System for the reinforcement of wall structures and related method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system (1) for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures (4), each masonry structure (4) having a first face (41) and a second face (42) opposite to the first face (41) along a transverse axis (y). Said system (1) comprises at least one first and one second connection element (3; 3'; 3") adapted to be arranged on a first face (41; 42) of the same or of a respective masonry structure (4), and at least one band (2) having two free ends (2a, 2b), the body of each connection element (3; 3'; 3") having a flat perimeter portion (35; 36) and at least one return rib (31) joining two portions of said flat perimeter portion (35; 36) so as to form at least one passage cavity (32; 32, 33; 38) in the respective body for the passage of said at least one band (2). Said system (1) is configured so as to assume a configuration of use when applied to said one or more masonry structures (4), wherein each connection element (3; 3'; 3") is fixed on a first face (41; 42) of the same or of a respective masonry (4) and said band (2) is wrapped at least between the return rib (31) of each of said two connection elements (3; 3'; 3") passing through the respective passage cavities (32; 32, 33; 38) and tightened at its free ends (2a, 2b) by applying a pre-tension, so as to rigidly couple with said return rib (31) of each connection element (3; 3'; 3"), being in tension along its entire length. Furthermore, the present invention relates to the related reinforcement method and to the reinforced masonry structures.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for the reinforcement of masonry structures and to the related installation method. In particular, it concerns a system for the unilateral reinforcement of masonry structures.

[0002] More precisely, the present invention relates to a reinforcement system for masonry walls, which provides the addition of a tensile-resistant framework to the masonry wall to be reinforced.

[0003] In the state of the art, in the field of interventions involving the use of reinforcing systems on masonry buildings, the use of metal band framework systems covering both faces of masonry walls is known, in order to improve their strength and structure, for example in the event of earthquakes.

[0004] An example of such systems is the CAM ®< system described in Italian patent No. 1308025, wherein a metal band, closed on itself by means of joining elements, forms tensioned rings over portions of both faces of a masonry wall, these rings, when properly arranged on the structure, induce an active three-dimensional confinement that tends to restore the stress state of the material to a hydrostatic configuration. In other words, this system forms a three-dimensional grid through closed-ring bands that confine portions of the structure, where the ring that typically passes through the thickness of the structure (masonry or reinforced concrete) is visible on both faces of the masonry wall, enclosing its perimeter.

[0005] In masonry structures, such rings are always interconnected through specific joining elements of the CAM ®< system, and the load is distributed across the masonry structure by means of distribution elements, in particular plates provided with a tapered hole which, in addition to their confining effect, allow the creation of through-wall tie connections between the structural elements of the building, which are particularly effective thanks to the high mechanical performance of the metal band and to the distributed effect of the resulting meshes. These bands are usually arranged in a closed ring, passing through the thickness of the wall and running parallel to the two faces of the masonry wall.

[0006] Through-wall tie connections refer to connections that extend transversely across the masonry wall, passing through its entire thickness. The purpose of this type of connection is to improve the homogeneous behaviour of the masonry wall, especially when it is made of heterogeneous elements and / or coupled but non-interlocked elements (such as rubble masonry and double-wythe masonry walls).

[0007] The aforementioned distribution elements allow the band's action to be distributed and prevent themselves from being in direct contact with the masonry to be reinforced.

[0008] In certain circumstances, however, it may be necessary that one face of the masonry wall remains free of the grid of bands of the reinforcement system according to the prior art, and the reasons for this are essentially as follows: preserving exposed masonry without plaster; preserving the plaster on the wall portion to be left free (for example, in the presence of frescoed surfaces); not carrying out operations related to the removal of plaster from the wall surface (for example, in inhabited spaces or in environments where dust could cause issues); and the presence of localised obstacles along the vertical alignment of the grid of bands (for example, intermediate floor slabs), while still maintaining the spatial continuity of the reinforcement grid.

[0009] Currently, at the state of the art there are no reinforcement systems that allow both interventions on a single face of the masonry and effective through-wall tie connections, wherein the action exerted by the through-wall tie is self-regulated by the in-plane action and vice versa.

[0010] There are, in fact, reinforcement systems for single-wythe masonry and systems with through-wall tie connections, but these are independent of each other.

[0011] At the current state of the art, as can be seen in Figures 1 - 2, reinforcement interventions are carried out using anchor plate elements C, these are traditional building elements that characterise Italian villages in highly seismic zones.

[0012] Historically, anchor plate elements C are made in the shape of an anchor element, i.e., a square or circular ribbed plate, over time becoming not only the primary reinforcement solution permitted by state cultural heritage authorities for historic structures, but also an element of architectural aesthetic value designed to harmonise with the quality of the artifact.

[0013] Currently, known single-sided reinforcement techniques present the following limitations: the intervention is asymmetrical, as it is installed only on the face to which the system is applied, and this results in an eccentric load-bearing behaviour of the reinforced masonry panel; it is not possible to create through-wall tie connections between the elements of the reinforcement system itself.

[0014] Furthermore, as stated in Italian and European standards (NTC 2018 and UNI EN Eurocode 1998), a single-sided reinforcement intervention through a reinforcing framework of the masonry structure is discouraged, and furthermore, when it must be carried out, it reduces both the actual performance of the through-wall tie connection effect of the system when, as in current state-of-the-art techniques it does not fully pass through the thickness of the masonry wall and therefore does not allow an effective connection between the wythes, and the overall performance of the reinforcement system by 50%, since the reinforcement is applied to a single face of the masonry wall.

[0015] An additional reinforcement system, along with its application method, for masonry walls known from the state of the art is described in European patent No. EP 2 586 935 B1.

[0016] Specifically, this patent describes a method providing: making transverse holes in the masonry structure; applying several plates having through holes onto the masonry structure, these through holes being coaxial with the transverse holes of the masonry structure; inserting a respective threaded cylindrical rod into each transverse hole, with one free end protruding from the plate; securing each plate to the end of the corresponding rod by means of a nut, so that the plate presses against the masonry structure; injecting mortar into the transverse holes; and connecting each plate to adjacent plates by means of metal bands, through suitable openings obtained in the plates.

[0017] However, this installation method of the reinforcement system described in European Patent no. EP 2 586 935 B1 presents certain critical issues.

[0018] A first critical issue concerns construction and "architectural compatibility", due to the protrusion of the tightening nut of the rod used to create the through-wall tie connection (protrusion greater than the standard 3 cm thickness of civil plaster). A further critical issue is due to the lack of synchrony between the through-wall tie and the in-plane reinforcing frameworks applied via bands.

[0019] Synchrony refers to the behaviour of a reinforcement system in which the in-plane and through-thickness reinforcement of the element are activated simultaneously under loading actions acting in either of the two individual directions.

[0020] In particular, all reinforcement systems operate in-plane, in response to in-plane actions, and through the thickness (through-wall tie behaviour), in response to out-of-plane actions, the only double-sided system that operates synchronously is the aforementioned CAM ®< system, since the in-plane and in through-thickness (through-wall tie) element is a single continuous band element.

[0021] However, the CAM ®< system only works if applied in a double-sided configuration, as by its nature it consists of closed meshes enclosing the perimeter of an element.

[0022] In fact, in this system there is no "communicating" behaviour between the in-plane reinforcement elements (the bands) and the through-wall tie rod, which is not stressed by any potential overstressing of the bands and vice versa.

[0023] Other prior art solutions are described in patent documents CN 106 760 591 A and JP 2002 322817 A.

