IES20080702A2

IES20080702A2 - A connector for connecting a pair of spaced apart formwork panels, a formwork assembly and a method for constructing the formwork assembly

Info

Publication number: IES20080702A2
Authority: IE
Inventors: Patrick Joseph O'carroll; Peter Thomas Flynn
Original assignee: Eden Res And Dev Company Ltd
Priority date: 2007-09-29
Filing date: 2008-08-29
Publication date: 2009-04-29
Also published as: WO2009027960A1

Abstract

A formwork assembly (1) for use in the construction of a cast in-situ wall (2) comprises an inner formwork panel (4) and an outer formwork panel (5) which subsequently define inner and outer surfaces (7,8) of the cast in-situ wall (2). A reinforcing sub-assembly (55) comprising a pair of spaced apart first and second reinforcing panels (14,15) of weld-mesh is located in a void (11) defined between the inner and outer formwork panels (4,5). The first and second reinforcing panels (14,15) are retained parallel to and spaced apart from each other by connectors (10) to which the inner and outer formwork panels (4,5) are bonded. Each connector (10) comprises a shank (20) extending between first and second anchor plates (21,22) to which the inner and outer formwork panels (4,5) are bonded. First and second clips (30,31) located on the shank (20) of each connector (10) secure the connectors (10) to the first and second reinforcing panels (14,15) and retain the first and second reinforcing panels (14,15 in spaced apart relationship relative to each other and also in spaced apart relationship relative to the inner and outer formwork panels (4,5). <Figures 6 and 7>

Description

“A connector for connecting a pair of spaced apart formwork panels, a formwork assembly and a method for constructing the formwork assembly” The present invention relates to a connector for connecting a pair of spaced apart formwork panels of a formwork assembly, and the invention also relates to a formwork assembly and to a method for producing the formwork assembly. The invention also relates to a reinforcing sub-assembly for use in the framework assembly, and to a method for producing the reinforcing sub-assembly. The invention also relates to a wall constructed from the formwork assembly and to a method for constructing such a wall.

Many systems are used for constructing buildings, and in particular, for constructing multi-storey buildings. One typical form of construction is to form the load bearing walls of cast in-situ concrete, which in general is steel reinforced. The walls may be constructed by constructing shuttering formed by spaced apart panels, typically of timber, for example, marine plywood, within which concrete is poured to form the wall. Prior to pouring the concrete, reinforcing steel is located between the panels of the shuttering. When the concrete has cured, the panels of the shuttering are removed. This method for constructing cast in-situ walls of a building has a number of disadvantages. Firstly, suitable shuttering must be constructed, which typically is constructed on site. The construction of such shuttering, whether constructed on site or off-site, requires the services of skilled craftsmen, such as carpenters, and thus adds significantly to the cost of constructing a building. Secondly, the need to construct shuttering on site is a relatively time consuming task, and tends to slow down the construction of a building. Thirdly, shuttering can be difficult to dismantle and dangerous to move around a building site. Additionally, in many cases shuttering may be scrapped after only one use, which is wasteful and adds unnecessarily to the construction cost of a building.

To overcome these problems, it is known to produce formwork, which is commonly referred to as permanent formwork for use in the construction of cast in-situ walls. The formwork acts as the shuttering, and remains in place after the concrete of the wall has cured, and thus the respective major surfaces of the wall are formed by the formwork. Such formwork, in general, comprises a pair of spaced apart formwork panels joined by a plurality of spaced apart connectors which secure the formwork panels in spaced apart relationship relative to each other for receiving poured concrete therebetween, and the formwork panels form the surfaces of the constructed wall. This formwork, in general, comprises relatively thin precast concrete panels, although it is also known to produce such formwork of panels of a mixture of cement and wood chips. Reinforcing material, such as weld-mesh panels are located between the formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto. Typically, a pair of spaced apart panels of reinforcing material are located between the formwork panels, and the reinforcing panels are spaced apart inwardly from the formwork panels by the connectors.

Such formwork suffers from a number of disadvantages. Firstly, panels of precast concrete are heavy to lift on site, typically weighing in the region of 300kg/M2 to 375kg/M2, secondly, problems arise in securing the connectors to the respective formwork panels, so that the formwork panels are accurately aligned with each other. Thirdly, difficulties arise in securing and locating the reinforcing panels between the formwork panels. Fourthly, the formwork thickness can add considerably to the overall wall thickness.

There is therefore a need for a connector for connecting a pair of spaced apart formwork panels which addresses at least some of these problems. There is also a need for a formwork assembly and for a method for producing a formwork assembly which addresses at least some of the problems.

The present invention is directed towards providing a connector for connecting a pair of spaced apart formwork panels of a formwork assembly which addresses at least some of the problems of known formwork assemblies, and the invention is also directed towards a formwork assembly, a method for producing the formwork assembly, a wall constructed from the formwork assembly and a method for constructing such a wall. The invention is also directed towards a reinforcing subassembly for use in a formwork assembly, and to a method for producing the reinforcing sub-assembly. / η· According to the invention there is provided a connector for connecting spaced apart first and second formwork panels of a formwork assembly, the connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing the connector to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing the connector to the second formwork panel with the first and second formwork panels spaced apart from each other, the first and second anchor means being adapted for bonding to the respective first and second formwork panels.

The invention also provides a reinforcing sub-assembly comprising a first reinforcing panel and a second reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel, and a plurality of connectors engaging and retaining the first and second reinforcing panels in the spaced apart relationship relative to each other, at least one of the connectors being a connector according to the invention.

The invention further provides a reinforcing sub-assembly for connecting first and second formwork panels of a formwork assembly, the reinforcing sub-assembly comprising at least a first reinforcing panel, and a plurality of connectors engaging the first reinforcing panel, each connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing the connector to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing the connector to the second formwork panel with the first and second formwork panels spaced apart from each other, the first and second anchor means of each connector being adapted for bonding to the respective framework panels, and at least one engagement means being provided on each connector for engaging and retaining the first reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels.

Additionally the invention provides a formwork assembly comprising a first framework panel and a spaced apart second formwork panel defining a void therebetween for a castable material, the first and second formwork panels being connected together by a plurality of spaced apart connectors, the connectors being connectors according to the invention.

Further the invention provides a formwork assembly comprising a first formwork panel and a spaced apart second formwork panel defining a void therebetween for a castable material, the first and second formwork panels being connected together and retained in spaced apart relationship by a plurality of spaced apart connectors, each connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing to the second formwork panel with the respective formwork panels spaced apart from each other, the first and second anchor means being adapted for bonding to the respective first and second formwork panels.

The invention also provides a formwork assembly comprising first and second spaced apart formwork panels defining a void therebetween, and a reinforcing subassembly located in the void, the reinforcing sub-assembly being a reinforcing subassembly according to the invention, the connectors of the sub-assembly being connected to the respective formwork panels for securing the formwork panels spaced apart relative to each other.

Preferably, each anchor means of each connector defines a panel abutment surface for abutting the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels.

Advantageously, the panel abutment surfaces of the respective first and second anchor means of each connector are adapted for receiving a suitable bonding agent for bonding the anchor means to the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels. Preferably, the panel abutment surface of each anchor means of each connector is provided with a plurality of spaced apart retaining ridges which define troughs therebetween for accommodating the bonding agent. Ideally, the retaining ridges of each anchor means of each connector extend parallel to each other.

In one embodiment of the invention a reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and spaced apart therefrom.

Preferably, each connector comprises at least one engagement means for engaging and retaining the reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels. Advantageously, the engagement means on each connector for engaging the first reinforcing panel comprises a first engagement means located intermediate the first and second anchor means.

In another embodiment ofthe invention a second reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and spaced apart therefrom, and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel, and a second engagement means is provided on each connector spaced apart from the first engagement means for engaging the second reinforcing panel and for locating the second reinforcing panel within the void between the first and second formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel.

Advantageously, the second engagement means of each connector is adapted for locating the second reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the second formwork panel and the first reinforcing panel. Preferably, the first engagement means of each connector is adapted for locating the first reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the first formwork panel and the second reinforcing panel. Ideally, the first and second engagement means ofthe respective connectors are adapted for retaining the first and second reinforcing panels parallel to each other.

In one embodiment ofthe invention the connectors are configured on the at least first reinforcing panel in a matrix formation formed by the connectors defining a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. Preferably, the rows defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other, and the columns defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other. Advantageously, the rows and columns of the connectors extend perpendicularly to each other.

