MULTI-HEAD BOLT AND FASTENING SYSTEM

Abstract

A multi-head bolt (10) has a bolt shaft (12) defining a longitudinal axis (14) of the multi-head bolt and a multi-head (16) located at a first end of the bolt shaft. The multi-head has at least three pawls (18), each pawl having a fixed radial orientation relative to the bolt shaft and having a primary plane that is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft and having a bearing surface (20).

Description

The present invention relates to a multi-head bolt used as a quick-access blind fastener and further relates to a fastening system that includes the bolt. In particular, the present invention relates to a fastening system used to connect and align two objects with each other, where the clamping action requires access from only one side of the objects. The present invention also provides a method for this alignment and connection. Background of the invention In general, certain prior art fasteners require access from both sides of the members and the use of two tools, which is inconvenient in certain configurations. Furthermore, there are known fasteners that, while allowing assembly from only one side of the joint, also pull the members together. These fasteners are easily removable and reusable, can be supplied as an assembly, and can be used from either side of the joint. A special configuration of this fastener is also known as a hammerhead bolt, which is known, for example, from documents GB 2.239.686 A, FR 2.429.885 A1, CN 109518965 A, DE 21 2017 000 250 U1, and US 5.076.748 A. However, this known bolt configuration is inconvenient due to its susceptibility to shear, tensile, or pulling forces that may arise between the panels.In the event of lateral shear forces occurring between the panels, there is always inherently a force component acting laterally on the longitudinal axis of the fastener bolt itself, which leads to the misalignment of the fastener. Brief description of the invention The present application provides a bolt and fastening system that are improved upon the prior art in that they are better able to deflect shear forces and / or tensile forces and / or pulling forces. At least, the invention provides an improved method for aligning and connecting these objects. One aspect of the description provides a multi-head bolt comprising a bolt shaft defining a longitudinal axis of the multi-head bolt; a multi-head located at a first end of the bolt shaft, the multi-head comprising at least three pawls, each pawl having a fixed radial orientation relative to the bolt shaft and having a primary plane that is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft and having a bearing surface. In one example, the primary plane for each pawl is parallel to two opposite side edges of each respective pawl. In one example, each ratchet has an angled side that intersects the primary plane and where the radial distance of the angled side relative to the bolt axis decreases linearly, which is measured from the support surface to the first end of the bolt. In one example, the pawls extend from the bolt shaft in a star-shaped configuration, symmetrically, with respect to the outer circumference of the bolt shaft. IA / a / ZUZÓ / UU IDI l In one example, at least one ratchet is shaped like a fin. In one example, the support surface extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft, protruding with it in a radial direction from the outer circumference of the bolt shaft. In one example, at least one ratchet is fin-shaped, so that the primary plane is located on the longitudinal axis of the pin shaft and the bearing surface is perpendicular to the primary plane. In one example, the width of at least one ratchet is smaller than the diameter of the bolt shaft. In one example, the width of at least the ratchet is at least 15% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 65% of the bolt shaft diameter. In one example, the width of at least the ratchet is at least 25% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 40% of the bolt shaft diameter. In one example, the width of at least the ratchet is about 33% of the bolt shaft diameter. In one example, a defined width between the two lateral sides of at least the ratchet is substantially constant along the longitudinal axis. In one example, the bolt shaft defines a cone shape at the first end of the bolt shaft. In one example, at least a portion of the angled side is in a plane coplanar with the cone shape of the first end of the bolt shaft. In one example, the bolt shaft has a tapered end at one end opposite the multi-head to facilitate the insertion of a nut. In one example, the multi-head bolt further comprises a tension rod stem fixed at one end of the bolt shaft opposite the multi-head; a nut can be threaded onto the stem. In one example, at least the three pawls comprise four pawls. In one example, the bolt shaft defines a hole that extends through the bolt shaft at an opposite end relative to the manifold head to secure a split safety pin. In one example, the primary plane for each pawl intersects with a pawl support surface and an angled pawl edge, so that the longitudinal axis lies in the primary plane. In one example, the primary plane for each pawl cuts each pawl in two, symmetrically, with respect to the lateral sides of each pawl. In one example, the lateral sides are oriented at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. In one example, a width between two lateral sides of each ratchet decreases that is measured from a support surface towards a cone-shaped portion. In one example, the bolt shaft defines a truncated cone shape at the first end of the bolt shaft. In one example, the bolt shaft has a hexagonal coupling portion at one end opposite the manifold head to facilitate clutching with a tool. In one example, an opposite end relative to the multiple head defines a plurality of slits that defines a + configuration, with each of the plurality of slits aligning with IA / a / ZU¿ J / UU IDI l a respective ratchet and is configured to provide visual guidance during bolt installation. Another aspect of the disclosure provides a fastening system for connecting and aligning the elements together, the system comprising: a multi-head bolt for fastening and aligning the elements, the bolt comprising a bolt shaft defining a longitudinal axis of the multi-head bolt, a multi-head located at a first end of the bolt shaft and comprising a plurality of pawls each positioned in a fixed radial orientation relative to the bolt shaft and each having a primary plane that is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft and having a