recesses, respectively, without any material removal from the body of the cast panel. 
     The present invention, according to another embodiment, includes a method for transporting a cast panel, where the method includes providing a cast panel having a body with a first side and a second side, opposite the first side, the body including a first metal inlaid rib member cast into the cast panel and defining a first recess disposed on the first side and including a second metal inlaid rib member cast into the cast panel and defining a second recess disposed on the second side, inserting a first coupling fastener into the first recess to couple the first coupling fastener with the body, the first coupling fastener operably coupled to a lifting assembly, inserting a second coupling fastener into the second recess to couple the second coupling fastener with the body, the second coupling fastener operably coupled to the lifting assembly and transporting the cast panel by applying a lifting force, through the lifting assembly, to the first and second coupling fasteners. 
     In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the first and second inlaid rib members include a top surface extending inwardly toward a center of the body of the cast panel, a side surface extending downwardly away from the top surface of the first and second inlaid rib members, and a flange extending downwardly away from the top surface of the first and second inlaid rib members and with a portion terminating within the first and second recesses, respectively. The method further includes inserting the first and second coupling fasteners into the first and second recesses, respectively, such that a portion of the first and second coupling fasteners is interposed between the side surface and the flange of the first and second inlaid rib members, respectively. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the first and second coupling fasteners include an upright portion coupled to a cable of the lifting assembly and a panel coupling portion extending away from a distal end of the upright portion at at least one of an acute angle and ninety-degree angle to the upright portion. 
     In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the method includes providing the body of the cast panel with a third side and a fourth side, opposite the third side, the body of the cast panel including a third inlaid rib member cast into the cast panel and defining a third recess disposed on the third side of the cast panel and including a fourth inlaid rib member cast into the cast panel and defining a fourth recess disposed on the fourth side of the cast panel, wherein the first and second coupling fasteners are operably configured to be inserted within the third and fourth recesses, respectively, to couple the first and second coupling fasteners with the body. 
     The present invention, according to another embodiment, includes a system for transporting cast panels, where the system includes a cast panel having a body with a first side and a second side, opposite the first side, the body including a first metal inlaid rib member cast into the cast panel and defining an elongated first recess disposed on the first side and including a second metal inlaid rib member cast into the cast panel and defining an elongated second recess disposed on the second side, a first hook-like member operably coupled to a lifting assembly, the first hook-like member having an upright portion coupled to a cable of the lifting assembly and a panel coupling portion extending away from a distal end of the upright portion at at least one of an acute angle and ninety-degree angle to the upright portion, the panel coupling portion of the first hook-like member sized to be inserted within the first recess and adapted to engage with a portion of the first metal inlaid rib member, and a second hook-like member operably coupled to the lifting assembly, the second hook-like member having an upright portion coupled to the cable of the lifting assembly and a panel coupling portion extending away from a distal end of the upright portion of the second hook-like member at at least one of an acute angle and ninety-degree angle to the upright portion of the second hook-like member, the panel coupling portion of the second hook-like member sized to be inserted within the second recess and adapted to engage with a portion of the second metal inlaid rib member. An elongated recess is generally defined as 
     Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a method for transporting a cast panel, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention. Other features that are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings are not drawn to scale. 
     Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. 
     As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present invention. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of various methods of lifting a cast panel as shown by the prior art; 
         FIG. 2  is a downward perspective view of a method for transporting a cast panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is an elevational side view of the cast panel of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a detailed enlarged partial cross-sectional side view of the cast panel and a hook-like member of  FIG. 2  (labeled as 4); 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged, perspective view of the hook-like member of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 6  is an elevational side view illustrating the method of  FIG. 2  showing the cast panel lifted from a horizontal position; 
         FIG. 7  is an elevational side view illustrating hook-like members used to transport a cast panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is an elevational side view illustrating an alternative embodiment of a method for transporting a cast panel, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is an elevational side view illustrating an alternative embodiment of a method for transporting a cast panel, in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a flow diagram for illustrating the method for transporting the cast panel in accordance with  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a flow diagram for illustrating an alternative embodiment of the method for transporting the cast panel in accordance with  FIG. 8 ; and 
         FIG. 12  is a detailed enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a panel and a clip, in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. 
