Female coupler and assembly

Abstract

A female coupling adapted to receive a male coupling having at least one transverse pin, the female coupling having: a cavity having an opening to receive the male coupling; and at least one transverse bore extending transversely from the cavity, the at least one transverse bore adapted to receive the at least one transverse pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, where the cavity further has at least one first alignment portion adapted to align the at least one transverse pin to the male coupler when the male coupler is in the receiving position. Each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of one of the at least one transverse bore, the surface being adapted to bias a respective one of the at least one transverse pin toward a respective one of the at least one bore when the male coupler is moved toward the receiving position; and at least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a respective one of the at least one lateral pin toward a respective one of the at least one first alignment portion when the male coupler is moved toward the receiving position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a female connector suitable for receiving, aligning, and guiding a male connector. The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, applied to connecting and / or tensioning precast concrete structural elements. This use is described in the patent specification, but is merely illustrative, and the invention is not limited to this use. Background Technology

[0002] In the construction industry, the construction of structures typically involves the assembly of multiple individual components that are fixed together to form a bonded whole. For example, building walls are often composed of concrete sections that need to be connected together, requiring processes such as pre-tensioning or post-tensioning to ensure stability and strength. Couplers are commonly used to facilitate the connection and reinforcement of these structural elements. These couplers play a crucial role in mechanically connecting various components using advanced joining or reinforcement construction techniques.

[0003] Despite their widespread use, the connection points of structural components often present challenges due to their tendency to be obscured or located in inaccessible areas. This ambiguity complicates the process of achieving proper alignment between structural components. In such cases, identifying, assessing, and correcting defects caused by misalignment proves particularly challenging. The difficulties involved in rectifying these problems often lead to increased costs, extended timeframes, and significant expenditure of resources. Furthermore, the inability to properly connect and secure structural components can have serious implications for the integrity and safety of the entire building project.

[0004] Notable embodiments of known structural coupling devices are described in detail in WO2021243414A1, which belongs to the category of "coupler assemblies". This document describes a coupler assembly comprising a male connector equipped with a transverse pin and a female connector designed to receive the male connector, the female connector having a transverse hole particularly suited to accommodate the transverse pin. When the coupler assembly is engaged, it provides a robust connection between structural elements, even when the connection point is obstructed. However, despite the robust connection provided by this assembly, significant challenges remain during the connection and alignment of the male and female connectors, particularly when they are located in obstructed or inaccessible areas. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Purpose of the invention

[0006] The purpose of this invention is to overcome or at least mitigate one or more problems of the above-described connection structure and / or to provide consumers with a useful or commercial option. Invention Overview

[0008] In one aspect, the invention broadly relates to a female connector adapted to receive a male connector having at least one transverse pin, the female connector having: The cavity has an opening to receive the male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the transverse hole being adapted to receive at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position, wherein the cavity further has: At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of at least one of the at least one transverse hole, the surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of at least one of the at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one transverse hole as the male connector moves toward a receiving position, and At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias at least one of at least one of the first alignment portions toward a corresponding one of the male connectors as the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

[0009] Preferably, the radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion in the transverse plane is smaller than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first alignment portion in the same transverse plane. Preferably, the smaller radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion allows for more significant lateral biasing of at least one transverse pin, thereby allowing at least one transverse pin to enter the first alignment portion.

[0010] Preferably, at least one of the first alignment portions is bent in a manner that is an axial bend about a longitudinal axis parallel to the female connector.

[0011] Preferably, at least one of the second alignment portions is bent in a manner that is axially bent around a longitudinal axis parallel to the female connector.

[0012] Preferably, the opening has a rounded or chamfered corner around at least a portion of its peripheral edge. In one embodiment, the male connector has a bend at the bottom front edge of at least one of the transverse pins, and the female connector has a rounded or chamfered corner around at least a portion of the peripheral edge of the opening, wherein when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, the bended edge of at least one of the transverse pins contacts the rounded or chamfered opening. Preferably, when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, the bended edge of at least one of the transverse pins contacts the rounded or chamfered opening to align the male connector with the female connector.

[0013] Preferably, the connector assembly is used for connecting and / or tensioning structural components. Preferably, the female connector can be used for connecting and / or tensioning concrete structural components.

[0014] Preferably, the female connector is used to connect structural components, such as wires, rods, and frames made of metal, polymer, plastic, or composite materials. Preferably, the structural components have sufficient size, shape, and construction for use in the construction of reinforced concrete structures.

[0015] Preferably, the female connector is made of any suitable material. Preferably, the female connector is partially or entirely made of metal. Preferably, the female connector is partially or entirely made of high-strength steel. More preferably, the female connector is partially or entirely made of 4140T high-strength steel. Alternatively, the female connector is partially or entirely made of stainless steel. Alternatively, the female connector is partially or entirely made of polymer, plastic, or composite material.

