CONNECTING ELEMENT FOR MIXED STRUCTURES

Abstract

CONNECTING ELEMENT FOR MIXED STRUCTURES The invention relates to a connecting element (1) for mixed structures, comprising a main body (2) for attachment to a first structural element and comprising a base plate (3), which is provided with at least one through-hole (4) through which a retaining screw for attaching the connecting element (1) to the first structural element passes. The connecting element (1) comprises a first and a second retaining tooth (51, 52), which extend respectively, in a flattened manner, on a first and a second seating plane which are not coplanar with each other, and are adapted to penetrate into the first structural element. Furthermore, the connecting element (1) comprises a wing (6) for integration into a second structural element made of a casting material for holding the first structural element and the second structural element together.Figure to be published for abstract: Figure 1.

Description

Title of the invention: CONNECTION ELEMENT FOR MIXED STRUCTURES Scope of application

[0001] The present invention relates to a connecting element for mixed structures.

[0002] The connecting element in question is intended to be advantageously used in the field of construction to produce structural or covering elements of a construction, made of different materials, such as wood-concrete. For example, the connecting element in question is intended to be used in the production of mixed wood-concrete floors, in order to fix the wooden parts to the concrete element.

[0003] In general, the connecting element in question is part of the sector of production of fastening systems (in particular joinery components) for the realization of mixed structures having both a structural and covering function, of any material (such as wood, concrete, synthetic materials, metallic materials, insulation materials, etc.). State of the art

[0004] In the field of construction, buildings have long been found in which certain structural parts (for example floors) are made of mixed structures, i.e. structures comprising at least two structural elements made of different materials, such as wood and concrete.

[0005] In order to fix the wooden elements to the concrete elements, it is common to use special connecting elements to provide adequate strength and mechanical rigidity to the mixed structure.

[0006] In general, the composite structure comprises at least one first structural element, for example made of wood or metal, and at least one second structural element which is cast onto the first structural element, thus using casting materials such as concrete or cement. For example, in the case of mixed wood-concrete floors, the first structural element consists of a wooden frame on which a wooden floor is fixed, the second structural element being a concrete slab made by casting concrete onto the floor of the first structural element.

[0007] Connecting elements intended to be fixed to an interface surface of the first structural element by means of a screw fixing are known on the market. A part of the connecting elements protrudes from this interface surface, so that it is capable of being integrated into the second structural element after having cast the latter during the construction of the mixed structure. In this way, the connecting elements are fixed both to the first structural element (by means of a screw fixing) and to the second structural element (by incorporating part of it), which allows, as indicated above, the first and second structural elements to complement each other to provide sufficient strength and mechanical rigidity to the mixed structure.

[0008] An example of a connecting element of a known type is described in Italian utility model No. 202020000004162.

[0009] The connecting element described in this document comprises a main body intended to be fixed, by means of a retaining screw, to the first structural element (made of wood) of the mixed structure.

[0010] More specifically, the main body is L-shaped and comprises a base plate, intended to be fixed in abutment on the first structural element, and a wing, which develops at right angles upwards from the base plate and is intended to be integrated into the second structural element (concrete), when the latter is poured onto the first structural element.

[0011] In particular, the base plate has a lower face, intended to rest on the bearing surface of the first structural element, and an opposite upper face from which the wing projects and which is intended to be covered by the second structural element.

[0012] The base plate also has a pyramidal relief which projects from its upper face and has a lateral flank, oriented towards the wing and inclined at approximately 45° relative to the upper face of the base plate. On this lateral flank there is a through hole through which the retaining screw passes which fixes the connecting element to the first structural element.

[0013] In particular, the head of said retaining screw abuts against the lateral flank of the pyramidal relief, such that the retaining screw is arranged with its axis orthogonal to said lateral flank and, consequently, due to the inclination of the latter, penetrates into the first structural element with an inclination which is not orthogonal to the interface surface of the latter, for example of approximately 45°.

[0014] In this way, the inclination of the retaining screws allows the connecting element to withstand transverse forces without the mechanical coupling between the first structural element and the connecting element itself giving way, which would lead to a reduction in the mechanical strength of the composite structure.