     The present invention provides a novel and efficient method for transporting a cast panel. Embodiments of the invention provide a method for transporting the cast panel efficiently and effectively without damaging the structural integrity of the panel. In contrast to those known methods that require a fastener or coupling member to be penetrated into the surface of the cast panel, the present invention provides a transportation method that employs the “as-cast” structural configuration and shape of the cast panel to transport the panel without any removal of material or modification after transport. The present invention, therefore, decreases the amount of damage to the cast panel during transportation. In addition, other embodiments of the invention provide a method for simultaneously transporting a plurality of cast panels that increases time and efficiency for transporting multiple cast panels while still decreasing the risk of damage to the cast panels. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , various known methods for lifting a cast panel are illustrated. As identified by element  102 A, a precast wall is lifted in a vertical position using lifting inserts  104 A. Lifting inserts  104 A penetrate, i.e., pierce, the body of the cast panel and often cause damage to the structure of the cast panel. As shown by element  102 B, the precast wall is lifted in a horizontal position using lifting inserts  104 B,  104 C. The precise location and design of the lifting inserts  104 B,  104 C often requires a qualified engineer because the improper design of the lifting inserts  104  may result in damage to the precast walls and an unbalanced panel. Precast slab  102 C and  102 D can be lifted in a similar manner using multiple lifting points positioned various distances along the precast slab. As shown by elements  102 E and  102 F, precast beams are lifted using lifting points that are situated a distance from a peripheral the edge of the precast beam. Each of the above prior-art methods disadvantageously require complicated design plans and the task of threading the insert into the cast panel, which destroy the aesthetic appearance and structural integrity of a portion of the cast panel used for the lifting inserts  104 A-G. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , one embodiment of the present invention is shown.  FIG. 2  shows several advantageous features of the present invention, but, as will be described below, the invention can be provided in several shapes, sizes, combinations of features and components, and varying numbers and functions of the components. In one embodiment, a cast panel  200  is provided with a body  202  having a first side  204  and a second side  206 , opposite the first side  204 . The body  202  can be seen defining a first recess  208  (better shown in  FIG. 3 ) and a second recess  210 . More specifically, first and second recesses  208 ,  210  are disposed on and defined by the first and second sides  204 ,  206 , respectively. The first side  204  and the second side  206  can be seen as opposing sidewalls, vertically disposed, each sidewall extending a distance between a top surface  214  and an opposing bottom surface  310 . Similarly, the body  202  may also have a third side  220  and a fourth side  222 , opposite the third side  220 . In other embodiments, depending on the shape of the panel  200 , the panel  200  may have more or less than four sides. The present invention provides a method of transporting the cast panel  200  using at least two recesses, e.g.,  208 ,  210 , formed within the panel via two hook-like members  216 ,  218  carried by lifting device, e.g., crane  212 . Advantageously, the inventive method permits transportation of a cast panel  200  without installing any fasteners that may damage the panel  200  and without removing or modifying the fasteners after placement by the crane  212 . 
     The sides  204 ,  206 ,  220 ,  222  can be seen separating the top wall  214  and the bottom wall  310  (shown in  FIG. 3 ), which may be oriented perpendicular to the sidewalls  204 ,  206 ,  220 ,  222 . The cast panel  200  may be a cast concrete panel or other composite-type panel. In one embodiment, the panel  200  may be formed with only two recesses  208 ,  210  on opposing side walls  204 ,  206 . In an alternative embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the first recess  208  and the second recess  210  can be formed as a singular, continuous, recess extending around a peripheral edge of the body  202 . In other embodiments, the first and second recesses  208 ,  210  may be joined together with other recesses on the third and fourth sides  220 ,  222 , respectively, to span a periphery of the body  202  as shown in  FIG. 2 . In one embodiment, the at least two recesses  208 ,  210 , e.g., grooves sized to receive a distal portion of the hook-like members, span the entire length  224  of the body  202 , without interruption so as to facilitate quick and easy coupling with the hook-like members  216 ,  218 . In other embodiments, one or more of the recesses may be discontinuous and may begin and terminate before the terminal ends of the length  224  of the panel  200 . 