[0016] Preferably, the female connector is manufactured by any suitable means, including but not limited to casting, forming, cutting, molding, joining, forging, friction welding, 3D printing, or any suitable combination thereof. In one embodiment, the female connector or a portion thereof may undergo one or more finishing processes during manufacturing, including but not limited to machining, tapping, drilling, punching, chamfering, knurling, grinding, heat treatment, electroplating, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0017] Preferably, one of at least one transverse pins is received in a corresponding one of at least one hole, such that the transverse pins restrict lateral and / or lateral movement of the male and female connectors relative to each other.

[0018] Preferably, the cavity restricts the lateral movement of the male connector during insertion into and / or reception by the female connector.

[0019] In one embodiment, the slope of the first alignment portion assists the lateral movement of at least one lateral pin.

[0020] In one embodiment, the curvature of the first alignment portion assists the rotational movement of at least one transverse pin.

[0021] Preferably, the slope of the first alignment portion assists in the positioning of the male connector in the female connector.

[0022] Preferably, the connector enables the male and female connectors to be at least properly aligned, wherein one of at least one transverse pins is received in a corresponding one of at least one transverse hole. Preferably, a first alignment portion and a second alignment portion allow the connector to correct misalignment. More preferably, the first alignment portion and the second alignment portion allow the connector to correct misalignment by biasing at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one of at least one transverse hole.

[0023] Preferably, when the transverse pin is located in the first alignment portion, the surface of the first alignment portion biases one of the at least one transverse pin toward the corresponding one in the at least one transverse hole.

[0024] Preferably, when the transverse pin is located in the second alignment portion and therefore the misalignment is more severe, the surface of the second alignment portion biases the transverse pin toward the first alignment portion.

[0025] In one embodiment, the female connector and / or male connector are lubricated to facilitate easy movement of the contacting parts.

[0026] In one embodiment, the female connector and / or male connector are treated with a roughening material to restrict movement of the contacting portions.

[0027] Preferably, at least one transverse pin has a retracted position and an extended position, and at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position. Preferably, at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position by a biasing member. Preferably, the biasing member is a spring. Preferably, the spring is made of 1 mm to 2 mm of 304 stainless steel wire. More preferably, the spring is made of 1.2 mm of 304 stainless steel wire. Preferably, at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position by a force between 10 Newtons and 100 Newtons. More preferably, at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position by a force between 20 Newtons and 50 Newtons. In another embodiment, at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position by a force between 60 Newtons and 180 Newtons. In another embodiment, at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position by a force between 100 Newtons and 900 Newtons.

[0028] In one embodiment, the male connector has a retraction device adapted to move at least one transverse pin to a retracted position and to allow the male connector to be controlled removal from the female connector.

[0029] Preferably, when the male connector is in the receiving position, each of at least one of the transverse pins is in the extended position, and each of at least one of the transverse pins is received and held by the corresponding one of at least one transverse hole.

[0030] In one embodiment, the male connector includes a locking device to prevent at least one transverse pin from moving to a retracted position. Preferably, the locking device is a locking nut. Preferably, in use, the locking nut is adapted to bias the male and female connectors respectively, thereby engaging at least one transverse pin in at least one transverse hole. Preferably, the engagement of at least one transverse pin in at least one transverse hole prevents at least one transverse pin from moving to a retracted position.

[0031] Preferably, the female connector is adapted to move at least one transverse pin to a retracted position when the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

[0032] Preferably, at least one second alignment portion has a curved and inclined surface geometry. Preferably, the curvature of at least one second alignment portion assists the rotational travel of at least one transverse pin. Preferably, the slope of at least one second alignment portion assists the lateral travel of at least one transverse pin. Preferably, the slope of at least one second alignment portion assists the positioning of the male connector in the female connector.

[0033] Preferably, at least one first alignment portion and / or at least one second alignment portion is adjacent to the opening. In one embodiment, at least one first alignment portion and / or at least one second alignment portion is adjacent to the opening. In an alternative embodiment, at least one first alignment portion and / or at least one second alignment portion is positioned away from the opening, further into the female connector.

[0034] Preferably, the cavity further has at least one third alignment portion to bias a corresponding one of the first or second lateral pins toward the nearest of the at least one second alignment portion. Preferably, the at least one third alignment portion has an inclined surface. In one embodiment, the at least one third alignment portion has a curved surface.

[0035] Preferably, the female connector has a substantially cylindrical body.

[0036] Preferably, the male connector has a substantially cylindrical body.

[0037] Preferably, the female connector has two first alignment portions. Preferably, each first alignment portion is adjacent to an opening. Preferably, the female connector has two first alignment portions opposite to each other. Preferably, the female connector has four second alignment portions. Preferably, each second alignment portion is adjacent to an opening. Preferably, each second alignment portion is adjacent to one first alignment portion. Preferably, the female connector has two third alignment portions. Preferably, each third alignment portion is adjacent to an opening. Preferably, the female connector has two third alignment portions opposite to each other. Preferably, the female connector has two third alignment portions, each third alignment portion being adjacent to two second alignment portions.

[0038] In an alternative embodiment, the female connector has four third alignment portions, each of which is adjacent to a second alignment portion.