[0015] Furthermore, the connecting element of known type comprises two retaining teeth, side by side, which project from the underside of the base plate and are intended to penetrate the first structural element to cooperate with the retaining screw in order to fix the connecting element to the first structural element.

[0016] The known connecting elements, briefly described so far, have proven not without drawbacks in practice.

[0017] The main disadvantage is that when the retaining teeth penetrate the first structural element, each of them can induce the creation of a crack in the wood of the first structural element which, due to the proximity between the two teeth, tends to join the crack formed by the other tooth, thus forming a single elongated crack.

[0018] In this situation, the retaining teeth are arranged within said single large crack and, therefore, the frictional force exerted by the material of the first structural element on each retaining tooth would be considerably reduced, resulting in a reduction of the retention between the connecting element and the first structural element, thereby weakening the composite structure.

[0019] Furthermore, since many connecting elements are generally provided on the first structural element, the formation of many relatively large cracks can lead to the formation of large cracks resulting in structural weakening of the first structural element itself. Disclosure of the invention

[0020] In this situation, the problem underlying the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages manifested by the technique known so far by providing a connecting element for mixed structures, which allows two different structural elements of the mixed structure to be fixed together without causing the formation of significant cracks in these structural elements.

[0021] This object of the present invention is achieved by means of a connecting element for mixed structures, which comprises a main body intended to be fixed to a first structural element of a mixed structure, this main body comprising: a base plate which: extends, along a direction of development, between a first edge and a second edge; is provided with a lower face which is intended to rest against the first structural element and an upper face oriented in the direction opposite to the lower face; is provided with at least one through hole intended to be crossed by a corresponding retaining screw for the purpose of fixing the connecting element to the first structural element.The main body also comprises: a first retaining tooth and a second retaining tooth, which project from the underside of the base plate, extend with a substantially flattened shape respectively on a first seating plane and a second seating plane, and are capable of penetrating into the first structural element in order to retain the connecting element to the first structural element; a wing, placed transversely to the direction of development, which projects from the upper side of the base plate and is intended to be integrated into . a second structural element of the composite structure made of a casting material to retain the first structural element and the second structural element therebetween. Said first seating plane and said second seating plane are not coplanar with each other.

[0022] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a connection element for mixed structures which is simple and inexpensive to produce.

[0023] In accordance with this latter objective and according to a particular characteristic of the invention, the first retaining tooth and the second retaining tooth are positioned at the first edge of the base plate.

[0024] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the base plate extends, transversely to the direction of development, between two opposite lateral edges connecting the first edge and the second edge; the first retaining tooth and the second retaining tooth are positioned at the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge, respectively.

[0025] Another object of the present invention is to provide a connecting element for mixed structures, which does not cause structural weakening of the mixed structure.

[0026] In accordance with this latter objective and according to a particular characteristic of the invention, the first seating plane of the first retaining tooth and the second seating plane of the second retaining tooth are inclined relative to each other.

[0027] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the first seat plane and the second seat plane are inclined relative to the direction of development of the base plate.

[0028] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the first seat plane and the second seat plane respectively define, with the direction of development, a first angle and a second angle, oriented towards the second edge of the base plate and each having an amplitude less than 90°.

[0029] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the first seating plane of the first retaining tooth and the second seating plane of the second retaining tooth respectively define, with the lower face of the base plate, a first angle of inclination and a second angle of inclination having an amplitude less than or equal to 90°.

[0030] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a connecting element for mixed structures, which allows two structural elements to be fixed together in a solid and stable manner over time.

[0031] In accordance with this latter objective and according to a particular characteristic of the invention, the connecting element comprises a third retaining tooth, which projects from the lower face of the base plate and which is intended to penetrate into the first structural element for retaining the connecting element to the first structural element;

[0032] the third retaining tooth extends, with an essentially plate-like shape, on a third seating plane inclined relative to the first seating plane and the second seating plane.

[0033] Another object of the present invention is to provide a connection element for mixed structures, which is completely operationally reliable.