bearing surface; and each of the plurality of elements defining a hole extending therethrough thereon, the hole having a shape corresponding to a cross-sectional profile of the multi-head bolt, through this hole passing the multi-head pawls. In one example, the fastening system further comprises a clamping element configured to connect the elements in a fixed manner. In one example, the multi-head bolt has an external thread and the fastening element comprises a nut having a female thread that fits over the external thread of the bolt. In one example, the hole defines the skewed cuts in a plane direction of the element that corresponds to a number and dimension of the plurality of pawls. In one example, at least one ratchet is fin-shaped and has a width that is smaller than the diameter of the bolt shaft. In one example, the width of at least the ratchet is at least 15% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 65% of the bolt shaft diameter. In one example, the width of at least the ratchet is at least 25% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 40% of the bolt shaft diameter. In one example, the width of at least the ratchet is about 33% of the bolt shaft diameter. In one example, a defined width between two lateral sides of at least the ratchet is substantially constant along the longitudinal axis. In one example, the bolt shaft defines a cone shape at the first end of the bolt shaft. In one example, each ratchet has an angled side that intersects the primary plane and where the radial distance of the angled side relative to the bolt axis decreases linearly, which is measured from the support surface to the first end of the bolt. In one example, at least a portion of the angled side is coplanar to a cone-shaped portion of the first end of the bolt shaft. In one example, the bolt shaft has a tapered end at one end opposite the multi-head to facilitate the insertion of a nut. In one example, the elements comprise anti-torsion structures on an element surface that are adjacent to the holes; a ratchet can be supported on or against this anti-torsion structure, respectively, after the bolt has been rotated around the longitudinal axis and inserted. IA / a / ZU¿ó / UU IDI l bolt through hole. In one example, the anti-torsion structure is a recess in which the ratchet can rest, so that when it rests in the recess, the rotational movement of the ratchet is prevented when the recess receives the ratchet's support surface. In one example, the element comprises at least one torsion stop that protrudes from a surface of at least one of the elements and prevents the multi-head bolt from rotating about the longitudinal axis after the bolt has been inserted through the hole. In one example, the torsion stop comprises a support surface against which a lateral side of the ratchet rests when it is inserted and the bolt has rotated until it rests against the support surface. In one example, the fastening system comprises a separate plate in which an anti-torsion structure is incorporated and / or at least one torsion stop protruding from the plate is provided; this plate will be placed between the multi-head bolt head and an element surface. In one example, the number of anti-torsion structures and / or the number of torsion stops is less than or at least equal to the number of ratchets. In one example, the ratchets are derived from the bolt shaft in a star-shaped configuration that is essentially symmetrical around the outer circumference of the bolt shaft. In one example, the support surface extends essentially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft that protrudes with it in a radial direction of the outer circumference of the bolt shaft. In one example, the hole is located in a frame of the element. In one example, the elements comprise at least one of a formwork panel or a formwork element. Another aspect of the disclosure provides a method of aligning and connecting at least two elements together, comprising: inserting a multi-head bolt through the respective holes of a plurality of panels, such that a plurality of pawls with a fixed radial orientation relative to the multi-head bolt align with a plurality of bevel cuts in the plurality of panels; rotating the multi-head bolt relative to the plurality of panels, such that the pawls are out of alignment with the plurality of bevel cuts so that the plurality of panels is secured relative to the multi-head bolt. In one example, the rotation of the multi-head bolt comprises rotating the multi-head bolt and retracting the bolt in a direction opposite to the insertion direction until the pawl bearing surface rests against the surface of one of the elements. In one example, the method also involves securing the bolt in relation to the elements with a clamping element. Brief description of the drawings The following description of the invention refers to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a multi-head bolt in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figure 1B shows a perspective view of the multi-head bolt of Figure 1B engaged with a nut in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figure 1C shows a perspective view of the multi-head bolt of Figure 1A engaged with an extension stem in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a multi-head bolt engaged with a plurality of panels according to one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figure 2B shows a perspective view of a multi-head bolt engaged with a panel having recesses in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figures 3A-D depict various stages of connecting a plurality of panels with a multi-head bolt according to one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figures 4A-E depict examples of multi-head bolt geometries according to one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figure 5A shows a perspective view of a multi-head bolt in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure; Figure 5B shows a side view of a multi-head bolt in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure; and Figure 5C shows a rear view of a multi-head bolt in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. Detailed description Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a multi-head bolt 10 in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure, and Figure 1B shows a perspective view of the multi-head bolt 10 of Figure 1A engaged with a nut 38 in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown in Figure 1A, the multi-head bolt 10 (also referred to as bolt 10) has a longitudinal shaft 12 with a multi-head 16 at one end. At least a portion