Coupling device, related components and method of use thereof

Abstract

Described herein are rebar tie assembly, methods of assembling rebar tie assemblies, couplers for coupling rebar ends together, and methods of coupling a first rebar and a second rebar. The rebar tie assembly includes a sleeve having an inner surface that surrounds at least a portion of at least one rebar when coupled with the at least one rebar, and at least one pin that interferingly fits between at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of an adjacent outer surface of the at least one rebar and causes localized deformation around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve, at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one rebar, or both when coupled with the at least one rebar. The rebar tie assembly, coupler, and related methods of use provide the ability to couple different elements together in a secure and / or ductile manner.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese invention patent application filed on September 12, 2017, with application number 201780069912.6 and entitled "Connecting device, related components and method of use thereof".

[0002] Related applications

[0003] This application is given priority to New Zealand Patent Application No. 724218, which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This article describes the coupling device, related components, and their usage. The coupling device utilizes material deformation on components to achieve a connection. Background Technology

[0005] In many applications, it is necessary to connect to or link to components. One such application is in reinforced concrete, where reinforcing bars placed in the concrete are typically supplied in discrete lengths. There are locations where continuous lengths of reinforcing bars must extend beyond the supplied discrete lengths, and it is necessary to link these multiple lengths together. One means of achieving this is to overlap the reinforcing bars over long distances and use the surrounding concrete to provide load transfer between the overlapping bars. An alternative means is to use coupling devices to connect the bars together axially.

[0006] The above applications and the following discussion refer to the potential applications of reinforcing steel in concrete as connecting devices. However, it should be understood that many other applications require axially connected components, such as furniture legs, lightweight steel columns, golf club handles, scaffolding components, pipes, cables, etc., and the reference to reinforcing steel should not be regarded as a limitation.

[0007] The performance requirements imposed on the components of the connecting device will be specific to the application in which the connecting device is used. For example, when the connecting device is used to connect longitudinal steel bars, the connecting device components must have specific strength, stiffness, toughness, and ductility characteristics. In addition, the connecting device or its components need to meet dimensional requirements.

[0008] A key constraint in the design of coupling systems involves size. For example, when coupling longitudinal reinforcing bars in reinforced concrete applications, it is ideal for the coupling to meet specific dimensional requirements. When installed on the reinforcing bars, if the external dimensions of the main body or components of the coupling are no greater than the thickness (diameter) of the transverse reinforcing bars, the coupling or components will not protrude beyond the reinforcing cage, which is a combination of longitudinal and transverse reinforcing bars in the concrete element. This then allows the cage to be manufactured to the limits permitted by the dimensions of the reinforced concrete element and the thickness of the concrete cover. If the coupling or components protrude beyond the transverse steel, the coupling or components may corrode or cause corrosion of other elements within the reinforcing cage. Consequently, it becomes necessary to reduce the size of the cage to ensure that a suitable concrete cover thickness is maintained. This, in turn, reduces the effectiveness of the reinforced concrete element and impairs the effectiveness of the system.

[0009] A further key constraint on the design of the connection system concerns the length of the connection device. Ideally, the maximum length of the connection device or its components is less than the spacing of the transverse steel bars along the longitudinal members. This allows the connection device to be fitted between the transverse steel bars without interfering with the placement of the transverse steel bars (typically 150 mm or more). If the length of the connection device is too long, transverse steel bars are required to span the connection device, which in turn requires the manufacture of specific sets of transverse steel bars. Longer lengths also necessitate a reduction in the spacing of the longitudinal steel bars to ensure that such specific transverse steel bars do not protrude into the concrete cover area. Alternatively, if the connection device is longer than the spacing between the transverse steel bars, it is preferable that the existing transverse steel bars are placed across the connection device to avoid reducing the efficiency of the structural system or encroaching on the concrete cover distance. This constraint may constrain the structure, design, and / or increase costs.

[0010] Another design constraint is axial stress. Once manufactured, reinforced concrete components will be subjected to applied loads that will place the connected reinforcing bars under axial stress.

[0011] Under static loads, this is typically tensile or compressive stress. In concrete components subjected to fluctuating loads (thermal loads, traffic loads, seismic loads), the connected steel bars may be subjected to cyclic tensile stress, cyclic compressive stress, or stress cyclically between tensile and compressive domains. The stress level applied to the connection element will also vary depending on the chosen application. In some applications, when subjected to elastic stress, the connection element will elongate, thus returning to its original length once the load is removed. In other cases, the connection element may be subjected to plastic stress, thus permanently deforming or altering the element when the load is removed. For example, under the loads imposed by a large earthquake, the concrete component may crack and deform. This may require the connected steel bars to stretch to high levels of plastic strain. The connection device needs to be capable of resisting all possible stresses and strains that may occur during use.

[0012] Another design problem associated with axial stress is the change in material dimensions in opposite directions due to the Poisson effect. This Poisson effect can make it difficult to join materials under high levels of axial tensile stress because high strain in the load direction will lead to a significant reduction in cross-sectional area. This will result in a decrease in the diameter of the coupling relative to the connecting element under load, thus increasing the difficulty of maintaining high coupling capacity.

[0013] Further complicating the design is the fact that different materials have different stress-strain relationships, and these relationships vary depending on the type of load applied, the speed at which the load is applied, the duration of the load, and the nature of the load. For example, the fundamental stress-strain relationship of a steel component under uniaxial tensile load is as follows: Figure 1 As shown. Figure 1 The observed relationship between stress and strain can be nonlinear. Ideally, the performance of the coupling device should accurately mimic the properties of the uncoupled material. In this case, the stress-strain relationship measured in the coupling region will closely match the stress-strain relationship of the uncoupled continuous reinforcing bar. This offers considerable advantages to the end user, as it allows the coupling device to be installed in any location without affecting the relative performance of the reinforced concrete member under load. For this purpose, the coupling region must restrict any potential movement between the coupling elements, as this would result in increased displacement and thus a higher effective strain level in that region (the change in length divided by the original length). Similarly, the coupling region can be significantly stiffer than the uncoupled region, as this would reduce the relative strain in that region.

[0014] Another design constraint is to avoid weakening the connecting element around the connection area. Ideally, the connecting device should have sufficient strength to force any failure zone away from the connection area. For example, in a reinforcing bar subjected to a high level of axial load, the connecting device should have sufficient strength to force the bar to break away from the connecting device. This is particularly important in certain applications, such as reinforced concrete elements used in earthquake-prone areas where the reinforcing bar may be subjected to high levels of induced plastic stress and associated strain.

[0015] Most of the examples used above involve connecting two elements axially. It should be understood that it may also be necessary to connect more than two elements together, such as forming a T-joint or Y-joint. Similarly, there are applications where it is not necessary to connect multiple elements, but attaching specific parts or features to a single element (or more) may be useful. This could include attaching a larger diameter end stop to the end of a furniture leg to reduce the pressure exerted by the leg on the ground or to prevent damage to the floor material, or it could include attaching specific parts to a reinforcing bar to increase its functionality.

[0016] It should also be understood that there are applications where the elements to be connected have different shapes and sizes. Examples of using reinforcing bars could include connecting bars with different cross-sectional areas, shapes, material grades, or deformation patterns.

[0017] Based on the inventor's experience, prior art connection devices have limitations and disadvantages related to one or more of the design constraints mentioned above, including the device performance and versatility of the prior art. Providing alternative designs may be useful, addressing some or all of the above constraints or at least providing the public with options.

[0018] Further aspects and advantages of the connecting device, related components, and methods of use will become apparent from the following description, which is given only as an example. Summary of the Invention

[0019] This article describes the connection device, related components, and their usage.

[0020] In a first aspect, a coupling device is provided, the coupling device comprising:

[0021] A sleeve having an inner surface that surrounds at least a portion of at least one elongated element to be joined;

[0022] At least one deformation device, which interferes with at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element, and causes local deformation around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or around at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element.

[0023] In a second aspect, a deformable device insertion tool is provided, the tool including a drive mechanism to assemble the deformable device into or force an interference fit between the deformable device and a mating interference member, wherein, during the assembly of the deformable device, the tool provides at least external support to the mating interference member.

[0024] In a third aspect, a coupling sleeve is provided, the sleeve comprising:

[0025] The sleeve has a generally elongated shape, including an opening, and an inner surface whose shape is generally complementary to the shape of at least one elongated element to be joined; and

[0026] The sleeve has at least one orifice extending from the outside of the sleeve to at least one groove or mark recessed into the inner surface of the sleeve.

[0027] In a fourth aspect, a deformation device is provided for interference engagement with at least a portion of the inner surface of a sleeve and / or at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element to which the deformation device is fitted, and for causing local deformation around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or around at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one elongated element to which the deformation device is fitted, thereby causing connection between the sleeve and the at least one elongated element, the deformation device comprising:

[0028] (a) A pin, wherein the hardness of the pin is greater than that of the corresponding component; and

[0029] (b) wherein the pin is formed to provide self-energizing effect during assembly, and when subjected to external load, it acts to increase interference with the connected relative element and thus interlock with the connected relative element.

[0030] In a fifth aspect, a method for connecting at least one element is provided, the method comprising the following steps:

[0031] (a) The sleeve is at least partially fitted onto at least a portion of at least one elongated element;

[0032] (b) Assembling at least one deformation device between the sleeve and at least a portion of the elongated element;

[0033] In this embodiment, at least one deformation device is interfering with the sleeve and at least one elongated element, and when assembled, the at least one deformation device causes local deformation of at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one elongated element.

[0034] In a sixth aspect, a connection device is provided, comprising:

[0035] A sleeve having an inner surface that surrounds at least a portion of at least one elongated element to be joined;

[0036] At least one elongated element, comprising at least one pre-formed notch and / or a notch formed during connection by a combination of material removal and oriented material deformation, to coincide with at least one orifice in the sleeve; and

[0037] When connected, at least one deformation device passes through the sleeve orifice and engages along the notch of the elongated element.

[0038] The connecting devices, related components, and methods of use described above provide the ability to connect disparate elements together in a robust and / or easily extendable manner, with the connection adjustable as needed to suit preferred applications. Further advantages and improvements will become apparent from the detailed description below. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Further aspects of the above-described connecting device, related components, and methods of use will become apparent from the following description, given only by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1 The figure illustrates a typical stress-strain curve for the material;

[0041] Figure 2 The illustration shows an example of an assembly connection using a sleeve and a pin to join two steel bars;

[0042] Figure 3 The diagram shows Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the assembled connection;

[0043] Figure 4 An example of a connecting sleeve is illustrated;

[0044] Figure 5 The diagram shows an end view of the connecting sleeve;

[0045] Figure 6 Two schematic cross-sectional views are shown, illustrating the path of the pin between the elongated element and the sleeve;

[0046] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an alternative pin travel path between the elongated element and the sleeve is shown.

[0047] Figure 8 The diagram illustrates the changing direction of the pin's movement between the elongated element and the sleeve;

[0048] Figure 9 An example with an optimized pin embedding to diameter ratio is illustrated;

[0049] Figure 10 The illustration shows an example where the pin insertion-to-diameter ratio is insufficient to cause material flow;

[0050] Figure 11 The diagram illustrates the pin array and how the traction force applied to the coupling device causes variations in the applied force on each pin in the array. The applied force can vary along the array, with the maximum force located around the sleeve opening.

[0051] Figure 12 The illustration shows how to manipulate the traction on the pin in this case of using an elongated groove to allow a certain degree of elongation of the connection;

[0052] Figure 13 The diagram illustrates different array configurations using multiple pins;

[0053] Figure 14 An alternative schematic cross-sectional view of the pin and sleeve groove geometry is shown;

[0054] Figure 15A , 15B Figure 15C illustrates how to change interfacial forces by altering the sleeve geometry;

[0055] Figure 16 The diagram illustrates a variation of the sleeve structure;

[0056] Figure 17A , 17B The illustration shows a schematic diagram illustrating variations in the sleeve shape and configuration;

[0057] Figure 18 The illustration shows a further variation in the sleeve design using a second element;

[0058] Figure 19 The illustration shows a partial cross-sectional side view of another embodiment utilizing a sleeve and an elongated device (rod), the sleeve and rod shown being prepared for connection, the sleeve and rod in the illustrated embodiment having pre-formed notches;

[0059] Figure 20 The diagram shows Figure 19 A perspective view of the stick being removed from the sleeve, to further show the pre-formed notch in the outside of the stick;

[0060] Figure 21 The above diagram illustrates the process. Figure 19 and 20 In one embodiment, a deformation device (pin) is inserted;

[0061] Figure 22 The illustration shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a post-pad type connector, in which a sleeve connects an elongated rod to a post pad, which provides attachment features for welding fasteners to other components or for embedding in concrete.