[0034] In accordance with the latter objective and according to a particular characteristic of the invention, the wing is provided with at least one engagement section which defines, with the upper face of the base plate, an orientation angle directed towards the first edge of the base plate and having an inclination of less than 90°, and is provided with at least one engagement hole having an insertion axis orthogonal to the engagement section and capable of being traversed by the retaining screw along the insertion axis; said at least one through hole of the base plate comprises at least one passage opening which intercepts the insertion axis of the engagement hole to be traversed by the retaining screw inserted in the engagement hole.

[0035] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the passage opening is closer to the second edge of the base plate than to the first edge.

[0036] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the passage opening develops, along the direction of development, between a front edge, closer to the first edge of the base plate, and a rear edge, closer to the second edge of the base plate; the main body comprises at least one tab which projects, from the front edge of the passage opening, on the upper face of the base plate, towards the wing, with a direction of extension essentially parallel to the insertion axis of the engagement hole, and which is intended to receive in abutment a section of a threaded rod of the retaining screw. Brief description of the figures

[0037] The technical characteristics of the invention, in accordance with the above-mentioned objectives, and its advantages will appear more clearly in the detailed description which follows, made with reference to the attached drawings which represent purely illustrative and non-exhaustive embodiments, in which:

[0038] [Fig-1] shows a perspective front view from above of a first embodiment of a connecting element which is the subject of the present invention;

[0039] [Fig.2] shows a rear perspective view of the underside of the element of connection of [Fig.l];

[0040] [Fig.3] shows a rear perspective view from above of the element of connection of [Fig.l];

[0041] [Fig.4] shows a plan view from below of the connecting element of [Fig.l]

[0042] [Fig.5] shows a side view of the connecting element of [Fig.l];

[0043] [Fig.6] shows a first example of application of the connecting element of [Fig.l];

[0044] [Fig.7] shows another different example of application of the connecting element of [Fig.l];

[0045] [Fig.8] shows a front view from above of a second embodiment of the connecting element which is the subject of the present invention;

[0046] [Fig.9] shows a rear view from above of the connecting element of [Fig.8];

[0047] [Fig. 10] shows a first example of application of the connecting element of [Fig.8];

[0048] [Fig. 11] shows another different example of application of the connecting element of [Fig.8].

[0049] Detailed description of a preferred embodiment

[0050] With reference to the attached drawings, an exemplary embodiment of the connecting element which is the subject of the present invention has been indicated as a whole by 1.

[0051] The connecting element 1 is intended to be used in mixed structures (such as floors) in order to hold together structural elements of the mixed structure made of different materials.

[0052] As is well known in the construction sector, a mixed structure is understood to mean a structure of a construction (in this case a building) comprising at least one first structural element 101 and at least one second structural element, which are made of different materials and are rigidly fixed together. In particular, the first structural element 101 is generally made of wood (or wood-derived materials), or other materials (also synthetic) whose mechanical properties are similar to those of wood.

[0053] Preferably, the second structural element is made of a casting material, such as concrete, and is cast over the first structural element 101.

[0054] Advantageously, with reference to the examples of figures 6-7 and 10-11, the first structural element 101 is provided with an interface surface 101' to which the second structural element adheres, which is notably achieved by casting its material onto this interface surface 101'.

[0055] A typical example of a mixed structure is a mixed wood-concrete floor where, as is known, the first structural element 101 comprises a beam (as in the examples in the attached figures) and / or a wooden floor, and the second structural element is a concrete slab placed above the beams or floor.

[0056] The connecting element 1 which is the subject of the present invention comprises a main body 2, which is intended to be fixed to the first structural element 101 of the mixed structure, in particular so as to partially project on the interface surface 101' of the first structural element 101 and to be partially integrated into the second structural element (which, as indicated above, is produced by casting) in order to mechanically hold the first structural element 101 to the second structural element.

[0057] As illustrated for example in Figures 1 to 5, the main body 2 comprises a base plate 3 which extends, preferably with an essentially flat shape, between a first edge 3' and a second edge 3” along a direction of development X.

[0058] The base plate 3 is also provided with a lower face 31, intended to rest on the interface surface 101' of the first structural element 101, and an upper face 32 oriented in the direction opposite to the lower face 31 and intended in particular to come into contact with the second structural element.