[0039] Preferably, the female connector has two transverse holes extending laterally from the cavity and facing each other. More preferably, the two transverse holes share a longitudinal axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the female connector.

[0040] Preferably, at least a portion of at least one first alignment portion, the second alignment portion, and / or the third alignment portion forms an angle substantially between 5 and 50 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the female connector. More preferably, at least a portion of at least one first alignment portion, the second alignment portion, and / or the third alignment portion forms an angle substantially between 15 and 35 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the female connector. Even more preferably, at least a portion of at least one first alignment portion, the second alignment portion, and / or the third alignment portion forms an angle substantially 25 degrees with the longitudinal axis of the female connector.

[0041] Preferably, the opening has a substantially circular cross-sectional area. In one embodiment, the opening has a substantially stadium-shaped cross-sectional area. A stadium shape, also known as an oblong shape, is a rectangle with two semi-circular ends.

[0042] Preferably, the surfaces of at least one of the first alignment portions and the adjacent surface of at least one of the second alignment portions allow at least one transverse pin to transition smoothly between these portions. Preferably, the surfaces of at least one of the second alignment portions and the adjacent surface of at least one of the third alignment portions allow at least one transverse pin to transition smoothly between these portions.

[0043] Preferably, the female connector has a connector for connecting the female connector to a connecting member, tensioning member, or structural member. Preferably, the connecting member or tensioning member is a rod, frame, wire, or anchor of a system for connecting and / or tensioning structural members. More preferably, the female connector has a connector with a threaded portion adapted for fastening to the connecting member, tensioning member, or structural member. In one embodiment, the female connector may be attached to stranded steel wire. In one embodiment, the male connector may be attached to stranded steel wire.

[0044] Preferably, the female connector has an edge defined by a cavity and at least one of a first alignment portion. Preferably, the edge has a channel adjacent to it. Preferably, the channel is curved. The channel facilitates receiving a transverse pin, aligning it longitudinally with at least one of the transverse holes.

[0045] Preferably, at least one second alignment portion and an adjacent first alignment portion define a transition boundary where the surface of the at least one second alignment portion transitions to the surface of the adjacent first alignment portion. Preferably, the connector has a channel extending along the transition boundary. Preferably, the channel forms an angle substantially between 5 and 50 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female connector. Preferably, the angle between the channel and the longitudinal axis of the female connector is less than the angle between the at least one second alignment portion or the adjacent first alignment portion and the longitudinal axis of the female connector.

[0046] Preferably, at least one third alignment portion and an adjacent second alignment portion define a transition boundary where the surface of the at least one third alignment portion transitions to the surface of the adjacent second alignment portion. Preferably, the connector has a channel extending along the transition boundary. Preferably, the channel forms an angle substantially between 5 and 50 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female connector. Preferably, the angle between the channel and the longitudinal axis of the female connector is less than the angle between the at least one third alignment portion or the adjacent second alignment portion and the longitudinal axis of the female connector.

[0047] Preferably, the cavity further includes a body portion to receive at least a portion of the male connector. Preferably, at least one first alignment portion and at least one second alignment portion extend outwardly from the body portion. Preferably, the body portion is substantially cylindrical. Preferably, the body portion is cylindrical. Preferably, two transverse holes extend laterally from the body portion. Preferably, an edge is defined between the body portion and one of the at least one first alignment portion. More preferably, an edge is defined between the body portion, one of the at least one first alignment portion, and one of the at least one second alignment portion.

[0048] In another aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a connector assembly comprising: Male connector, having at least one transverse pin, and Female connector, having: A cavity having an opening for receiving a male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the transverse hole being adapted to receive at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position. The cavity also has the following characteristics: At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of at least one of the at least one transverse holes, the surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of at least one of the at least one transverse pins toward a corresponding one of the at least one of the at least one holes as the male connector moves toward a receiving position. At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias at least one of at least one of the first alignment portions toward a corresponding one of the male connectors as the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

[0049] Preferably, the radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion in the transverse plane is smaller than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first alignment portion in the same transverse plane. Preferably, the smaller radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion allows for more significant lateral biasing of at least one transverse pin, thereby allowing at least one transverse pin to enter the first alignment portion.

[0050] Preferably, the curvature of the surface of at least one first alignment portion has a larger radius of curvature than the curvature of the surface of at least one second alignment portion.

[0051] Preferably, at least one transverse pin has a pin end.

[0052] Preferably, the pin end has a first side and a second side on both sides of a plane, the plane being coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the male connector and with the longitudinal axis of at least one transverse pin.

[0053] Preferably, at least one pin end is bent. More preferably, the bent end has a first bend and a second bend.

[0054] Preferably, the first curved portion is convex.

[0055] Preferably, the first bend is a bend around an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the male connector.

[0056] Preferably, the first bend bends inward toward the body of the male connector from the outermost point of the pin end on both the first and second sides in a plane coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the male connector and the longitudinal axis of the transverse pin. Preferably, the curvature of the first bend on the first side is a mirror image of the curvature of the first bend on the second side along a plane coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the male connector and the longitudinal axis of the transverse pin.