Preferably, adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. Advantageously, adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. Ideally, adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm.

Preferably, adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. Advantageously, adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm.

Ideally, adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm.

Preferably, the first engagement means of each connector is adapted for pivotally engaging the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means is adapted for receiving the second reinforcing panel when the first and second reinforcing panels are located in spaced apart relationship relative to each other, and the connector with the first engagement means engaging the first reinforcing panel is pivoted about the first reinforcing panel.

In one embodiment ofthe invention the first engagement means of each connector comprises a first clip for engaging a portion of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means comprises a second clip for engaging a portion of the second reinforcing panel.

Preferably, the first clip of each connector comprises a first engagement leaf resiliently urged towards an engagement portion ofthe shank, and defining with the engagement portion a first engagement slot for engaging the portion of the first reinforcing panel therein. Advantageously, the first engagement leaf of each connector is resiliently carried on a first carrier means. Ideally, the first carrier means of each connector comprises a resilient first carrier leaf. Preferably, the first carrier leaf of each connector extends from the first anchor means.

Advantageously, a plurality of spaced apart first gripping ridges are located respectively on the first engagement leaf and on the engagement portion of the shank of each connector for engaging and gripping the portion of the first reinforcing panel.

In another embodiment of the invention the second clip of each connector comprises a pair of second engagement leaves carried on the shank, at least one of the second engagement leaves being resiliently urged towards the other ofthe second Ί engagement leaves and defining therewith a second engagement slot for engaging the portion of the second reinforcing panel therein. Preferably, at least one of the second engagement leaves of each connector is resiliently carried on a second carrier means for resiliently urging the said at least one of the second engagement leaves towards the other of the second engagement leaves. Advantageously, each second engagement leaf of each connector is resiliently carried on a corresponding second carrier means. Preferably, each second carrier means of each connector comprises a resilient second carrier leaf. Advantageously, the respective second carrier means of each connector extend from the shank spaced apart from each other axially along the shank.

Preferably, the second engagement leaves of each connector are located between the respective second carrier means.

Advantageously, each second engagement leaf of each connector comprises a plurality of spaced apart second gripping ridges for engaging and gripping the second reinforcing panel.

In one embodiment of the invention the second engagement means of each connector is located adjacent the second anchor means.

In another embodiment of the invention the first engagement means of each connector comprises a first lead-in for accommodating the first resilient panel into engagement with the first engagement means.

In a further embodiment of the invention the second engagement means of each connector comprises a second lead-in for accommodating the second resilient material into engagement with the second engagement means.

Preferably, the first engagement means of each connector is located adjacent the first anchor means.

In another embodiment of the invention each reinforcing panel comprises a panel £/ 0 7 02 formed by a weld mesh panel having a plurality of longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart rods joined by a plurality of parallel spaced apart transversely extending rods, and the first engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding ones of the rods of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding rods of the second reinforcing panel. Preferably, the first and second engagement means of the connectors engage corresponding adjacent ones of the horizontal rods of the respective first and second reinforcing panels. Advantageously, the reinforcing panels extend parallel to each other.

In one embodiment of the invention the shank of each connector is formed in two parts, which are adjustably coupled to each other for adjusting the length thereof and in turn the spacing between the respective first and second anchor means.

Advantageously, one part of the shank of each connector forms a socket for engaging a plug formed on the other part of the shank for securing the respective parts of the shank together.

Preferably, one of the plug and socket of the respective parts of the shank of each connector is adapted for engaging the other of the plug and the socket for facilitating adjustment of the length of the shank.

Advantageously, one of the plug and the socket of each connector is provided with at least one of a pair of complementary interengageable formations, and the other of the plug and the socket is provided with at least one of the other of the pair of interengageable complementary formations such that the plug is engageable with and retained the socket at respective different axial locations. Advantageously, the socket of each connector is provided with more of the complementary interengageable formations than the plug.

Preferably, one of the pair of interengageable complementary formations of each connector comprises a ridge, and the other of the pair of interengageable complementary formations comprises a recess. Ideally, the plug of each connector «0 80 7 02 is provided with at least one ridge.

Advantageously, each connector is of a plastics material. Ideally, each connector is of injection moulded plastics material.

In another embodiment ofthe invention each formwork panel comprises a cementitious material.

Preferably, each formwork panel is formed by a fibre board panel.

Advantageously, the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of any one or more of the following materials: timber, glass, plastics material, and acrylic material.

In another embodiment ofthe invention each formwork panel comprises a cellulose/cementitious material.

Preferably, the first and second formwork panels are adapted to form respective opposite outer surfaces of a wall formed by casting a material in the void between the first and second formwork panels, In a further embodiment of the invention the first engagement means of each connector is adapted for engaging a first reinforcing material, and preferably, the second engagement means of each connector is adapted for engaging a second reinforcing material. Preferably, the first reinforcing material comprises a first reinforcing panel, and advantageously, the second reinforcing material comprises a second reinforcing panel.

Ideally, the connectors retain the first and second formwork panels parallel to each other. «0 80 7 02 Advantageously, the connectors are configured on the first and second formwork panels in a matrix formation formed by the connectors defining a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns.

Preferably, the connectors retain the first and second reinforcing panels spaced apart from each other and advantageously, parallel to each other, and ideally, the connectors retain the first and second reinforcing panels spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels, and spaced apart therefrom. io The invention also provides a wall constructed from the formwork assembly according to the invention, and a material cast in the void between the first and second formwork panels.

Preferably, the material cast in the void between the first and second formwork panels comprises a cementitious material.

Advantageously, the material cast in the void between the first and second formwork panels is concrete.

In one embodiment of the invention the wall supports a floor, and reinforcing material in the floor is tied into at least one reinforcing panel in the wall. Preferably, the floor is cast in-situ. Advantageously, the floor is cast with the wall.

The invention further provides a method for producing a formwork assembly comprising spaced apart first and second formwork panels, the method comprising providing a plurality of connectors for connecting the formwork panels spaced apart relative to each other, each connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing to the second formwork panel, the first and second anchor means being adapted for bonding to the respective framework panels, the method further comprising bonding the first anchor means to the first formwork panel and bonding the second anchor means to the second formwork panel with the IE0 80 7 02 formwork panels spaced apart defining a void for a castable material.

Advantageously, a reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and spaced apart therefrom. Preferably, each connector is provided with at least one engagement means for engaging and retaining the reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels. Advantageously, the engagement means on each connector for engaging the first reinforcing panel comprises a first engagement means located intermediate the first and second anchor means. Preferably, a second reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and spaced apart therefrom, and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel, and a second engagement means is provided on each connector spaced apart from the first engagement means for engaging the second reinforcing panel and for locating the second reinforcing panel within the void between the first and second formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel.

In one embodiment of the invention the second engagement means of each connector is provided for locating the second reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the second formwork panel and the first reinforcing panel.

The invention also provides a method for constructing a cast in-situ wall comprising providing a formwork assembly according to the invention and erecting the formwork assembly on a floor slab or a foundation, and pouring a castable material into the void between the first and second formwork panels and allowing the castable material to cure so that the castable material in conjunction with the formwork assembly forms the cast in-situ wall.

In one embodiment of the invention the castable material is a cementitious material. Preferably, the castable material is concrete.

In another embodiment of the invention a floor supported by the wall is cast with the wall, and prior to casting, reinforcing material of the floor is tied to at least one reinforcing panel in the wall.

IEO 80 7 02 Preferably, the floor is cast in-situ. Advantageously, the floor is cast in-situ with the wall.

The advantages of the formwork assembly are many. Firstly, the formwork assembly is particularly suitable for forming load bearing walls, and in particular, the formwork assembly according to the invention is suitable for forming an inner load bearing leaf of a cavity wall. The formwork assembly prior to concrete filling is relatively lightweight in comparison to other systems, and in general, the formwork assembly according to the invention weighs approximately 50kg/M2 to 60kg/M2 of wall surface. By virtue of the fact that the connectors are configured relative to the reinforcing sub-assembly and to the formwork panels in the form of a matrix defined by rows and columns of the connectors and further, by virtue of the fact that the spacing between the connectors in the respective rows and columns does not exceed 350mm, and preferably, does not exceed 300mm, and ideally, is approximately 200mm, the strength of the formwork panels can be significantly reduced over prior art formwork panels. This, thus, facilitates providing the formwork panels as relatively thin formwork panels, which firstly, significantly reduces the weight of the formwork assembly, and secondly, reduces the overall width of the formwork assembly for a given void width, and in turn the overall width of a cast insitu wall cast in-situ with the formwork assembly for a given load bearing capacity. Accordingly, the formwork assembly according to the invention is significantly lighter than prior art formwork assemblies, and furthermore, permits the casting in-situ of a wall of reduced thickness due to the reduced thickness of the formwork panels.