[0062] Figure 23 The illustration shows a perspective view of the joint, illustrating how a sleeve can be used to join multiple elongated elements together; and

[0063] Figure 24 The illustration shows another schematic diagram of a variant of the connection design, which utilizes a part with a curved surface and a third connecting element. The part with the curved surface can be adjusted along the length axis of the connector, and the third connecting element connects the two curved surfaces when the two curved surfaces are spaced a desired axial distance apart. Detailed Implementation

[0064] As described above, this article describes the connection device, related components, and their usage.

[0065] For the purposes of this specification, the terms “about” or “approximately” and their grammatical variations mean a quantity, level, degree, value, number, frequency, percentage, size, size, total, weight, or length that varies by as much as 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1% relative to a reference quantity, level, degree, value, number, frequency, percentage, size, size, total, weight, or length.

[0066] The term “basically” or its grammatical variations refer to at least 50%, such as 75%, 85%, 95%, or 98%.

[0067] The term “includes” and its grammatical variations should have an inclusive meaning – that is, it will be understood to include not only the listed parts that it directly refers to, but also other unspecified parts or elements.

[0068] The term “deformation” or its grammatical variations refer to the displacement of a material resulting from changes in its shape and / or removal of a portion of it due to elastic and / or plastic movements.

[0069] Unless otherwise stated below, the term “deformation device” or its grammatical variations refer to an article or feature that deforms itself or causes material deformation in another article or feature.

[0070] The term "local deformation" or its grammatical variations refer to local displacement of material in the region adjacent to the location of a deformation device. This may occur because the location of at least one deformation device occupies a volume of space otherwise occupied by the material of adjacent members.

[0071] The term “pin” or its grammatical variations refer to an elongated external element used to place around and / or between another object, for connecting a pin to another object, or for using a pin as a retaining device to hold other elements in position relative to each other.

[0072] The terms “assembly” and “installation” or their grammatical variations are used interchangeably in this document to refer to the process and / or timing in which the use of equipment causes a connection to occur.

[0073] The terms “once assembled” or “once installed” or their grammatical variations are used interchangeably in this document to refer to the position of at least one deformable device after the coupling assembly.

[0074] In a first aspect, a connection device is provided, comprising:

[0075] A sleeve having an inner surface that surrounds at least a portion of at least one elongated element to be joined;

[0076] At least one deformation device, which interferes with at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element, and causes local deformation around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or around at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element.

[0077] In the above aspects, at least one deformation device can be directly fitted between at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element. That is, at least one deformation device directly abuts against both the sleeve and the elongated element, and no intermediate member is located between the deformation device and the sleeve or the elongated element. Direct abutment of the deformation device against the sleeve and / or the elongated element may not be necessary, and alternatively, indirect abutment, such as through an intermediate member, may be possible, as further described below.

[0078] The localized deformation described above can occur when installing a deformable device by using an impact energy input to forcibly insert the deformable device into at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element. That is, the insertion action causes interference and localized deformation between at least one elongated element, at least one deformable device, and the sleeve. The level of force required to insert the deformable device can be a function of the degree of interference and / or the size of the deformable device. Various methods can be used to insert the deformable device, including, for example: high-energy throwing force, impact force, striking, twisting (torsion), continuous pressure (such as pressing), compressed air, rapid combustion or explosive activation, and combinations thereof. High-energy impact installation methods, such as dynamic activation, allow for rapid installations, require less effort from the user, and can be implemented using portable handheld devices. In one embodiment, at least one deformation device may be provided with sufficient impact energy to travel at a speed of at least 50 m / s, or 75 m / s, or 100 m / s, or 125 m / s, or 150 m / s, or 175 m / s, or 200 m / s, or 225 m / s, or 250 m / s, or 275 m / s, or 300 m / s upon entering the coupling or a portion thereof. It should be understood that the term "impact energy input" can refer to a single impact or multiple energy impacts. Furthermore, it should be understood that, for the purposes of this specification, the impact energy input may preclude screwing or tightening the deformation device into the coupling or a portion thereof, but some degree of rotation of the deformation device may occur during assembly. Instead of helical screwing, during assembly, at least one deformation device may slide primarily between the sleeve and the elongated element, thereby hindering material removal from the path of travel of the deformation device. High energy in the assembly may be useful for applying the described localized deformation. Without being bound by theory, one reason for the effectiveness of the resulting connection may be that during insertion and under the aforementioned high-energy conditions, once the energy dissipates to a more viscous interface than in cases of low-energy plastic deformation (e.g., screwing a screw into an elongated element), the locally deformed material may temporarily become fluid in natural hardening.

[0079] Deformation may not occur at a time or moment after installation, such as in response to forces that separate the components. Alternatively, the initial deformation occurs during installation, and further deformation may occur at a time after installation, such as when a force is applied. The force can be tension or pressure.

[0080] The sleeve and at least one elongated element can be roughly coaxially aligned when joined together. Eccentric alignment is also possible and can still achieve similar results.

[0081] Local deformation of the sleeve and / or at least one elongated element can be primarily plastic deformation. During installation, at least one deformation device may also undergo local deformation. The local deformation of the at least one deformation device can be elastic deformation, plastic deformation, or a combination of both.

[0082] At least one deformable device may have an elongated form having a body and opposing ends. In one embodiment, the body may be an elongated member having a common shape along its length, for example, a common circular diameter. The body of at least one deformable device may provide substantially all interference with at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element. Once the deformable element is assembled, at least one deformable end may not interfere with the sleeve or elongated element at all, or may not interfere in a way that affects the connection. The inventors have discovered that by inserting the deformable device "laterally" between the sleeve and the elongated element, the deformable device can be forcibly driven between the sleeve and the elongated element, and the resulting localized deformation occurring on the sleeve and / or at least one elongated element may occur along the interface between the lengths of the deformable device, i.e., where the side of the deformable device abuts against the sleeve and / or the elongated element. This results in a larger connection surface area, thus achieving a larger connection force than if only localized interference at the direct ends were achieved. When a traction force is applied, point loads at the ends, such as in prior art examples, can also introduce localized forces on the elongated element, which are typically points of eventual failure or stretching / elongation. Lateral alignment distributes the load around the elongated element and sleeve wall, thus increasing the connection force and resistance to localized force loads.

[0083] At least one deformation device may have a greater stiffness than the sleeve and / or at least one elongated element. The deformation device may have sufficient stiffness such that when the deformation device and the sleeve / elongated element interact, the deformation device causes local deformation of the elongated element and / or the sleeve, while the deformation device remains substantially unaffected in form or shape.

[0084] The elongated element can be a slender, elongated shape, such as a rod, tube, or cylinder. An example of an elongated element could be a section of steel bar, but as described elsewhere in this specification, virtually any elongated element can be used. The elongated element may have a first end and a second end, and one or both ends may have connecting devices incorporated thereon.

[0085] It should be understood that the elongated element has an intermediate portion located between the first end and the second end. In one embodiment, the described coupling device can be used to attach at least one sleeve to the intermediate portion of the elongated element. That is, the coupling device sleeve can slide on the elongated element, for example, until it covers the area of ​​the intermediate portion, and the sleeve can be attached to the elongated element at this position. Alternatively, as described above, the sleeve can slide at one end, or for a longer sleeve, it can slide at one end and also slide into the intermediate portion. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that intermediate portion coupling may be desired for any number of reasons. Any combination of end coupling and intermediate portion coupling can be implemented.

[0086] Elongated elements can have varying cross-sectional shapes. Circular shapes, such as ellipses, are common in the art; however, polygonal shapes such as triangles, squares, rectangles, and pentagons can also be used in the connecting devices described herein. In the following text, reference may be made to terms that infer a circular cross-section, such as diameter, axis, circumference, etc. These terms should not be considered limiting, as, as described herein, the cross-sectional shape of elongated elements (and optionally sleeves) can vary and it should be noted that a circle is a special case.

[0087] In one embodiment, the sleeve may have an inner surface shape that is substantially complementary to the shape of at least one elongated element to be coupled. As mentioned above, this may result in a coaxial placement, but other placements are also possible. In this embodiment, when forming the coupling device, the face of the elongated element may abut against the inner face of the sleeve when at least one deformation device applies force about opposite sides of the elongated element. It will be appreciated that the internal shape of the sleeve can be varied to change the position of the elongated element abutting against the sleeve interior. For example, the inner wall of the sleeve may be hollowed out around the area where abutment would normally occur. By doing so, the elongated element abuts against either side of the hollowed-out portion, thus having two abutting faces against the sleeve interior. If the two abutting faces are positioned opposite each other and within a 180-degree arc, a wedging effect can result in the elongated element wedging between the two opposite faces.

[0088] The sleeve can be made of a material with different material properties than the elongated element, serving as a means of reinforcing the connection between the sleeve and the elongated element. The sleeve can be made of a material with different toughness properties than the elongated element. An example could be using steel with lower strength but increased elongation as the sleeve material. For the same load level, when the elongated element is subjected to tension, the sleeve will experience greater strain compared to the elongated element, thus experiencing an increased Poisson effect and a correspondingly smaller internal dimension. This can potentially increase interference between the sleeve and the elongated element. The opposite relationship can also be used to reduce interference between the sleeve and the elongated element.

[0089] In one embodiment, during assembly, the deformation device may pass through at least one orifice extending from the outside of the sleeve to the inner surface of the sleeve. During assembly, the deformation tool may pass through at least one groove recessed into the inner surface of the sleeve. Assuming both an orifice and a groove exist, during assembly, at least one deformation device may pass through at least one orifice and traverse at least a portion of at least one groove. At least one deformation device itself may produce the form of all or part of at least one groove and / or at least one orifice, for example, forming an orifice and groove in the sleeve and elongated element during connection. Alternatively, at least one orifice and / or at least one groove may be formed partially or entirely before connection, for example, by pre-drilling the orifice and / or groove before inserting at least one deformation device. The term "drill" or its grammatical variations used herein refers to the use of material removal in the sleeve material to obtain the desired form. In the case of pre-drilling, the orifice and / or groove may be dimensionally below or above the deformation device to alter the connection characteristics. Mesh processes may also be used instead of or replace drilling. Mesh processes may include, for example, casting, molding, or sintering, and refer to processes that produce shape through the manufacturing process of the sleeve. It can also be understood from the above that the orifice or groove can be at least partially pre-formed, and alternations (grooves or orifices) can be formed during the insertion of the deformation device.

[0090] In one embodiment, each orifice may coincide with a groove. Further, each orifice may be approximately tangent to a groove.

[0091] In one embodiment, at least one groove may extend around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve, while the remainder of the inner surface remains unformed. The at least one groove may extend in a path defined in a defined direction to achieve the desired engagement effect. In one embodiment, the groove may be formed around the entire circumference, the surface length, or substantially around the inner surface of the sleeve.

[0092] In another embodiment, the orifice may form only a small portion of a tangential groove on the inner surface of the sleeve and terminate around at least a portion of the inner surface.

[0093] During assembly or installation, the grooves described above can provide a guide path for the deforming device. The lower resistance path defined by the grooves can tend to cause the deforming device to move around the grooves rather than the surrounding area.

[0094] At least one orifice and / or at least one recess can be covered or otherwise shielded and / or protected. Covering can be done regardless of whether the deformation device is in place. Covering can be done using sealing film, putty, leather, or other compounds that substantially prevent material from passing through the cover or entering. Alternatively, a sleeve or the like can be placed on the sleeve to cover the deformation device and / or orifice. Further or alternatively, a cover can be made on the end opening of the sleeve to prevent material from exiting or entering the coupling area. Covering or placing the cover can be performed before assembling the elongated member to the sleeve and / or deformation device. For example, a cover may be useful in embodiments where the coupling device is to be embedded or placed in a reinforcing bar in concrete. Covering any openings in the coupling device minimizes the risk of concrete entering the coupling device or its components, and thus prevents any cam action or movement of at least one deformation device when subjected to forces such as tensile or strain forces. A cover may not be necessary and may depend on the end application of the coupling and the expected force requirements from the coupling device.