     The lifting assembly  212  transports the cast panel  200  by applying a lifting force to the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218 . The lifting assembly  212  may be a crane, a truck, a sports utility vehicle, or any other machine suitable for transporting the cast panel  200  as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The amount of lifting force applied by the lifting assembly  212  may vary depending on the weight of the cast panel. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 3 , which depicts an elevational side view of the panel shown in  FIG. 2 , in conjunction with the process flow diagram shown in  FIG. 10 , one exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described. The process of transporting a cast panel begins at step  1000  and immediately proceeds to a step  1002 , where a cast panel  200  is provided, e.g., bringing into physical existence. Advantageously, as further described herein, the cast panel  200  will have at least two recesses  208 ,  210  formed therein. The process continues to steps  1004  and  1006  of inserting the hook-like members  216 ,  218  into the first and second recesses  208 ,  210 , respectively, to couple the hook-like members  216 ,  218  to the panel. Next, the process continues to step  1008  where the panel  200  is lifted with a lifting assembly  212  (shown in  FIG. 2 ). Lifting the panel  200  necessarily entails applying a force away from and greater than the weight of the panel  200 . Step  1010  naturally flows from step  1008 , wherein the panel  200  is then transported to its desired location. In one embodiment, transporting may be only in a vertical direction relative to its resting position. In other embodiments, the panel  200  may be transported both horizontally and vertically. The process then terminates at step  1012 . For the present inventive method, the preferred positioning for lifting the cast panel  200  is in the horizontal orientation because such orientation reduces the risk of bending and turning of the cast panel during transport. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may be slideably or directly inserted into the first recess  208  and the second recess  210 , respectively, without having to permanently affix any fastening members, such as lifting inserts  104 , to a visible face of the cast panel  200 . Said another way, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may be inserted within the recesses  208 ,  210  of the cast panel  200  without any material removal from the body  202  of the cast panel  200 . Advantageously, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  do not penetrate and cause damage to the face of the cast panel  200  because the outer visible surface of an already formed cast panel  200  is not physically penetrated by the hook-like members  216 ,  218 . An additional advantage provided by the hook-like members  216 ,  218  being slideably or directly inserted into recesses  208 ,  210  is that the cast panel  200  can be lifted at a variety of angles, without causing damage to the face of the cast panel  200 . Specifically, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may be slideably or directly inserted into any one of a number of locations along the recesses  208 ,  210  to lift the cast panel  200  at a desired angle. 
     The first recess  208  and the second recess  210  are each a distance  300  away from an upper horizontal surface  214  of the cast panel  200 . Although the upper surface  214  and lower surface  310  are depicted as horizontal, those of skill in the art can appreciate that the surfaces  214 ,  310  may vary with each cast panel transported. The distance  300  is of a sufficient length from the upper horizontal surface  214  of the body  202  such that when the first hook-like member  216  and the second hook-like member  218  are coupled with the body  202 , the weight of the body  202  is supported by a significant portion of the cast panel  200 . As such, the coupling of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  to the panel prevents fracture or failure of the cast panel  200  about the portion/flange of the cast panel carrying the weight. Although other distances  300  may be selected based on the geometrical dimensions and/or weight of the panel  200 , it is preferred the distance  300  be approximately 50-80% of the overall height  302  of the panel  200 . The recesses  208 ,  210  can also be seen separating their respective sidewalls  204 ,  206  into an upper portion  308  and a lower portion  312 . 
     While a cast panel  200  may be formed, e.g., cast, with recesses,  FIG. 4  depicts a cross-section view of a beneficial embodiment wherein one or more sides have an inlaid rib member  400  extending throughout the length  224  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) of first side  204  and a second inlaid rib member extending throughout the length  224  of the second side  206  of the cast panel  200 . While  FIG. 4  depicts only the first inlaid rib member, any other rib members discussed herein will be the structural equivalent and applied in the same fashion as the first rib member  400 . As used herein, the reference to rib member  400  will also refer to other rib members utilized in conjunction with the cast panel. In this exemplary embodiment, the inlaid rib member  400  defines the first recess  208 . A second inlaid rib member will define the second recess  210 . In one embodiment, the first and second recesses  208 ,  210  are formed within the body  202  of the cast panel  200  to distribute the type of internal forces on the cast panel, i.e., compression and shear forces. In alternative embodiments, the first and second recesses  208 ,  210  not formed within the body, but rather are formed only by the rib members. 