[0057] Preferably, the curvature of the first bend has a radius of curvature smaller than that of the surface of at least one first alignment portion. Preferably, the curvature of the first bend has a radius of curvature larger than that of the surface of at least one second alignment portion.

[0058] Preferably, the curvature of the first bend is such that when one of at least one transverse pin contacts the second alignment portion, no more than half the length of the bend contacts the second alignment portion. Preferably, the curvature of the first bend is such that when one of at least one transverse pin contacts the second alignment portion, only one of the first or second sides of the transverse pin contacts the second alignment portion.

[0059] Preferably, the curvature of the first bend is such that when one of at least one transverse pin contacts the first alignment portion, both the first and second sides of the transverse pin are in contact with the first alignment portion.

[0060] Preferably, the second curved portion is convex.

[0061] Preferably, the second bend is bent around an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the male connector. Preferably, the second bend is bent around an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of at least one transverse pin.

[0062] Preferably, the second bend bends inward toward the body of the male connector from the outermost point of the pin end. Preferably, the point of the second bend closest to the central longitudinal axis of the male connector is located on the side of the male connector that will appear in the female connector. More preferably, the point of the second bend closest to the central longitudinal axis of the male connector is located on the side of the male connector that will appear in the female connector, such that when the male connector is to be inserted into the female connector, the male connector presents a smaller transverse cross section toward the female connector.

[0063] Preferably, when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, the second bend assists in positioning the male connector in the female connector.

[0064] Preferably, when the male connector is inserted into the female connector, the second curved portion contacts the wall of the cavity of the female connector.

[0065] Preferably, at least one transverse pin has a retracted position and an extended position, and at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position. Preferably, a second bend assists in forcing at least one transverse pin to the retracted position.

[0066] Preferably, the side of the pin end of at least one transverse pin opposite to the second bend is not bent, so as to prevent the male connector from being removed from the female connector. In a preferred embodiment, the side of the pin end of at least one transverse pin opposite to the second bend is not bent, such that when at least one transverse pin is received in at least one transverse hole, attempting to pull the male connector out of the female connector will not force at least one transverse pin to reach the retracted position.

[0067] Preferably, the side of the pin end opposite to the second bend is not bent, so that when the male connector is withdrawn from the female connector, the lateral pin needs to retract to a greater extent.

[0068] In another aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a system for connecting and / or tensioning structural components, the system comprising, At least one connector component, each connector component comprising: Male connector, having at least one transverse pin, and Female connector, having: The cavity has an opening to receive the male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the transverse hole being adapted to receive at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position. The cavity also has the following characteristics: At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of at least one of the at least one transverse hole, the surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of at least one of the at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one transverse hole as the male connector moves toward a receiving position, and At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias at least one of at least one of the at least one first alignment portion toward a corresponding one of the at least one receiving pin as the male connector moves toward the receiving position. A first anchor is fixed to a first structural component, the first anchor being connected to a male connector, and The second anchor is fixed to the second structural component and is connected to the female connector. At least one connector assembly connects and / or tensions the first structural component and the second structural component.

[0069] Preferably, at least one connector assembly is connected to the first anchor and / or the second anchor via at least one rod.

[0070] Preferably, the structural components are primarily made of concrete.

[0071] Preferably, at least one connector assembly is used to pretension at least one reinforced concrete structural member.

[0072] Preferably, at least one connector assembly is used for post-tensioning at least one reinforced concrete structural member.

[0073] In one embodiment, the first anchor is integrally formed with the male connector, and the second anchor is integrally formed with the female connector.

[0074] In another aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a method for connecting and / or tensioning structural components, the method comprising the following steps: Secure the first anchor to the first structural component. Secure the second anchor to the second structural component. Connect the first anchor to the male connector. The second anchor is connected to the female connector, which has a cavity adapted to receive the male connector, and The male connector is received within the female connector, such that the male connector is guided to a receiving position, wherein at least one transverse pin of the male connector is received within a corresponding transverse hole in at least one of the female connectors. Thus, as the male connector moves toward the receiving position, a first alignment portion of a corresponding cavity in at least one of the transverse pins is biased toward a corresponding one of at least one of the holes, the first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface that converges toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one transverse hole.

[0075] Preferably, when at least one transverse pin is located in the first alignment portion, the surface of the first alignment portion biases at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one in at least one transverse hole.

[0076] Preferably, as the male connector moves toward the receiving position, one of the at least one second alignment portion of the corresponding one of the at least one transverse pins through the cavity is biased toward the corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portion, the second alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface. Preferably, once the at least one transverse pin reaches the first alignment portion, the at least one transverse pin is biased toward the corresponding one of the at least one hole.

[0077] Preferably, when one of the at least one transverse pins is located in one of the at least one second alignment portion, the surface of the second alignment portion biases the at least one transverse pin toward the first alignment portion, which then further biases the at least one transverse pin toward the corresponding transverse hole.