of the longitudinal shaft 12 may be cylindrical or substantially cylindrical and may define a diameter. The longitudinal shaft 12 may include external threading for engagement with a nut, as described in detail later. In one example, the longitudinal shaft 12 may define a longitudinal axis 14 that is coaxial or substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis may define an outer circumference. The multi-head bolt 16 has a plurality of pawls 18, which extend radially from the longitudinal axis 14 defined by the longitudinal axis 12. In the example in Figure 1A, the multi-head bolt 16 includes four pawls 18 that are positioned radially and symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis 14 and can be arranged in a symmetrical star-shaped configuration around the outer circumference of the axis 12. In other examples, the bolt 10 may include more or fewer pawls 18, which can be positioned radially, symmetrically, and / or arbitrarily with respect to the axis. IA / a / ZU¿ó / UU IDI l longitudinal 14. For example, the multiple head 16 may include at least or exactly three pawls 18 that can be placed in an arbitrary or radial and symmetric position with respect to the longitudinal axis 14. In another example, the multiple head 16 may include at least or exactly five pawls 18, which can be placed in an arbitrary or radial and symmetric position with respect to the longitudinal axis 14. Each of the pawls 18 can be unitarily and rigidly formed with respect to the longitudinal axis 12 of the bolt 10, such that each pawl 18 has a fixed radial orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis. In this respect, the pawls 18 can be inelastic and immovable with respect to the longitudinal axis 12 of the bolt 10. The pawls 18 can be generally fin-shaped and can be defined by a bearing surface 20, the lateral sides 18a, and the angled side 18b. The lateral sides 18a of each respective pawl 18 can be parallel to each other and can be parallel to a plane extending radially with respect to the longitudinal axis 14. The lateral sides 18a can extend between the bearing surface 20, the angled side 18b, and the longitudinal axis 12. The bearing surface 20 can be perpendicular to the lateral sides 18a and can extend along a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 14. The angled side 18b can extend from a cone-shaped portion 22 to the bearing surface 20. In some examples, the angled side 18b can extend as a continuous surface from the cone-shaped portion 22 to the bearing surface 20, while in other examples, a flat portion 18c may exist between the angled side 18b and the bearing surface 20. The angled side 18b can be coplanar with a cone-shaped portion 22 and can form an uninterrupted continuous surface with the cone-shaped portion 22, and a plane coinciding with the angled side 18b can form an angle with the longitudinal axis 14. In one example, the angle can be an acute angle between 5 and 50 degrees, and in another example, the angle can be around 45 degrees. While a portion of cone shape 22 is represented, it is contemplated that portion 22 may be of a truncated cone shape in other examples. The lateral sides 18a can be parallel to each other and both can be parallel to a plane extending radially with respect to the longitudinal axis 14. In this respect, the lateral sides can be perpendicular to the support surface 20. By virtue of the configuration, a radial distance of the angled side 18b with respect to the axis 12 decreases linearly which is measured from the support surface 20 towards the cone-shaped portion 22. At one end of the longitudinal axis 12, opposite the cone-shaped portion 22, is a cone end 24 that defines a hole 28 through it. Hole 28 allows bolt 10 to be secured by a split safety pin in one or more formwork panels or formwork elements. The cone end 24 facilitates threading nut 38 onto the longitudinal axis. As shown in Figure 1B, bolt 10 can be engaged with nut 38 to facilitate engagement with formwork elements (e.g., one or more beams) and / or formwork panels and / or any pair of elements that can be connected, as will be described in more detail later. Nut 38 may have a female thread and may have wings to allow hand tightening. IA / a / ZUZ J / UU IDI l A pawl width 18, for example, the distance between opposite side faces 18a, is represented as a width b in Figure 1B. The width can be measured at any portion of the pawl, and in one example, the width can be measured at or near the bearing surface 20. In one example, the pawl width 18 is less than a shaft diameter 12. In one particular example, the width can be at least 15% of the shaft diameter and at most 65% of the shaft diameter. In another example, the width can be in the range of 25–40% of the shaft diameter. Yet another example, the width b is approximately 33% of a longitudinal shaft diameter 12. In these examples, the shaft diameter 12 is measured at a mid-portion of the shaft, for example, a portion that is located between the panels 32 when they are secured together. In one example, a ratchet width can be substantially constant along the longitudinal axis.The width of the ratchet affects the bolt's load-bearing capacity; a larger width results in greater load-bearing capacity under higher tensile forces. Width also affects load-bearing capacity under transverse forces in an inverse way; for example, increasing the width reduces the load-bearing capacity under transverse forces. Beyond a certain width, almost no additional transverse force can be absorbed. In one example, an extension stem 50 is located at the end of the shaft opposite the multi-head bolt 16. By means of the extension stem 50, the shaft can be fitted with a tension rod. In another example, the end portion of the shaft 12 of the multi-head bolt 10 can be fitted with a tension rod. The stem 50 may have an external thread 50a into which a nut 50b can be threaded, or the stem 50 may be in the form of an anchor to be fixed in concrete. This stem 50 is commercially available from DYWIDAG® and is known by the corresponding trademark as DYWIDAG® extension. Each of the pawls 18 can define a primary plane associated with it. The primary plane is defined as parallel to each of the lateral sides 18a and extending through the pawl 18, such that the longitudinal axis 14 lies in the primary plane. In the example of a four-pawl configuration, the primary plane of one pawl and its opposite pawl are coplanar. In this respect, the primary plane of pawl 18 can be defined by intersecting the bearing surface 20 and the angled edge 18b, such that the longitudinal axis 14 lies on the primary plane. Figure 2A shows a perspective