     The inlaid rib member  400  may be made of a material different than the remainder of the cast panel  200 . For example, the cast panel  200  may be comprised of a concrete, stone or other material used in building construction; whereas the inlaid rib member  400  may be made of iron, steel, or any other metal or rigid material of suitable durability for supporting and reinforcing a portion of the cast panel  200  and adapted to engage the hook-like members  216 ,  218  for transportation. This reinforcement advantageously prevents spalling or cracking of the corners or other surfaces of the cast panel where the hook-like members  216 ,  218  engage the first and second recess  208 ,  210 , respectively, during transportation of cast panel  200 . As depicted in  FIG. 4 , the inlaid rib member  400  is cast or set within the cast panel so as to form a secure bond or connection with the cast panel. Therefore, the inlaid rib member  400  may be seen having protruding members, e.g., arm  412 , that extend within the body  202  of the cast panel  200  to provide resistance to the lifting forces exerted by the lifting assembly  212 . 
     In one embodiment, the inlaid rib member  400  may extend only a portion of the length  224  of the first and second sides  204 ,  206 . Similarly, the recesses  208 ,  210 , whether defined by the inlaid rib member or by the sides  204 ,  206  of the body  202  without the inlaid rib members, may extend only a portion of the length  224  of the first and second sides  204 ,  206 . Preferably, however, the rib member  400  and the corresponding recesses  208 ,  210  extend the entire length  224  of the body  202 . In embodiments when the body  202  and/or rib member  400  define a third recess  304  and a fourth recess (not shown) on the third and fourth sides  220 ,  222 , respectively, of the panel  200 , the third recess  304  and the fourth recess may also extend the entire width  226  (shown in  FIG. 2 ) of the panel  200 . The third recess  304  and the fourth recesses advantageously permit the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218  to be inserted within each recess, respectively, to couple the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218  with the body  202 . 
     The recesses  208 ,  210 , including any other recesses formed on the panel  200 , are generally of a depth  414  of approximately 0.5-2 inches and a height  416  of approximately 1-4 inches. In other embodiments, the depth  414  and height  416  may vary outside of the aforementioned ranges based on the specific weight of the cast panel  200  desired to be transported and/or the shape of the hook-like members  216 ,  218 . The depth  414  of the recesses  208 ,  210  extends generally from a portion forming the side surface  404  to a plane extending downwardly from the flange  406 —or to the flange  406  itself. The height  416  of the recesses  208 ,  210  extends generally from a portion forming the top surface  402  to a portion forming a lower surface  418  of the inlaid rib member  400  and/or cast panel body  202 —if the cast panel  200  does not include an inlaid rib member  400 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the lower surface  418 —when preferably formed on the cast panel  200 , may be generally at an obtuse angle to the side surface  404  to beneficially facilitate the insertion and removal of a hook-like member  218  or, in alternative embodiments, may be at a right and/or acute angle. 
     In preferred embodiments, the inlaid rib member  400  may define a U-shaped channel within the body  202  of the cast panel  200  that substantially spans, i.e., 80-90%, the entire length  224  of the first and second sides  204 ,  206 , respectively, of the cast panel  200 . The term “U-shaped” is defined as having at least three sides with two vertices or two sides and one vertices where the two sides intersect. The U-shaped channel formed by the shape of the recesses  208 ,  210  can be advantageously seen openly facing in a direction outwardly away from the center  306  of the body  202  to facilitate in the insertion and removal of the hooks  216 ,  218 . 
     In one embodiment, the inlaid rib member  400  includes a top surface  402  extending inwardly toward a center, e.g., point  306  in  FIG. 3 , of the body  202  of the cast panel  200 , a side surface  404  extending downwardly away from the top surface  402 , and a flange  406  extending downwardly away from the top surface  402 . The flange  406  can be seen with a distal portion  408  terminating within the first recess  208 . Advantageously, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may be inserted within the first and second recesses  208 ,  210 , respectively, and placed therein such that a portion, e.g.,  410 , of the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218  is interposed between the side surface  404  and the flange  406  of the respective inlaid rib member to inhibit removal of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  during transport of the panel  200 . 