[0024] The aim of the present invention is to provide a single-sided reinforcement system for masonry walls that enables "synchronous" through-wall tie connections and achieves performance similar to prior art double-sided reinforcement systems.

[0025] It is an object of the invention a system for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures, each masonry structure having a first face and a second face opposite to the first face along a transverse axis, said system comprising at least one first and one second connection element adapted to be arranged on a first face of the same or of a respective masonry structure, and at least one band having two free ends, the body of each connection element having a flat perimeter portion, and at least one return rib joining two portions of said flat perimeter portion so as to form at least one passage cavity in the respective body for the passage of said at least one band, said system being configured so as to assume a configuration of use when applied to said one or more masonry structures, wherein each connection element is fixed on a first face of the same or of a respective masonry wall and said band is wrapped at least between the return rib of each of said two connection elements passing through the respective passage cavities and tightened at its free ends applying a pre-tension, so as to rigidly couple with said return rib of each connection element being in tension along its entire length.

[0026] Moreover according to the invention, each connection element may have a front face and a rear face, wherein each passage cavity consists of two through holes through its front and rear faces, wherein said at least one return rib may be arranged between said two through holes and wherein when said system is in said configuration of use, each connection element may be fixed at its rear face to a first face of the same or of a respective masonry structure and said band may be wrapped at least between the return rib of each of said two connection elements passing through the respective through holes.

[0027] Further according to the invention, said at least one return rib may have a convex portion, preferably at least at its front face, said convex portion being adapted to be embraced by a portion of said band when in said configuration of use.

[0028] Furthermore, according to the invention, said at least one return rib may have a tubular body with a solid or hollow section having a nominal diameter between 8 and 30 mm, preferably 10 mm.

[0029] Furthermore, according to the invention, the tubular body of said at least one return rib may have a circular or semicircular cross-section.

[0030] Moreover according to the invention, at least one connection element may have at least two return ribs and a central hole arranged between said at least two return ribs, wherein at least two bands may be provided, and wherein in said configuration of use, each return rib may be wrapped by a respective band, each passing through a pair of holes, one of which being the central hole.

[0031] Further according to the invention, at least one connection element may have four pairs of return ribs, and said central hole may be arranged between said four pairs of return ribs wherein four bands are provided, and wherein in said configuration of use of the system, each return rib may be wrapped by a respective band, each band passing through a pair of holes, one of which being the central hole.

[0032] Furthermore, according to the invention, the flat perimeter portion of at least one connection element may have an outer diameter between two and four times the inner diameter that circumscribes the respective at least two through holes and said at least one return rib.

[0033] In addition, according to the invention, said system may further comprise at least one distribution element adapted to be arranged on a face of a masonry structure, said at least one distribution element may comprise at least one through hole, said through hole may have at least one flared portion, said system being configured such that, in said configuration of use, a first connection element may be arranged in correspondence with said first face of the respective masonry structure in correspondence with a first opening of a passage hole passing through said masonry structure, and said distribution element may be arranged on the opposite opening of said passage hole, and a band passes through said passage hole, forming a bend in correspondence with said at least one flared portion of said distribution element.

[0034] Moreover, according to the invention, at least one connection element may also be a distribution element and may further comprise said flared portion at the edge of each through hole opposite to the respective return rib.

[0035] Further according to the invention, at least one distribution element may have a single central hole provided with said flared portion along its entire perimeter.

[0036] Furthermore, said distribution element may comprise a flat perimeter portion having a diameter between two and four times the diameter of the central hole.

[0037] In addition, according to the invention, at least one connection element may have a perimeter portion with a diameter greater than the diameter of said central hole of said distribution plate, and wherein the inner diameter within which the respective at least two through holes and said at least one return rib are inscribed may be less than or equal to the diameter of said central hole of said distribution element, said at least one connection element may be configured to be arranged in correspondence with the central hole of said distribution element in said configuration of use of the system.

[0038] Again according to the invention, said at least one connection element may have at least one pair of connecting arms, wherein each connecting arm is adapted to connect one end of at least one return rib to the flat perimeter portion and wherein the at least one return rib may be arranged on a plane parallel to the plane on which the flat perimeter portion lies, spaced apart by a distance, said distance being preferably between 10 mm and 50 mm.

[0039] Further according to the invention, a lateral slot may be obtained as a through opening on each connecting arm to allow the passage of a band.

[0040] Furthermore, according to the invention, said at least one connection element may comprise at least four return ribs and at least four connecting arms, wherein each connecting arm can connect the end of two return ribs to the flat perimeter portion.

[0041] It is also an object of the invention a method for the reinforcement of at least one or more masonry structures, each masonry structure having a first face and a second face opposite to the first face along a transverse axis, said method providing the use of said system according to the invention, said method providing the following steps: a) arranging a first connection element on a first face of a masonry structure; b) arranging a second connection element on a first face of the same masonry wall or of a second masonry wall; c) inserting said band through at least one passage cavity of said first connection element, wrapping around the respective return rib; d) inserting said band through at least one passage cavity of said second connection element, wrapping around the respective return rib; e) tightening said band at its free ends by applying a pre-tension, so that said band rigidly couples with said return ribs of said two connection elements, wrapping around them and being under tension along its entire length.

[0042] Again according to the invention, the following step may be further provided: f) making at least one straight passage hole passing through at least one masonry structure, g) inserting said band at least through said passage hole, wherein in said step a) and / or b), a connection element is arranged in correspondence with a first opening of a passage hole.

[0043] Further according to the invention, in said step f), said passage hole can be made so as to form with said transverse axis a first angle between 0° and ±60°, preferably ±30°.

[0044] Furthermore, according to the invention, the following step can be further provided: h) arranging a distribution element in correspondence with the second opening of said passage hole opposite to the first opening, wherein in said step f), said band passes through said passage hole, forming a bend in correspondence with said at least one flared portion of said distribution element.

[0045] In addition, according to the invention, in said step f) at least two passage holes can be made passing through either at least one and the same masonry structure or more masonry structures, wherein in said steps a) or b) each connection element can be arranged in correspondence with a first opening of a respective passage hole, wherein in said step h) at least two distribution elements can be provided and wherein each distribution element can be arranged in correspondence with the second opening of a respective passage hole opposite to the respective first opening.

[0046] Again according to the invention, in said step f) said passage holes can be made passing between the two faces of the same masonry structure so that the two connection elements are arranged in correspondence with a first face of the same masonry structure and the two distribution elements can be arranged in correspondence with the second face of the same masonry structure.

[0047] Further according to the invention, in said steps a) and b), system connection elements of the system may be used, and wherein the following steps may be further provided: i) making at least one further passage hole in said masonry wall spaced apart from a first passage hole; j) arranging a further distribution plate of the system in correspondence with each opening of the further passage hole; k) inserting a further band through the openings of said first passage hole and of said further passage hole, by forming a bend in correspondence with the flared portion of said first connection element and of three distribution elements; I) tightening said further band at its free ends by applying pre-tension, so that said further band rigidly couples with the flared portions of said first connection element and of said three distribution elements, wrapping around a portion of the masonry structure.

[0048] Furthermore according to the invention, a central masonry structure may be arranged transversely to two opposing masonry structures, wherein in said step f), said two passage holes can be made between the first face of a respective masonry structure and the first face of said central masonry structure, so that each connection element can be arranged in correspondence with the first face of a respective opposing masonry structure, and the two distribution elements may be arranged in correspondence with the first face of the central masonry structure.

[0049] In addition, according to the invention, each connection element may comprise at least two return ribs, wherein in said steps c), d), and e), a further band may be provided to wrap around a respective return rib of a first connection element together with the return rib of another connection element.