view of a multi-head bolt 10 engaged with a plurality of plates 32 according to one or more aspects of the disclosure, and Figure 2B shows a perspective view of the plate 32 having the recesses according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. Each of the plates 32 can be engaged with the formwork panels or formwork elements, or, in another example, can be integrally formed with the formwork panel or formwork element, for example, by welding or similar means. Each of the plates 32 (for example, a plate frame 32) defines the respective hole 32a for receiving the bolt 10, with hole 32a corresponding to an outside diameter of the longitudinal shaft 12. The hole 32a of the plates 32 can define IA / a / ZUZÓ / UU IDI f the skew cuts 34 shaped to receive the pawls 18 and to allow the pawls 18 to pass through the hole 32a. In this respect, the skew cuts 34 are positioned to correspond with the radial positions of the pawls 18 and the number of skew cuts 34 corresponds to the number of pawls 18. For example, in the example of three pawls 18, panel 32 defines three skew cuts 34. The plates 32 can also define recesses 36 (e.g., anti-torsion structures) that are circumferentially adjacent to the angled cuts 34. In this respect, the recesses 36 do not extend through the full thickness of the plates 32 and have a thickness less than the total thickness of the plate 32. This thickness arrangement creates space to receive the pawls 18 and, in one example, the bearing surfaces 20, to ensure a locking arrangement, which will be explained in more detail later. In one example, the recesses 36 can define chamfered edges to provide easier movement and insertion of the pawls 18 relative to the hole 32a and the recesses 36. In another example, the recesses 36 can define a stepped design along the thickness direction of the plate 32 that corresponds to the shape of the pawls 16.The plates 32 may also include stops 30 (e.g., twist or torsion stops) that project from a surface of the plate 32 and extend above the surface of the plates 32 positioned circumferentially adjacent to the recesses 36. These stops prevent the pin 10 and pawls 18 from rotating beyond a locked position and prevent the respective pawls 18 from aligning with a skew cut 34 other than the skew cut through which they were advanced. In this respect, rotation of the pawls 18 and the multi-head may be prevented or limited when a side 18a (e.g., a bearing surface or any other pawl surface) rests against a bearing surface of the stop 30. The number of stops 30 (e.g., twist or torsion stops) may be less than or at least equal to the number of pawls. This provides a stable configuration for diverting shear and / or tensile forces from bolt 10 to plate 32. In the example of a star-shaped arrangement of at least three pawls around the bolt axis, any shear force is diverted within the plane of the panel, regardless of its origin. This provides a high positive clamping load and, in particular, due to the presence of at least three pawls, a high capacity to absorb shear and / or tensile loads, helping to divert any shear and / or tensile forces to objects being fixed or held by the system, for example, on the panel surface. Figures 3A-D depict various connection stages of a plurality of plates 32 with a multi-head bolt 10 according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown in Figure 3A, the bolt 10 is inserted into both of the respective holes 32a defined by the plates 32. In this respect, each of the pawls 18 of the multi-head 16 is aligned with the corresponding angled cuts 34 of the plates 32, allowing the pawls 18 and the bolt 10 to pass through the holes 32a. Due to the relationship between the cone-shaped portion 22 and the angled edge 18b, the bolt 10 can be easily inserted through the holes 32a in the plates 32. Furthermore, if the plates 32 are slightly misaligned, the bolt 10, the cone-shaped portion 22, and the pawls 18 provide a centering function between the plates 32. For example, if the plates 32 are slightly misaligned, the thrust of the bolt 10 with the truncated cone 22 will automatically orient the plates 32 so that the holes 32a are aligned, because the bolt 10 can only pass through the holes 32a and the pawls 18 can only pass through the angled cuts 34 when these are aligned. As shown in Figure 3B, the bolt 10 has been inserted into both of the plates 32 and will rotate according to the directional arrow. The pawls 18, which have been previously aligned with the skew cuts 34, will rotate out of position with the skew cuts 34, and the pawl bearing surfaces 20 will engage with one face of the plate 32 (or within the recesses 36, for example, by retracting the bolt in a direction opposite to the insertion direction, allowing the pawls to bear and engage within the space defined by the recesses, thus preventing further rotation). As shown in Figure 3C, the bolt has been rotated (for example, by 45 degrees or a geometric multiple) and the pawls 18 are 45 degrees out of alignment with the angled cuts 34, thereby preventing the bolt 10 from being removed from the plates 32 without additional rotation. In one example, the rotation of the pawls can be stopped or limited by one or more of the stops 30. As shown in Figure 3D, the plates 32 are aligned and engaged with each other by virtue of bolt 10. A nut 38 (and optional washer) can be threaded onto bolt 10 to secure the plates 32 to each other. Figures 4A–E depict examples of multi-head bolt geometries according to one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the multi-head bolt can be a triangle, three-lug, four-lug, or five-lug arrangement. Various multi-head configurations and their corresponding holes and skew cuts in an example plate are shown in Figure 4A. Figure 4B depicts a five-pawl configuration in which five pawls are positioned symmetrically with respect to the bolt axis. In this respect, there are approximately 72 degrees between each pawl. With this multi-head configuration, the plate can be shaped with a hole that defines five angled cuts, five recesses, and five stops. Figure 4C depicts a four-pawl configuration in which four pawls are positioned symmetrically with respect to the bolt axis. There are approximately 90 degrees between each pawl. With this multi-head design, the plate can be configured with a hole that defines four angled cuts, four recesses, and four stops. In this example, each pawl can be diametrically opposed to another pawl. Each pawl can have an oppositely oriented pawl located 180 degrees away from it. Because the design of the pawls extending from the shaft simultaneously defines and imposes the negative