[0095] In one embodiment, during assembly, at least one deformation device can pass through an orifice in the sleeve around the outer surface of at least one elongated element, such that the at least one deformation device can be forced to interfere tangentially with at least one elongated element. This applies in the case of circular / semi-circular elongated elements and / or interference with the planes and / or vertices or other features of polygonal elongated elements.

[0096] In one embodiment, once assembled, the path of at least one deforming device relative to the sleeve and at least one elongated element can be substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal length of the sleeve and the longitudinal length of the at least one elongated element. The terminology used in this embodiment primarily refers to the fact that the deforming device may optionally not be purely orthogonally oriented, but rather offset relative to a purely orthogonal plane by approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26. Or 27, or 28, or 29, or 30, or 31, or 32, or 33, or 34, or 35, or 36, or 37, or 38, or 39, or 40, or 41, or 42, or 43, or 44, or 45, or 46, or 47, or 48, or 49, or 50, or 51, or 52, or 53, or 54, or 55, or 56, or 57, or 58, or 59, or 60 degrees. For example, at least one deformation device may be a series of pins or nails, each pin or nail being tangentially inserted between the inner surface of the sleeve and the elongated element and approximately orthogonal to the longitudinal length of the elongated element.

[0097] Alternatively, once assembled, the path of at least one deformation device relative to the sleeve and at least one elongated element can be primarily collinear with the longitudinal length of the sleeve and the longitudinal length of the elongated element, i.e., along the longitudinal axis. In this case, it primarily means that the deformation device may optionally not be perfectly aligned with the longitudinal axis, but rather offset from the pure longitudinal axis by approximately 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26. 27 or 28, or 29, or 30, or 31, or 32, or 33, or 34, or 35, or 36, or 37, or 38, or 39, or 40, or 41, or 42, or 43, or 44, or 45, or 46, or 47, or 48, or 49, or 50, or 51, or 52, or 53, or 54, or 55, or 56, or 57, or 58, or 59, or 60 degrees. In this embodiment, at least one deformation device may be, for example, a threaded pin or nail, inserted from the first side of the sleeve between the inner surface of the sleeve and the elongated element.

[0098] The deforming device can be inserted straight between the sleeve and the elongated element. Alternatively, the path of at least one deforming device can vary around the sleeve and the elongated element. In one example, the straight path can be a tangential path orthogonal to or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated element, for example, the deforming device is inserted between the sleeve and the elongated element in a generally straight form. Reference to a tangential path should not be considered a limitation on sleeves and / or elongated elements with circular cross-sectional shapes, as the deforming device path can, for example, be positioned between apexes or recesses of elongated elements and / or sleeves with non-circular cross-sectional shapes. Examples of varied deforming device paths can be paths that change direction, such as circular, perfect circular, polygonal, or spiral paths. The chosen path can be one that follows the shape of the elongated element and / or sleeve (such as the cross-sectional shape of the elongated element).

[0099] Once assembled, at least one deformation device can extend through an orifice on the opposite side of the sleeve. In an alternative embodiment, the orifice on the opposite side can be a blind orifice. In this embodiment, a groove around the inner surface of the connector sleeve may not be necessary, and the deformation device simply passes in a straight line between the elongated elements of the sleeve.

[0100] In an alternative embodiment, once engaged, at least one deformable device remains within the sleeve. That is, once assembled, the deformable device may not protrude from the sleeve. In this embodiment, once assembled, at least one deformable device may bend to follow the approximate form of the outer surface of at least one elongated element. The bending may be guided by a path of a groove in the sleeve. Alternatively, once assembled, at least one deformable device may be forced around the circumference of at least one elongated element and at least partially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of at least one elongated element. In another alternative, during assembly, at least one deformable device may be forced around a curved path defined by at least one groove. At least one deformable device may be axially stressed between at least one elongated element and the sleeve. The curved path may be helical, but a purely helical path is not required. For clarity, the term "curve" may refer to a groove formed around the inner side of the sleeve that also translates along at least a portion of the longitudinal length of the sleeve as part of a groove path. The groove path may be regular or irregular.

[0101] Multiple deformation devices can be inserted to connect at least one elongated element and a sleeve.

[0102] The geometry of the groove can be altered to cause at least one deformable device to undergo further energization as at least one elongated element undergoes deformation. As used herein, the term "energization" can refer to a change in insertion energy when at least one deformable device is assembled, or alternatively, a change in strain energy of at least one deformable device when the connection is subjected to a force load. For example, the geometry of the groove can be varied to present regions of lower or higher resistance to the movement of the deformable device during assembly, thus allowing for greater energization in the lower resistance region compared to the higher resistance region, and therefore greater insertion energy. In the assembled connection device, at least one deformable device can be energized, for example, to alter or achieve material flow around a particular elongated element. Changing the energization of the deformable device can adjust or modulate the connection characteristics.

[0103] The deformation device can be configured such that, during or after installation / connection, it acts to enhance the interference and interlocking of the connected system when subjected to external loads. In other words, the deformation device interacts with other components to provide interference.

[0104] For example, the deformation device can be formed with guide end details, which helps to:

[0105] - Install the deformation device in the corresponding orifice in the sleeve; and / or

[0106] - To allow the deformation device to travel around a groove, which may optionally be located on a portion or all of the inner side of the sleeve; and / or

[0107] - Material flow in the localized deformation zone of elongated elements and / or sleeves;

[0108] - One or more cutting parts on the deformation device, such as serrated edges, can scrape material from the elongated element, for example, during the connection.

[0109] It can be understood that the deformable device can form a combination with end detail features, and the end details listed above are not limiting.

[0110] Furthermore, the deformation device can deform (or deform differently) a portion of the deformation device to other portions of the deformation device at the guide end detail or at other points along the deformation device, for example, by changing the diameter or shape of the deformation device along the length of the deformation device around one or more points.

[0111] Note that the above reference to the term "guide end" assumes that the modified device has an elongated form with a first guide end that guides or is inserted first during connection.

[0112] The deformation device can be at least partially self-energized, wherein the movement of the deformation device is self-energized when an external load is applied to the coupling device, causing the deformation device to act to change the interference between the deformation device and the elongated element and / or sleeve, and to apply varying pressure to the element-sleeve interface on the opposite side. For example, in one embodiment, the geometry of the groove can vary to allow at least one deformation device to undergo further energization as the elongated element undergoes axial deformation. In one configuration, the groove can be formed with an inclined lead-out in the axial direction of the elongated element. When subjected to axial deformation, the elongated element pulls the deformation device upward toward the inclined portion, causing the deformation device to retract downward toward the elongated element. Depending on the selected geometry, this can increase interference with the elongated element, decrease interference with the elongated element, or alternatively compensate for the reduction in cross-section due to the Poisson effect. Other groove geometries can be used to achieve this result, such as grooves and deformation devices with different radii, or, for example, cam profiles. In an alternative configuration, the geometry of the deformation device and the groove can be formed such that the cross-section of the deformation device is rectangular and the groove is V-shaped. When under strain, the axial displacement of the elongated element causes the deformation device to rotate, further embedding the edge of the deformation device into the elongated element. As described above, this can increase the load-bearing capacity of the interface and allow for compensation of the Poisson effect. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, other deformation device shapes can be used to achieve the same performance, and references to rectangular cross-section deformation devices and V-shaped grooves should not be considered limiting.

[0113] The aforementioned self-energizing effect or facilitation can have the advantage of reducing the energy required to install the deformation device. This facilitation can reduce stress concentration in localized deformation areas. It can enhance the interference pressure between the sleeve, the deformation device, and the elongated element. The deformation device can be characterized by surface polishing and / or enhancement of at least one of the following features: installation force, friction, friction welding, load transfer capacity, traction effect, and combinations thereof.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the groove geometry may vary, allowing the deforming device to translate a defined distance with the axial elongation of the elongated member without providing additional energization. The defined distance may be determined by the groove geometry. In this embodiment, the deforming device may translate a predetermined distance before being restricted in movement and provide resistance to further translation. The resistance to further movement may be a rigid abutment at the groove extent, or it may be a region of the groove whereby the deforming device undergoes self-energization. Self-energization can be achieved by any means described in this specification. The inventors understand that the interaction between the groove and the deforming device can be used to allow axial translation of the elongated member in applications where controlled movement is desired. Alternatively, the inventors envision that such an interaction between the groove and the deforming device may be beneficial, for example, when used in an array of deforming devices, allowing the cross-section of the elongated member to extend to a defined level under elastic and / or plastic deformation before load transfer occurs through the deforming devices. Such an array may use any combination of translational, self-energizing, or fixed deforming device actions.

[0115] When configured in an array, any combination of deformable device-enabled and self-enabled features can be employed.

[0116] Deformation devices can have different physical properties than sleeves and / or elongated elements for inducing connections. The interaction between the toughness / impact resistance and hardness of the deformation device can differ from the interaction between the toughness / impact resistance and hardness of the sleeve and / or elongated element.

[0117] It can be understood that a material's toughness and impact resistance fundamentally refer to the same material property—that is, the material's ability, expressed in energy terms, to withstand a sudden application of load. Both toughness and impact resistance are measured in the same way using either the Charpy test or the Izod test. Hardness refers to a material's resistance to plastic deformation when compressive force is applied. One method for measuring hardness is the Rockwell hardness test.

[0118] The interaction between toughness or impact resistance and hardness, when applied to the described coupling device, can specifically refer to the toughness / impact resistance and hardness of the deformation device when subjected to strain forces, particularly strain forces exceeding or approaching the transition zone from elastic deformation to plastic deformation of the deformation device / sleeve / elongated element. For example, toughness / impact resistance and hardness can also be characteristics when driving the deformation device or connecting it to sleeves and elongated elements.

[0119] The inventors have discovered that the interaction between the toughness / impact resistance and hardness of the deformation device can be a significant characteristic compared to the sleeve and / or elongated element. For example, if the toughness and hardness of the deformation device are not at the desired level relative to the sleeve and / or elongated element, the deformation device may crack or break during connection, resulting in poor or lower-than-expected resistance of the connected device to strain or traction. In extreme cases, the low toughness / impact resistance and hardness interaction of the deformation device relative to the sleeve / elongated element can cause the deformation device to fail to deform locally, or in the worst case, even fail to insert / connect between the sleeve and elongated element.

[0120] As described above, the interaction between toughness / impact resistance and hardness can be between the deformation device and the sleeve or elongated element, or between the deformation device and both the sleeve and elongated element. As discussed elsewhere in this document, the sleeve can have a pre-formed groove defining the path of travel for the deformation device, and the interaction can be solely related as a result between the deformation device and the elongated element. The sleeve itself can have a particular interaction between toughness / impact resistance and hardness; for example, the interaction might be softer or less tough than that of the deformation device, or similarly, the sleeve could have a toughness or hardness interaction exceeding that of the deformation device. Elongated elements may also exhibit similar characteristics. It can be understood that the interaction between the material's toughness / impact resistance and hardness can be tuned to impose varying localized deformation characteristics on the connecting device components, i.e., the sleeve, the deformation device, and the elongated element.

[0121] It should be understood that the precise toughness and / or hardness of at least one deformation device can vary depending on the toughness and / or hardness of the sleeve and / or elongated element material.

[0122] To illustrate this, in the steel rod embodiment where the connecting device includes a sleeve and the elongated element is a steel rod, a high-toughness material with a high level of hardness may be desirable. The toughness or impact resistance of the deformation device, measured by the Charpy or Izod test, can be at least about 40 joules, 120 joules, or 160 joules. These toughness values ​​can be used for deformation devices with a hardness greater than about 45 Rockwell C, 50 Rockwell C, or 55 Rockwell C. The examples given are applications for steel rod connecting embodiments. As those skilled in the art of material selection and material properties will appreciate, toughness and hardness values ​​can vary depending on other applications of the disclosed invention.

[0123] In one embodiment, at least one deformation device may also cause at least a portion of at least one elongated element to displace within the sleeve during assembly. The direction of displacement may be non-specific or specific. This may cause at least a portion of at least one elongated element to be pushed against the inner surface of the sleeve, thereby generating a traction force in the at least one elongated element in the axial direction due to the frictional effect caused by interfacial pressure. The traction force can increase the connection strength.

[0124] In the above embodiments, at least one elongated element can be displaced in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of at least one elongated element.

[0125] The above embodiments may include at least one friction alteration device. For example, a high-friction surface may be used on the deformation device and / or the sleeve surface. The purpose of using a high-friction surface may be to enhance the magnitude of the frictional effect, thereby further increasing the traction. The friction alteration device may be implemented by various methods, such as including etching, roughening, or roughening at least a portion of the sleeve surface and / or the deformation device. The elongated element may also be modified in shape or form to change the friction around the engagement location. The friction alteration device may be implemented, for example, by further alternatives. In one embodiment, the use of an interface material may be provided. Optionally, in combination with either or both of the elongated member and the inner surface of the sleeve, the interface material may have a greater coefficient of friction than if the elongated member were directly supported on the inner surface of the sleeve. This interface material may be provided by providing a separate material component or by providing a plating or coating of the interface material directly to the inner surface of the sleeve. In another embodiment, the interface material may be a protrusion, such as a rib or protrusion in the inner wall of the sleeve against which the elongated element abuts.

[0126] Other methods can be employed to increase traction. For example, a threaded pattern can be provided on the inner surface of the sleeve to interact with the elongated member during the assembly of the deformation device. The threaded pattern can result in a reduction in the initial interfacial surface area and provide increased pressure at the interfacial contact point. The increased pressure can lead to localized plastic deformation, thereby providing a mechanical interlock between the elongated member and the sleeve. In alternative embodiments, a threaded pattern (typically a helical pattern) can replace concentric features to provide a similar effect. Alternatively, similar features can be variable in form and location, whether ordered or random in nature. Specific geometries can be optimized to increase or maximize traction. Increased traction can provide a reduced connection length and / or a reduction in the number of deformation devices required to achieve a specific connection strength. Alternatively, specific geometries can be optimized to allow the elongated element to elongate maximally before fracture due to the axial extension of the elongated element under applied axial load. In further variations, specific geometries can be produced to provide a specific distribution of traction force along the axial length of the sleeve.

[0127] The use of particles can be used to alternatively or additionally increase the traction effect. For example, using particles that are harder than the elongated element and / or sleeve can cause the particles to embed into both the inner surface of the elongated element and the sleeve when pressure is applied at the interface. This embedding can provide an interlocking effect that increases traction. The particles can be ceramic, metallic, nonmetallic, or any other compound that provides an embedding effect. Non-limiting examples may include, for example, powders or particles formed from diamond, silicon carbide, cubic boron nitride, alumina, steel such as hardened steel, etc. These particles can be positioned either as loose particles or as particles suspended in a medium when the elongated element is joined / assembled to the sleeve. Particles suspended in a medium can be coated, poured, or applied to one or more interfacial surfaces. The particles can be pre-coated onto the inner surface of the sleeve before assembling the elongated component.

[0128] In alternative embodiments, the use of alternative cross-sectional forms can be used to enhance the traction force by providing a fixed value of interference force for the deformation device. In one example, cross-sectional details can be used where at least two interface regions are provided between the elongated element and the inner surface of the sleeve, wherein the at least two interface regions are positioned such that the interface pressure is angularly offset from the interference force of the deformation device. This can provide a mechanical advantage or wedging effect. This wedging effect can increase the interface force, thereby resulting in an increase in traction force. In alternative embodiments, the cross-sectional form can produce a reduced interface region to provide increased interface pressure, which increases the traction force through the various means described above. Another embodiment may have an intermediate element between the inner surface of the sleeve and the elongated member to provide any combination of the traction modification methods described above.

[0129] Adhesives activated by applied pressure can also be used to enhance traction. Devices are also provided for the fusion and / or bonding of elements initiated by applying interfacial pressure and / or movement at the interface. Various devices can be provided to enable fusion and / or bonding. Non-limiting examples include: chemical adhesives, fluxes, metal plating, alloy components, and chemical bonding.

[0130] In another embodiment, the traction force can be further altered by changing the degree of local deformation or the degree to which at least one deformation device is embedded in the elongated element.

[0131] It can be understood that the above combination can be used, optionally, in conjunction with other existing technical methods, to change the traction force.

[0132] In another embodiment, during the assembly of the deformation device, the heat generated by friction during deformation can cause at least one deformation device to be welded to at least a portion of at least one elongated element and / or sleeve. It will be appreciated that friction welding can further enhance the connection strength and / or help to distribute localized stress away from the deformation point.

[0133] Compared to friction welding, it may be desirable, for example, to reduce the friction between the deformation device and either or both of the elongated element and the connecting sleeve, thereby reducing the force required to install the deformation device. Reduced friction can have the advantages of requiring less installation energy than otherwise required, and / or allowing for a greater degree of interference for a given amount of installation energy.

[0134] Deformation devices, sleeves or components thereof, elongated elements or components thereof, and combinations thereof may include at least one friction-changing device between mating interfering components to achieve friction reduction during assembly.

[0135] At least one friction-improving device may be selected from: fluid lubricants, dry lubricants, surface coatings, surface polishing, and combinations thereof.

[0136] In another embodiment, the deformation device may function in conjunction with an adhesive additive that acts between the outer surface of the elongated element and the inner surface of the sleeve. Furthermore, the adhesive may act between the deformation device and either or both of the inner surfaces of the elongated element and the sleeve. The adhesive may be present in the sleeve before assembly of the elongated element, or applied between the elements once assembled. Additionally, the adhesive may be supplied to the orifice of the sleeve or to the fittings of the deformation device. One such adhesive may be a two-component epoxy product in a glass (or other material) vial that can be pre-installed in the orifice of the sleeve. When the elongated element is installed or located in the orifice, the vial may break to release the adhesive.

[0137] The sleeve can be shaped to alter its physical properties, thereby changing the connection dynamics. Shaping may include increasing or decreasing the sleeve's wall width or inserting notches or channels into the sleeve's wall to change properties. The physical properties mentioned may include at least strength, ductility, and / or modulus of elasticity. This design variation can be important to alter the strain level induced along the sleeve's length and between a series of deformation devices, thus changing the deformation process / profile. For example, it may include adjusting the strain in the sleeve to match the deformation characteristics of an elongated element, thereby increasing connection retention and reducing potential localized stresses.

[0138] The sleeve can be configured to have a cross-sectional change at a location along the inside of the sleeve length, thereby creating a feature where at least one elongated element abuts. For example, this can be incorporated into the design to provide the installer with positive feedback regarding correct component alignment.

[0139] In one embodiment, the sleeve may be double-ended and used to join two elongated elements together in a generally axial manner.

[0140] Alternatively, the sleeve may be shaped to connect a first elongated element and at least one other non-elongated or elongated element, which are connected in a non-axial manner.

[0141] In another embodiment, the sleeve may be attached to a single elongated element, while another type of part or connection is located on the sleeve.

[0142] The deformable device described above can, prior to coupling, take the form of a generally straight elongated member having a body and two opposing ends, one being the guide end as described above, and the second being the follower end. During assembly or coupling, the guide end enters through the outside of the sleeve wall and travels between the inner surface of the sleeve and the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element. The follower end follows. In one embodiment, the follower end may include a form or shape extending outward beyond the cross-sectional width of the body of the deformable device. The follower end may function to absorb the kinetic energy of the deformable device during coupling. The follower end may substantially stop the movement of the deformable device during coupling. Alternative locations for forms or shapes extending outward beyond the cross-sectional width of the body of the deformable device are possible, and reference to the shape of the follower end should not be considered limiting.

[0143] It can be understood that the degree of local deformation can be altered by changing the cross-sectional dimension of at least one deforming device (hereinafter referred to as the diameter; however, it should be noted that a similar principle can be applied to deforming devices with non-circular cross-sections). The degree of local deformation can also be altered by changing any gap between the sleeve and the elongated element. If present, these changes in cross-sectional dimension and gap alter the degree to which the deforming device is embedded in the sleeve and / or elongated element at the point of local deformation. The aforementioned embedding can refer to the lateral embedding distance of the deforming device into the sleeve and / or elongated element. For clarity, the distance along the longitudinal axis of the deforming device or the length of the body into the sleeve / elongated element gap is not included in this embedding discussion.

[0144] The inventors have discovered that there may be a significant ratio between the embedment distance of the deforming device and the diameter of the deforming device, which relates to how the coupling device functions when traction is applied to it. These two characteristics work together rather than in isolation to cause the coupling effect. Without being bound by theory, the inventors understand that when traction occurs on the coupling device to attempt to separate the sleeve and the elongated element, the material of the sleeve and / or the elongated element ideally accumulates or shears before the deforming device's movement path. When accumulation occurs, resistance to further traction increases and the coupling device maintains its integrity, at least until the desired maximum force. This mechanism represents a preferred minimum ratio of the deforming device embedment to the diameter of the deforming device. Conversely, if the ratio of the deforming device embedment to the diameter of the deforming device is less than this minimum ratio, the material of the sleeve and / or the elongated element flows around the deforming device, resulting in slippage and coupling device failure at an earlier point in time than in the case of the aforementioned preferred ratio.

[0145] The ideal ratio of the deformation device embedment to the deformation device diameter (hereinafter referred to as the pin embedment to pin diameter ratio or PED ratio) varies slightly depending on factors such as the number of deformation devices used, the surface area of ​​the local deformation region where the deformation device abuts the sleeve and / or elongated element, and whether alterations are used, such as friction alteration devices, or rough surfaces. For example, the PED ratio can be, for instance, at least 15, or 16, or 17, or 18, or 19, or 20, or 21, or 22, or 23, or 24, or 25, or 26, or 27, or 28, or 29, or 30%. For example, if the deformation device is a pin with a diameter of 8 mm, the minimum expected embedment level in the sleeve and / or elongated element could be at least 1.2 mm corresponding to a 15% PED ratio or 1.28 mm corresponding to a 16% PED ratio, etc.

[0146] The aforementioned sleeve can be formed having a plurality of orifices and grooves (if present), each orifice and groove (if present) accommodating a single deformation device. In an alternative embodiment, multiple deformation devices can be assembled in a single sleeve orifice and groove, if present.

[0147] When using multiple orifices and / or multiple deformation devices, the orifices and deformation devices can be arranged in an array once assembled. The configuration of this array can be changed by one or more factors, including: longitudinal spacing, angular variation, peripheral positioning, relative positioning, variable interference, embedding length, self-energizing geometry, and friction-changing devices and combinations thereof. Additional changes or adjustments can be made in addition to or in conjunction with the above changes, including:

[0148] - For some or all of the deformation devices relative to each other, change the level of interference between the sleeve and at least one elongated member;

[0149] - Change the amount of winding for each deformation device (assuming winding occurs), from tangential assembly to multiple windings, or anything in between;

[0150] - Change the combination of the "fixed" deformation device and the self-energizing deformation device.

[0151] Arraying can be useful because it allows for adjustment of the strain distribution between the elongated element and the sleeve. This can allow for optimization of the coupling capability and potentially reduce the number of deformation devices. It can further allow for the propagation of the coupling load and minimize any point load or stress. In one example of changing the load through arraying, one set of deformation devices can be positioned to cause localized deformation around a first plane on the elongated element, while a second set of deformation devices can be positioned to cause localized deformation around a second or additional one or more planes on the elongated element, which in turn changes the position where the elongated element is pushed toward the inner surface of the sleeve.

