Post-tensioning apparatus and system for structures

Abstract

The present invention pertains in general to post-tensioning apparatus and systems surrounding the fabrication and repair of concrete and other construction materials. The present invention surrounds apparatus and system directed to the post-tensioning for reinforcement of existing and new concrete structures through the application of tensile forces between two attachment points anchored to the structure to be mended.

Description

[0001]This application is a continuation in part of application Ser. No. 15 / 349,790 entitled “Post-Tensioning Apparatus and System for Structures, filed Nov. 11, 2016, currently pending, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 253,681 entitled “Post-Tensioning Apparatus and System for Structures” filed on Nov. 11, 2015, the entire contents each are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention pertains in general to post-tensioning apparatus and systems surrounding the fabrication and repair of concrete and other construction materials. The present invention surrounds apparatus and system directed to the post-tensioning for reinforcement of existing and new concrete structures through the application of tensile forces between two attachment points anchored to the structure to be mended.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The field of concrete installation and maintenance, particularly surro...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an apparatus for repairing concrete structures with cracks or fissures. The apparatus can be tensioned without further tensioning the apparatus, which preloads the apparatus to resolve tolerances or gaps between the apparatus and the structure. The tensioning mechanism creates a tensile force that mitigates tensile forces on the concrete and reduces the risk of further damage to the structure. The tension application component engages with the tensioning mechanism and distributes the load of the tensioning apparatus across a larger area, providing stronger structural stability. The tension application component can be attached to a surface at an angle, allowing post-tensioning across a crack or fissure at a corner where two sections of a structure meet at an angle. The invention provides a more efficient and effective method for repairing concrete structures with cracks or fissures.

Problems solved by technology

However, the lack of strength afforded by cements, often referred to as hydraulic cement, proves problematic.

When considering the structural integrity of a concrete installation, the cost of repeated failure depends upon the application of the concrete.

And cement patches have a high risk of repeated failure due to weak bond and structural integrity of the cement.

Contrasto '340 fails to provide any method of tension application to the concrete.

The higher ductility of steel as compared to concrete does not prevent the movement of the concrete beyond a failure threshold and therefore cannot prevent further cracking in the localized region and Contrastro '557 fails to provide the ability to pre-tension the structure or provide post-tensioning to the concrete structure.

These tensioning mechanisms, however, are limited in travel.

If the apertures created for the posts are spaced too far apart, the user may not be able to install the metal member.

If the apertures created for the posts are too close together, the user may not be able to tension the metal member as prescribed.

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