A further advantage of the invention is that the connectors for connecting the formwork panels together can be readily easily secured to the formwork panels with minimum effort, and in general, once the inner and outer formwork panels are aligned with each other, and with the reinforcing sub-assembly which already comprises the connectors in the matrix configuration, little or no further alignment is required. By assembling the reinforcing panels and the connectors to form a reinforcing sub-assembly prior to securing the formwork panels to the connectors, the reinforcing sub-assembly is readily easily produced, and the formwork panels *080702 can then readily easily be secured to the reinforcing sub-assembly without difficulty, and without any difficulty arising in locating the reinforcing panels relative to the formwork panels, since the reinforcing panels are retained parallel relative to each other by the connectors. Accordingly, the formwork assembly lends itself ideally to assembly with the minimum amount of alignment of the various components thereof. By assembling the first and second reinforcing panels with the connectors to form a reinforcing sub-assembly, the first and second formwork panels can then be readily easily aligned and engaged with the reinforcing sub-assembly.

The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some preferred embodiments thereof which are given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a formwork assembly according to the invention, Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a reinforcing sub-assembly also according to the invention of the formwork assembly of Fig. 1, Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a portion ofthe reinforcing sub-assembly of Fig. 2, Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the formwork assembly of Fig. 1 being assembled, Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the formwork assembly of Fig. 1 also being assembled, Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the formwork assembly of Fig. 1 also being assembled, Fig. 7 is an end elevational view of a portion of the reinforcing sub-assembly of Fig. 2, ΙΕΟ 8 ο 7 02 Fig. 8 is an end elevational view of the portion of the reinforcing subassembly of Fig. 7 illustrating the reinforcing sub-assembly being assembled, Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a connector also according to the invention for use in the formwork assembly of Fig. 1, Fig. 10 is another perspective view of the connector of Fig. 9, Fig. 11 is a side elevational view of the connector of Fig. 9, Fig. 12 is a transverse cross-sectional end elevational view of a portion of the formwork assembly of Fig. 1 in use in the construction of a wall, Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a connector according to another embodiment of the invention, Fig. 14 is another perspective view of the connector of Fig. 13, and Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the connector of Fig. 13.

Referring to the drawings and initially to Figs. 1 to 11, there is illustrated a formwork assembly according to the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral 1 for use in the construction of a cast in-situ reinforced concrete wall 2 which is illustrated in Fig. 12 and described in more detail below. The formwork assembly 1 is a permanent formwork assembly and is provided to remain in place after the concrete of the wall has been cast and has cured. The formwork assembly 1 comprises spaced apart parallel first and second formwork panels, namely, an inner formwork panel 4 and an outer formwork panel 5, which when the wall 2 is constructed from part of the wall, and in particular define inner and outer surfaces 7 and 8, respectively, of the wall 2, as will be described in more detail below. The inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 are of a cementitious/cellulose «0 3 0 7 02 composition, and in this embodiment ofthe invention are fibre board panels, which are panels of cement reinforced with timber fibres.

A plurality of spaced apart connectors, also according to the invention and indicated generally by the reference numeral 10 are secured to and extend between the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5, and retain the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 in the spaced apart relationship to define a void 11 for accommodating concrete 12 which is cast between the formwork panels 4 and 5, see Fig. 12. The connectors 10 are secured to the formwork panels 4 and 5 by bonding and retain the formwork panels 4 and 5 in the spaced apart relationship during pouring of the concrete 12 into the void 11 and while the concrete 12 is curing in the void 11. The connectors 10, which are described in detail below with reference to Figs. 9 to 11, also locate first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15, respectively, of weld-mesh material in the void 11 between the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5. The weld-mesh material of the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart rods of steel, namely, vertical rods 16 which are joined by a plurality of parallel spaced apart transversely extending rods of steel, namely, horizontal rods 17 at weld joints 18. The connectors 10, as will be described below, locate the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and parallel to and spaced apart from each other and parallel to and spaced apart from the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5.

The connectors 10 are configured in a matrix formed by parallel rows 13 and parallel columns 19 ofthe connectors 10. The rows 13 of the connectors 10 extend perpendicularly relative to the columns 19 of the connectors 10. In this embodiment ofthe invention the spacing between the connectors 10 in each row 13 is approximately 200mm, and the spacing between the connectors 10 in each column 19 is also approximately 200mm. It has been found that by spacing the connectors 10 in the respective rows 13 and columns 19 a distance of approximately 200mm, inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 of reduced strength may be used, and therefore the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 may be of reduced thickness. This therefore has two significant advantages. Firstly, by providing the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 of reduced thickness, the overall weight of the ΙΕΟ 8 0 7 02 formwork assembly 1 is significantly reduced over prior art formwork assemblies, and secondly, the overall width of the formwork assembly 1 for a given void width is significantly reduced. By reducing the overall width of the formwork assembly 1, the overall width of the subsequently cast in-situ wall is also reduced for a given load bearing capacity over prior art walls.

Referring now to Figs. 9 to 11, each connector 10 is injection moulded of plastics material, and comprises an elongated shank 20 extending between first and second anchor means, namely, first and second anchor plates 21 and 22, respectively, each of which defines a panel abutment surface 23 which is adapted for bonding to the adjacent one of the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 by a suitable adhesive. A retaining means, in this embodiment of the invention provided by a plurality of parallel spaced apart elongated retaining ridges 25 extend from the abutment surfaces 23 of the respective first and second anchor plates 21 and 22 and define troughs 26 for retaining the adhesive between the abutment surfaces 23 and the corresponding surface of the adjacent one of the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5. Reinforcing webs 27 extend between the shank 10 and the respective first and second anchor plates 21 and 22.

Each connector 10 comprises a first engagement means provided by a first clip 30 for engaging an adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14 and for securing the connector 12 to the first reinforcing panel 14, and a second engagement means, namely, a second clip 31 for engaging an adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the second reinforcing panel 15 for securing the connector 10 to the second reinforcing panel 15. The first and second clips 30 and 31 are located spaced apart along the shank 20, so that the corresponding horizontal rods 17 of the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 are engaged by the first and second clips 30 and 31, respectively, with the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 spaced apart from the abutment surfaces 23 of the first and second anchor plates 21 and 22, so that in turn the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 are spaced apart at the desired distance from each other, and from the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5. ΙΕΟ 8 0 7 02 The first clip 30 of each connector 10 comprises a first engagement member, namely, a first engagement leaf 33 which is resiliently carried on a first carrier means provided by a first resilient carrier leaf 34 extending from the first anchor plate 21.

The first engagement leaf 33 is formed by a return extending from the first carrier leaf 34, and is resiliently urged by the first carrier leaf 34 towards a corresponding engagement portion 35 formed on the shank 20 adjacent the first anchor plate 21, and the first engagement leaf 33 defines with the engagement portion 35 a first slot 36 extending substantially parallel to the shank 10 for engaging and retaining the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14 therein. A plurality of spaced apart parallel first elongated gripping ridges 38 are provided on the first engagement leaf 33 and on the engagement portion 35 of the shank 20 for facilitating gripping and retaining the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14 in the first clip 30. The first gripping ridges 38 also facilitate pivoting of the connector 12 on the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14 for in turn facilitating engagement of the connectors 10 with the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15, as will be described in more detail below. A tapered lead-in 39 is formed on the first engagement leaf 33 adjacent the first carrier leaf 34 for accommodating the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14 into the first slot 36.