[0059] Furthermore, the base plate 3 is provided with at least one through hole 4, developing in particular between the upper face 32 and the lower face 31 of the base plate 3, and intended to be passed through by a corresponding retaining screw 102 intended to fix the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101.

[0060] As is known, the retaining screw 102 is provided with a head and a threaded rod extending from said head.

[0061] Advantageously, the threaded rod of the retaining screw 102 is intended to pass through the corresponding through hole 4 of the base plate 3 and to penetrate into the first structural element 101, and the head of the retaining screw 102 is intended to abut against the main body 2 in order to retain the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101.

[0062] The main body 2 also comprises a first retaining tooth 51 and a second retaining tooth 52, which project from the lower face 31 of the base plate 3 and are intended to penetrate into the first structural element 101 in order to retain the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101.

[0063] Advantageously, in this way, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 cooperate with said retaining screw 102 to ensure the fixing of the connecting element 1 which is the subject of the present invention to the first structural element 101.

[0064] Advantageously, with reference for example to [Fig.l], each retaining tooth 51, 52 develops with a conical shape, between a respective base part 512, 522 at which it is fixed to the base plate 3, and a respective free end portion 513, 523 opposite, preferably pointed.

[0065] In this way, when fixing the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101 (for example a wooden beam), the penetration of the retaining teeth 51, 52 into the latter is easy.

[0066] Furthermore, the main body 2 comprises a wing 6, which is placed transversely to the direction of development X of the base plate 3, projects on the upper face 32 of the same base plate 3 and is intended to be integrated into the second structural element of the mixed structure (made, as indicated above, with a casting material) to retain the first structural element 101 and the second structural element between them.

[0067] Functionally, when producing the mixed structure, the main body 2 of the connecting element 1 is fixed to the first structural element 101 by planting, at least partially, said retaining teeth 51, 52 in the interface surface 101' of the latter. In addition, the retaining screw 102 is fixed to the main body 2 as described above.

[0068] For example, the penetration of the retaining teeth 51, 52 into the first structural element 101 may be achieved, in whole or in part, before the application of the retaining screw 102, by pressure exerted by a user manually or by means of a tool (for example a hammer), or such penetration is induced by the progressive screwing of the retaining screw 102 into the first structural element 101.

[0069] In particular, the retaining teeth 51, 52 gradually penetrate inside the first structural element 101, thus ensuring a more stable and more durable fixing between the connecting element 1 and the first structural element 101.

[0070] Following this fixing operation, the wing 6 of the main body 2 of the connecting element 1 projects relative to the interface surface 101' of the first structural element 101 (as shown in particular by the examples of figures 6-7 and 10-11).

[0071] After fixing the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101, the casting (for example of concrete) for the production of the second structural element is carried out. In this way, the second structural element completely encompasses at least the wing 6 of the connecting element 1, thus ensuring a stable and durable fixing between the connecting element 1 and the second structural element.

[0072] Thus, during use, the connecting element 1 is fixed to the first structural element 101 of the mixed structure by means of the retaining screw 102 and the retaining teeth 51, 52, and is at least partially included (in particular at least its wing 6) in the second structural element produced by casting, thus ensuring a stable and durable fixing between the first structural element 101 and the second structural element in order to confer the desired mechanical strength and rigidity to the mixed structure.

[0073] Referring for example to Figures 1 to 5, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 extend with an essentially flattened shape respectively on a first seating plane PI and a second seating plane P2 (illustrated in [Fig.4]), these seating planes PI, P2 being essentially transverse to the base plate 3 (in particular with an inclination less than or equal to 90° relative to the latter).

[0074] According to the idea underlying the present invention, the first seating plane PI of the first retaining tooth 51 and the second seating plane P2 of the second retaining tooth 52 are not coplanar with respect to each other.

[0075] In this document, non-coplanar planes are understood to mean that the first seating plane PI and the second seating plane P2 are two planes distinct from each other, and in particular that they may be two incident planes (as in the examples of the attached figures) or that they may be parallel to each other without coinciding.