     Alternatively, in some embodiments, when the hook-like members  216 ,  218  are inserted within the recesses  208 ,  210 , the portion  410  of the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218  is abutted with the flange  406  of the respective inlaid rib members. As a result, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  are advantageously secured to the cast panel  200  during transport. In some embodiments, the inlaid rib member  400  has a portion projecting outwardly into the channel to prevent horizontal movement of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  when inserted therein. Preferably the portion projecting outwardly into the channel would be located proximal to the distal ends of the length  224  of the sides  204 ,  206 . Beneficially, the hook portion  410  of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  is inserted under the flange  406  and, when the lifting force is applied by the lifting assembly  212 , the cast panel  200  hangs from the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218  and is frictionally and mechanically retained within the first and the second recess  208 ,  210 , respectively, by the inlaid member  400  and its flange  406 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , the hook-like member  218  is illustrated in an enlarged view. While  FIG. 5  depicts the first hook-like member  218 , any other hook-like member or coupling fastener discussed herein may be the structural equivalent and applied in the same fashion as the first hook-like member  400 . The hook-like members  216 ,  218  may be a hook, latch, crow bar, or other hook-like structure. The term “hook-like member” is defined herein as a piece of material having at least one upright structure or portion and an arm extending from that upright structure that is curved or bent back at an angle θ that is either acute or 90 degrees. As such, the hook-like member  218  can be seen having an upright portion  500  that is coupled to a cable  230  of the lifting assembly  212  and a panel coupling portion  502  extending away from a distal end  504  of the upright portion  500 . The panel coupling portion  502  can be seen extending away from the upright portion  500  at about a 45 degree angle θ. The panel coupling portion  502  preferably has a substantially planar surface  510  that extends laterally in a substantially parallel (i.e., within +/−10° deviation of parallel) direction of the recess, e.g., recess  210 . Moreover, the width  508  of the coupling portions of the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218  are also at least twenty-five percent an overall length  224  (or width  226  depending on the embodiment) of the first and second recesses  208 ,  210 . Preferably, however, the width  508  of the coupling portions of the first and second hook-like members  216 ,  218  are also at least fifty percent the overall length  224  of the first and second recesses  208 ,  210 . The above structure of the hook-like members beneficially provides users the ability to safely and effectively transport cast panels with low risk of structural failure of the components. 
     The length  506  of the upright portion  500  of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may be approximately two to four feet. In other embodiments, the length  506  may vary outside of that range. The upright portion  500  is generally planar, but may be, in certain embodiments, have one or more curved sections within. A width  508  of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may be approximately six to twelve inches. In other embodiments, the width  508  may vary outside of that range. In an embodiment, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  are of made of steel material. In another embodiment, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  are made of only iron, metal-composite material, or any other type of metal or rigid material of similar durability to sustain the weight of a cast panel  200  during transportation. The hook-like members  216 ,  218  are removably connected to the lifting assembly  212 . In one embodiment, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  connect to the lifting assembly  212  by a cable  228 . In another embodiment, the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may connect to the lifting assembly  212  by a rope, a pulley system, or another suitable cord as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an elevational side view of the cast panel  200  lifted from a horizontal starting position. The cast panel  200  is lifted in the horizontal position from a starting point and transported to a predetermined end point. The horizontal position is the preferred position for lifting utilizing the present method because the hook-like members  216 ,  218  can be slideably or directly inserted from the sides  204 ,  206  into the first recess  208  and the second recess  210  to couple with the body  202  of the cast panel  200 . In such a configuration, a weight of the cast panel  200  is evenly distributed, thereby preventing the cast panel  200  from movement and bending during transportation. Moreover, it reduces the time-intensive task of properly placing hooks or other fasteners  104 A into the body  202  of the panel as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Moreover, with reference to  FIG. 7 , in an additional embodiment of the present invention the panel coupling portion  502  of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  may have a portion  700  shaped and sized to substantially fill the recess to which it is inserted. Said another way, the panel coupling portion  502  will have a complimentary portion  700  that is shaped and sized to mate with and substantially fill the void, i.e., 80-100%, of the recess to which it is inserted. This advantageously creates an attachment that substantially resists movement of the hook-like members  216 ,  218  along the width  218  of the panel  200 . To insert the hook-like members  216 ,  218  within the respective recesses  208 ,  210  the user either slides the complimentary portion  700  within the recesses  208 ,  210  or inserts a top portion of the complimentary portion  700  under the flange  406  by angling the same under the flange  406 . The user would then insert a bottom portion of the complimentary portion  700  into the respective recess  208 ,  210 . 