[0152] The traction force of the array can be further altered by changing the degree of local deformation or the extent to which at least one deformation device is embedded in the elongated element along a series of deformation devices. It can be appreciated that when the elongated element and the sleeve are subjected to traction force, the force concentration on the first deformation device around the sleeve opening can be higher than the force concentration on the deformation devices further inside the sleeve. This may simply be a result of the deformation characteristics of the elongated element, such as those measured by Young's modulus. The inventors have discovered that by changing the degree of local deformation at each deformation device, stress can be propagated and high local stress concentrations around the deformation device near the opening can be avoided. In one embodiment, it is advantageous to increase the embedding or degree of local deformation of the deformation device further away from the opening and decrease the degree of local deformation closer to the opening. In the inventors' experience, the first two deformation devices generate the greatest stress, and therefore these two deformation devices are generally suitable candidates for reducing local deformation, while the remaining deformation devices can be embedded more deeply. However, other combinations may be beneficial for specific applications. For example, various embeddings can be achieved by using deformation devices of different sizes or by using grooves of different sizes in which the deformation devices can be fitted.

[0153] As described above, it is also advantageous to allow at least some degree of displacement of at least one deforming device in the array. This can be achieved, for example, by using a shaped groove in the inner wall of the sleeve, which allows a portion or more of the elongated member to extend horizontally under elastic and / or plastic deformation before load transfer occurs through the deforming device. Such an array can use any combination of translational, self-energizing, or fixed deforming device actions. When configured in an array, any combination of deforming device energizing and self-energizing characteristics can be employed.

[0154] An array of deformable devices can be used to accommodate variations in the dimensional properties of elongated components within tolerance ranges. This can be achieved, for example, by altering the level of interference between the sleeve and at least one elongated member, such that at least one deformable device provides a level of interference to achieve the mechanical properties required for the connection.

[0155] In one embodiment, at least one deforming device may be at least one pin, and at least one elongated element may be a steel rod. It should be understood that the reference to a steel rod should not be considered limiting, as the same principle can be used to connect other elongated elements; one example is a rope, another is a plastic extrusion. Another example could be connecting steel wire ropes or cables. Yet another could be connecting gas lines or pipe fittings. Another could be connecting cables. Yet another could be connecting the legs of furniture such as tables. Yet another example could be connecting tent poles.

[0156] In a second aspect, a deformable device insertion tool is provided, the tool including a drive mechanism to assemble the deformable device into or force an interference fit between the deformable device and a mating interference member, wherein, during the assembly of the deformable device, the tool provides at least external support to the mating interference member.

[0157] The drive mechanism can use impact energy input to forcibly insert the deformation device into an interference fit. The interference fit can be between at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element in the aforementioned connecting device. That is, the insertion action causes interference and localized deformation between at least one elongated element, at least one deformation device, and the sleeve. The force level required for the tool to insert the deformation device can be a function of the degree of interference and / or the size of the deformation device. Multiple drive mechanisms can be used to insert the deformation device using tools including, for example: high-energy throwing force, impact force, striking, twisting (torsion), continuous pressure (such as pressing), compressed air, rapid combustion or explosive activation, and combinations thereof. Using high-energy impact insertion tools, such as power activation, allows for rapid insertion times, requires less user effort, and can be achieved with a portable handheld device. In one embodiment, the tool provides sufficient impact energy to the deformation device to cause it to travel at a speed of at least 50 m / s, or 75 m / s, or 100 m / s, or 125 m / s, or 150 m / s, or 175 m / s, or 200 m / s, or 225 m / s, or 250 m / s, or 275 m / s, or 300 m / s upon exiting the tool or a portion thereof. It should be understood that the term "impact energy input" can refer to a single impact or multiple energy impacts. Furthermore, it should be understood that, for the purposes of this specification, the impact energy input can exclude the deformation device from screwing or tightening into an interference fit, although some degree of rotation of the deformation device may occur during assembly. Instead of helical screwing, during assembly, at least one deformation device can be primarily forced by the tool to slide between the sleeve and the elongated element, thereby preventing the material from being removed from the path of travel of the deformation device. The high energy applied by the tool during assembly can be useful to apply the described interference fit / local deformation. Without being bound by theory, one reason for the effectiveness of the resulting connection may be that during insertion and under the aforementioned high-energy conditions, once the energy dissipates to a more viscous interface than in cases of low-energy plastic deformation (e.g., screwing a screw into an elongated element), the locally deformed material may temporarily become fluid in natural hardening.

[0158] The drive mechanism can forcefully drive the deformation device, the force being sufficient to cause at least partial engagement. Partial engagement can result from a force sufficient to cause at least partial deformation and / or engagement between the deformation device and at least one elongated element. In one embodiment, the force can be sufficient to prevent unintentional removal of the deformation element from the engagement arrangement. During insertion, at least one friction-modifying application device can be used between the deformation device and the mating interference components to reduce friction during assembly. At least one friction-modifying device can be selected from fluid lubricants, dry lubricants, surface coatings, surface polishing, and combinations thereof.

[0159] In a third aspect, a coupling sleeve is provided, the sleeve comprising:

[0160] A generally elongated shape having an opening, a sleeve having an inner surface, and the shape of the inner surface being generally complementary to the shape of at least one elongated element to be joined; and

[0161] The sleeve has at least one orifice extending from the outside of the sleeve to at least one groove or mark recessed into the inner surface of the sleeve.

[0162] Each individual orifice in the sleeve can coincide with an internal groove.

[0163] At least one groove in the sleeve may extend around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve, and the remainder of the inner surface may remain unformed.

[0164] At least one groove in the sleeve may alternatively extend around the entire inner surface of the sleeve.

[0165] In a fourth aspect, a deformation device is provided for interference engagement with at least a portion of the inner surface of a sleeve and / or at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of at least one elongated element to which the deformation device is fitted, and for causing local deformation around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or around at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one elongated element to which the deformation device is fitted, thereby causing connection between the sleeve and the at least one elongated element, the deformation device comprising:

[0166] (a) A pin, wherein the hardness of the pin is greater than that of the corresponding component; and

[0167] (b) wherein the pin is formed to provide a self-energizing effect during assembly, and when subjected to an external load, to increase interference with the connected relative element and thus interlock it.

[0168] As mentioned above, the deformation device can be a pin.

[0169] The pin may have a generally similar form along its length. The pin may also have variations in form along its length. These variations may be partial or gradual in form. The pin may be formed with a "head" or larger. The pin may be formed with a shaped end to affect its insertion performance into the corresponding object.

[0170] The corresponding element may be a connecting sleeve and / or at least one elongated element. The deformable device may remain substantially unaffected in form or shape after installation. The deformable device may be formed with end details, which contribute to:

[0171] - Install the deformation device in the corresponding hole in the sleeve.

[0172] - and causes the deformation device to travel around the groove located inside the connecting sleeve.

[0173] This facilitates material flow in the localized deformation zones of elongated components and / or connecting sleeves. This can be advantageous or reduce the energy required for installation.

[0174] - Deformation devices and / or reducing stress concentration in local deformation areas, and / or enhancing interference pressure between connector sleeves, deformation devices, and elongated elements.

[0175] The deforming device may have guide end details, which help to:

[0176] - Install the deformation device in the corresponding hole of the sleeve; and / or

[0177] - To cause the deformation device to travel around a groove, which may optionally be located on a portion or all of the interior of the sleeve; and / or

[0178] - Material flow in the localized deformation zone of elongated elements and / or sleeves;

[0179] - One or more cutting parts on the deformation device, such as serrated edges, can scrape material from the elongated element, for example, during the joining process.

[0180] The deformation device can be formed with surface polishing and / or enhanced features such as: mounting force, friction, friction welding, load transfer capacity, traction effect, or a combination thereof.

[0181] The above embodiments may include the use of a friction alteration device to enhance the magnitude of the friction effect.

[0182] During assembly, the deformation device can generate sufficient heat through friction during deformation to cause at least one deformation device to be welded to at least a portion of one or more opposing components. Friction welding can further enhance the joint strength.

[0183] The pin may, prior to coupling, take the form of a generally straight, elongated member having a body and two opposing ends, one being a guide end as described above, and the second being a follower end. During assembly or coupling, the guide end first enters the interface between the sleeve and the elongated element. The follower end follows. In one embodiment, the follower end may include a form or shape extending outward beyond the cross-sectional width of the pin body. The follower end may function to absorb the kinetic energy of the deformation mechanism during coupling. The follower end may substantially stop the movement of the pin during coupling. The pin form or shape may be headed or curved.

[0184] In a fifth aspect, a method for connecting at least one element is provided, the method comprising the following steps:

[0185] (a) The sleeve is at least partially fitted onto at least a portion of at least one elongated element;

[0186] (b) Assembling at least one deformation device between the sleeve and at least a portion of the elongated element;

[0187] In this embodiment, at least one deformation device interferes with the sleeve and at least one elongated element during assembly, and the at least one deformation device causes local deformation of at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one elongated element.

[0188] The aforementioned deformation can result in the formation of notches or channels in at least a portion of the sleeve and / or element, thereby creating an interference / interlocking connection between the sleeve and the elongated element around the deformation device.

[0189] In a sixth aspect, a connection device is provided, comprising:

[0190] A sleeve having an inner surface that surrounds at least a portion of at least one elongated element to be joined;

[0191] At least one elongated element, the at least one elongated element comprising at least one pre-formed notch and / or a notch formed during connection by a combination of material removal and oriented material deformation, to coincide with at least one orifice in the sleeve; and

[0192] When connected, at least one deformation device passes through the sleeve orifice and engages along the notch of the elongated element.

[0193] The diameter of the sleeve orifice can be larger, smaller, or approximately the same as that of at least one deformation device.

[0194] At least one notch on the elongated element may be positioned eccentrically to the longitudinal axis of the elongated element. At least one notch on the elongated element may be positioned circumferentially or a portion thereof around the elongated element. At least one notch may extend at least partially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated element. At least one notch may extend at least partially perpendicular to and at least partially along the longitudinal axis of the elongated element. At least one notch may follow a curved path around the longitudinal length of the elongated element and / or the sleeve.

[0195] The notch size can be larger, smaller, or the same as the deforming device, or it can be a part of it.

[0196] The combination of the sleeve groove and the elongated element notch can together form the orifice for receiving the deformation device.

[0197] In this respect, at least one deformable device can be simply inserted into a common opening via a sleeve and an elongated element without a drive mechanism and held in place, for example, by using mechanical or chemical fasteners. In an alternative embodiment, at least one deformable device can be held in place by including at least some deformable portions between the components, such as deformation ( wholly or partially) of the deformable device; deformation (wholly or partially) of the sleeve; and / or deformation (wholly or partially) of the notch or orifice of the elongated element.

[0198] The notch in the elongated member can be formed, for example, prior to joining, by an action selected from drilling, punching, shearing, and machining. Alternatively, when at least one deformation device has threads, the notch can be formed in the elongated member (e.g., by a drive mechanism). The notch can be formed by material displacement.

[0199] At least one of the above-mentioned deformation devices may have the feature of partially shearing the elongated element when it is inserted into the deformation device, or it may have the feature of processing the material of the elongated element when it is inserted into the deformation device. If the cutting feature is present, the deformation device may be assembled by a combination of rotational movement about the longitudinal axis of the deformation device and longitudinal translation of the deformation device.

[0200] It will be understood that this sixth aspect can be used in part or in whole with the embodiments described in the preceding aspects. For example, the elongated element may have one region without a notch and another region with a notch along the longitudinal length of the elongated element. Variations of the above-described aspects in use or other aspects can help to adjust the characteristics of the coupling system.

[0201] In summary, the connection devices, related components, and methods of use described above allow for one or more of the following advantages:

[0202] - Connect long components, whether or not they have oddly shaped parts;

[0203] - Elongated components, with or without oddly shaped parts;

[0204] - To potentially deform the third element (or element-deformation device) at least partially tangentially or radially around the elongated element to form an interference fit with the sleeve;

[0205] - Alternatively, a third element or deformation device may be driven at least partially along the longitudinal direction of the element to form an interference fit with the sleeve;

[0206] - Interference results in pressure on the interface region between the elongated element and the sleeve in the region opposite to the interference area of ​​the deformation device. This pressure on the interface region generates traction friction, enhancing the axial load capacity of the connection system;

[0207] - Friction modification techniques can be used around the pressure zone to enhance frictional traction;

[0208] - Applying mechanical deformation features in the pressure zone to provide traction embedding in elongated elements can increase axial capacity;

[0209] - Use a hard deformation device to induce localized deformation;

[0210] - For the applied load being lower than the yield load of the elongated element, measures are taken to prevent relative axial movement of the elongated element relative to the sleeve. The yield load of the elongated element is determined by the cross-sectional area and yield stress of the elongated element.