[0078] Preferably, the method for connecting and / or tensioning structural components is used to pre-tension at least one reinforced concrete structural component.

[0079] Preferably, the method for connecting and / or tensioning structural components is used for post-tensioning at least one reinforced concrete structural component.

[0080] In another aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a female connector adapted to receive a male connector having at least one transverse pin, the female connector having: A cavity having an opening to receive a male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the transverse hole being adapted to receive at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position. The cavity also has the following characteristics: At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of at least one of the at least one transverse hole, the surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of at least one of the at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one transverse hole as the male connector moves toward a receiving position, and At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias at least one of at least one of the at least one first alignment portion toward a corresponding one of the at least one receiving pin as the male connector moves toward the receiving position. The cavity further includes a cylindrical portion to accommodate at least a portion of the male connector, and wherein at least one first alignment portion and at least one second alignment portion extend outwardly from the cylindrical portion. Preferably, a bend in at least one second alignment portion forms a channel adjacent to the boundary between the at least one second alignment portion and the cylindrical portion and extends toward at least one first alignment portion.

[0081] In another aspect, the present invention broadly relates to a female connector adapted to receive a male connector having at least one transverse pin, the female connector having: A cavity having an opening to receive a male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the transverse hole being adapted to receive at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position. Among them, the cavity also has At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of at least one of the at least one transverse holes, the surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of at least one of the at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one transverse hole as the male connector moves toward the receiving position. At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias at least one of at least one of the at least one first alignment portion toward a corresponding one of the at least one receiving pin as the male connector moves toward the receiving position. The cavity further includes a body portion to accommodate at least a portion of the male connector, and wherein at least one first alignment portion and at least one second alignment portion extend outward from the body portion.

[0082] Features described with respect to one aspect also apply to all other aspects of the invention. Furthermore, different combinations of the described features are described and claimed herein, even if not explicitly stated otherwise. Attached Figure Description

[0083] To facilitate a better understanding of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention, wherein: Figure 1 This is a detailed perspective view of a female connector according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Top view of the female connector; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top view of the female connector, with grid lines; Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Side view of the female connector; Figure 5 It is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA; Figure 6 It is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB; Figure 7 It is a male connector and Figure 1 Exploded assembly diagram of the female connector; Figure 8 It is a male connector and Figure 1 A side view of the female connector assembly, which has anchors at each end; Figure 9 It is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC; and Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a portion of a female connector according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0084] refer to Figures 1 to 6 The image depicts a female connector 10 according to a preferred embodiment of one aspect of the invention.

[0085] The female connector 10 is adapted to receive a male connector (not shown). The female connector 10 has a generally cylindrical body 20 with a cavity 22 for receiving the male connector. The cavity 22 has an opening 24. The female connector 10 has a longitudinal axis 80.

[0086] A first transverse hole 60A extends laterally from cavity 22 and is adapted to receive a first transverse pin (not shown) when the male connector is in the receiving position. A second transverse hole 60B extends laterally from cavity 22 opposite to the first transverse hole 60A and is adapted to receive a second transverse pin (not shown) when the male connector is in the receiving position. The first transverse hole 60A and the second transverse hole 60B share a transverse axis 82 (transverse to the longitudinal axis 80).

[0087] Cavity 22 has two first alignment portions 30A and 30B arranged opposite to each other adjacent to opening 24. Cavity 22 has two third alignment portions 50 and 52 arranged opposite to each other adjacent to opening 24. Cavity 22 has four second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, and 42B adjacent to opening 24, each second alignment portion being adjacent to a first alignment portion and a third alignment portion.

[0088] Figure 1 and Figure 3 Alignment portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B, 50, and 52 are shown. To clearly describe the surface of cavity 22, these alignment portions are marked with grid lines 90. Figure 3 The extended protrusions of the grid line 90 are shown, indicating that they are used to clearly depict the surface of the cavity 22. Figure 1The inclined portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, and 42B are shown in the figure.

[0089] Each first alignment portion 30A, 30B has a curved and inclined surface that converges toward the longitudinal axis 82 of the transverse holes 60A, 60B. The longitudinal axis 82 is transverse to the longitudinal axis 80.

[0090] Each curved and inclined surface of each of the first alignment portions 30A, 30B is adapted to bias a corresponding one of the first or second transverse pins toward a corresponding one of the transverse holes 60A, 60B as the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

[0091] Each of the second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B has a curved and inclined surface that is adapted to bias a corresponding one of the first or second lateral pins toward a corresponding one of the first alignment portions 30A, 30B as the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

[0092] Tilt the third alignment portions 50, 52 to bias the corresponding one of the first or second lateral pin toward the nearest one of the second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B.

[0093] The transverse pin is preferably applied sufficiently to maintain contact with the alignment portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B, 50, 52, and thus facilitates rotation of the male connector toward the receiving position. The force on the transverse pin is sufficient to provide the movement force required to move the transverse pin along the bent and / or inclined surfaces of the alignment portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B, 50, 52.

[0094] The female connector 10 has a connector 70 that is connected to the body 20 and extends opposite to the opening 24.