[0050] Again according to the invention, in said steps a) and b), connection elements of the system may be used, wherein a further step f) may be provided, wherein a further passage hole is made in correspondence with the opening arranged on the first face of each opposing masonry structure and passing through the central masonry structure in correspondence with its second face, wherein said further band passes through the two further passage holes.

[0051] Further according to the invention, in said step a), a first connection element may be arranged on a first face of a first masonry structure, and in said step b), the second connection element may be arranged on the first face of the second masonry structure, and a further step may be provided: a') fixing said first and second connection elements to the first face of the respective masonry structure in correspondence with the flat perimeter portion.

[0052] Furthermore, according to the invention, the following steps may be provided: f) making two straight passage holes passing through the two faces of each masonry structure so as to have the first openings coinciding in correspondence with the first face of the respective masonry structure and the second opening inclined with respect to said transverse axis by a first angle between 0° and ±60°, preferably ±30°, wherein in said steps a) and b) each connection element is arranged in correspondence with the first opening of both passage holes; h') arranging a distribution element in correspondence with each second opening of said passage hole; k') inserting an additional band for each masonry structure through the openings of said two passage holes, by forming a bend in correspondence with the flared portion of said two distribution elements, and through the lateral slots of a pair of connecting arms of the same connection element; I) tightening said additional band at its free ends by applying pre-tension, so that said additional band rigidly couples with the flared portions of the distribution elements, and two side portions of the perimeter portion wrapping around a portion of the masonry structure.

[0053] It is also an object of the invention a masonry structure or set of masonry structures reinforced using the method according to the invention.

[0054] It is also an object of the invention a masonry structure or set of masonry structures reinforced using the system according to the invention.

[0055] The invention will now be described for illustrative but non-limitative purposes, with particular reference to the attached drawings, wherein: Figure 1 shows a first example of anchor plate elements according to the prior art; Figure 2 shows a second example of an anchor plate element according to the prior art; Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a masonry wall to which the unilateral system for the reinforcement of masonry structures according to the invention is applied, in a first exemplary embodiment; Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a masonry wall to which the unilateral system for the reinforcement of masonry structures according to the invention is applied, in a second exemplary embodiment; Figure 5 shows a front perspective view of a three-dimensional schematic representation of the unilateral system for the reinforcement of masonry structures according to the invention in a third exemplary embodiment; Figure 6 shows a rear perspective view of the schematic representation of Figure 5; Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a masonry wall to which the unilateral system for the reinforcement of masonry structures according to the invention is applied, in a fourth exemplary embodiment; Figure 8 shows the example of Figure 4, wherein the internal stresses within the reinforcement system are highlighted; Figure 9 shows the diagram of the structural constraints and the stresses involved, in a symmetrical configuration; Figure 10 shows the diagram of Figure 9, wherein the reactions of the reinforced element are represented or the actions exerted by the system on the reinforced element are shown with reversed sign; Figure 11 shows a top view of a connection element of the reinforcement system according to the invention, in a first embodiment; Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the connection element of Figure 11; Figures 13 and 14 show perspective front and rear sectional views of the connection element of Figure 11 along a plane XIII - XIII'; Figure 15 shows a top view of a first aesthetic variant of the connection element of Figure 11; Figure 16 shows a perspective view of a connection element of the reinforcement system according to the invention, in a second embodiment; Figure 17 shows a top view of a connection element of the reinforcement system according to the invention, in a third embodiment; Figure 18 shows a top view of a connection element of the reinforcement system according to the invention, in a fourth embodiment; Figure 19 shows a top view of a connection element of the reinforcement system according to the invention, in a fifth embodiment; Figures 20 and 21 show front and rear perspective views of a distribution plate of the reinforcement system according to the invention; Figure 22 shows a perspective sectional view of the plate of Figure 20 along a plane XXII; Figures 23 - 25 show, respectively, a top view of a kit of the reinforcement system according to the invention, comprising the connection element of Figure 17 or Figure 18 or Figure 19 applied to the plate of Figure 20; Figures 26 - 28 show perspective views of the assembly steps of the kit of Figure 25; Figure 29 shows the reinforcement system according to the invention, comprising the connection element of Figure 11; Figure 30 shows the reinforcement system according to the invention, comprising the assembly of Figure 29 in an end installation position; Figure 31 shows a side sectional view of a masonry wall featuring a floor slab and a bond beam, to which the reinforcement system of Figure 29 is applied; Figures 32-34 show respective perspective views of the kit of Figures 23, 24, or 25 used in the reinforcement system according to the invention; Figure 35 shows a perspective view of a masonry work to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in a first exemplary embodiment for the reinforcement of two walls arranged in a "T" configuration with respect to a transverse wall; Figure 36 shows a top view of the masonry work of Figure 35; Figure 37 shows a perspective view of the masonry work of Figure 35, to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in a second exemplary embodiment; Figures 38 and 39 show a front and top view of a detail of the masonry work of Figure 37; Figure 40 shows a perspective view of the masonry work of Figure 35, to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in a third exemplary embodiment; Figure 41 shows a top view of the masonry work of Figure 40; Figure 42 shows a perspective view of the masonry work of Figure 35, to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in a fourth exemplary embodiment; Figure 43 shows a perspective view of a further masonry work to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in a fifth exemplary embodiment; Figure 44 shows a perspective view of a further masonry work to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, specifically using the connection element of Figure 16, in a sixth exemplary embodiment; Figure 45 shows a top sectional view of the masonry work of Figure 44; Figure 46 shows a perspective view of the reinforcement system according to the invention used in the masonry work of Figure 44; Figure 47 shows detail XLVII of Figure 46; Figure 48 shows detail XLVIII of Figure 47; Figure 49 shows detail XLIX of Figure 46; Figure 50 shows a perspective sectional view of the connection element of Figure 16 along a plane L - L'; Figure 51 shows a rear perspective view of the connection element of Figure 16; Figure 52 shows a perspective view of the masonry work of Figure 43 to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in a seventh exemplary embodiment; Figure 53 shows a perspective view of a further masonry or concrete work comprising two piers, on each of which two beams converge, to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in an eighth exemplary embodiment; Figure 54 shows a perspective view of a detail of the masonry work of Figure 53 to which the reinforcement system according to the invention is applied, in a ninth exemplary embodiment; and Figure 55 shows a top view of the masonry work of Figure 54.

[0056] Looking at Figures 3-10, examples of the application of reinforcement system 1 according to the invention to a masonry wall 4 can be seen. Hereinafter, reference will be made to a masonry structure as a structure that can be obtained using various construction techniques, for example, using bricks or concrete.

[0057] The masonry structure 4 may be a masonry wall 4 having two opposite wythes or faces 41, 42 along a transverse y-axis (as shown in the example embodiment of Figure 3), or it may be a pier-and-beam system 4, again having two opposite faces 41, 42 along a transverse y-axis.

[0058] With reference to Figures 3 and 4, a first exemplary embodiment of reinforcement system 1 according to the invention can be seen, applied to a portion 4' of a masonry wall 4 and made along a transverse xy-plane (defined by a horizontal x-axis and a transverse y-axis) corresponding to a cross-section of the masonry wall 4 itself. Said reinforcement system 1 comprises: one or more bands 2, preferably made of metal, each band 2 having two free ends 2a, 2b; two or more connection elements 3' (such as the one shown in Figure 11), also referred to hereinafter as anchor plates 3', arranged on a first face 41 of the masonry wall 4, and at least two distribution elements 5 (such as the one shown in Figure 20) arranged on second face 42, opposite to first face 41, of the same masonry wall 4.