[0211] - To limit (but not necessarily prevent) the rotational movement of elongated elements relative to the sleeve;

[0212] - When connected, the characteristics of the deformable element can enable strain pickup along the sleeve length to provide positive load transfer between the two elements - that is, when multiple deformable devices are provided, the strain gradually increases along the length of the sleeve connection to provide an appropriately distributed load transfer among the multiple deformable devices.

[0213] - A sleeve with internal grooves can be used to receive and guide the deformation device;

[0214] - The sleeve includes variations in the sleeve's wall thickness to allow it to be more difficult to grip long elements due to higher induced strain in the thinner regions of the sleeve;

[0215] - Optimize the spacing of deformation devices (and accessories);

[0216] - Unlike existing technologies, elongated components do not require end treatments such as threading.

[0217] - The pattern of the grooves can be adjusted to optimize the connection;

[0218] It can perform non-perpendicular deformation, including tangential, radial, and longitudinal / axial deformation. This provides the ability to increase (or decrease) the deformable surface area, thereby adjusting the joint strength.

[0219] The groove may include a ramp portion, such that when axial displacement occurs between the elongated element and the sleeve, the deformation device undergoes a wedging action on the elongated element. This can help maintain load capacity under the Poisson effect.

[0220] - The deformation device and the groove can be configured to provide a cam action of the deformation device in the groove when axial displacement occurs between the elongated element and the sleeve element during loading.

[0221] - The connecting device is small, thus avoiding the special design requirements of reinforced concrete cages.

[0222] The embodiments described above can also be broadly defined as any or all combinations of the components, elements, and features individually or generally mentioned or indicated in this specification, as well as any two or more of the said components, elements, or features.

[0223] Furthermore, in cases where a particular integer is mentioned herein, there are equivalents known in the art, which are considered to be listed separately herein.

[0224] Work Example

[0225] For the purposes of the following examples and for ease of reading, reference is made to connecting reinforcing bars (as one or more elongated elements), connecting sleeves for tubular steel sleeves, and deformation devices for nail-shaped pins with points and heads. This should not be considered limiting, as other applications may also utilize the described devices, components, tools, or methods.

[0226] refer to Figure 2 and 3 The inventors designed a connecting device 1 including a sleeve 2, into which one or more elongated elements 3 to be connected are inserted. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the sleeve 2 is tubular, having a first end and a second end. The elongated element 3 is elongated, having a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion between the ends. Various circular or polygonal shapes can be used for the sleeve 2 and / or one or more elongated elements 3, and the perfectly circular shape shown is given only as an example.

[0227] The sleeve 2 may be equipped with one or more orifices 4, in the illustrated embodiment, the orifices 4 and Figure 4 and 5 The grooves 5 or markings on the inner surface of the sleeve 2 shown in the diagram coincide. These orifices 4 and / or grooves 5 may be pre-formed before coupling or formed when inserting the pin 6.

[0228] The orifice 4 can be perfectly circular, but it can also be other shapes. The groove 5 on the inner surface of the sleeve 2 can coincide with the orifice 4 and can extend around the entire inner circumference of the sleeve 2, or it can be formed only for a short length, leaving the rest of the surface unformed. Additionally, there may be additional marking protrusions or recesses on the inner surface of the sleeve 2; however, these are not necessary. The overall shape of the inner surface of the sleeve 2 is formed to approximately match the shape of the elongated element 3 to be joined. For example, if a generally circular elongated element 3 is to be joined, the surface of the sleeve 2 can be made with a circular cross-section of sufficient size to allow the elongated element 3 to be freely inserted with a certain degree of tolerance. Similarly, a square cross-section shape can be used for elongated elements 3 with a generally square shape, and so on. For irregularly shaped objects, such as deformed steel bars in which the deformed portion protrudes from the elongated element 3 with a generally circular rib, the inner surface of the sleeve 2 can simply remain circular.

[0229] The elongated element 3 is slidable or otherwise mounted to a desired position inside the sleeve 2, or vice versa, then forces a series of deformable devices, namely pins 6, through orifices 4 in the outer sleeve 2 into corresponding grooves 5 or marks. The sleeve can be slidable or mounted to cover the ends of the elongated element 3, or can cover a region of the middle portion of the elongated element 3, thus exposing the ends of the elongated element 3. The size and position of the orifices 4 and the corresponding grooves 5 are such that as the pins 6 advance through the orifices 4 and grooves 5, the pins 6 form an interference fit with the material of the sleeve 2 and the elongated element 3. During the travel path of the pins 6 during insertion / connection, one or more pins 6 are embedded in at least a portion of the elongated element 3. This interference fit ensures that the pins 6 follow the grooves 5 and marks located within the sleeve 2. Once one or more pins 6 are installed, the elongated element 3 is forcibly connected to the sleeve 2.

[0230] Forcing pin 6 into orifice 4 can cause localized plastic deformation of sleeve 2 and / or elongated element 3. Depending on the material properties of sleeve 2, pin 6, and elongated element 3, this deformation can occur in any one, two, or all of the elongated elements. It is envisioned that by using materials with higher strength and / or hardness in pin 6 and sleeve 2, most of the deformation will occur in elongated element 3; however, any combination is possible. Localized deformation occurring in elongated element 3 results in mechanical interlocking of the connecting device 1. This localized deformation can be caused by one or more pins 6 partially embedding into either or both of sleeve 2 and / or elongated element 3.

[0231] Depending on the relative positions of the orifices 4 in the material of sleeve 2 and the shape of the grooves 5 and markings used on the inner surface of sleeve 2, pin 6 can be forced to interfere with the elongated element 3 in different ways. Through the configuration of the details of the orifices 4 and grooves 5, pin 6 can be applied tangentially near the outer diameter of the elongated element—in this example, the elongated element is a reinforcing bar or rod 3—to be forcefully applied across the elongated element 3 and extend from the other side of sleeve 2. Figure 6 (Left-hand side cross-section) (or similarly, do not extend), or be forced to bend around the elongated element 3 ( Figure 6 (Right-hand side cross-section).

[0232] By altering the orientation of the grooves 5 and markings on the inner side of the sleeve 2, the path and orientation of the pin 6 during installation can be changed. For example, by using a pattern of circular and radial grooves 5, the pin 6 can be formed around the circumference of the elongated element 3 and perpendicular to its axis. Similarly, the pin 6 can be bent at an angle relative to the axis of the elongated element 3 around its radius, or along a curved path. Alternatively, by using a matching groove pattern 5, the pin 6 can be forced through any potential combination of simple or complex contours, for example, Figure 7 As shown in the image.

[0233] A further option is to axially drive the pin 6 between the elongated element 3 and the sleeve 2.

[0234] It can be seen that changing the shape and contour of the groove, and thus the shape of the resulting pin 6, can alter the form of resistance provided by the pin 6 relative to the sleeve 2 to the elongated element 3. If the pins 6 are formed in a radial pattern perpendicular to the rib axis, they will provide strong resistance to the relative axial movement between the sleeve 2 and the elongated element 3; however, they may not provide much resistance to rotational movement. This has considerable advantages for some applications that require axial restraint but expect or allow rotational movement.

[0235] Alternatively, if interference occurs, but the orifice 4, elongated element 3, or orifice 4 and groove 5 at the end of sleeve 2 cause pin 6 to be mounted with interference parallel to the axis of elongated element 3, they will provide good constraint on the relative rotational movement of sleeve 2 and elongated element 3, but may not provide sufficient axial constraint to prevent or limit movement under certain load combinations. It can also be seen that other forms of constraint on different movements can be obtained by forcing pin 6 into the interface between sleeve 2 and elongated element 3 at different angles. Figure 8 Examples of the orientations of pin 6, labeled D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5, are illustrated, ranging from purely axial to purely orthogonal relative to the longitudinal axis of the elongated element 3, and varying between these two extremes.

[0236] The degree of constraint on the relative motion between the sleeve 2 and the elongated element 3 provided by pin 6 can also be a function of the degree of interference provided. Pins 6 with less interference / embedding in the sleeve and / or elongated element will provide less constraint on relative motion. This effect can be used to change the degree of force applied to each pin 6 used in the system and the degree of relative motion prevented by each pin. Further, the pin 6 is embedded E with respect to the diameter... The ratio (PED) may be important. Figure 9 A preferred mechanism is shown, which is understood to occur when a traction force F is applied to the elongated element 3 and the sleeve 2, and material accumulates or shears (labeled as object 3x) before the pin 6. This situation may represent the desired result because it induces a reaction force F that resists the traction force F. R This increases the linkage reaction. For example... Figure 10 As shown, if the PED ratio is insufficient, the material can flow around pin 6 as indicated by arrow A, instead of as... Figure 9 Such accumulation can lead to possible separation.

[0237] It can also be seen that the degree of interference caused by each pin 6 surrounding the exterior of the elongated element 3 can be altered by changing the depth of the groove 5 or mark in the inner surface of the sleeve 2 component. This allows the pin 6 to apply greater or less pressure to certain areas of the sleeve 2 or the elongated element 3 as desired.

[0238] The degree of constraint provided by pin 6 on the relative movement between sleeve 2 and elongated element 3 is also a function of the size and material properties of pin 6. A larger pin 6 with a higher surface engagement may provide greater holding force compared to a smaller pin 6. Similarly, a pin 6 with stronger material properties can provide greater resistance to movement.

[0239] A key feature of the connecting device is the variation in the number of pins 6 allowed in each application to form an array. It can be understood that using more pins 6 will result in a greater overall interference between the sleeve 2 and the elongated element 3; conversely, fewer pins 6 will reduce the overall interference. This makes the system highly adjustable and suitable for a wide range of applications.

[0240] To illustrate the importance of the PED ratio and how it can be affected by using different numbers of pins, the inventors conducted experiments, the results of which are shown in Table 1 below.

[0241] Table 1 – PED Ratio and Number of Pins for Common Traction Forces

[0242] PED% 30％ 25％ 20％ 15％ 10 sales Hold tightly Hold tightly Hold tightly slide 8 sales Hold tightly Hold tightly 6 pins slide

[0243] As shown in Table 1, a greater number of pins and therefore a larger local deformation surface area result in greater resistance to traction. The minimum PED ratio resulting in a tight grip can vary, however, based on the above findings it will be at least 15-20%, but as described in this specification, the ratio can be adjusted or modified by a variety of techniques, not just the number of deformation devices, for example, using friction-changing devices.

[0244] The inventors have discovered that pins 6 closest to the sleeve opening (labeled 1 and 2) can act on an area of ​​the elongated element 3 that transmits more traction force than the area of ​​pins 6, labeled 3 to 8, which is further inward than the sleeve opening. Figure 11 As shown. Note that eight pins are plotted, but any number of pins can be used (or not used) as desired. The graph above the cross-sectional image of the connection illustrates the potential force distribution relative to the distance (connection length) on each pin, as mentioned above, pins 1 and 2, closest to the opening, experience the greatest force. The dynamics of this force curve can be altered. For example, the diameter or embedment of pin 6 in pins 1 and 2 can be changed to be more within the sleeve, as a means of distributing the traction force F more evenly across all eight pins and / or reducing stress concentration in the areas of those pins 6. Alternatively, a degree of movement can be designed into the device. Figure 12 This demonstrates how using a widened groove 20 in sleeve 2 allows for some axial elongation movement (energizing) of pin 6, marked by arrow X, under traction, thereby reducing the resistance to traction on a predetermined length of groove 20 until the groove 20 terminates, at which point 21, the resistance to movement of pin 6 returns.

[0245] The sleeve 2 is formed with multiple independent orifices 4 and grooves 5. The openings of the orifices 4 are on the outer surface of the sleeve 2, and each opening receives a pin 6.

[0246] Once installed, the arrangement of orifices 4 and pins 6 forms an array. The array can be modified by any one or a combination of the following: longitudinal spacing, peripheral positioning, relative positioning, variable interference, embedding length, self-energizing geometry, and frictional alteration devices. Figure 13 The diagram illustrates an example array.