[0095] From a top viewpoint, the lateral pin at the second alignment portion 40A will be biased clockwise toward the first alignment portion 30A. From a top viewpoint, the lateral pin at the second alignment portion 42A will be biased counterclockwise toward the first alignment portion 30A. From a top viewpoint, the lateral pin at the second alignment portion 40B will be biased counterclockwise toward the first alignment portion 30B. From a top viewpoint, the lateral pin at the second alignment portion 42B will be biased clockwise toward the first alignment portion 30B.

[0096] The surfaces of the first alignment portions 30A and 30B and the second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, and 42B are each curved about a separate axis (not shown), each axis being parallel to the longitudinal axis 80 of the female connector 10. The smaller radius of curvature of the second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, and 42B compared to the radius of curvature of the first alignment portions 30A and 30B allows for a more significant lateral biasing of at least one transverse pin at the second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, and 42B compared to the lateral biasing of at least one transverse pin at the first alignment portions 30A and 30B.

[0097] Each of the first alignment portions 30A, 30B and the second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B has a separate axis (not shown) parallel to the longitudinal axis 80, with the inclined surface of the corresponding portion angled to this axis. The first alignment portion 30A has an angle relative to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80 that is substantially between 29 degrees near the second alignment portions 40A, 42A and 25 degrees near the center of the first alignment portion 30A. The first alignment portion 30B has an angle relative to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80 that is substantially between 29 degrees near the second alignment portions 40B, 42B and 25 degrees near the center of the first alignment portion 30B. The second alignment portion 40A has an angle relative to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80 that is substantially between 29 degrees near the first alignment portion 30A and 33 degrees near the third alignment portion 50. The second alignment portion 40B has an angle relative to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80 that is substantially between 29 degrees near the first alignment portion 30B and 33 degrees near the third alignment portion 50. The second alignment portion 42B has an angle relative to an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80 that is substantially between 29 degrees adjacent to the first alignment portion 30B and 33 degrees adjacent to the third alignment portion 52. Each third alignment portion 50, 52 has an angle of substantially 33 degrees relative to the plane formed by the longitudinal axis 80 and the longitudinal axis 82.

[0098] refer to Figures 7 to 9 The image depicts a female connector 110 and a male connector 210 according to a preferred embodiment of one aspect of the invention. Figure 7 The female connector 110 and the male connector 210 are depicted in positions where connection is permitted. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The female connector 110 and male connector 210 are depicted after connection, with the male connector 210 in the receiving position. Figure 8 and Figure 9A first anchor 310 and a first nut 410 connected to the male connector 210, and a second anchor 510 and a second nut 610 connected to the female connector 110 are also depicted. The first nut 410 is a locking nut to hold the first anchor 310 fixed to the male connector 210. The second nut 610 is a locking nut to hold the second anchor fixed to the female connector 110.

[0099] The female connector 110 has a generally cylindrical body 120 having a cavity with an opening for receiving the male connector 210, a connector 170, a longitudinal axis 180, a first transverse bore extending laterally from the cavity, and a second transverse bore extending laterally from the cavity. The opening has rounded corners around its peripheral edge. The cavity of the female connector 110 has a pair of first alignment portions 130A, 130B arranged opposite to each other. The first transverse bore and the second transverse bore are arranged opposite to each other and share a longitudinal axis 182. The longitudinal axis 182 is transverse to the longitudinal axis 180.

[0100] The male connector 210 has a generally cylindrical body 220, a connector 270, a longitudinal axis 280, a first transverse pin 260A, and a second transverse pin 260B. The first transverse pin 260A and the second transverse pin 260B are arranged opposite to each other and share a longitudinal axis 282. The longitudinal axis 282 is transverse to the longitudinal axis 280.

[0101] The first transverse pin 260A and the second transverse pin 260B each have a retracted position and an extended position. The retracted position is in which the corresponding transverse pins 260A and 260B are substantially withdrawn into the corresponding recesses of the body 220, allowing the body 220 to enter the cavity of the female connector 110.

[0102] The first transverse pin 260A and the second transverse pin 260B each have a pin end. Each pin end has a first side and a second side located on opposite sides of a plane, wherein the plane is coaxial with both the longitudinal axis 280 and the longitudinal axis 282. Each pin end is bent to have a first bend and a second bend.

[0103] The first bend is convex. The first bend is bent about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 280. The first bend bends inward toward the body 220 from its outermost point on a plane coaxial with both the longitudinal axis 280 and the longitudinal axis 282 on both the first and second sides. The curvature of the first bend on the first side is a mirror image of the curvature of the first bend on the second side along a plane coaxial with both the longitudinal axis 280 and the longitudinal axis 282. The curvature of the first bend has a radius of curvature smaller than that of the surface of either of the first alignment portions 130A and 130B. The curvature of the first bend has a radius of curvature larger than that of the surface of either of the pair of second alignment portions (not shown). The curvature of the first bend is such that when one of the transverse pins 260A and 260B contacts one of the first alignment portions 130A and 130B, both the first and second sides are in contact with the first alignment portions 130A and 130B. The curvature of the first bend is such that when one of the transverse pins 260A and 260B contacts one of the second alignment portions (not shown), only one of the first or second sides contacts one of the second alignment portions.