The second clip 31 of each connector 10 comprises a pair of second engagement members, namely, second spaced apart engagement leaves 40 which are resiliently carried on corresponding second carrier means provided by second resilient carrier leaves 42 which extend radially from the shank 20 adjacent the second anchor plate 22. The second engagement leaves 40 are formed by returns extending from the respective second carrier leaves 42 and are resiliently urged towards each other by the second carrier leaves 42 and define a second slot 43 therebetween extending substantially perpendicularly to the shank 20 for engaging and retaining the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the second reinforcing panel 15 therein. The resilient mounting of the second engagement leaves 40 ensures that the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the second reinforcing panel 15 is securely retained in the second slot 43. A plurality of parallel spaced apart second elongated gripping ridges 44 are provided on the second engagement leaves 40 for gripping and retaining the adjacent horizontal rod ΙΕΟ 8 0 7 02 of the second reinforcing panel 15 in the second slot 43. The ends of the second engagement leaves 40 adjacent their connection to the corresponding second carrier leaves 42 are tapered at 45 to form a tapered lead-in into the second slot 43 for accommodating the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the second reinforcing panel 15 into the second clip 31.

By virtue of the fact that the first slot 36 of the first clip 30 of each connector 10 extends parallel to the shank 10 and the second slot 43 extends perpendicularly to the shank 10, the connectors 10 can be readily easily assembled to the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15. By locating the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 parallel to each other and at the appropriate spacing, each connector 10 can be connected to the reinforcing panels 14 and 15 by initially engaging the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14 with the first clip 30 with the connector 10 angled slightly upwardly from the corresponding horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14, see Fig. 8, and then urging the connector 10 downwardly in the direction of the arrow A as illustrated in Fig. 8 for engaging the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the second reinforcing panel 15 in the second slot 43. By further urging the connector 10 downwardly in the direction of the arrow A, the second clip 31 is fully and securely engaged on the adjacent horizontal rod 17 of the second reinforcing panel 15, see Fig. 7.

In this embodiment of the invention the formwork assembly 1 is to accommodate a window and a door, neither of which are shown, and accordingly, a window opening 48 and a door opening 49 are formed in the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5, and window and door openings 50 and 51, respectively, are formed in the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 for accommodating the window and door (not shown). However, in order to avoid portions 53 of the respective inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 adjacent the door opening 49 therein being severed from the corresponding inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5, a lower portion 54 of the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 extending across the door openings 49 is retained in the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5. The lower portions 54 of the inner and outer framework panels 4 and 5 are subsequently severed from the corresponding ones of the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 with a suitable ΙΕΟ 80 7 02 masonry saw when the wall 2 has been completed.

In the construction of the formwork assembly 1, a reinforcing sub-assembly 55 also according to the invention comprising the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 and the connectors 10 is initially constructed, see Fig. 2. The first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other at the appropriate spacing, as illustrated in Fig. 8. The connectors 10 are then assembled to the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 for securing and retaining the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 parallel to each other and at the appropriate spacing. The connectors are secured to adjacent ones ofthe horizontal rods 17 of the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 adjacent the weld joints 18. The connectors 10 are secured to the first and second reinforcing panels in the rows 13 and columns 19 with the spacing between the connectors 10 in the respective rows 13 and columns 19 at 200mm. Each connector 10 is assembled to the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15 by initially engaging the corresponding horizontal rod 17 adjacent the appropriate weld joint 18 ofthe first reinforcing panel 14 by the first clip 30 and securing the first clip 30 to the corresponding horizontal rod 17 with the connector 10 inclined slightly upwardly from the horizontal rod 17, see Fig. 8, so that the second clip 31 clears the corresponding horizontal rod 17 ofthe second reinforcing panel 15. With the first clip 30 secured to the corresponding horizontal rod 17 of the first reinforcing panel 14 adjacent the corresponding weld joint 18, the connector 10 is then pivoted downwardly in the direction ofthe arrow A, see Fig. 8, about the corresponding horizontal rod 17 ofthe first reinforcing panel 14 until the second clip 31 engages the corresponding horizontal rod 17 ofthe second reinforcing panel 15 is engaged in the second slot 43. The connector 10 is further urged downwardly in the direction of the arrow A until the corresponding horizontal rod 17 adjacent the corresponding weld joint 18 of the second reinforcing panel 15 has been fully engaged in the second clip 31. When all the connectors 10 have been secured by the respective first and second clips 30 and 31 to the corresponding horizontal rods 17 ofthe first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15, assembly ofthe reinforcing sub-assembly 55 is completed.

To assemble the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 to the reinforcing subΙΕΟ 8 0 7 02 assembly 55, the outer formwork panel 5 is bonded to the reinforcing sub-assembly 55 prior to bonding of the inner formwork panel 4. Adhesive is applied to the abutment surfaces 23 of the second anchor plates 22 of the connectors 10, and the outer formwork panel 5 is offered up and aligned with the reinforcing sub-assembly 55 and is brought into engagement with the abutment surfaces 23 of the second anchor plates 22 and appropriate pressure is applied to the outer formwork panel 5 to ensure bonding of the outer formwork panel 5 to the second anchor plates 22. Cable conduits 57, air ducts, water supply pipes, drainpipes and the like (none of which are shown) which are to be concealed within the wall 2 are then placed in the partially assembled formwork assembly 1, as are socket boxes 58 and switch boxes 59 which are located in the reinforcing sub-assembly 55, see Fig. 5, to align with corresponding socket box and switch box openings 60 and 61 in the inner formwork panel 4, see Fig. 1. Adhesive is then applied to the abutment surfaces 23 of the first anchor plates 21 of the connectors 10, and the inner formwork panel 4 is offered up to and aligned with the reinforcing sub-assembly 55 and urged into engagement with the abutment surfaces 23 of the first anchor plates 21 of the connectors 10.

Pressure is applied to the inner formwork panel 4 for ensuring a good bond between the inner formwork panel 4 and the first anchor plates 21. The inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 and the reinforcing sub-assembly 55 are then held in position until the adhesive has cured. Panels 62 of material similar to that of the formwork panels 4 and 5 are provided in the window and door openings 50 and 51 extending between the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 to seal the void 11 around the respective openings 50 and 51. End panels 63 extending between the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 at respective opposite ends thereof seal the void 11.

When the adhesive has cured the formwork assembly 1 is ready for use and is transported to site. The formwork assembly 1 is then lifted onto a floor slab or a foundation of a building, and is secured by suitable support struts extending between the inner or outer formwork panels 4 and 5 or both and the floor slab or foundation.

A cementitious mixture, which typically, is concrete is then poured into the void 11 between the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 and is allowed to cure in order to form the wall 2 as a solid wall with the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5 IEO 8 Ο 7 02 forming the inner and outer surfaces 7 and 8, respectively, of the wall 2.

Where it is desired that the wall 2 should support a cast in-situ floor 64, as for example is illustrated in Fig. 12, prior to pouring the concrete into the void 11, decking 65 is provided for supporting a cast in-situ floor 64, and floor reinforcing (not shown), typically, weld-mesh is located over the decking 65 and spaced apart therefrom. The reinforcing sub-assembly 55 in the formwork assembly 1 is tied in with the floor reinforcing so that the wall 2 and the floor 64 when cast form a single integral construction. Other services, such as cable conduits, ducts, pipes and the like, which are to be located in the floor 64 are laid over the decking 65. Those of the cable conduits, ducts and pipes which are to be coupled to the corresponding cable conduits, ducts and pipes, as the case may be, in the formwork assembly 1 are appropriately coupled. When the floor reinforcing has been completed and the appropriate services have been laid over the decking 65, the formwork assembly 1 and the floor are ready to receive a concrete pour. Concrete is then poured into the void 11 between the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5, and the pour continues until casting of the cast in-situ floor 64 over the decking 65 has been completed.

Referring now to Figs. 13 to 15, there is illustrated a connector according to another embodiment of the invention indicated generally by the reference numeral 70. The connector 70 is substantially similar to the connector 10 and similar components are identified by the same reference numerals. The only difference between the connector 70 and the connector 1 is that the shank 20 is formed in two parts, namely, a first part 71 which extends from the first anchor plate 21 and a second part 72 which extends from the second anchor plate 22. The first and second parts 71 and 72 are coupleable to provide for adjustment of the length of the shank 20 for in turn facilitating adjustment of the spacing between the anchor plates 20 and 21, and in turn the inner and outer formwork panels 4 and 5, as well as the spacing between the first and second reinforcing panels 14 and 15.