[0247] All the features mentioned above regarding orifice 4, pin 6, and groove 5 can be treated individually or in combination.

[0248] It may be desirable to modify the geometry of the groove 5 to allow the pin 6 to undergo further energization as the elongated element 3 undergoes axial deformation. In one configuration, the groove may be formed with an inclined lead-out in the axial direction of the elongated element 3. When subjected to axial deformation, the elongated element 3 pulls the pin 6 upward toward the inclined portion, causing the pin 6 to retract downward toward the elongated element 3. Depending on the chosen geometry, this can increase interference with the elongated element 3, decrease interference with the elongated element 3, or alternatively compensate for the reduction in cross-section due to the Poisson effect. Other geometries of the groove 5 may be used to achieve this result, such as grooves 5 and pins 6 with different radii, or, for example, cam profiles.

[0249] In an alternative configuration, the geometry of pin 6 and groove 5 can be configured such that the cross-section of pin 6 is rectangular and groove 5 is V-shaped, as shown below. Figure 14 As shown. The axial displacement of the elongated element 3 causes the pin 6 to rotate, further embedding the edge of the pin 6 into the elongated element or rib 3. As mentioned above, this can increase the load-bearing capacity of the interface and allow for compensation of the Poisson effect. Other forms can achieve the same effect, and the form of the rectangular pin 6 should not be considered a limitation. Similarly, this can be achieved by using a special, deformable pin 6 that has changes in cross-sectional properties under axial and tangential loads.

[0250] As described above, the application of pin 6 to connect elongated element 3 to sleeve 2 can be configured such that a portion of the outer surface of elongated element 3 contacts the inner surface of sleeve 2. Since pin 6 attempts to force elongated element 3 away from sleeve 2 in the interference region, this occurs in the region opposite to the interference region of pin 6, but is limited by the inner periphery of sleeve 2.

[0251] The resulting contact may occur under conditions of significant pressure at the contact interface area. The contact interface area can be altered by changing the shape of sleeve 2. Figure 15A This illustrates how the concentric cross section operates when a force F applied by pin 6 causes a contact interface to form around region 30. Figure 15B This embodiment illustrates how the ribs or protrusions 31 in the cross-sectional shape of the sleeve 2 and the contact interface 30 are altered. Figure 15C Another variation is shown in which the sleeve 2 has a cutout 32 that creates two opposing interface positions 33, 34. It can be understood that this embodiment induces a wedging effect on the elongated element 3.

[0252] The pressure around the contact interface area results in a traction force in the axial direction of the elongated element 3 due to the friction caused by the interface pressure. This frictional force provides supplementary axial load capacity to the connecting device 1.

[0253] It can be seen that increasing this contribution is likely desirable to increase the load-bearing capacity of the coupling device 1. This increase can be achieved by selecting interface materials, using inserts with higher friction between the elongated element 3 and the sleeve 2, traction-enhancing compounds, and / or surface polishing. Furthermore, the traction force can be enhanced by large deformation of the surfaces of the elongated element 3 and / or the sleeve 2 to create a locally interlocking interface.

[0254] An example of this could be the application of a series of serrated teeth (not shown) along the length of the inner surface of the sleeve 2. When the pin 6 is inserted, the elongated element 3 is supported on the serrations and engages with them under the pressure exerted by the interference of the pin 6. The load-bearing capacity is enhanced by requiring the serrated interlocking portion to be sheared from the elongated element of the sleeve 2.

[0255] As previously described, when the elongated element 3 is subjected to a relatively high load, the elongated element stretches and reduces its cross-sectional area. This relative change in characteristic occurs gradually along the elongated element 3 as more load is transferred to the sleeve 2 via the pins 6. The design of the developed coupling device 1 allows for careful control of the load transfer mechanism through the relative position of the pins 6 along the length of the sleeve 2, the number of pins 6, the size of the pins 6 used, the material properties of the pins 6, the orientation of the pins 6, the degree of interference caused by each pin 6, the geometry of the pins 6 and the groove 5, the energizing action of the pins 6 as they move relative to the groove 5, the radial deformation of the coupling device 1, the local deformation of the elongated element 3, the friction at the abutment interface, the frictional welding via the pins 6, the cross-sectional changes of the sleeve 2 due to the Poisson effect, and the traction alteration device. These key features allow the system to minimize stress concentration to match the properties of the joined materials (e.g., the material of the sleeve 2 or the material of the elongated element 3) and ensure that the coupling area is not degraded below the performance of the material used in the elongated element 3.

[0256] For example, in reinforced concrete, it is important that the connecting steel bar 3 has stress-strain characteristics similar to the parent material. It is also important that the connection region is substantially stronger than the parent material of the elongated element, thereby forcing any fracture away from the location of the connecting device 1. This can be achieved by changing the variables listed above to closely match the characteristics of the parent steel bar 3 without introducing areas of high stress concentration. Figure 16 The figure shows an example of stress-strain characteristics.

[0257] Many of the examples above use the example of pin 6 deforming the sleeve and / or elongated element when it is inserted. It should be recognized that pin 6 can deform in the same way upon insertion, or alternatively, the sleeve 2 material around the groove 5 for pin 6 can deform. This deformation can be elastic, but may include both plastic and elastic deformation.

[0258] The pin 6 may have a head or other widened shape or form at one or more points along its elongated length. The head or widened shape or form may slow down or prevent unwanted insertion, such as over-insertion into the orifice 4 or groove 5.

[0259] One or more caps (not shown) may be placed over any opening to prevent entry into or exit from the sleeve 2 and the elongated element 3.

[0260] Changes in sleeve wall properties:

[0261] Sleeve 2 forms a key component of the connector device. The use of a bore 4 for pin 6 in sleeve 2 does not introduce large cuts or stress concentrations into the body of sleeve 2. Therefore, this allows for minimizing the wall thickness of sleeve 2 when necessary.

[0262] If necessary, the main body of sleeve 2 can be formed with additional cuts, grooves 5, slots, holes, etc., to weaken the system. Similarly, the wall thickness of sleeve 2 can vary along its length and around its circumference, such as... Figure 16 As illustrated. Additionally, the material properties of sleeve 2 can vary along its length. This may be important if sleeve 2 needs to match the strength and stiffness of the elongated element 3.

[0263] Installation pin:

[0264] Forcing pin 6 into orifice 4 causes interference between elongated element 3, pin 6, and sleeve 2. The level of force required to insert pin 6 is a function of the degree of interference and the size of pin 6. Various methods exist for inserting pin 6, including striking, twisting (torsuring), continuous pressure (such as pressing), compressed air, rapid combustion or explosive activation, and combinations thereof.

[0265] High-pressure installation methods, such as power activation, allow for rapid installations with minimal user effort and can be implemented using portable handheld devices. Ideally, the tool used to complete the installation will support the outer sleeve 2 during the installation of pin 6 and also support it as pin (or multiple pins) 6 is driven in.

[0266] For example, optimizing the available energy for mounting pin 6 to achieve the maximum possible drive-in length might be desirable. Using a friction-changing device between pin 6 and the mating interfering component can be used to reduce friction, thereby providing greater energy availability to generate pin 6 interference. Devices such as fluid lubricants or dry lubricants can be applied to elongated interfacial components to reduce friction. Further benefits can be achieved through material selection, surface polishing, or metal plating.

[0267] Positive end stop for compression

[0268] Optionally, the outer sleeve 2 may be formed with a cross-section that provides an abutment 7 at a certain location along the length of the outer sleeve 2, into which the elongated element 3 is inserted until it contacts the abutment 7. If the connecting device 1 is designed to connect to a single elongated element 3, the solid cross-section 7 may be located near the end of the sleeve 2 (e.g., see...). Figure 17A (Left side), however, if the two elongated elements 3 are to be joined together in a generally axial orientation, the solid cross section 7 may appear near the middle of the sleeve 2 (e.g., see...). Figure 17B (Right side). Although a solid cross-section 7 can appear in the sleeve 2, it is not a functional requirement of the sleeve 2 of the connecting device 1.

[0269] Initial retention and installation indicators

[0270] The outer sleeve 2 may also be equipped with one or more second elongated elements 8, such as... Figure 18 As shown. These second elongated elements 8 are mostly located inside the sleeve 2 and need to be deformed and removed when the elongated element 3 is installed. Once the elongated element 3 is installed, they provide a degree of resistance to the withdrawal of the elongated element 3 and can provide a visual indicator that the elongated element has exceeded their position. The shape of the second elongated elements 8 is such that when the elongated element 3 passes through them, the elongated element 3 forces at least one part of the second elongated element 8 to protrude from or be pulled back to the inside of the outer surface of the sleeve 2. It is envisioned that at least one of these second elongated elements 8 will be located near the maximum insertion requirement of the elongated element 3 into the sleeve 2, so that once the second elongated element 8 protrudes beyond the surface of the sleeve 2, a visual indicator will be provided that the elongated element 3 has been installed a sufficient distance into the sleeve 2.

[0271] The outer sleeve 2 is sized to allow the elongated element 3 to be easily installed with minimal force. No special preparation or treatment is required on the elongated element 3 prior to installation.

[0272] Alternative connectors

[0273] Connector 1 can be adopted as follows Figures 19 to 21 The illustrated embodiments show an elongated element 3, shown as a rod 3, with pre-formed notches 50 around its surface. These notches 50 can be used in place of or in conjunction with the grooves 5 in the sleeve 2 described above. Alternatively, the notches 50 can be orifices (not shown) in the rod 3, typically facing the outer surface of the rod 3 and eccentric to its longitudinal axis. In this connecting embodiment, the deformation device 6 (shown as a pin 6) can be driven between the sleeve 2 and the rod 3 by being guided by the grooves 5 / notches 50, thereby causing interference when a pulling force is applied to the rod 3 in an attempt to pull it out of the sleeve 2. At least as... Figure 21As shown, the final opening presented to the deformation device or pin 6 can be approximately the same as the diameter of pin 6, but the diameter along the length of pin 6 (not shown) can be larger, smaller, or variable as pin 6 travels between sleeve 2 and elongated element 3. In this embodiment, for example, there may be no deformation along the length of pin 6, but this can be adjusted to suit—for example, by having a level of deformation at some point along the length of pin 6, if only to help hold pin 6 in the coupling arrangement. Adhesives, packaging, or other methods (not shown) can be used to induce retention / deformation, not just using sleeve 2 and / or elongated element 3.

[0274] application

[0275] The aforementioned connector device allows for the connection of sleeve 2 to elongated element 3 with a high degree of force, enabling the material properties of the elongated element 3 to be matched. This allows the connected elongated element to undergo a high level of plastic deformation with limited variation in performance compared to individual elongated elements. The connected sleeve 2 can be available in different shapes and for different applications. Sleeve 2 can be double-ended, thus used to connect two elongated elements 3 in a relatively axial manner. Similarly, sleeve 2 can accommodate more than two connecting elongated elements 3, wherein the elongated elements 3 are connected in a non-axial manner. For example, Figure 22 The illustration shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a post-pad type connector, in which a sleeve 2 connects an elongated rod 3 to a support plate 3, the support plate 3 having an elongated rod (not shown) welded to it. Figure 23 The illustration shows a perspective view of the joint, illustrating how the sleeve 2 can be used to join multiple elongated elements 3 together.

[0276] Sleeve 2 can also be connected to a single elongated element 3, while another type of part 9 or connection type is located on sleeve 2. This connection type 9 can be a part that allows two or more of these connection types to be connected axially without misalignment due to misalignment in three independent coordinates (x, y, z) and angular misalignment tolerances. This connection type can utilize a part 9 with a curved surface and a third connecting elongated element 3, the curved surface of which can be adjusted along the length axis of the connector, the third connecting elongated element 3 connecting across two curved surfaces when the two curved surfaces are spaced a desired axial distance apart. Figure 24 An example is shown. Alternatively, the third connecting elongated element 3 may be able to be axially adjusted to provide proper fit between the two curved surfaces.