[0076] In a known manner, when fixing the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101, the forced penetration of the retaining teeth 51, 52 into the material of the first structural element 101 can induce the formation of corresponding cracks on the latter which, in general, tend to propagate in the material (for example wood) along the seating plane PI, P2 where the retaining teeth 51, 52 which generate them develop.

[0077] However, the non-coplanarity of the seating planes P1, P2 of the retaining teeth 51, 52 of the connecting element 1 which is the subject of the present invention ensures that any cracks created by the retaining teeth 51, 52 themselves are misaligned with each other and, consequently, propagate in the first structural element 101 without any real risk of meeting, thus avoiding the occurrence of a single large crack which could lead to a significant reduction in the retaining force between the retaining teeth 51, 52 and the first structural element 101, thus leading to an overall weakening of the composite structure. This also makes it possible to avoid weakening the first structural element 101.

[0078] According to the embodiments illustrated in the attached figures, the base plate 3, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are manufactured in a single body. In this way, the connecting element 1 is structurally simple and its production is faster and less expensive, which reduces its production cost.

[0079] Preferably, the base plate 3, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are made of a metallic material, advantageously steel.

[0080] Preferably, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are connected to the base plate 3 by means of, respectively, a first fold 511 and a second fold 521. Furthermore, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are advantageously manufactured by a folding process.

[0081] In this way, the base plate 3 and the retaining teeth 51, 52 can be made from a single plate, for example made of metal, which simplifies the production process of the connecting element 1 and therefore reduces its production cost.

[0082] Advantageously, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are positioned at the first edge 3' of the base plate 3.

[0083] Preferably, the base plate 3 extends, transversely to the direction of development X, between two opposite lateral edges 33, 34 connecting the first edge 3' and the second edge 3”.

[0084] Advantageously, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are positioned respectively at the first lateral edge 33 and the second lateral edge 34.

[0085] In this way, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are arranged relative to each other at a distance (transverse in the direction of development X) as large as the transverse extension of the base plate 3 allows, which further reduces the probability that any cracks created by the retaining teeth 51, 52 when penetrating the first structural element 101 will encounter each other.

[0086] Furthermore, since the retaining teeth 51, 52 are made at the lateral edges 33, 34 of the base plate 3, their production, for example by folding, is simple and inexpensive, since it is not necessary to make cuts in the base plate 3, which would be necessary if the retaining teeth 51, 52 were made in a central part of the base plate 3.

[0087] Preferably, the first lateral edge 33 and the second lateral edge 34 of the base plate 3 join the first lateral edge 3' of the base plate 3 respectively at a first vertex and at a second vertex, at the level of which the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 are positioned, respectively.

[0088] With reference to [Fig.4], the first seating plane PI of the first retaining tooth 51 and the second seating plane P2 of the second retaining tooth 52 are advantageously inclined relative to each other.

[0089] Preferably, the first seating plane PI and the second seating plane P2 are inclined relative to the direction of development X of the base plate 3.

[0090] In this way, the retaining teeth 51, 52 can be aligned with each other transversely to the direction of development X, while maintaining the non-coplanarity of the corresponding seating planes PI, P2.

[0091] Advantageously, with reference to [Fig.4], the first seat plane PI and the second seat plane P2 respectively define, with the direction of development X, a first angle a1 and a second angle a2, oriented towards the second edge 3” of the base plate 3 and each having an amplitude less than 90°.

[0092] In this way, the seating planes PI, P2 of the retaining teeth 51, 52 move away from each other following the direction of development X from the first edge 3' towards the second edge 3” of the base plate 3, which ensures that, in the event that, during the penetration of the retaining teeth 51, 52 into the first structural element 101, any cracks created by the retaining teeth 51, 52 propagate outside the part of the first structural element 101 to which the base plate 3 is fixed, and thus preventing these cracks from reaching the retaining screw 102 screwed into the first structural element 101 compromising the fixing of the connecting element 1 to the latter.

[0093] Advantageously, the first angle a1 and the second angle a2 have an amplitude less than or equal to 60°, preferably approximately 45°.