[0059] As can be seen in Figure 11, the body of the connection element 3' has a flat perimeter portion 35, and at least one return rib 31 joining two portions of said flat perimeter portion 35 so as to form at least one passage cavity 32 in the respective body for the passage of said at least one band 2.

[0060] The system 1 is therefore configured so as to assume a configuration of use when applied to said masonry wall 4 (shown in Figure 3), wherein each connection element 3' is fixed in correspondence with said flat perimeter portion 35 on the first face 41 of the masonry wall 4 and said band 2 is wrapped between the return rib 31 of each of said two connection elements 3', passing through the respective passage cavities 32, and tightened at its free ends 2a, 2b by applying a pre-tension, so as to rigidly couple with said return rib 31 of each connection element 3', being under tension along its entire length.

[0061] Furthermore, at said two distribution elements 5, the band 2 passes through the tapered hole 51, forming a bend.

[0062] As can be seen in Figures 20 and 21, the distribution element 5 may have a single central hole 51 provided with said flared portion 54 along its entire perimeter.

[0063] Preferably, said distribution element 5 may comprise a flat perimeter portion 55 having a diameter d55 between two and four times the diameter d51 of the central hole 51.

[0064] As can be seen in Figure 3, in the system 1 according to the invention, the band 2 is closed on itself passing twice through the thickness of the portion 4' of said masonry wall 4, which is between its first face 41 and its second face 42, embracing both of them by means of said connection elements 3', which act both as a deflecting and load-distributing element, allowing the same band 2 to move forward and backward, essentially forming a reinforcement module.

[0065] As shown in Figure 3, the method for the reinforcement of a masonry wall 4 may provide the following steps: a) making a passage hole 6 in the structural thickness of the masonry wall 4 between the first face 41 and the second face 42, inclined at a first angle α with respect to the transverse y-axis, preferably between 0° and 60°, more preferably between 0° and 45°; b) installing distribution elements 5, for example distribution plates 5 provided with a tapered hole 54 (shown in Figures 20 and 21), in correspondence with the passage holes 6 on the second face 42 of the masonry wall 4 where the band 2 runs, also called the "installation face" 42 of the reinforcing framework (optionally, the distribution plates 5, which can be tapered and perforated, may be replaced by connection elements 3', for example shown in Figure 11); c) installing the connection elements 3' in correspondence with the passage holes 6 on the first face 41, the "anchor plate element installation face", opposite to said second face 42; d) cutting the band 2 to size according to the length required to complete the entire path without interruptions (from a first connection element 3' to a corresponding first tapered plate 5, passing through a first passage hole 6, then towards a second distribution plate 5, again through the second passage hole 6 to a second connection element 3' and back along the same path to said first connection element 3' with at least one additional length of approximately 30 cm to facilitate the positioning); e) inserting the band 2 into the passage hole 6 and wrap it around the connection element 3' and send it back into the hole 6 itself; f) repeating the steps a) - e), in particular making the second passage hole 6 at a distance d (along said horizontal x-axis) from the first passage hole 6, said distance d may be between 60 cm and 3 m depending on the type of masonry wall 4; and g) closing the module on the second face 42.

[0066] When installing the system 1, a pre-tension is applied to the band 2 using a tensioning device, specifically a pneumatic strapping tool, which: secures one end 2a, 2b of the band 2 to an overlap seal integral with the tensioning device, slides the other end 2b, 2a of the mesh of the band 2 under a calibrated tension, which overlaps with the first end and is inserted into the same seal of the tensioning device, and by rotating a knurled roller of the tensioning device, induces a tensile state throughout the entire mesh of bands 2.

[0067] The state of tension is uniform throughout the module, since the path of the band 2 is never interrupted, neither along the second face 42 nor in the portion of the band 2 that passes through the portion 4' of said masonry wall 4 (i.e., the through-wall tie connection element). A self-tightening through-wall tie connection element is then made, wherein the stress during the through-wall tie operation increases as the in-plane stress applied to the wall increases, and vice versa.

[0068] The band 2 is closed on itself using a suitable joining system, for example, a classic "overlap" crimped seal typical of the CAM ®< system and of industrial packaging systems, or a joining element such as that described in European Patent No. EP 3 939 833 B1.

[0069] The assembly of elements of the reinforcement system 1 allows the creation of a continuous tensile element, which is to be understood as a reinforcing element along a plane of the masonry wall 4 on which the reinforcement system is installed, both along said horizontal x-axis of said transverse xy-plane of said wall 4, and along said transverse y-axis (regardless of the inclination value defined by said first angle α).

[0070] Said continuous tensile element also acts in parallel as a "synchronous" and self-tightening through-wall tie, in particular both along the transverse y-axis of the masonry wall 4 on which it is installed and on the masonry wall 4 itself along the horizontal x-axis.

[0071] Preferably, the bands 2 can be made of metal, particularly steel, or other materials such as FRP (carbon, aramid, glass) fabrics, structural plastics, etc.

[0072] By using the joining device described in the aforementioned European Patent No. EP 3 939 833 B1, it is possible to join bands of such materials.

[0073] Furthermore, the first angle α defined by the inclination of the passage holes 6 influences the distribution of the actions acting on the module of system 1 and, in particular, configurations are obtained that can: maximise the balance of the action related to the pre-stress on the two faces 41, 42 of the masonry wall 4; and maximise the confining effect of reinforcement system 1.

[0074] The choice of the value of the first angle α also influences the installation methods, in particular, with α = 0° (example in Figures 5 - 7, wherein the through holes 6 are made parallel to the transverse y-axis), the band 2 is orthogonally incident with respect to the connection element 3' and / or the distribution element 5, advantageously minimising the number of passage holes 6 for obtaining a single-sided grid of the reinforcement system 1, which can be achieved by joining multiple modules of the system 1 described above.

[0075] A possible quinconce arrangement (passage holes 6 offset along the vertical z-axis, perpendicular to the said transverse xy-plane, and along the horizontal x-axis) is shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0076] As can be seen in Figures 5 - 6, said reinforcement module can be repeated both horizontally (along the horizontal x-axis) and vertically (along said vertical z-axis), such that the origin of a module and the end point of a further module adjacent to it coincide at a common connection element 3', so that a point of exchange of the actions of the bands 2 exists horizontally and vertically.

[0077] Therefore the result of coupling multiple modules of system 1 will be a grid 2' of bands 2 that runs on a single face, the second face 42, of the masonry wall 4, while on the first face 41 only the application points of the connection elements 3' are visible.

[0078] Furthermore, said first angle α is preferably the same, even if opposite, for the passage holes 6 of the same reinforcement module, so as to be symmetrical to each other (as shown in Figures 3 and 4). However, for construction or specific reinforcement design reasons, different first angles α may conveniently be used between the two passage holes 6, a design choice to be taken into account when calculating the final performance of the reinforcement system which may be higher or lower compared to a configuration with symmetrical first angles α.

[0079] When the first angle α is greater than 0°, for example 30°, as shown in Figure 3, the actions exerted by the mesh on faces 41 and 42 of the portion 4' of the masonry wall 4 are symmetrical both in the direction orthogonal to the xz-plane of the masonry wall 4 and in the xy-plane itself, thus configuring an action on the masonry wall 4 itself coinciding with a mesh on both faces 41, 42, this can be easily obtained by expressing the formulations of the actions in the xy-plane and outside on the connection elements 3' and on the distribution plates 5 according to the diagrams shown in Figures 8 - 10. The realisation of the reinforcement module and of the grid, consisting of a plurality of said continuous tensile elements, of the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention is made possible by the shaping of the connection elements 3', provided with one or more return ribs 31, which allow multiple bands 2 to be returned to a single connection element 3', thus creating a point of exchange of the actions of the bands 2 returned to the same connection element 3'. The shape of the connection elements 3' may vary depending on the number of outgoing and returning bands 2 to be accommodated.