profile on a plate hole to push the bolt through it, meaning that the skewed cuts for the pawls extending from the skewed cut for the circumference of the shaft, In one example, the number of pawls is advantageously four. This allows for a configuration where each pawl reduces the bearing area on the plate surface where the pawl can rest after engaging or holding the bolt—which also depends on the width of a pawl. Figure 4D depicts a three-ratchet configuration in which three ratchets are positioned symmetrically with respect to the bolt axis. In this respect, there are approximately 120 degrees between each ratchet. With this multi-head configuration, the plate can be shaped with a hole that defines three angled cuts, three rebates, and three stops. This three-ratchet configuration provides a well-balanced distribution of force in the horizontal plane across the panel surface in any direction around 360°. Figure 4E shows a multi-head with a triangular cross-section, each corner defining a pawl, thus creating a three-pawl configuration. With this multi-head, the plate can be configured with a hole that defines three angled cuts, three rebates, and three stops. Figure 5A shows a perspective view of a 500 series multi-head bolt in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. Figure 5B shows a side view of a 500 series multi-head bolt in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. Figure 5C shows a rear view of a 500 series multi-head bolt in accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosure. As shown in Figure 5A, the multi-head bolt 500 (also referred to as the bolt 500) has a longitudinal shaft 512 with a multi-head 516 at one end. At least a portion of the longitudinal shaft 512 may be cylindrical or substantially cylindrical and may define a diameter. The longitudinal shaft 512 may include external threading 526 for engagement with a nut, as described in detail above. In one example, the longitudinal shaft 512 may define a longitudinal axis 514 that is coaxial or substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axis may define an outer circumference. The multi-head bolt 516 has a plurality of pawls 18 extending radially from the longitudinal axis 514 defined by the longitudinal axis 512. In the example in Figure 5A, the multi-head bolt 516 includes four pawls 518 positioned radially and symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis 514 and can be arranged in a symmetrical star-shaped configuration around an outer circumference of the axis 512. In other examples, the bolt 510 may include more or fewer pawls 518, which can be positioned radially, symmetrically, and / or arbitrarily with respect to the longitudinal axis 514. For example, the multi-head bolt 516 may include at least or exactly three pawls 518, which can be positioned arbitrarily or radially and symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis 514.In another example, the multiple head 516 may include at least or exactly five pawls 518 that may be positioned arbitrarily or radially and symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis 14. Each of the pawls 518 can be unitarily and rigidly formed with respect to the longitudinal axis 512 of the bolt 510, so that each of the pawls 518 has a radial orientation IA / a / ZU¿ J / UU IDI l 1 fixed with respect to the longitudinal axis. In this respect, the pawls 518 may be inelastic and immovable with respect to the longitudinal axis 512 of the bolt 510. The pawls 518 may be generally of a fin shape and may be defined by a bearing surface 520, the side sides 518a, and the angled side 518b. The side sides 518a of each respective pawl 518 may be symmetrically opposite each other and may form an acute angle with respect to a plane extending radially with respect to the longitudinal axis 514. The side sides 518a may extend between the bearing surface 520, the angled side 518b, and the longitudinal axis 512. A transition between the longitudinal axis 512 and the bearing surface 520 may be a right angle or may be rounded due to manufacturing tolerances.In some examples, the rounded transition may be rounded in such a way that the roundness is perceptible during handling or manipulation, although it may not be visible to the eye. A transition between the longitudinal axis 512 and the lateral sides 518a may be angled or rounded due to manufacturing tolerances. In some examples, the rounded transition may be rounded in such a way that the roundness is perceptible during handling or manipulation, although it may not be visible to the eye. A transition between the support surface 520 and the flat portion 518c may be a right angle or rounded due to manufacturing tolerances. In some examples, the rounded transition may be rounded in such a way that the roundness is perceptible during handling or manipulation, although it may not be visible to the eye.A transition between the flat surface 518c and the angled side 518b may be angled or rounded due to manufacturing tolerances. In some instances, the rounded transition may be rounded in such a way that the roundness is perceptible during handling or manipulation, although it may not be visible to the naked eye. The bearing surface 520 may extend radially with respect to the longitudinal axis 514 and the longitudinal axis 512, and may extend along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 514. The angled side 518b may extend from a cone-shaped portion 522 to the bearing surface 20. In some examples, the angled side 518b may extend as a continuous surface from the cone-shaped portion 522 to the bearing surface 520, while in other examples, a flat portion 518c may exist between the angled side 518b and the bearing surface 520. The angled side 518b may be coplanar with a cone-shaped portion 522 and may form an uninterrupted continuous surface with the cone-shaped portion 522, and a plane coinciding with the angled side 518b may form an angle with the longitudinal axis 514. In one example, the angle may be an acute angle between 5 and 50 degrees, and in another example, the angle may be approximately 45 degrees.The cone-shaped portion 522 may include a substantially flat portion 522a, such that the cone-shaped portion 522 is of a truncated cone shape with the flat portion 522a being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 514. At one end of the longitudinal axis 512, opposite the conical portion 522, is a threaded portion 526 defining a hole 528 through it and a hexagonal coupling portion 524 defining a plurality of slots 524a. The hole 528 allows the bolt 510 to be secured by a split safety pin in one or more formwork panels or IA / a / ZUZÓ / UU IDI l formwork elements. The cone end 524 facilitates threading the nut (for example, the nut 38 described above) onto the longitudinal axis. The 500 bolt can be engaged with a nut (e.g., nut 38) to facilitate engagement with formwork elements (e.g., one or more beams) and / or formwork panels and / or any pair of elements that can be connected, as will be described in more detail later. The nut may have a female thread and may have wings to allow hand tightening. Whereas in the example in Figures 1A-1C, the lateral sides 18a are parallel, as shown in Figure 5B, the lateral sides 518a are not parallel to each other and are placed at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis and the primary plane. This is represented in Figures 5B and 5C, with the lateral sides 518a defining a plane AE that forms an acute angle with respect to the primary plane PP, with the longitudinal axis 514 lying in the primary plane PP (with the primary plane PP bisecting or cutting in two the ratchet 518 and the lateral sides 518a being symmetric with respect to the primary plane PP).As depicted in Figures 5B and 5C, the lateral sides 518a extend outward from the longitudinal axis 512 and define two tapers: 1) the lateral sides 518a are tapered or slightly tapered toward each other from the longitudinal axis 514 toward the angled side 518b with respect to the primary plane PP when viewed from the hexagonal coupling portion 524 in Figure 5C, resulting in an acute angle between PP and AE as viewed from the hexagonal coupling portion 524; and 2) the opposite lateral sides 518a are tapered toward each other from the bearing surface 520 toward the cone-shaped portion 522 when viewed from the side in Figure 5B, resulting in a reduction / decrease in width of the angled side 518b from the bearing surface 520 toward the cone-shaped portion 522. In this respect, a width of the pawls 518 can decrease which is measured from the support surface 520 towards the cone-shaped portion 522.In some examples, the acute angle for each lateral side 518a between AE and PP may be approximately 5 degrees or less. In one example, the acute angle for each lateral side 518a between AE and PP may be approximately 3 degrees. In some examples, the cone-shaped portion 522 is shaped like a truncated cone, with a substantially flat portion 522a. As described above, a width of the pawls 518, for example, the distance between opposite side sides 518a, can decrease which is measured from the support surface 520 towards the cone-shaped portion 522 by virtue of the ratio of the acute angle of the side sides 518a to the longitudinal axis. In one example, the width of the pawls 518 is less than the diameter of the shaft 512. In one particular example, the width can be at least 15% of the shaft diameter and at most 65% of the shaft diameter. In another example, the width can be in the range of 25–40% of the shaft diameter. Yet another example, the width b is approximately 33% of the longitudinal shaft diameter 512. In these examples, the shaft diameter 512 is measured at a mid-portion of the shaft, for example, a portion located between panels 32 when secured with them, and the width of the pawls 518 is measured at a portion near the bearing surface 520 (for example, where the width of the pawl lA / cl / ZUZd / UU1 ΟΊ l 518 is the largest, by virtue of the orientation of the acute angle of the lateral sides 518a). As previously described, the width of the ratchet affects the bolt's load-bearing capacity such that a larger width results in greater load-bearing capacity under higher tensile forces. The width also affects the load-bearing capacity under transverse forces in an inverse manner; for example, increasing the width reduces the load-bearing capacity under transverse forces. Above a certain width, almost no additional transverse force can be absorbed. Each pawl 518 can define a primary plane associated with it. The primary plane is defined as a plane that bisects each pawl 518 symmetrically and intersects both the bearing surface 520 and the angled edge 518b of the pawl, such that the longitudinal axis 514 lies in the primary plane. In the example where the lateral sides 518a are not parallel, the lateral sides 518a would be oriented at the same acute angle to the primary plane as they are to the longitudinal axis 514. As shown in Figure 5C, a rear end 524 defines a hexagonal coupling portion configured to be engaged with a tool, such as an open-end wrench, for efficient rotation of the bolt 500. The rear end 524 may also define one or more slots 524a, which generally define a “+” configuration (e.g., plus sign (+)). As shown, the slots of the + configuration align with the pawls 518, such that the primary plane of each pawl 518 would intersect with its respective aligned slot 524a.During the insertion of the bolt 500 through a hole and / or corresponding angled cuts (e.g., in plate 32, or any other type of formwork elements (e.g., one or more beams) and / or formwork panels and / or any pair of elements that can be connected), the slots 524a can provide visual alignment to the worker installing the bolt 500 so that, depending on the rotation of the bolt 500 to engage with the element (as depicted in Figures 2A-B and 3A-D above), the angular rotation of the pawls 518 causes the corresponding angular rotation of the slots 524a, providing the worker with visual guidance regarding the engagement of the bolt 500 with the element. The foregoing has been a detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. Various modifications and additions may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this invention. The features of each of the various embodiments described above may be combined with features of other described embodiments as appropriate for the purpose of providing a multiplicity of combinations of features in the new associated embodiments. Furthermore, while the foregoing describes a number of separate embodiments of the apparatus and method of the present invention, what has been described herein is only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present invention. Accordingly, this description is intended only as an example and not to otherwise limit the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A multi-head bolt, comprising a bolt shaft defining a longitudinal axis of the multi-head bolt; a multi-head located at a first end of the bolt shaft, the multi-head comprising at least three pawls, each pawl having a fixed radial orientation relative to the bolt shaft and having a primary plane that is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft and having a bearing surface.

2. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the primary plane for each pawl is parallel to two opposite lateral sides of each respective pawl.

3. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein each pawl has an angled side that intersects the primary plane and wherein the radial distance of the angled side relative to the bolt axis decreases linearly and is measured from the bearing surface to the first end of the bolt.

4. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the pawls extend from the bolt shaft in a star-shaped configuration, symmetrically, with respect to the outer circumference of the bolt shaft.

5. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein at least one ratchet is in the form of a fin.

6. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the bearing surface extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft, projecting with it in a radial direction from the outer circumference of the bolt shaft.

7. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein at least one ratchet is fin-shaped, such that the primary plane is located on the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft and the bearing surface is perpendicular to the primary plane.

8. The multi-head bolt according to claim 7, wherein the width of at least one pawl is smaller than the bolt shaft diameter.

9. The multi-head bolt according to claim 8, wherein the width of at least the ratchet is at least 15% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 65% of the bolt shaft diameter.

10. The multi-head bolt according to claim 9, wherein the width of at least the ratchet is at least 25% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 40% of the bolt shaft diameter.

11. The multi-head bolt according to claim 9, wherein the width of at least the ratchet is about 33% of the bolt shaft diameter.

12. The multi-head bolt according to claim 2, wherein a defined width between the two lateral sides of at least the ratchet is substantially constant along the longitudinal axis.

13. The multi-head bolt according to claim 3, wherein the bolt shaft defines at least one of a cone shape or a truncated cone shape at the first end of the bolt shaft.

14. The multi-head bolt according to claim 13, wherein at least a portion of the angled side is in a plane coplanar with the cone shape of the first end of the bolt shaft.

15. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the bolt shaft has a tapered end at an end opposite the multi-head to facilitate the insertion of a nut.

16. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, further comprising a tension rod stem fixed at one end of the bolt shaft opposite the multi-head, on the stem, a nut may be threaded.

17. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein at least the three pawls comprise four pawls.

18. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the bolt shaft defines a hole extending through the bolt shaft at an opposite end relative to the multi-head to secure a split safety pin.

19. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the primary plane for each pawl intersects with a pawl support surface and an angled pawl edge, such that the longitudinal axis lies in the primary plane.

20. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the primary plane for each pawl bisects each pawl symmetrically with respect to the lateral sides of each pawl.

21. The multi-head bolt according to claim 20, wherein the lateral sides are oriented at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.

22. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein a width between two lateral sides of each ratchet decreases, which is measured from a support surface towards a cone-shaped portion.

23. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the bolt shaft defines a truncated cone shape at the first end of the bolt shaft.

24. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein the bolt shaft has a hexagonal coupling portion at an end opposite the multi-head for facilitating engagement with a tool.

25. The multi-head bolt according to claim 1, wherein an end opposite the multi-head defines a plurality of slots defining a + configuration, with each of the plurality of slots aligning with a respective ratchet and configured to provide visual guidance during bolt installation.

26. A fastening system for connecting and aligning the elements together, the system comprising: a multi-head bolt for fastening and aligning the elements, the bolt comprising a bolt shaft defining a longitudinal axis of the multi-head bolt, a multi-head located at a first end of the bolt shaft and comprising a plurality of pawls each positioned in a fixed radial orientation relative to the bolt shaft and each having a primary plane that is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft and having a bearing surface; and each of the plurality of elements defining a hole extending therethrough, the hole having a shape corresponding to a cross-sectional profile of the multi-head bolt, the multi-head pawls passing through this hole.

27. The fastening system according to claim 26, further comprising a fastening element configured to connect the elements in a fixed manner.

28. The fastening system according to claim 27, wherein the multi-head bolt has an external thread and the fastening element comprises a nut having a female thread that is positioned over the external thread of the bolt.

29. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the hole defines the skewed cuts in a plane direction of the element that corresponds to a number and dimension of the plurality of pawls.

30. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein at least one ratchet is fin-shaped and has a width that is smaller than the diameter of the bolt shaft.

31. The fastening system according to claim 30, wherein the width of at least the ratchet is at least 15% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 65% of the bolt shaft diameter.

32. The fastening system according to claim 31, wherein the width of at least the ratchet is at least 25% of the bolt shaft diameter and is a maximum of 40% of the bolt shaft diameter.

33. The fastening system according to claim 32, wherein the width of at least the ratchet is about 33% of the bolt shaft diameter.

34. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein a defined width between two lateral sides of at least the ratchet is substantially constant along the longitudinal axis.

35. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the bolt shaft defines a cone shape at the first end of the bolt shaft.

36. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein each ratchet has an angled side that intersects the primary plane and wherein the radial distance of the angled side relative to the bolt axis decreases linearly and is measured from the support surface to the first end of the bolt.

37. The fastening system according to claim 36, wherein at least a portion of the angled side is coplanar to a cone-shaped portion of the first end of the bolt shaft.

38. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the bolt shaft has a conical end at an end opposite the multi-head to facilitate the insertion of a nut.

39. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the elements comprise the IA / a / ZU¿ó / UU IDI l anti-torsion structures on an element surface that are adjacent to the holes, in or on this anti-torsion structure a ratchet can be supported, respectively, after the bolt has been rotated about the longitudinal axis and inserted through the hole.

40. The fastening system according to claim 39, wherein the anti-torsion structure is a recess in which the ratchet can rest, such that when it rests in the recess, the rotational movement of the ratchet is prevented when the recess receives the support surface of the ratchet.

41. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the element comprises at least one torsion stop that protrudes from a surface of at least one of the elements and prevents rotation of the multi-head bolt about the longitudinal axis after the bolt has been inserted through the hole.

42. The fastening system according to claim 41, wherein the torsion stop comprises a support surface against which a lateral side of the ratchet rests when inserted and the bolt has rotated until it rests against the support surface.

43. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the fastening system comprises a separate plate in which an anti-torsion structure is incorporated and / or at least one torsion stop protruding from the plate is provided, this plate being placed between the head of the multi-head bolt and a surface of the element.

44. The fastening system according to claim 39, wherein a number of anti-torsion structures and / or a number of torsion stops is less than or at least equal to the number of ratchets.

45. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the pawls are derived from the bolt shaft in a star-shaped configuration that is essentially symmetrical about the outer circumference of the bolt shaft.

46. ​​The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the support surface extends essentially in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bolt shaft and protrudes with it in a radial direction from the outer circumference of the bolt shaft.

47. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the hole is located in a frame of the element.

48. The fastening system according to claim 26, wherein the elements comprise at least one of a formwork panel or a formwork element.

49. A method of aligning and connecting at least two elements together, comprising: inserting a multi-head bolt through the respective holes of a plurality of panels, such that a plurality of pawls with a fixed radial orientation relative to the multi-head bolt align with a plurality of bevel cuts in the plurality of panels; rotating the multi-head bolt relative to the plurality of panels, such that the pawls are out of alignment with the plurality of bevel cuts so that the plurality of panels is secured relative to the multi-head bolt.

50. The method according to claim 49, wherein the rotation of the multi-head bolt comprises rotating the multi-head bolt and retracting the bolt in a direction opposite to the insertion direction until the bearing surface of the pawls rests against the surface of one of the elements.

51. The method according to claim 49, further comprising securing the bolt in relation to the elements with a clamping element.

Images