       FIG. 8  shows an additional embodiment of the method for transporting a plurality of cast panels  800 ,  802 . In this embodiment, a plurality of cast panels  800 ,  802  may be transported simultaneously. Said another way, a second cast panel  802  is provided with similar dimensions as the first cast panel  800 . The cast panels  800 ,  802  may be formed and shaped as discussed herein with regard to cast panel  200 . The second cast panel  802  may be positioned a distance from the cast panel  802 . This distance is dictated by a distance separating a portion of the panel coupling portions  804 A,  806 A on a first plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810 . Naturally, this distance is also dictated by a distance separating the panel coupling portions  804 B,  806 B on a second plurality of hook-like members  822 ,  824 . The first and second cast panels  800 ,  802  are of a configuration similar to that of the cast panel  200 . For example, the cast panels  800 ,  802  each include a body  812  with first sides  814 A,  814 B and second sides  816 A,  816 B opposite the first side  814 A,  814 B, respectively. The body  812  defines a first recess  818 A,  818 B disposed on the first side  814 A,  814 B and a second recess  820 A,  820 B disposed on the second side  816 A,  816 B of each of the cast panels  800 ,  802 . 
     The first plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810  are inserted into the recesses  818 A,  818 B to couple with the body  812 . More specifically, the panel coupling portions  804 A,  806 A of the first plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810  are inserted into the first recess  818 A of the first and second cast panels  800 ,  802  to couple the plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810  with the bodies  812  of the first and second cast panels  800 ,  802 . The first plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810  are operably coupled to the lifting assembly  212  and would include a hook-like member similar to the first hook-like member  216  described above. Said another way, the present invention may utilize the hook-like member  216  as part of the first plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810 . Similarly, the second plurality of hook-like members  822 ,  824  are operably coupled to the lifting assembly and may include the second hook-like member  218 . A second plurality of hook-like members  822 ,  824  is inserted in a similar fashion as the first plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810 . After insertion, the cast panels  800 ,  802  are transported by applying the lifting force, through the lifting assembly  212 , to first and second plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810 ,  822 ,  824 . 
     In one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 8 , the plurality of hook-like members  808 ,  810  are integrally formed together as one piece of material and the second plurality of hook-like members  822 ,  824  are integrally formed together as one piece of material. Further, in one embodiment, the cast panels  800 ,  802  are integral with one another. The embodiment shown in  FIG. 8  advantageously permits multiple cast panels  800 ,  802  to be transported with ease and more efficiency. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a variation of the method for transporting a cast panel  900  in accordance with the present invention. The method includes providing the cast panel  900  having a body  902  with a first side  904  and a second side  906 , opposite the first side  904 . The body  902  defines a first step  908  on the first side  904  and a second step  910  on the second side  906 . In one embodiment, the first step  908  and the second step  910  may be of a material different than the remainder of the cast panel  900  so as to reinforce the body  902  of cast panel  900  at the location of the first step  908  and second step  910 . The cast panel  900  may be comprised of a concrete or stone material. In another embodiment, the first step  908  and the second step  910  may be made of iron. In another embodiment, the first step  908  and the second step  910  may be made of steel, metal or any other similar material. 
     A panel coupling portion  912  of a first coupling fastener  920  is inserted under a bottom side of the first step  908  to couple with the body  902 . The panel coupling portion  912  is operably coupled to the lifting assembly  212  via an upright portion  916  of the first coupling fastener  920 . Thereafter, a panel coupling portion  914  of a second coupling fastener  922  is inserted under a bottom side of the second step  910  to couple with and support the body  902 . The second coupling fastener  922  is operably coupled to the lifting assembly  212  via an upright portion  918  of the second coupling fastener  922 . 