[0080] The connection element 3, 3', in fact, may have a single return rib 31 (as in Figure 17) or a plurality of return ribs 31 (as in Figures 11 - 16 and 18 - 19), which in the latter case may be arranged around a central hole 33 of the connection element 3, 3'. By return rib 31 is meant a rigid linear element 31 adapted to connect two portions of the body of the connection element 3, 3', 3", in particular two portions of the flat perimeter portion 35.

[0081] These return ribs 31, together with the body of the connection element 3, 3', define at least two through cavities 32, in particular two through holes 32, the number of which varies according to the number of return ribs 31 and therefore to the number of bands 2 exiting from and returning to the connection element 3, 3'.

[0082] As shown in Figures 12 - 14, these return ribs 31 preferably have a convex portion 31a in correspondence with their front face. Said convex portion 31a is configured to be wrapped by a respective band 2, turned on itself. The return ribs 31 also generally have a circular or semi-circular cross-section so as to have a hollow or solid tubular body. This allows the return of the band 2, minimising friction during its angular deviation from 0° to 180°.

[0083] The diameter of said ribs 31 may range from a minimum of 8 mm to a maximum of 30 mm, depending on the number / size of the bands 2 used, therefore on the force transmitted, and returned over it.

[0084] For example, in Figure 17, the connection element 3 allows the return of a single band 2, which enters through a first hole 32 and exits through a second hole 32, engaging the return rib 31 arranged between the two holes 32.

[0085] In Figures 18 and 19, the connection elements 3 allow the return of two and four bands 2 respectively, two or four return ribs 31 being provided, one for each band 2.

[0086] However, the number of return ribs 31 is not limited, but can be chosen as needed.

[0087] In a possible embodiment, for example shown in figures 11 - 15, the connection element 3' may provide that each hole 32 has a flared portion 34 to allow the passage of a band 2 adhering to the masonry wall 4, thus enabling the use of such connection element 3' also as a load-distributing element in correspondence with the second face 42 of the masonry wall 4. In these figures it can also be seen how said connection elements 3' may provide a flat surface 35, which is compressed by the band 2 (once tightened) on the first face 41 of the masonry wall 4, thus fixing the connection element 3' to said first face 41. Said flared portion 34 is made continuous with said flat surface 35. Said continuous flat surface 35 has an outer diameter d35 preferably between two and four times the inner diameter d32 within which the respective at least two through holes 32, 33 and the respective return rib 31 of the connection element 3' are inscribed, so as to achieve optimal anchoring and distribution of the actions induced by said bands 2 to the flat surface of the masonry wall 4 on which it is applied.

[0088] With reference to Figures 17 - 19, it is instead possible to see a third, fourth and fifth embodiment of said connection element 3, with one, two and four return ribs 31, respectively. In these embodiments, the flat surface 35 and the flared portion 34 of the embodiment of Figures 11 - 15 are absent and replaced by a flat perimeter portion 36 bevelled at the edge, which defines the maximum overall dimensions of the connection element 3, in correspondence with the side on which said band 2 is adapted to abut. The rear face of the connection element 3 has a surface configured to abut a distribution plate 5 (shown in Figures 20 - 22), so as to form a connection assembly 10 with it (shown in Figures 23 - 28).

[0089] In fact, in order to correctly realise said connection assembly 10, said connection element 3 may have the perimeter portion 36 having a diameter d36 greater than the diameter d51 of the central hole 51 of the distribution plate 5 with which it is adapted to form said assembly 10.

[0090] At the same time, the inner diameter d32 within which the respective at least two through holes 32 and said at least one return rib 31 of the connection element 3 are inscribed is less than or equal to said diameter d51 of said distribution element 5. The connection element 3 is configured to be arranged in correspondence with said central hole 51.

[0091] In fact, with reference to Figures 23 - 28, it is possible to provide the use of said connection assembly 10 comprising a distribution plate 5 provided with a tapered hole 51 (shown in Figures 20 - 22), to be used as a distribution element 5 in correspondence with the second face 42 of the masonry wall 4, and a connection element 3 (for example, as shown in Figures 17 - 19) having its rear face configured to fit into the tapered hole 51 of the distribution plate 5, thus being used as a connection element in correspondence with the first face 41 of the masonry wall 4.

[0092] The connection element 3' (for example, of Figure 11) may therefore be provided as a single return element for the band 2 of the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention, capable of performing both the return function of the bands 2 and the load distribution, or optionally it can be a connection element 3 associated with said distribution plate 5 as shown in Figures 23 - 25.

[0093] In this latter use of the connection element 3, shown in Figures 32 - 34, said connection element 3 is placed on said distribution plate 5 in correspondence with the tapered hole 51 and, as described above, will primarily serve solely to return the band 2 of the grid 2', while the distribution plate 5, when used alone, will primarily serve to redistribute the actions acting on the bands 2 over the surface of the masonry wall 4.

[0094] Furthermore, based on the orientation of the bands 2 within the grid 2' of the reinforcement system 1, the through holes 32 and corresponding reinforcing ribs 31 are obtained on the connection element 3 and consequently oriented along the vertical z-axis or the horizontal x-axis.

[0095] The application of the reinforcement system 1 as described above advantageously allows a synergy of the reinforcement actions acting on each band 2, said actions, acting in tension, overlap to act as a "framework" of the masonry wall 4.

[0096] This intrinsic synergy of the grid 2' also makes it possible to obtain a through-wall tie reinforcement system 1, since the band 2 passes entirely through the thickness of the masonry wall 4, while leaving visible on a first face 41 of the two faces 41, 42 only the connection elements 3.

[0097] A further application of the system 1 according to the invention, with reference to Figures 29, 30, and 31, concerns the covering of horizontal or vertical terminal portions of masonry walls 4, such as for example in the presence of high-quality flooring in correspondence of a floor slab 7, for example through the use of the connection element 3' of Figure 11.

[0098] In such masonry walls 4, it is not possible to install reinforcement systems of the prior art without compromising their integrity and, at the same time, the continuity of the framework grid of the reinforcement system itself along the entire masonry wall 4.

[0099] However, in the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention, the connection elements 3' advantageously allow the bands 2 to be closed on themselves in correspondence with said horizontal or vertical portions, for example in correspondence with a floor slab 7 as shown in figure 31, acting in combination with or independently of said distribution plates 5, and therefore without the need to run along the entire perimeter of the element to be reinforced.

[0100] In this exemplary embodiment, two connection elements 3' are arranged on the inner face 41 of the wall 4 straddling the floor slab 7. On the opposite outer face 42, a distribution plate 5 is arranged in correspondence with the opening of the respective through hole 6. A band 2 is then passed through the two through holes 6, wrapping around the return rib 31 of each connection element 3' and adhering to the two distribution plates 5. Thanks to the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention, it is therefore not necessary to make a hole through the floor slab 7.

[0101] Additional holes 6 are then made along the wall 4, by applying further distribution plates 5 to carry out the tying using a respective band 2 passing through three further distribution plates 5 and through the tapered portion 34 of the hole 32 of the connection element 3'.

[0102] Finally, the reinforcement system 1 allows the realisation of a single-sided tying of masonry walls 4 by using the possible configurations of the connection element 3 for each type of wall 4.