[0104] The second bend is convex. The second bend bends about an axis transverse to both the longitudinal axis 280 and the longitudinal axis 282. The second bend bends inward toward the body 220 from the outermost point of the pin end. The point of the second bend closest to the longitudinal axis 280 is located on the side of the male connector 210 that will appear in the female connector 110, such that when the male connector 210 is inserted into the female connector 110, the male connector 210 presents a smaller transverse cross-section toward the female connector 110. The second bend assists in forcing at least one of the transverse pins 260A and 260B to a retracted position.

[0105] The side of the pin end of the transverse pins 260A and 260B opposite to the second bend is not bent so as to prevent the male connector 210 from being removed from the female connector 110.

[0106] The first transverse pin 260A and the second transverse pin 260B have a biasing device 262. The biasing device 262 is adapted to bias the transverse pins 260A and 260B to their respective extended positions. The biasing device 262 applies a biasing force to the transverse pins 260A and 260B sufficient to maintain the connection of the transverse pins 260A and 260B on the alignment portions 130A and 130B when the male connector 210 is inserted into the female connector 110, thereby facilitating the rotation of the male connector 210 by means of the bias provided by the alignment portions 130A and 130B.

[0107] The male connector also includes a locking nut 420. The locking nut 420 is adapted to secure the male connector 210 to the female connector 110 by biasing the male connector 210 and the female connector 110 respectively, which engages the transverse pins 260A and 260B in the first transverse hole 60A and the second transverse hole 60B, respectively. Engaging the transverse pins 260A and 260B in this manner prevents them from moving toward the retracted position.

[0108] The first alignment portions 130A and 130B of the cavity converge toward the longitudinal axis 182.

[0109] When the male connector 210 is inserted into the female connector 110, the second bend assists in positioning the male connector 210 within the female connector 110. When the male connector 210 is inserted into the female connector 110, the second bend contacts the wall of the cavity of the female connector 110.

[0110] When the male connector 210 is inserted into the female connector 110, the first alignment portions 130A and 130B of the cavity bias the transverse pins 260A and 260B into the first and second transverse holes, respectively. The walls of the cavity force the transverse pins 260A and 260B to their respective retracted positions. When one of the transverse pins 260A and 260B contacts one of the second alignment portions, force is applied only to the first or second side to bias the transverse pin 260A and 260B toward the corresponding one of the first alignment portions 30A and 30B.

[0111] When the longitudinal axis 182 and the longitudinal axis 282 are coaxially aligned and the transverse pins 260A and 260B are no longer restricted by the cavity wall, the transverse pins 260A and 260B move to the corresponding extended positions and are located in the first transverse hole and the second transverse hole.

[0112] Then, the male connector 210 is in the receiving position, wherein the transverse pins 260A, 260B in the first transverse hole and the second transverse hole restrict longitudinal movement and rotational transverse movement, and the cavity restricts transverse movement.

[0113] refer to Figure 10 The diagram illustrates a female connector 300 according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0114] The female connector 300 is adapted to receive a male connector (not shown). The female connector 300 has a generally cylindrical body 320 having a cavity 322 for receiving the male connector. The cavity 322 has an opening 324.

[0115] Cavity 322 has two first alignment portions 330A (opposite alignment portions not shown) arranged opposite to each other adjacent to opening 324. Cavity 322 has two third alignment portions 350, 352 arranged opposite to each other adjacent to opening 324. Cavity 22 has four second alignment portions 340A, 342A (opposite alignment portions not shown) adjacent to opening 24, each second alignment portion being adjacent to one first alignment portion and one third alignment portion.

[0116] Figure 10 Alignment portions 330A, 340A, 342A, 350, and 352 are shown. To clearly depict the surface of cavity 322, these alignment portions are marked with grid lines 390. Figure 10 Edge 370, located between body portion 372 and alignment portions 330A, 340A, 342A, 350, and 352, is also shown. The lowest point of edge 370 is aligned with the first transverse hole 360A. In use, when the male connector (not shown) enters the female connector 300, if the first transverse pin (not shown) of the male connector is aligned with the first transverse hole 360A, the first transverse pin is biased substantially equally on the left and right sides to maintain its alignment with the first transverse hole 360A. If the first transverse pin moves to the left when the male connector enters the female connector, there will be a greater biasing force on the left side of the first transverse pin, biasing the first transverse pin to the right to align with the first transverse hole 360A. Similarly, if the first transverse pin moves to the right when the male connector enters the female connector, there will be a greater biasing force on the right side of the first transverse pin, biasing the first transverse pin to the left to align with the first transverse hole 360A. If the first transverse pin is aligned with the first transverse hole 360A, there is little or no bias pressure on the middle portion of the pin.

