Dowel bar assembly and mechanical connector
A mechanical connector for securing a dowel rod to a frame of a dowel bar assembly as well as a dowel bar assembly are detailed. Each embodiment of the mechanical connector includes a portion to receive the dowel bar. A second portion of the mechanical connector engages the frame of the dowel bar assembly. A third portion of the mechanical connector engages a separate part of the frame further stabilizing the mechanical connector and frame.
1. A connecting device for a dowel bar and frame wherein the frame includes a U-shaped portion over the dowel bar and the frame has a horizontal cross-member, the connecting device comprising:
a housing member;
the housing member having a cavity;
wherein the cavity is capable of receiving the dowel bar;
the connecting device further comprising a receiving member,
wherein the receiving member is capable of securing a first portion of the frame;
whereby the dowel bar and the frame are held in place;
a lip;
the lip on an outer edge of the connecting device;
the lip having an outer edge;
a second portion of the frame makes contact with the outer edge and the dowel bar;
the receiving member is located on a front of the device;
wherein the front faces away from a longitudinal axis of the dowel bar;
the outer edge on an opposite side of the receiving member.
2. The connecting device of claim 1 , further comprising:
a groove;
the groove corresponding to a shape of a top of the connecting device;
the groove on a bottom of the connecting device;
wherein the groove allows multiple connecting devices to be stacked on top of one another;
the receiving member is located between the groove and the main body.
3. The connecting device of claim 2 , wherein
the receiving member comprises a slot;
the slot having an end in a shape corresponding to the first portion of the frame;
the slot further comprising at least one guide channel allowing the first portion of the frame to be positioned into the slot.
4. The connecting device of claim 3 ; wherein:
a shape of the cavity corresponds to an exterior of the dowel bar.