[0103] Figures 35 and 36 show an exemplary embodiment of the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention for connecting two masonry walls 4 that are parallel to each other and facing one another. In this case, a transverse wall 40 is also inserted between these walls 4.

[0104] In this exemplary embodiment, a passage hole 6 is made in the thickness of each masonry wall 4 along the same axis parallel to the transverse y-axis.

[0105] A connection element 3' is then arranged in correspondence with the second face 42 (i.e., the outer face) of each masonry wall 4.

[0106] Finally, the two connection elements 3' are connected to each other by passing one or more bands 2 coupled with the respective return rib 31 arranged on each connection element 3'. Preferably, the connection element 3' may have one or more return ribs 31 and consequently provides the use of one or more return bands 2.

[0107] Therefore, the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention may not necessarily also provide the distribution plates 5 and, more generally, can be described as a system 1 for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures 4, wherein the system 1 comprises at least one first and one second connection element 3, 3', 3" adapted to be arranged on a first face 41 or 42 of the same or of a respective masonry structure 4, and at least one band 2 having two free ends 2a, 2b.

[0108] In particular, the body of each connection element 3, 3', 3" has a flat perimeter portion 35; 36, and at least one return rib 31 joining two portions of said flat perimeter portion 35; 36 so as to form at least one passage cavity 32 or 38 in the respective body for the passage of said at least one band 2. Said system 1 is therefore configured so as to assume a configuration of use when applied to said one or more masonry structures 4, wherein each connection element 3; 3'; 3" is fixed to a first face 41; 42 of the same or of a respective masonry wall 4, and said band 2 is wrapped at least between the return rib 31 of each of the two connection elements, passing through the respective passage cavities, and tightened at its free ends by applying a pre-tension, so as to rigidly couple with said return rib of each connection element, being in tension along its entire length.

[0109] The exemplary embodiment of Figures 37 - 39 shows a masonry structure similar to that shown for the exemplary embodiment of Figure 35. In this case, a single-sided tying system with inclined return is provided, wherein said connection element 3' has one or two return ribs 31, thus forming a continuous tensile element.

[0110] This exemplary embodiment provides the making of a passage hole 6 on each masonry wall 4, inclined so as to also pass through the thickness of the transverse masonry wall 40, which connects the two masonry walls 4, without any visual impact on the masonry surface. Its making is similar to that presented and described for the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3. In fact, two connection elements 3' are arranged, each in correspondence with the opening on the outer face 41 of each wall 4 of a respective passage hole 6. A distribution plate 5 is instead arranged in correspondence with the opening of the passage hole 6 in correspondence with the inner face 42 of the transverse wall 40.

[0111] The band 2 is then passed through the passage holes 6, wrapping around the return rib 31 of each connection element 3', adhering to the inner face 42 of the transverse wall 40, forming bending points in correspondence with the tapered portion 54 of the distribution plates 5.

[0112] Figures 40 and 41 show a further exemplary embodiment involving a masonry structure similar to that shown in Figures 35 and 37, which provides the implementation of a dual tying, wherein connection elements 3' with one or two return ribs 31 are used.

[0113] In this exemplary embodiment the same steps of the method described for the example of Figure 35 are repeated, applied to another portion of the masonry walls 4, in particular straddling the transverse masonry wall 40 arranged transversely to the two masonry walls 4 which are parallel and connected to each other through the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention.

[0114] A similar exemplary embodiment is also used for the tying of dual masonry arches, as shown in Figure 52, or for the precompression of a beam 4 in a concrete masonry structure, as shown in Figure 53.

[0115] Figure 42 shows a further exemplary embodiment providing the realisation of a dual tying with an inclined return similar to that provided in the exemplary embodiment of Figure 37, but applied on both faces of the transverse wall 40, where, in this case, a single connection element 3' is provided in the masonry walls 4 for the return of two bands 2, each wrapped around a respective return rib 31, thus forming a continuous tensile element.

[0116] Figure 43 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the tying of single-axis masonry arches. In this exemplary embodiment, connection elements 3' with one, two, four, or a plurality of return ribs 31 are used to form a continuous tensile element.

[0117] The method provides the making of passage holes 6 in the transverse y-axis of the masonry walls 4, which will partially extend into the transverse wall 40 until reaching the arch abutment. The connection elements 3' are then positioned on the second faces 42, on which the bands 2 are then positioned, as provided by the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention.

[0118] Figures 44 - 49 show a further exemplary embodiment of the tying of the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention, wherein a connection element 3" according to the embodiment shown in Figures 16, 50, and 51 is used.

[0119] The connection element 3" of Figure 16 provides a plurality of connecting arms 37 between said front and rear faces 30a, 30b, in particular at least one pair of connecting arms 37, which ensure that said connection element 3" has substantially three-dimensional overall dimensions.

[0120] Each connecting arm 37 is adapted to connect one end of at least one return rib 31 to the flat perimeter portion 35 of the body of the connection element 3". In particular, the at least one return rib 31 is arranged on a plane parallel to the plane on which said flat perimeter portion 35 lies, spaced apart by a distance I. This distance I is preferably between 10 mm and 50 mm.

[0121] In this embodiment, said connecting arms 37 are radially connected to each other in pairs by a respective return rib 31, thus each defining a passage cavity 32 for the return of at least one band 2.

[0122] Similarly to the first and second embodiments of the connection element 3, 3' according to the invention, there may be two to four connecting arms 37, thus providing the presence of two or four respective return ribs 31.

[0123] Each pair of connecting arms is oriented along a first and second direction f, f' perpendicular to each other and parallel to said rear surface 30b.

[0124] Furthermore, said connection element 3" may have at least one pair of lateral seats or slots 31', each lateral slot 31' being obtained as a through opening on said connecting arms 37 and aligned with one another, at the outer edge of said rear face 30b of said connection element 3". Said lateral seats 31' are obtained along said first and second directions f, f'.

[0125] When said reinforcement system is in said configuration of use, the return of at least one band 2 to a respective return rib 31 allows the anchoring of the connection element 3", anchored to a face 41, 42 of a first masonry wall 4, to a respective second connection element 3", anchored frontally to the first connection element along said transverse y-axis on a face 41, 42 of a masonry wall 4.

[0126] This anchoring can be achieved with a band arrangement of bands 2, the number of which depends on the number of return ribs 31 of the connection element 3".

[0127] In fact, similarly to the first and second embodiments of the connection element 3', 3 according to the invention, two to four return ribs 31 may be present, to allow the realisation of said band arrangement of two or four bands 2, respectively.

[0128] For example, in the embodiment of Figure 16, said at least one connection element 3" comprises four return ribs 31 and four connecting arms 37, wherein each connecting arm 37 connects the ends of two return ribs 31 to the flat perimeter portion 35.

[0129] Furthermore, said lateral seats 31' allow the connection element 3" to be anchored to the face 41, 42 of the respective wall 4, when the system 1 is in said configuration of use, by means of the return of a further band 2 for each pair of lateral seats 31'. In particular, said connection element 3" may have two pairs of lateral seats 31', arranged orthogonally to one another.

[0130] As shown in Figures 45 - 49, said further band 2 is then returned into two passage holes 6, obtained in the wall 4, each having a first opening obtained in correspondence with said lateral seats 31' on said first face 41 and a second opening obtained on the second face 42, said distribution elements 3', 5 being preferably arranged on said second opening.

[0131] In particular, the passage holes 6 are obtained symmetrically with respect to said transverse y-axis and form said first angle α between 0° and ±60°, preferably 30°, with it.