     The coupling fasteners  920 ,  922  may be inserted under the bottom side of the first step  908  and the bottom side of the second step  910 , respectively. In one embodiment, each of the panel coupling portions  912 ,  914  are at a right angle with respect to the upright portions  916 ,  918  of their respective coupling fastener  920 ,  922 . Said another way, the panel coupling portions  912 ,  914  together with their respective upright portions  916 ,  918 , form an L-shape. The upright portions  916 ,  918  of the coupling fasteners  920 ,  922  are removably connected to the lifting assembly  212  by a cable. The cast panel  900  may be transported by applying a lifting force, through the lifting assembly  212 , to the first and second coupling fasteners  920 ,  922 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 11 , a flow diagram for illustrating an alternative embodiment of the method for transporting the cast panel in accordance with the present invention is shown. The method of  FIG. 11  begins at step  1100  and moves directly to step  1102 , providing a cast panel  900  as illustrated in  FIG. 9 . The cast panel has a body with a first side and a second side, opposite the first side. The body defines a first step disposed on the first side and defining a second step disposed on the second side. In step  1104 , a first coupling fastener is inserted under the bottom side of the first step to couple with the body. In step  1106 , the second coupling fastener is inserted under the bottom side of the second step to couple with the body. In step  1108 , a lifting force is applied to the first and second coupling fasteners through the lifting assembly. In step  1110 , the cast panel is transported. The process ends at step  1110 . 
     In an additional embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in  FIG. 12 , a panel  1200  includes an inlaid rib member  1202  affixed thereto with a clip  1216  adapted to engage with a portion of the inlaid rib member  1202 . The clip  1216  provides a user with the advantageous ability to retain the cast panel  1200  to a building structure  1218  after it has been transported to its desired location. The inlaid rib member  1202  can be seen defining a plurality of channels  1204 ,  1206 . In other embodiments, the inlaid rib member  1202  will have a structure similar to that shown in  FIG. 4 . The inlaid rib member  1202  can also be seen having flanges  1208 ,  1210 ,  1212 ,  1214  similar in structure to those above-described flange(s), e.g., flange  406 . The inlaid rib member  1202  is shown in a cross-sectional view, but it may span along the entire, or a portion of, the length  224  or width  226  of the panel  1200  as described above. As shown in  FIG. 12 , the flange  1208  is shaped to receive the clip  1216 . In the embodiments described above, for example, the clip  1216  would engage with the panel  1200  via a lower portion  1230  of the inlaid rib member  1202 . 
     To transport the panel  1200 , the hook-like member  216 , as described above, will be inserted into the first recess/channel  1204  or the second recess/channel  1206 , while another hook-like member will be inserted into one or more recesses disposed on, and defined by, the other side of the cast panel  1200 . 
     In one embodiment, the clip  1216  is a piece of material with an upright portion  1222 , a second portion  1224  substantially perpendicular to the upright portion  1222 , and an arm  1226  extending from the upright portion  1222  that may be curved or bent back at an angle θ that is either acute or 90 degrees. The arm  1226  of the clip  1216  is sized and shaped to be inserted within one or more recesses prevent the cast panel  1200  from experiencing any movement in the vertical direction from which it is installed onto the building structure  1218 . As those of skill in the art can appreciate, the size and shape of the arm  1226  of the clip  1216  may vary based on size and shape of the recess  1204  to which it is inserted. For example, with brief reference to  FIG. 4 , if the height  416  of the channel was 4 inches and the depth  414  of the channel was 4 inches, the arm  1226  would have a length  1228  less than proximately 4 inches and a thickness no greater than approximately 4 inches. “Substantially perpendicular” is defined herein as forming a right angle, or approximately a right angle with another line, plane or surface. In another embodiment, the clip  1216  may be latch, hook, or another similar shape and/or component used to secure the cast panel  1200  to the building structure  1218 . The length of the clip  1216  may vary depending on the size and shape of the cast panel  1200  and its channels, e.g., recess  1204 . The positioning of the clip  1216 , with respect to the flange  1208 , may also vary with depending on the size of the cast panel  1200  and the structure. In an embodiment, the clip  1216  may be made of steel material. In another embodiment, the clip  1216  is made of only iron, metal-composite material, or any other type of metal or rigid material of similar durability. 
     The clip  1216  is shown inserted over the flange  1208  to secure the panel  1200  to the building structure  1218 . The term “structure” is defined herein as one or more pieces used in a framework or support structure disposed within a building, house, dwelling, shelter, or other similar building. For example, in use, the cast panel  1200  may be lifted by the lifting assembly and placed on the structure  1218 , wherein the clip  1216  may be inserted over the flange  1208  and secured to a building structure  1218  by one or more fasteners  1220 .