The first part 71 terminates in a female coupling element, namely, a socket 75 having an axially extending bore 76 extending therein. The second part 72 £/0 7 02 terminates in a male coupling element 77 formed by a plug 78 extending from the second part 72. The plug 78 is provided with a plurality of ones of respective pairs of interengageable complementary members, namely, circumferentially extending ridges 79 for engaging the others of the pairs of interengageable complementary members, namely, corresponding circumferentially extending recesses 80 in the bore 76 of the socket 75 with a snap-fit action. The ridges 79 and recesses 80 are shaped to facilitate entry of the plug 78 into the bore 76, and to prevent disengagement of the plug 78 from the bore 76 once the appropriate number of ridges 79 have engaged the corresponding number of recesses 80 in the bore 76. io Thus, by selecting the number of ridges 79 of the plug 78 engaged in the recesses 80 of the bore 76, the shank 20 can be set at the desired length for spacing the first and second anchor plates 20 and 21 at the desired spacing and for spacing the first and second clips 30 and 31 at the desired spacing.

Otherwise, the connector 70 is similar to the connector 10, and its use is likewise similar.

While the connectors according to the invention have been described as comprising first and second engagement means for engaging respective reinforcing panels, in certain cases it is envisaged that the connectors may be provided without the first and second engagement means, and in certain cases, it is envisaged that the connectors may be provided with only one engagement means if only a single reinforcing panel is required in the wall. Needless to say, the number of engagement means for engaging corresponding reinforcing panels will be dependent upon the number of reinforcing panels to be provided in the wall.

While the reinforcing panels have been described as being of weld-mesh, reinforcing panels of any other suitable reinforcing material may be used. Additionally, while the anchor plates of the connectors have been described as being provided with reinforcing webs, in certain cases, it is envisaged that the reinforcing webs may be omitted, or other suitable reinforcing arrangements reinforcing the joint between the anchor plates to the shank may be provided.

While the first and second formwork panels have been described as being of fibre board, which are panels of cement reinforced with timber fibres, the inner and outer formwork panels may be of any other suitable material, and where the panels are of fibre board, the reinforcing fibres ofthe cement panel may be of any other suitable material, for example, glass fibres, acrylic fibres, fibres of plastics material and the like, or combinations of such fibres. Needless to say, first and second formwork panels of other suitable materials may be used, and in general, such panels would be of a relatively lightweight material. io Additionally, while the connectors of the formwork panels of the formwork assembly have been described as being arranged in a matrix which is defined by rows and columns ofthe connectors, and while the connectors have been described as being spaced apart a distance of approximately 200mm in the respective rows, other suitable spacings of the connectors in the respective rows and columns may be used. However, in general, it is envisaged that the spacing between the connectors in the respective rows and columns will not be greater than 350mm, and preferably, would not be greater than 300mm. In general, it is unlikely that the spacing of the connectors in the respective rows and columns would be less than 100mm. «080702