[0132] Finally, Figures 54 and 55 show a further exemplary embodiment that allows for the implementation of a connection for strengthening the beam / column joint in a concrete masonry structure 4, wherein connection elements with one or two return ribs 31 are used.

[0133] This method provides, similarly to the general diagram of Figure 7, the realisation of two passage holes 6 in the thickness of the beam 4 (i.e., in the masonry wall 4) laterally to the pier, where the distribution plates 5 are positioned on one inner face 42 of the beam 4, while the connection elements 3' with one or two return ribs are positioned on the other face 41, in the latter, the band 2 is then inserted, passing through the passage holes 6 and the two faces 41 and 42 of the beam 4.

[0134] Advantageously, the reinforcement system 1 according to the invention allows the implementation of a grid of bands on only one of the two faces of the masonry wall.

[0135] In particular, advantageously, it allows the typical CAM ®< System mesh to be applied in a single-sided mode, allowing the band arrangements to be returned without the need to follow the entire perimeter of the element to be reinforced.

[0136] Moreover, the system according to the invention advantageously allows one of the main features of the double-sided CAM ®< system, namely the self-tightening through-wall tie, to be guaranteed even in the single-sided configuration.

[0137] In addition, the system according to the invention advantageously allows two ends of opposing elements (beams, piers, walls, etc.) to be connected to each other by band-like elements without forming the closed mesh typical of the CAM ®< system.

[0138] Finally, the system according to the invention advantageously acts as a deflecting element for metal bands adapted to provide unilateral constraint to beam-to-pier and beam-to-beam connections in prefabricated or cast-in-place concrete structures.

[0139] Advantageously, according to the invention, the system according to the invention combines a through-wall tie behaviour "synchronous" with the in-plane reinforcement of the masonry on which it is installed with a single-sided intervention, thus resulting in a unique single-sided system featuring this characteristic.

[0140] In the foregoing, the preferred embodiments have been described and variations of the present invention have been suggested, but it is to be understood that those skilled in the art may make modifications and changes without thereby departing from the relevant scope of protection, as defined in the attached claims.

Claims

1. A system (1) for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures (4), each masonry structure (4) having a first face (41) and a second face (42) opposite to the first face (41) along a transverse axis (y), said system (1) comprising at least one first and one second connection element (3; 3'; 3") adapted to be arranged on a first face (41; 42) of the same or of a respective masonry structure (4), and at least one band (2) having two free ends (2a, 2b), the body of each connection element (3; 3'; 3") having a flat perimeter portion (35; 36), and at least one return rib (31) joining two portions of said flat perimeter portion (35; 36) so as to form at least one passage cavity (32; 32, 33; 38) in the respective body for the passage of said at least one band (2), said system (1) being configured so as to assume a configuration of use when applied to said one or more masonry structures (4), wherein each connection element (3; 3'; 3") is fixed on a first face (41; 42) of the same or of a respective masonry wall (4) and said band (2) is wrapped at least between the return rib (31) of each of said two connection elements (3; 3'; 3") passing through the respective passage cavities (32; 32, 33; 38) and tightened at its free ends (2a, 2b) by applying a pre-tension, so as to rigidly couple with said return rib (31) of each connection element (3; 3'; 3"), being in tension along its entire length.

2. The system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein each connection element (3; 3') has a front face (30a) and a rear face (30b), wherein each passage cavity consists of two through holes (32; 32, 33) extending through its front and rear faces (30a, 30b), wherein said at least one return rib (31) is arranged between said two through holes (32; 32, 33) and wherein, when said system (1) is in said configuration of use, each connection element (3; 3') is fixed at its rear face (30b) on a first face (41; 42) of the same or of a respective masonry structure (4) and said band (2) is wrapped at least between the return rib (31) of each of said two connection elements (3; 3') passing through the respective through holes (32; 32, 33), wherein at least one connection element (3; 3') has four pairs of return ribs (31) and a central hole (33) arranged between said four pairs of return ribs (31), wherein four bands (2) are provided, and wherein, in said configuration of use of the system (1), each return rib (31) is wrapped by a respective band (2), each band passing through a pair of holes (32, 33), one of which being the central hole (33).

3. The system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein it further comprises at least one distribution element (5; 3') adapted to be arranged on a face (41; 42) of a masonry structure (4), said at least one distribution element (5; 3') comprising at least one through hole (51; 32), said through hole (51; 32) having at least one flared portion (54; 34), said system (1) being configured such that, in said configuration of use, a first connection element (3; 3'; 3") is arranged in correspondence with said first face (41; 42) of the respective masonry structure (4) in correspondence with a first opening of a passage hole (6) passing through said masonry structure (4) and said distribution element (5; 3') is arranged on the opposite opening of said passage hole (6) and a band (2) passes through said passage hole (6) making a bend in correspondence with said at least one flared portion (54; 34) of said distribution element (5; 3'), wherein at least one distribution element (5) has a single central hole (51) provided with said flared portion (54) along its entire perimeter, and wherein at least one connection element (3) has a perimeter portion (36) with a diameter (d36) greater than the diameter (d51) of said central hole (51) of said distribution plate (5), and wherein the inner diameter (d32) within which the respective at least two through holes (32, 33) and said at least one return rib (31) are inscribed is less than or equal to the diameter (d51) of said central hole (51) of said distribution element (5), said at least one connection element (3) being configured to be arranged in correspondence with the central hole (51) of said distribution element (5) in said configuration of use of the system (1).

4. The system (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one connection element (3") has at least one pair of connecting arms (37), wherein each connecting arm (37) is adapted to connect one end of at least one return rib (31) to the flat perimeter portion (35) and wherein the at least one return rib (31) is arranged on a plane parallel to the plane on which said flat perimeter portion (35) lies, spaced apart by a distance (I), said distance (I) being preferably between 10 mm and 50 mm.

5. The system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein a lateral slot (31') is obtained as a through opening on each connecting arm (37) to allow the passage of a band (2).

6. The system (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said at least one connection element (3") comprises at least four return ribs (31) and at least four connecting arms (37), wherein each connecting arm (37) connects the end of two return ribs (31) to the flat perimeter portion (35).

7. A method for the reinforcement of at least one or more masonry structures (4), each masonry structure (4) having a first face (41) and a second face (42) opposite to the first face along a transverse axis (y), said method providing the use of said system (1) according to any of claims 1 - 6, said method providing the following steps: a) arranging a first connection element (3; 3'; 3") on a first face (41; 42) of a masonry structure (4); b) arranging a second connection element (3; 3'; 3") on a first face (41; 42) of the same masonry wall (4) or of a second masonry wall (4); c) inserting said band (2) through at least one passage cavity (32; 32, 33; 38) of said first connection element (3; 3'; 3"), wrapping around the respective return rib (31); d) inserting said band (2) through at least one passage cavity (32; 23, 33; 38) of said second connection element (3; 3'; 3"), wrapping around the respective return rib (31); and e) tightening said band (2) at its free ends (2a, 2b) by applying a pre-tension, so that said band (2) rigidly couples with said return ribs (31) of said two connection elements (3; 3'; 3"), wrapping around them and being under tension along its entire length.

8. The method for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures (4) according to the preceding claim, wherein the following step is further provided: f) making at least one straight passage hole (6) passing through at least one masonry structure (4), g) inserting said band (2) at least through said passage hole (6), wherein in said step a) and / or b) a connection element (3, 3') is arranged in correspondence with a first opening of a passage hole (6).

9. The method for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures (4) according to the preceding claim, wherein in said step f) said passage hole (6) is made so as to form with said transverse axis (y) a first angle (α) between 0° and ±60°, preferably ±30°.