[0117] advantage

[0118] The preferred embodiment of the female connector offers the advantage of providing a connection device that performs simple positioning and alignment of the male and female parts, which can be performed in obstructed or hard-to-reach areas. The preferred embodiment of the connector assembly is advantageous because it is self-aligning during connection. The preferred embodiment of the connector assembly is also advantageous because it is easy to use, reliably achieving a correctly aligned connection in the first case.

[0119] Variant

[0120] While the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative embodiments of the invention, all such modifications and variations that are obvious to those skilled in the art are considered to fall within the broad scope and limits of the invention set forth herein.

[0121] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word “comprising” and variations thereof, such as “including” and “having”, are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integrals or steps.

Claims

1. A female connector adapted to receive a male connector having at least one transverse pin, said female connector having: A cavity having an opening to receive the male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the at least one transverse hole being adapted to receive the at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position. in, The cavity also has: At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral hole, said surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of the at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one lateral hole as the male connector moves toward the receiving position, and At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding one of the at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portion as the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

2. The female connector according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one transverse pin has a retracted position and an extended position, and the at least one transverse pin is biased to the extended position.

3. The female connector according to claim 2, wherein, When the at least one transverse pin is received in and held by the corresponding hole in the at least one transverse hole, the at least one transverse pin moves to the extended position.

4. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The female connector has a surface geometry adapted to move at least one transverse pin to the retracted position when the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

5. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one second alignment portion has a curved and inclined surface geometry.

6. The female connector according to claim 5, wherein, The radius of curvature of the curved surface of the at least one second alignment portion in a transverse plane is smaller than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first alignment portion in the transverse plane.

7. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one first alignment portion and / or the at least one second alignment portion are adjacent to the opening.

8. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cavity also has at least one third alignment portion to bias a corresponding one of the first or second lateral pin toward the nearest second alignment portion of the at least one second alignment portion.

9. The female connector according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one third alignment portion has an inclined surface.

10. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least a portion of the at least one first alignment portion, the at least one second alignment portion, and / or the at least one third alignment portion forms an angle substantially between 5 degrees and 50 degrees.

11. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least a portion of the at least one first alignment portion, the at least one second alignment portion, and / or the at least one third alignment portion forms an angle substantially between 15 and 35 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the female connector.

12. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, At least a portion of the at least one first alignment portion, the at least one second alignment portion, and / or the at least one third alignment portion forms an angle of approximately 25 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the female connector.

13. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The opening has a transverse cross-sectional area that is essentially in the shape of a stadium.

14. The female connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cavity further includes a body portion to accommodate at least a portion of the male connector, wherein the at least one first alignment portion and the at least one second alignment portion extend outwardly from the body portion.

15. A connector assembly, comprising: Male connector, having at least one transverse pin, and Female connector, having: A cavity having an opening to receive the male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the at least one transverse hole being adapted to receive the at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position. The cavity further comprises: At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral hole, said surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of the at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one lateral hole as the male connector moves toward the receiving position, and At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding one of the at least one transverse pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portion as the male connector moves toward the receiving position.

16. A system for connecting and / or tensioning structural components, the system comprising: At least one connector component, each connector component comprising: Male connector, having at least one transverse pin, and Female connector, having: A cavity having an opening to receive the male connector, and At least one transverse hole extending laterally from the cavity, the at least one transverse hole being adapted to receive the at least one transverse pin when the male connector is in the receiving position. The cavity further comprises: At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward a longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral hole, said surface being adapted to bias a corresponding one of the at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one lateral hole as the male connector moves toward the receiving position, and At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding one of the at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portion as the male connector moves toward the receiving position. A first anchor fastener is fixed to a first structural component, the first anchor fastener being connected to the male connector, and A second anchor is fixed to the second structural component, and the second anchor is connected to the female connector. The at least one connector assembly connects and / or tensions the first structural component and the second structural component.

17. The system for connecting and / or tensioning structural components according to claim 16, wherein, The at least one connector component is connected to the first anchor and / or the second anchor via at least one rod.

18. The system for connecting and / or tensioning structural components according to claims 16 and 17, wherein, The first anchor is integrally formed with the male connector, and / or the second anchor is integrally formed with the female connector.

19. A method for connecting and / or tensioning structural components, the method comprising the steps of: Secure the first anchor to the first structural component. Secure the second anchor to the second structural component. Connect the first anchor to the male connector. The second anchor is connected to the female connector, which has a cavity adapted to receive the male connector, and The male connector is received within the female connector, such that the male connector is guided to a receiving position, wherein at least one transverse pin of the male connector is received within a corresponding hole in the female connector. Thus, as the male connector moves toward the receiving position, a first alignment portion of a corresponding one of the at least one transverse pins through the cavity is biased toward a corresponding one of the at least one transverse hole, the first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface that converges toward a longitudinal axis of one of the at least one transverse hole.

20. The method for connecting and / or tensioning structural components according to claim 19, wherein, As the male connector moves toward the receiving position, a corresponding second alignment portion of the at least one transverse pin through the cavity is biased toward a corresponding first alignment portion, the second alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface.

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