Claims

1. A connector for connecting spaced apart first and second formwork panels of a formwork assembly, the connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing the connector to the first formwork panel 5 and a second anchor means for securing the connector to the second formwork panel with the first and second formwork panels spaced apart from each other, the first and second anchor means being adapted for bonding to the respective first and second formwork panels. io 2. A connector as claimed in Claim 1 in which each anchor means defines a panel abutment surface for abutting the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels. 3. A connector as claimed in Claim 2 in which the panel abutment surfaces of 15 the respective anchor means are adapted for receiving a suitable bonding agent for bonding the anchor means to the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels. 4. A connector as claimed in Claim 3 in which the panel abutment surface of 20 each anchor means is provided with a plurality of spaced apart elongated retaining ridges which define troughs therebetween for accommodating the bonding agent. 5. A connector as claimed in Claim 4 in which the retaining ridges extend parallel to each other. 6. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim in which a first engagement means is provided on the connector for engaging a first reinforcing material and for locating the first reinforcing material within the first and second formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto. 7. A connector as claimed in Claim 6 in which a second engagement means is provided on the connector spaced apart from the first engagement means for engaging a second reinforcing material and for locating the second reinforcing ΙΕο 8 Ο 7 02 material within the first and second formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto and spaced apart from the first reinforcing material. 8. A connector as claimed in Claim 7 in which the second engagement means 5 is adapted for locating the second reinforcing material at a location on the shank between the second formwork panel and the first reinforcing material. 9. A connector as claimed in Claim 7 or 8 in which the first engagement means is adapted for locating the first reinforcing material at a location on the shank io between the first formwork panel and the second reinforcing material. 10. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 9 in which the first and second engagement means are adapted for retaining the first and second reinforcing materials parallel to each other. 11. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 10 in which the first engagement means is adapted for pivotally engaging the first reinforcing material, and the second engagement means is adapted for receiving the second reinforcing material when the first and second reinforcing materials are located in spaced apart 20 relationship relative to each other, and the connector with the first engagement means engaging the first reinforcing material is pivoted about the first reinforcing material. 12. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 11 in which the first 25 engagement means comprises a first clip for engaging a portion of the first reinforcing material, and the second engagement means comprises a second clip for engaging a portion ofthe second reinforcing material. 13. A connector as claimed in Claim 12 in which the first clip comprises a first 30 engagement leaf resiliently urged towards an engagement portion of the shank, and defining with the engagement portion a first engagement slot for engaging the portion ofthe first reinforcing material therein. 110 80 7 02 14. A connector as claimed in Claim 13 in which the first engagement leaf is resiliently carried on a first carrier means. 15. A connector as claimed in Claim 14 in which the first carrier means 5 comprises a resilient first carrier leaf. 16. A connector as claimed in Claim 15 in which the first carrier leaf extends from the first anchor means. 10 17. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 12 to 16 in which a plurality of spaced apart first gripping ridges are located respectively on the first engagement leaf and on the engagement portion of the shank for engaging and gripping the portion of the first reinforcing material. 15 18. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 12 to 17 in which the second clip comprises a pair of second engagement leaves carried on the shank, at least one of the second engagement leaves being resiliently urged towards the other of the second engagement leaves and defining therewith a second engagement slot for engaging the portion of the second reinforcing material therein. 19. A connector as claimed in Claim 18 in which at least one of the second engagement leaves is resiliently carried on a second carrier means for resiliently urging the said at least one of the second engagement leaves towards the other of the second engagement leaves. 20. A connector as claimed in Claim 19 in which each second engagement leaf is resiliently carried on a corresponding second carrier means. 21. A connector as claimed in Claim 19 or 20 in which each second carrier 30 means comprises a resilient second carrier leaf. 22. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 21 in which the respective second carrier means extend from the shank spaced apart from each other axially IEO 8 ο 7 02 along the shank. 23. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 19 to 22 in which the second engagement leaves are located between the second carrier means. 24. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 18 to 23 in which each second engagement leaf comprises a plurality of spaced apart second gripping ridges for engaging and gripping the second reinforcing material. 10 25. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 24 in which the second engagement means is located adjacent the second anchor means. 26. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 25 in which the first engagement means comprises a first lead-in for accommodating the first resilient 15 material into engagement with the first engagement means. 27. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 26 in which the second engagement means comprises a second lead-in for accommodating the second resilient material into engagement with the second engagement means. 28. A connector as claimed in any of Claims 6 to 27 in which the first engagement means is located adjacent the first anchor means. 29. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim in which the shank is formed 25 in two parts, which are adjustably coupled to each other for adjusting the length thereof and in turn the spacing between the respective anchor means. 30. A connector as claimed in Claim 29 in which one part of the shank forms a socket for engaging a plug formed on the other part of the shank for securing the 30 respective parts of the shank together. 31. A connector as claimed in Claim 30 in which one of the plug and socket of the respective parts of the shank is adapted for engaging the other of the plug and ΙΕΟ 8 0 7 02 the socket for facilitating adjustment of the length of the shank. 32. A connector as claimed in Claim 30 or 31 in which one of the plug and the socket is provided with at least one of a pair of complementary interengageable formations, and the other of the plug and the socket is provided with at least one of the other of the pair of interengageable complementary formations such that the plug is engageable with and retained the socket at respective different axial locations. 33. A connector as claimed in Claim 32 in which the socket is provided with more of the complementary interengageable formations than the plug. 34. A connector as claimed in Claim 32 or 33 in which one of the pair of interengageable complementary formations comprises a ridge, and the other of the pair of interengageable complementary formations comprises a recess. 35. A connector as claimed in Claim 34 in which the plug is provided with at least one ridge. 36. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim in which the connector is of a plastics material. 37. A connector as claimed in any preceding claim in which the connector is of injection moulded plastics material. 38. A reinforcing sub-assembly comprising a first reinforcing panel and a second reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel, and a plurality of connectors engaging and retaining the first and second reinforcing panels in the spaced apart relationship relative to each other, at least one of the connectors being a connector as claimed in any preceding claim. 39. A reinforcing sub-assembly for connecting first and second formwork panels of a formwork assembly, the reinforcing sub-assembly comprising at least a first reinforcing panel, and a plurality of connectors engaging the first reinforcing panel, IEO 8 0 7 02 each connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing the connector to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing the connector to the second formwork panel with the first and second formwork panels spaced apart from each other, the first and second anchor means of each connector being adapted for bonding to the respective framework panels, and at least one engagement means being provided on each connector for engaging and retaining the first reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels. 40. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 39 in which each anchor means of each connector defines a panel abutment surface for abutting the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels. 41. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 40 in which the panel abutment surfaces ofthe respective anchor means of each connector are adapted for receiving a suitable bonding agent for bonding the anchor means to the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels. 42. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 41 in which the panel abutment surface of each anchor means of each connector is provided with a plurality of spaced apart elongated retaining ridges which define troughs therebetween for accommodating the bonding agent. 43. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 42 in which the retaining ridges of each anchor means of each connector extend parallel to each other. 44. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 39 to 43 in which the engagement means on each connector for engaging the first reinforcing panel comprises a first engagement means located intermediate the first and second anchor means. 45. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 44 in which a second reinforcing panel is provided spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel, and a ΙΕΟ 807 02 second engagement means is provided on each connector spaced apart from the first engagement means for engaging the second reinforcing panel and for locating the second reinforcing panel within the first and second formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel. 46. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 45 in which the second engagement means of each connector is adapted for locating the second reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the second formwork panel and the first reinforcing panel. 47. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 45 or 46 in which the first engagement means of each connector is adapted for locating the first reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the first formwork panel and the second reinforcing panel. 48. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 47 in which the first and second engagement means of the respective connectors are adapted for retaining the first and second reinforcing panels parallel to each other. 49. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 48 in which the first engagement means of each connector is adapted for pivotally engaging the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means is adapted for receiving the second reinforcing panel when the first and second reinforcing panels are located in spaced apart relationship relative to each other, and the connector with the first engagement means engaging the first reinforcing panel is pivoted about the first reinforcing panel. 50. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 49 in which the first engagement means of each connector comprises a first clip for engaging a portion of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means comprises a second clip for engaging a portion of the second reinforcing panel. 51, A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 50 in which the first clip of «0 80 7 02 each connector comprises a first engagement leaf resiliently urged towards an engagement portion of the shank, and defining with the engagement portion a first engagement slot for engaging the portion of the first reinforcing panel therein. 52. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 51 in which the first engagement leaf of each connector is resiliently carried on a first carrier means. 53. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 52 in which the first carrier means of each connector comprises a resilient first carrier leaf. 54. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 53 in which the first carrier leaf of each connector extends from the first anchor means. 55. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 51 to 54 in which a plurality of spaced apart first gripping ridges are located respectively on the first engagement leaf and on the engagement portion of the shank of each connector for engaging and gripping the portion of the first reinforcing panel. 56. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 50 to 55 in which the second clip of each connector comprises a pair of second engagement leaves carried on the shank, at least one of the second engagement leaves being resiliently urged towards the other of the second engagement leaves and defining therewith a second engagement slot for engaging the portion of the second reinforcing panel therein. 57. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 56 in which at least one of the second engagement leaves of each connector is resiliently carried on a second carrier means for resiliently urging the said at least one of the second engagement leaves towards the other of the second engagement leaves. 58. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 57 in which each second engagement leaf of each connector is resiliently carried on a corresponding second carrier means. 59. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 57 or 58 in which each second carrier means of each connector comprises a resilient second carrier leaf. 60. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 57 to 59 in which the respective second carrier means of each connector extend from the shank spaced apart from each other axially along the shank. 61. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 57 to 60 in which the second engagement leaves of each connector are located between the respective second carrier means. 62. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 56 to 61 in which each second engagement leaf of each connector comprises a plurality of spaced apart second gripping ridges for engaging and gripping the second reinforcing panel. 63. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 62 in which the second engagement means of each connector is located adjacent the second anchor means. 64. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 63 in which the first engagement means of each connector comprises a first lead-in for accommodating the first resilient panel into engagement with the first engagement means. 65. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 45 to 64 in which the second engagement means of each connector comprises a second lead-in for accommodating the second resilient material into engagement with the second engagement means. 66. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 44 to 65 in which the first engagement means of each connector is located adjacent the first anchor means. IEO 8 Ο 7 02 67. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 39 to 66 in which the shank of each connector is formed in two parts, which are adjustably coupled to each other for adjusting the length thereof and in turn the spacing between the 5 respective first and second anchor means. 68. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 67 in which one part of the shank of each connector forms a socket for engaging a plug formed on the other part of the shank for securing the respective parts of the shank together. io 69. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 68 in which one of the plug and socket of the respective parts of the shank of each connector is adapted for engaging the other of the plug and the socket for facilitating adjustment of the length of the shank. 70. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 68 or 69 in which one of the plug and the socket of each connector is provided with at least one of a pair of complementary interengageable formations, and the other of the plug and the socket is provided with at least one of the other of the pair of interengageable 20 complementary formations such that the plug is engageable with and retained the socket at respective different axial locations. 71. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 70 in which the socket of each connector is provided with more of the complementary interengageable 25 formations than the plug. 72. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 70 or 71 in which one of the pair of interengageable complementary formations of each connector comprises a ridge, and the other of the pair of interengageable complementary formations 30 comprises a recess. 73. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 72 in which the plug of each connector is provided with at least one ridge. ΙΕΟ 807 02 74. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 39 to 73 in which each connector is of a plastics material. 5 75. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 39 to 74 in which each connector is of injection moulded plastics material. 76. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 39 to 75 in which each reinforcing panel comprises a panel formed by a weld mesh panel having a io plurality of longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart rods joined by a plurality of parallel spaced apart transversely extending rods, and the first engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding ones of the rods of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding rods of the second reinforcing panel. 77. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 76 in which the first and second engagement means of the connectors engage corresponding adjacent ones ofthe horizontal rods ofthe respective first and second reinforcing panels. 20 78. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 39 to 77 in which the reinforcing panels extend parallel to each other. 79. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 39 to 78 in which the connectors are configured on the at least first reinforcing panel in a matrix formation 25 formed by the connectors defining a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. 80. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 79 in which the rows defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other, and the columns defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other. 81. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in Claim 79 or 80 in which the rows and columns of the connectors extend perpendicularly to each other. ΙΕΟ 8 0 7 02 82. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 79 to 81 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 83. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 79 to 82 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 84. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 79 to 83 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 85. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 79 to 84 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 86. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 79 to 85 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 87. A reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 79 to 86 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 88. A formwork assembly comprising a first framework panel and a spaced apart second formwork panel defining a void therebetween for a castable material, the first and second formwork panels being connected together by a plurality of spaced apart connectors, the connectors being connectors as claimed in any of Claims 1 to 37. 89. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 88 in which each formwork panel is secured to the corresponding anchor means by bonding. 90. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 88 or 89 in which each formwork IEO 8 07 02 panel comprises a cementitious material. 91. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 88 to 90 in which each formwork panel is formed by a fibre board panel. 92. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 91 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of timber. 93. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 91 or 92 in which the cement fibre 10 board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of glass. 94. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 91 to 93 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of plastics material. 95. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 91 to 94 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of acrylic material. 20 96. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 85 to 92 in which each formwork panel comprises a cellulose/cementitious material. 97. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 88 to 96 in which the first and second formwork panels are adapted to form respective opposite outer surfaces 25 of a wall formed by casting a material in the void between the first and second formwork panels. 98. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 88 to 97 in which at least a first reinforcing panel is located within the formwork panels, the first reinforcing panel 30 being engaged by one of the first and second engagement means of the respective connectors, and being retained in spaced apart relationship relative to the formwork panels by the ones of the first and second engagement means. ΙΕΰ 8 Ο 7 02 99. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 88 to 98 in which the first reinforcing panel is engaged by the first engagement means of the connectors. 100. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 98 or 99 in which a second 5 reinforcing panel is located within the formwork panels and is engaged and retained by the second engagement means of the connectors spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel and spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels. 101. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 88 to 100 in which the io connectors are configured on the first and second formwork panels in a matrix formation formed by the connectors defining a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. 102. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 101 in which the rows defined by 15 the connectors extend parallel to each other, and the columns defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other. 103. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 101 or 102 in which the rows and columns of the connectors extend perpendicularly to each other. 104. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 101 to 103 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 25 1 05. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 101 to 104 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 106. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 101 to 105 in which 30 adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 107. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 101 to 106 in which IEQ 80 7 02 adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 108. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 101 to 107 in which 5 adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 109. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 101 to 108 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance of io approximately 200mm. 110. A formwork assembly comprising a first formwork panel and a spaced apart second formwork panel defining a void therebetween for a castable material, the first and second formwork panels being connected together and retained in spaced apart 15 relationship by a plurality of spaced apart connectors, each connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing to the second formwork panel with the respective formwork panels spaced apart from each other, the first and second anchor means being adapted for bonding to the respective first and 20 second formwork panels. 111. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 110 in which each anchor means of each connector defines a panel abutment surface for abutting the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels. 112. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 111 in which the panel abutment surfaces of the respective first and second anchor means of each connector are adapted for receiving a suitable bonding agent for bonding the anchor means to the adjacent one of the first and second formwork panels. 113. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 112 in which the panel abutment surface of each anchor means of each connector is provided with a plurality of spaced apart retaining ridges which define troughs therebetween for accommodating ΙΕΟ 807 02 the bonding agent. 114. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 113 in which the retaining ridges of each anchor means of each connector extend parallel to each other. 115. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 114 in which a reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and spaced apart therefrom. 10 116. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 115 in which each connector comprises at least one engagement means for engaging and retaining the reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels. 117. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 116 in which the engagement 15 means on each connector for engaging the first reinforcing panel comprises a first engagement means located intermediate the first and second anchor means. 118. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 117 in which a second reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and 20 spaced apart therefrom, and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel, and a second engagement means is provided on each connector spaced apart from the first engagement means for engaging the second reinforcing panel and for locating the second reinforcing panel within the void between the first and second formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto and spaced apart from the first 25 reinforcing panel. 119. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 118 in which the second engagement means of each connector is adapted for locating the second reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the second formwork panel and the first 30 reinforcing panel. 120. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 118 or 119 in which the first engagement means of each connector is adapted for locating the first reinforcing £oao7O2 panel at a location on the shank between the first formwork panel and the second reinforcing panel. 121. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 120 in which the first and second engagement means of the respective connectors are adapted for retaining the first and second reinforcing panels parallel to each other. 122. Aformworkassembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 121 in which the first engagement means of each connector is adapted for pivotally engaging the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means is adapted for receiving the second reinforcing panel when the first and second reinforcing panels are located in spaced apart relationship relative to each other, and the connector with the first engagement means engaging the first reinforcing panel is pivoted about the first reinforcing panel. 123. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 122 in which the first engagement means of each connector comprises a first clip for engaging a portion of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means comprises a second clip for engaging a portion of the second reinforcing panel. 124. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 123 in which the first clip of each connector comprises a first engagement leaf resiliently urged towards an engagement portion of the shank, and defining with the engagement portion a first engagement slot for engaging the portion of the first reinforcing panel therein. 125. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 124 in which the first engagement leaf of each connector is resiliently carried on a first carrier means. 126. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 125 in which the first carrier means of each connector comprises a resilient first carrier leaf. 127. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 126 in which the first carrier leaf of each connector extends from the first anchor means. ΙΕΟ 8 Ο 7 02 128. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 124 to 127 in which a plurality of spaced apart first gripping ridges are located respectively on the first engagement leaf and on the engagement portion of the shank of each connector for 5 engaging and gripping the portion of the first reinforcing panel. 129. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 123 to 128 in which the second clip of each connector comprises a pair of second engagement leaves carried on the shank, at least one of the second engagement leaves being resiliently io urged towards the other of the second engagement leaves and defining therewith a second engagement slot for engaging the portion of the second reinforcing panel therein. 130. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 129 in which at least one of the 15 second engagement leaves of each connector is resiliently carried on a second carrier means for resiliently urging the said at least one of the second engagement leaves towards the other of the second engagement leaves. 131. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 130 in which each second 20 engagement leaf of each connector is resiliently carried on a corresponding second carrier means. 132. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 130 or 131 in which each second carrier means of each connector comprises a resilient second carrier leaf. 133. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 130 to 132 in which the respective second carrier means of each connector extend from the shank spaced apart from each other axially along the shank. 30 134. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 130 to 133 in which the second engagement leaves of each connector are located between the respective second carrier means. 135. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 129 to 134 in which each second engagement leaf of each connector comprises a plurality of spaced apart second gripping ridges for engaging and gripping the second reinforcing panel. 5 136. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 135 in which the second engagement means of each connector is located adjacent the second anchor means. 137. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 136 in which the io first engagement means of each connector comprises a first lead-in for accommodating the first resilient panel into engagement with the first engagement means. 138. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 137 in which the 15 second engagement means of each connector comprises a second lead-in for accommodating the second resilient material into engagement with the second engagement means. 139. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 138 in which the 20 first engagement means of each connector is located adjacent the first anchor means. 140. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 139 in which each reinforcing panel comprises a panel formed by a weld mesh panel having a plurality 25 of longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart rods joined by a plurality of parallel spaced apart transversely extending rods, and the first engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding ones of the rods of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding rods of the second reinforcing panel. 141. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 140 in which the first and second engagement means of the connectors engage corresponding adjacent ones of the horizontal rods of the respective first and second reinforcing Ο 80? 02 panels. 142. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 118 to 141 in which the reinforcing panels extend parallel to each other. 143. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 142 in which the shank of each connector is formed in two parts, which are adjustably coupled to each other for adjusting the length thereof and in turn the spacing between the respective first and second anchor means. 144. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 143 in which one part of the shank of each connector forms a socket for engaging a plug formed on the other part of the shank for securing the respective parts ofthe shank together. 15 145. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 144 in which one of the plug and socket of the respective parts of the shank of each connector is adapted for engaging the other of the plug and the socket for facilitating adjustment of the length of the shank. 20 146. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 144 or 145 in which one of the plug and the socket of each connector is provided with at least one of a pair of complementary interengageable formations, and the other of the plug and the socket is provided with at least one of the other ofthe pair of interengageable complementary formations such that the plug is engageable with and retained the 25 socket at respective different axial locations. 147. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 146 in which the socket of each connector is provided with more of the complementary interengageable formations than the plug. 148. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 146 or 147 in which one of the pair of interengageable complementary formations of each connector comprises a ridge, and the other ofthe pair of interengageable complementary formations comprises a recess. 149. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 148 in which the plug of each connector is provided with at least one ridge. 150. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 149 in which each connector is of a plastics material. 151. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 150 in which each io connector is of injection moulded plastics material. 152. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 151 in which each formwork panel comprises a cementitious material. 15 153. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 152 in which each formwork panel is formed by a fibre board panel. 154. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 153 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of timber. 155. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 153 or 154 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of glass. 156. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 153 to 155 in which the 25 cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of plastics material. 157. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 153 to 156 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of acrylic 30 material. 158. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 157 in which each formwork panel comprises a cellulose/cementitious material. ΙΕΟ 80 7 02 159. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 158 in which the first and second formwork panels are adapted to form respective opposite outer surfaces of a wall formed by casting a material in the void between the first and second formwork panels. 160. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 110 to 159 in which the connectors are configured on the first and second formwork panels in a matrix formation formed by the connectors defining a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. 161. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 160 in which the rows defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other, and the columns defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other. 162. A formwork assembly as claimed in Claim 160 or 161 in which the rows and columns of the connectors extend perpendicularly to each other. 163. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 160 to 162 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 164. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 160 to 163 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 165. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 160 to 164 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 166. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 160 to 165 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. ΙΕΟ 80 7 02 167. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 160 to 166 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 168. A formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 160 to 167 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 169. A formwork assembly comprising first and second spaced apart formwork panels defining a void therebetween, and a reinforcing sub-assembly located in the void, the reinforcing sub-assembly being a reinforcing sub-assembly as claimed in any of Claims 38 to 87, the connectors of the sub-assembly being connected to the respective formwork panels for securing the formwork panels spaced apart relative to each other. 170. A wall constructed from the formwork assembly as claimed in any of Claims 88 to 169, and a material cast in the void between the first and second formwork panels. 171. A wall as claimed in Claim 170 in which the material cast in the void between the first and second formwork panels comprises a cementitious material. 172. A wall as claimed in Claim 170 or 171 in which the material cast in the void between the first and second formwork panels is concrete. 173. A wall as claimed in any of Claims 170 to 172 in which the wall supports a floor, and reinforcing material in the floor is tied into at least one reinforcing panel in the wall. 174. A wall as claimed in Claim 173 in which the floor is cast in-situ. 175. A wall as claimed in Claim 173 or 174 in which the floor is cast with the wall. 176. A method for producing a formwork assembly comprising spaced apart first and second formwork panels, the method comprising providing a plurality of connectors for connecting the formwork panels spaced apart relative to each other, each connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing to the second formwork panel, the first and second anchor means being adapted for bonding to the respective framework panels, the method further comprising bonding the first anchor means to the first formwork panel and bonding the second anchor means to the second formwork panel with the formwork panels spaced apart defining a void for a castable material. 177. A method as claimed in Claim 176 in which a reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and spaced apart therefrom. 178. A method as claimed in Claim 177 in which each connector is provided with at least one engagement means for engaging and retaining the reinforcing panel spaced apart from the first and second formwork panels. 179. A method as claimed in Claim 178 in which the engagement means on each connector for engaging the first reinforcing panel comprises a first engagement means located intermediate the first and second anchor means. 180. A method as claimed in Claim 179 in which a second reinforcing panel is located in the void between the first and second formwork panels and spaced apart therefrom, and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel, and a second engagement means is provided on each connector spaced apart from the first engagement means for engaging the second reinforcing panel and for locating the second reinforcing panel within the void between the first and second formwork panels in spaced apart relationship thereto and spaced apart from the first reinforcing panel. 181. A method as claimed in Claim 180 in which the second engagement means A 0 7 02 of each connector is provided for locating the second reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the second formwork panel and the first reinforcing panel. 182. A method as claimed in Claim 180 or 181 in which the first engagement 5 means of each connector is provided for locating the first reinforcing panel at a location on the shank between the first formwork panel and the second reinforcing panel. 183. A method as claimed in any of Claims 180 to 182 in which the first and 10 second reinforcing panels are parallel to each other. 184. A method as claimed in any of Claims 180 to 183 in which the connectors are coupled to the first and second reinforcing panels prior to bonding the first and second anchor means to the first and second formwork panels, the connectors being 15 coupled to the first and second reinforcing panels by pivotally engaging the first engagement means of each connector with an adjacent portion of the first reinforcing panel, and then pivoting the connector about the portion of the first reinforcing panel engaged by the first engagement means to engage an adjacent portion of the second reinforcing panel with the second engagement means. 185. A method as claimed in any of Claims 177 to 184 in which each reinforcing panel is provided by a weld mesh panel having a plurality of longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart rods joined by a plurality of parallel spaced apart transversely extending rods, and the first engagement means of the respective connectors 25 engage corresponding ones of the rods of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding rods of the second reinforcing panel. 186. A method as claimed in Claim 185 in which the first and second engagement 30 means of the connectors engage corresponding adjacent ones of the horizontal rods of the respective first and second reinforcing panels. 187. A method as claimed in any of Claims 176 to 186 in which each connector is /ίθ 80 7 02 provided of a plastics material. 188. A method as claimed in any of Claims 176 to 187 in which each connector is injection moulded of plastics material. 189. A method as claimed in any of Claims 176 to 188 in which the connectors are configured on the first and second formwork panels in a matrix formation formed by the connectors defining a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. 190. A method as claimed in Claim 189 in which the rows defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other, and the columns defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other. 191. A method as claimed in Claim 189 or 190 in which the rows and columns of the connectors extend perpendicularly to each other. 192. A method as claimed in any of Claims 189 to 191 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 193. A method as claimed in any of Claims 189 to 192 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 194. A method as claimed in any of Claims 189 to 193 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 195. A method as claimed in any of Claims 189 to 194 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 196. A method as claimed in any of Claims 189 to 195 in which adjacent IEO 80 7 02 connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 197. A method as claimed in any of Claims 189 to 196 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 198. A method as claimed in any of Claims 176 to 188 in which each formwork panel comprises a cementitious material. 199. A method as claimed in any of Claims 176 to 198 in which each formwork panel is formed by a fibre board panel. 200. A method as claimed in Claim 199 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of timber. 201. A method as claimed in Claim 199 or 200 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of glass. 202. A method as claimed in any of Claims 199 to 201 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of plastics material. 203. A method as claimed in any of Claims 199 to 202 in which the cement fibre board panel of each formwork panel comprises fibres of acrylic material. 204. A method as claimed in any of Claims 176 to 203 in which each formwork panel comprises a cellulose/cementitious material. 205. A method as claimed in any of Claims 176 to 204 in which the first and second formwork panels are adapted to form respective opposite outer surfaces of a wall formed by casting a material in the void between the first and second formwork panels. ΙΕΟ 80 7 02 206. A method for producing a reinforcing sub-assembly for a formwork assembly having spaced apart first and second formwork panels, the method comprising providing first and second reinforcing panels and providing a plurality of connectors coupling the first and second reinforcing panels together, each connector comprising an elongated shank extending between a first anchor means for securing to the first formwork panel and a second anchor means for securing to the second formwork panel with the respective formwork panels spaced apart from each other, the first and second anchor means being adapted for bonding to the respective framework panels, providing a first engagement means and a second engagement means on each connector, and engaging the first reinforcing panel with the first engagement means of the respective connectors and engaging the second reinforcing panels with the second engagement means of the respective connectors. 207. A method as claimed in Claim 206 in which each reinforcing panel comprises a panel formed by a weld mesh panel having a plurality of longitudinally extending parallel spaced apart rods joined by a plurality of parallel spaced apart transversely extending rods, and the first engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding ones of the rods of the first reinforcing panel, and the second engagement means of the respective connectors engage corresponding rods of the second reinforcing panel. 208. A method as claimed in Claim 207 in which the first and second engagement means of the connectors engage corresponding adjacent ones of the horizontal rods of the respective first and second reinforcing panels. 209. A method as claimed in any of Claims 206 to 208 in which the connectors retain the first and second reinforcing panels parallel to each other. 210. A method as claimed in any of Claims 206 to 209 in which each connector is of a plastics material. 211. A method as claimed in any of Claims 206 to 210 in which each connector is injection moulded of plastics material. ΙΕΟ 80 7 02 212. A method as claimed in any of Claims 206 to 211 in which the connectors are configured on the at least first reinforcing panel in a matrix formation formed by the connectors defining a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns. 213. A method as claimed in Claim 212 in which the rows defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other, and the columns defined by the connectors extend parallel to each other. io 214. A method as claimed in Claim 212 or 213 in which the rows and columns of the connectors extend perpendicularly to each other. 215. A method as claimed in any of Claims 212 to 214 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 15 350mm. 216. A method as claimed in any of Claims 212 to 215 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 217. A method as claimed in any of Claims 212 to 216 in which adjacent connectors in each row are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 25 2 1 8. A method as claimed in any of Claims 212 to 217 in which adjacent connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 350mm. 219. A method as claimed in any of Claims 212 to 218 in which adjacent 30 connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance not greater than 300mm. 220. A method as claimed in any of Claims 212 to 219 in which adjacent ΙΕΟ 80 7 02 connectors in each column are spaced apart from each other a distance of approximately 200mm. 221. A method for constructing a cast in-situ wall comprising providing a formwork 5 assembly as claimed in any of Claims 88 to 169 and erecting the formwork assembly on a floor slab or a foundation, and pouring a castable material into the void between the first and second formwork panels and allowing the castable material to cure so that the castable material in conjunction with the formwork assembly forms the cast in-situ wall. 222. A method as claimed in Claim 221 in which the castable material is a cementitious material. 223. A method as claimed in Claim 221 or 222 in which the castable material is 15 concrete. 224. A method as claimed in any of Claims 221 to 223 in which a floor supported by the wall is cast with the wall, and prior to casting, reinforcing material ofthe floor is tied to at least one reinforcing panel in the wall. 20 ‘ : 225. A method as claimed in Claim 224 in which the floor is cast in-situ. 226. A method as claimed in Claim 224 or 225 in which the floor is cast in-situ with the wall. F.F. GORMAN & CO. ttnRQ702 1/15

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