[0277] Various aspects of the connecting device 1, its related components, and its usage have been described by way of example only, and it should be understood that changes and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

Claims

1. A rebar connection assembly, comprising: A sleeve having an inner surface that surrounds at least a portion of the at least one reinforcing bar when connected to it; and At least one pin having a body and two opposing ends, the pin interfering with the sleeve and the at least one reinforcing bar, and causing: Localized plastic deformation around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve; or Localized plastic deformation around at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar; Wherein, at least a portion of the body of the at least one pin contacts at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar when the connecting assembly is connected to the at least one reinforcing bar, and local plastic deformation causes mechanical interlocking of the connecting assembly; Wherein, when connected to the at least one reinforcing bar, the at least one pin is inserted tangentially and substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal length of the at least one reinforcing bar between the inner surface of the sleeve and the adjacent outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar; and Wherein, when a traction force is applied to the connecting assembly, the connecting assembly is configured such that the material of the reinforcing bar accumulates in front of the at least one pin.

2. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of pin embedment to pin diameter in the sleeve and / or the reinforcing bar is at least 15%.

3. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The ratio of pin embedment to pin diameter in the sleeve and / or the reinforcing bar is 15% to 30%.

4. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, Prior to connection, the pin has a generally straight and elongated shape along its body and two opposite ends, one end being a guide end and the second end being a follower end, which first enters between the sleeve and the at least one reinforcing bar during assembly or connection.

5. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The following end includes a head having a cross-sectional width that extends outward beyond the body of the pin.

6. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 4, wherein, Once assembled, the guide end of the at least one pin remains within the sleeve.

7. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The localized plastic deformation is generated when the pin is installed between the sleeve and the reinforcing bar by using an impact energy input to forcibly insert the pin between at least a portion of the inner surface and at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar.

8. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, During installation, at least one pin undergoes localized plastic deformation.

9. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The pin is designed to bend during assembly.

10. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, During assembly, the pin passes through at least one orifice extending from the outside of the sleeve to at least one groove recessed into the inner surface of the sleeve. Wherein, the at least one orifice and / or the at least one groove are partially or fully formed prior to connection, and wherein the orifice is smaller than the size of the pin to ensure that the pin interferes with the orifice.

11. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The at least one pin itself forms all or part of the at least one groove and / or the at least one orifice.

12. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, Multiple pins are inserted to connect the at least one reinforcing bar and the sleeve.

13. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, During the assembly of the pin, the heat generated by friction during deformation causes the at least one pin to be welded to at least a portion of the sleeve and / or at least a portion of the at least one reinforcing bar.

14. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The sleeve is double-ended and is used to connect two steel bars together in a substantially axial manner.

15. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The sleeve is shaped to connect a first reinforcing bar and at least one other reinforcing bar, which are connected in a non-axial manner.

16. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The sleeve is connected to a single reinforcing bar, while another type of part or connection is located on the sleeve.

17. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The sleeve and the at least one reinforcing bar are coaxially aligned when connected together.

18. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The localized plastic deformation occurs when the pin is installed into the sleeve and the at least one reinforcing bar by using continuous pressure to force the pin into at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar.

19. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 18, wherein, The continuous pressure is a pressing force configured to press the at least one pin into at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar.

20. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The adhesive is located between the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, and the adhesive fuses and / or bonds the at least one pin to the inner surface of the sleeve or the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, or both the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar.

21. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 20, wherein, The adhesive is present in the sleeve before the at least one reinforcing bar is assembled into the sleeve.

22. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 20, wherein, The adhesive is applied between the sleeve and the at least one reinforcing bar after the at least one reinforcing bar is assembled into the sleeve.

23. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 20, wherein, The adhesive is selected from: chemical adhesives, fluxes, metal plating, alloy components, and chemical bonding.

24. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 20, wherein, The adhesive is a two-component epoxy product in a vial pre-installed in the sleeve and configured such that when the at least one reinforcing bar is installed in the sleeve, the vial breaks to release the adhesive.

25. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one pin and the inner surface of the sleeve and / or the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar are configured to provide a cam action of the at least one pin relative to the inner surface of the sleeve and / or the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar when axial displacement occurs between the at least one reinforcing bar and the sleeve during axial loading of the reinforcing bar connection assembly.

26. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 25, wherein, The cam action increases the interference between the at least one pin and the at least one reinforcing bar.

27. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 25, wherein, The cam reduces interference between the at least one pin and the at least one reinforcing bar.

28. The rebar connecting assembly according to claim 25, wherein, The cam action causes the at least one pin to rotate when an axial force is applied, thereby further embedding the edge of the at least one pin into the at least one reinforcing bar.

29. A method for assembling a steel bar connector assembly, comprising: Provide a sleeve with an inner surface. At least a portion of at least one reinforcing bar is inserted into the sleeve such that the inner surface of the sleeve surrounds at least a portion of the at least one reinforcing bar; and An interference fit is made between at least one pin having a body and two opposing ends and the sleeve and the at least one reinforcing bar, resulting in: Localized plastic deformation around at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve; or Localized plastic deformation around at least a portion of the adjacent outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar; Wherein, once assembled, at least a portion of the body of the at least one pin contacts at least a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and at least a portion of the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, and wherein localized plastic deformation results in mechanical interlocking of the connecting assembly; Wherein, the at least one pin is tangentially and substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal length of the at least one reinforcing bar between the inner surface of the sleeve and the adjacent outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar; and, Wherein, when a traction force is applied to the connecting assembly, the connecting assembly is configured such that the material of the reinforcing bar accumulates in front of the at least one pin.

30. A connector configured to join the ends of reinforcing bars together, the connector comprising: A sleeve having an inner surface that coaxially surrounds the end of a first reinforcing bar to be connected and the end of a second reinforcing bar to be connected; as well as A pin array is configured to mechanically interlock the sleeve and the end of the first reinforcing bar. The pins in the array are tangentially and approximately orthogonal to the longitudinal length of the end of the first reinforcing bar and interfere with the inner surface of the sleeve and the end of the first reinforcing bar, such that the pins in the array cause localized plastic deformation around a portion of the outer surface of the end of the first reinforcing bar during assembly. The connector is configured such that when the pins in the array are assembled and a traction force is applied to the connector and the first reinforcing bar, the material of the first reinforcing bar accumulates in front of at least one pin in the array.

31. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, Once assembled, the array includes rows of pins inserted into two sides of the end of the first or second reinforcing bar.

32. The connector according to claim 31, wherein, Once assembled, the pins in each row of the array are positioned perpendicularly to each other.

33. The connector according to claim 31, wherein, Once assembled, the pins in each row of the array are offset perpendicularly to each other.

34. The connector according to claim 31, wherein, Once assembled, the array comprises three or more pins in each row of the array.

35. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, Once the pin array is assembled, the first reinforcing bar is mechanically interlocked by two rows of pins, each row consisting of three or more pins.

36. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, The pin remains straight before and after insertion.

37. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, Prior to assembly, each pin in the array has a generally straight and elongated shape along the body of the pin and two opposite ends, one end being a guide end and the second end being a follower end. During assembly, the guide end first enters between the sleeve and the end of the first reinforcing bar.

38. The connector according to claim 37, wherein, Once the pin is assembled, the guide end of the pin in the array remains within the sleeve.

39. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, Once assembled, the ratio of pin embedment in the sleeve and / or the first reinforcing bar of each pin in the array to the pin diameter is at least 15%.

40. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, The localized plastic deformation is generated when the pins are fitted between the sleeve and the end of the first reinforcing bar by using continuous pressure to force each pin in the array between the inner surface of the sleeve and the adjacent outer surface of the end of the first reinforcing bar.

41. The connector according to claim 40, wherein, The continuous pressure is a pressing force configured to press one or more pins between the inner surface of the sleeve and the adjacent outer surface of the end of the first reinforcing bar.

42. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, During assembly, each pin passes through at least one orifice on the outside of the sleeve to at least one groove recessed into the inner surface of the sleeve, wherein the at least one orifice and / or the at least one groove are partially or fully formed prior to engagement, and wherein the orifice is smaller than the size of the pin to ensure that the pin interferes with the orifice.

43. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, The pins in the array also cause localized and primary plastic deformation around a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve during assembly.

44. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, The adhesive is located between the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of at least one of the ends of the first and second reinforcing bars, and the adhesive fuses and / or bonds at least one pin in the array to the inner surface of the sleeve or the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, or both the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar.

45. The connector according to claim 44, wherein, The adhesive is present in the sleeve before the at least one end of the reinforcing bar is assembled into the sleeve.

46. ​​The connector according to claim 44, wherein, The adhesive is applied between the sleeve and the at least one end of the reinforcing bar after the at least one end of the reinforcing bar is assembled into the sleeve.

47. The connector according to claim 44, wherein, The adhesive is selected from: chemical adhesives, fluxes, metal plating, alloy components, and chemical bonding.

48. The connector according to claim 44, wherein, The adhesive is a two-component epoxy product in a vial pre-installed in the sleeve and configured such that when the end of the at least one reinforcing bar is installed into the sleeve, the vial breaks to release the adhesive.

49. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, At least one pin in the array and at least one of the inner surface of the sleeve and / or the outer surface of the first and second rebar ends are configured to provide a cam action of the pin relative to the inner surface of the sleeve and / or the outer surface of the at least one rebar end when axial displacement occurs between the at least one rebar and the sleeve during axial loading of the rebar connection assembly.

50. The connector according to claim 49, wherein, The cam action increases the interference between the at least one pin and the end of the at least one reinforcing bar.

51. The connector according to claim 49, wherein, The cam reduces interference between the at least one pin and the end of the at least one reinforcing bar.

52. The connector according to claim 49, wherein, The cam action causes the at least one pin to rotate when an axial force is applied, thereby further embedding the edge of the at least one pin into the end of the at least one reinforcing bar.

53. The connector according to claim 30, wherein, Prior to assembly, at least one pin in the array has a generally straight and elongated shape along the body of the pin and its two opposite ends, and prior to assembly, at least one other pin in the array has a shape configured to provide a cam action.

54. A steel bar connection assembly, comprising a connector according to any one of claims 30 to 53.

55. A method for connecting reinforcing bars, the method comprising the following steps: Provide a sleeve with an inner surface; Insert the ends of the first and second reinforcing bars to be connected into the sleeve, with the ends of the first and second reinforcing bars coaxially aligned. and The pin array is tangentially and approximately orthogonal to the longitudinal length of the first reinforcing bar, interfering with the inner surface of the sleeve and the end of the first reinforcing bar, such that the pins in the array cause localized plastic deformation around a portion of the outer surface of the first reinforcing bar, and the pin array mechanically interlocks the sleeve with the end of the first reinforcing bar. When a traction force is applied to the interlocking sleeve and the first reinforcing bar, the material of the first reinforcing bar accumulates in front of at least one pin in the array.

56. The method according to claim 55, wherein, One or more pins in the array interfere with each other by applying force to the pins with continuous pressure.

57. The method according to claim 56, wherein, The continuous pressure is a pressing force configured to press one or more pins in the array between a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve and the adjacent outer surface of the first reinforcing bar.

58. The method according to claim 56 or 57, wherein, Multiple pins in the array are pressed during assembly.

59. The method according to claim 55, wherein, The pins in the array also cause localized and primary plastic deformation around a portion of the inner surface of the sleeve during assembly.

60. The method of claim 55, wherein, Before the at least one reinforcing bar is assembled into the sleeve, an adhesive is located between the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, the adhesive being configured to fuse and / or bond at least one pin in the array to the inner surface of the sleeve or the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, or both the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar.

61. The method according to claim 55, wherein, After the at least one reinforcing bar is assembled into the sleeve, an adhesive is located between the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, the adhesive being configured to fuse and / or bond at least one pin in the array to the inner surface of the sleeve or the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar, or both the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar.

62. The method according to claim 55, wherein, At least one pin in the array and the inner surface of the sleeve and / or the outer surface of at least one reinforcing bar are configured to provide a cam action of the at least one pin relative to the inner surface of the sleeve and / or the outer surface of the at least one reinforcing bar when axial displacement occurs between the at least one reinforcing bar and the sleeve during axial loading of the reinforcing bar connection assembly.

63. The method according to claim 62, wherein, The cam action causes the at least one pin to rotate when an axial force is applied, thereby further embedding the edge of the at least one pin into the at least one reinforcing bar.

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