10. The method for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures (4) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the system (1) further comprises at least one distribution element (5; 3') adapted to be arranged on a face (41; 42) of a masonry structure (4), said at least one distribution element (5; 3') comprising at least one through hole (51; 32), said through hole (51; 32) having at least one flared portion (54; 34), said system (1) being configured such that, in said configuration of use, a first connection element (3; 3'; 3") is arranged in correspondence with said first face (41; 42) of the respective masonry structure (4) in correspondence with a first opening of a passage hole (6) passing through said masonry structure (4) and said distribution element (5; 3') is arranged on the opposite opening of said passage hole (6) and a band (2) passes through said passage hole (6) making a bend in correspondence with said at least one flared portion (54; 34) of said distribution element (5; 3'), and wherein said method further provides the following step: h) arranging a distribution element (5; 3') at the second opening of said passage hole (6) opposite to the first opening, wherein in said step f) said band (2) passes through said passage hole (6) making a bend in correspondence with said at least one flared portion (54; 34) of said distribution element (5; 3').

11. The method for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures (4) according to the preceding claim, wherein in said step f) at least two passage holes (6) are made passing through either at least one and the same masonry structure or more masonry structures (4), wherein in said steps a) or b) each connection element (3, 3') is arranged in correspondence with a first opening of a respective passage hole (6), wherein in said step h) at least two distribution elements (5; 3') are provided and wherein each distribution element (5; 3') is arranged in correspondence with the second opening of a respective passage hole (6) opposite to the respective first opening.

12. The method for the reinforcement of at least one masonry structure (4) according to the preceding claim, wherein in said step f ) said passage holes (6) are made passing between the two faces (41, 42) of the same masonry structure (4) so that the two connection elements (3; 3') are arranged in correspondence with a first face (41) of the same masonry structure (4) and the two distribution elements (3'; 5) are arranged in correspondence with the second face (42) of the same masonry structure (4).

13. The method for the reinforcement of at least one masonry structure (4) according to the preceding claim, wherein in said steps a) and b) connection elements (3') are used, each having a front face (30a) and a rear face (30b), wherein each passage cavity consists of two through holes (32; 32, 33) through its front and rear faces (30a, 30b), wherein said at least one return rib (31) is arranged between said two through holes (32; 32, 33) and wherein, when said system (1) is in said configuration of use, each connection element (3; 3') is fixed at its rear face (30b) on a first face (41; 42) of the same or of a respective masonry structure (4) and said band (2) is wrapped at least between the return rib (31) of each of said two connection elements (3; 3') passing through the respective through holes (32; 32, 33), wherein at least one connection element (3') is also a distribution element and further comprises said flared portion (34) at the edge of each through hole (32) opposite to the respective return rib (31), and wherein said method further provides the following steps: i) making at least one further passage hole (6') in said masonry wall (4) spaced from a first passage hole (6); j) arranging a further distribution plate (5; 3') of the system (1) in correspondence with each opening of the further passage hole (6'), k) inserting a further band (2') through the openings of said first passage hole (6) and of said further passage hole (6'), by making a bend in correspondence with the flared portion (34, 54) of said first connection element (3') and of three distribution elements (5), I) tightening said further band (2') at its free ends (2a, 2b) by applying a pre-tension, so that said further band (2') rigidly couples with the flared portions (34, 54) of said first connection element (3') and of said three distribution elements (5) wrapping around a portion of the masonry structure (4).

14. The method for the reinforcement of three masonry structures (4, 40) according to claim 11, wherein a central masonry structure (40) is arranged transversely to two opposing masonry structures (4), wherein in said step f) said two passage holes (6) are made passing between the first face (41; 42) of a respective masonry structure (4) and the first face (41; 42) of said central masonry structure (4") so that each connection element (3; 3') is arranged in correspondence with the first face (41; 42) of a respective opposing masonry structure (4) and the two distribution elements (3'; 5) are arranged in correspondence with the first face (41; 42) of the central masonry structure (4").

15. The method for the reinforcement of one or more masonry structures (4) according to any of claims 7 - 14, wherein each connection element (3; 3'; 3") comprises at least two return ribs (31), wherein in said steps c), d) and e) a further band (2') is provided to wrap around a respective return rib (31) of a first connection element (3; 3'; 3") together with the return rib (31) of another connection element (3; 3'; 3").

16. The method for the reinforcement of three masonry structures (4, 40) according to claims 14 and 15, wherein in said steps a) and b) connection elements (3; 3') are used, wherein each connection element (3; 3') has a front face (30a) and a rear face (30b), wherein each passage cavity consists of two through holes (32; 32, 33) through its front and rear faces (30a, 30b), wherein said at least one return rib (31) is arranged between said two through holes (32; 32, 33) and wherein, when said system (1) is in said configuration of use, each connection element (3; 3') is fixed at its rear face (30b) on a first face (41; 42) of the same or of a respective masonry structure (4) and said band (2) is wrapped at least between the return rib (31) of each of said two connection elements (3; 3') passing through the respective through holes (32; 32, 33) and wherein at least one connection element (3; 3') has at least two return ribs (31) and a central hole (33) arranged between said at least two return ribs (31), wherein at least two bands (2) are provided, and wherein, in said configuration of use, each return rib (31) is wrapped by a respective band (2), each band passing through a pair of holes (32, 33), one of which being the central hole (33), wherein a further step f) is provided wherein a further passage hole (6') is made in correspondence with the opening arranged on the first face (41) of each opposite masonry structure (4) and passing through the central masonry structure (4") in correspondence with its second face (42), wherein said further band (2') passes through the two further passage holes (6').

17. The method for the reinforcement of two masonry structures (4) arranged with the first faces (41) facing each other according to any of claims 7 or 15, wherein in said step a) a first connection element (3") is arranged on a first face (41) of a first masonry structure (4) and in said step b) the second connection element (3") is arranged on the first face (41) of the second masonry structure (4) and a further step is provided a') fixing said first and second connection element (3") to the first face (41) of the respective masonry structure (4) in correspondence with the flat perimeter portion (35).

18. The method for the reinforcement of two masonry structures (4) according to the preceding claim, wherein a system (1) according to claim 5 or 6 is used, wherein the following steps are provided: f) making two straight passage holes (6) passing through the two faces (41, 42) of each masonry structure (4) so as to have the first openings coinciding in correspondence with the first face (41) of the respective masonry structure (4) and the second opening inclined with respect to said transverse axis (y) by a first angle (α) between 0° and ±60°, preferably ±30°, wherein in said steps a) and b) each connection element (3") is arranged in correspondence with the first opening of both passage holes (6), h') arranging a distribution element (5) in correspondence with each second opening of said passage hole (6), k') inserting an additional band (2') for each masonry structure (4) through the openings of said two passage holes (6) by making a bend in correspondence with the flared portion (54) of said two distribution elements (5), and through the lateral slots (31') of a pair of connecting arms (37) of the same connection element (3"); I) tightening said additional band (2') at its free ends (2a, 2b) by applying a pre-tension, so that said additional band (2") rigidly couples with the flared portions (54) of the distribution elements (5) and two side portions of the perimeter portion (35) wrapping around a portion of the masonry structure (4).

19. A masonry structure (4) or a set of masonry structures (4; 4, 40) comprising a system (10) according to any of claims 1 - 6 reinforced by the method according to any of claims 7 - 18.

20. A masonry structure (4) or a set of masonry structures (4; 4, 40) reinforced by and comprising the system (10) according to any of claims 1 - 6.

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