[0094] Preferably, the first seating plane PI of the first retaining tooth 51 and the second bearing plane P2 of the second retaining tooth 52 respectively define, with the lower face 31 of the base plate 3, a first inclination angle [31 and a second inclination angle [32 having an amplitude less than or equal to 90°.

[0095] In the particular examples illustrated in the attached figures, the angles of inclination [31 and [32 are essentially 90°.

[0096] Advantageously, in the case (not illustrated) where the first inclination angle [31 and / or the second inclination angle [32 have an amplitude less than 90°, the corresponding retaining tooth 51, 52 defines with the lower face 31 of the base plate an undercut inside which a corresponding undercut portion of the first structural element 101 is intended to be arranged when the connecting element 1 is fixed thereto. In this way, the undercut defined by the corresponding retaining tooth 51, 52 ensures a more stable fixing between the connecting element 1 and the first structural element 101 of the mixed structure.

[0097] Preferably, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 (and in particular their seating planes P1, P2) are the reflection of each other with respect to the direction of development X of the base plate 3. In particular, reflection with respect to the direction of development X is understood to mean that they are symmetrical with respect to a plane parallel to the axis of development X and perpendicular to the base plate 3.

[0098] With reference to the embodiments described in the attached figures, the connecting element 1 advantageously comprises a third retaining tooth 53, which projects from the lower face 31 of the base plate 3 and which is intended to penetrate in the first structural element 101 to retain the connecting element 1 thereto. In this way, the third retaining tooth 53 cooperates with the retaining screw 102, the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52 to fix the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101, thus ensuring a more stable and durable fixing.

[0099] Preferably, the third retaining tooth 53 extends, with an essentially plate-like shape, on a third seating plane P3 inclined relative to the first seating plane PI of the first retaining tooth 51 and to the second seating plane P2 of the second retaining tooth 52.

[0100] Advantageously, the first seating plane PI, the second seating plane P2 and the third seating plane P3 are not coplanar with each other. In this way, it is less likely that any cracks created on the first structural element 101 by the retaining teeth 51, 52, 53 during their penetration into the first structural element 101 will meet and give rise to a single large crack.

[0101] Advantageously, the third seating plane P3 is essentially orthogonal to the direction of development X of the base plate 3.

[0102] Preferably, the third retaining tooth 53 is positioned at the first edge 3' of the base plate 3.

[0103] In this way, the retaining teeth 51, 52, 53 are aligned with each other transversely to the direction of development X, while maintaining non-coplanarity between the respective seating planes PI, P2, P3 on which they develop.

[0104] Advantageously, the third retaining tooth 53 is arranged essentially between the first retaining tooth 51 and the second retaining tooth 52, preferably in an intermediate position between the lateral edges 33, 34 of the base plate 3.

[0105] Preferably, the third retaining tooth 53 and the base plate 3 are advantageously made of a single body made of metallic material, preferably steel.

[0106] Advantageously, the third retaining tooth 53 is connected to the base plate 3 by a third fold 531. Preferably, the third retaining tooth 53 is produced by folding. In this way, the base plate 3 and the third retaining tooth 53 can be manufactured from a single plate, for example made of metal, which simplifies the production process of the connecting element 1 and therefore reduces its production cost.

[0107] Advantageously, said wing 6 of the main body 2 of the connecting element 1 is positioned at the level of the second edge 3” of the base plate 3.

[0108] In this way, when fixing the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101 of the mixed structure, a user can exert pressure by hand or using a tool (for example a hammer) on the first edge 3' of the base plate 3 where at least the first 51 and the second retaining tooth 51, 52 are arranged, without damaging the wing 6.

[0109] Advantageously, as can be seen for example in Figures 1, 3 and 5, the wing 6 is provided with an engagement section 61, which defines, with the upper face 32 of the base plate 3, an orientation angle y oriented towards the first edge 3' of the base plate 3 and having a lower inclination of 90°. Preferably, the engagement section 61 is of essentially flat shape and has an inner face 611 facing the upper face 32 of the base plate 3, as well as an opposite outer face 612.

[0110] Preferably, the engagement section 61 (and in particular its internal face 611) of the wing 6 defines, with the upper face 32 of the base plate 3, a retaining housing 64 inside which a corresponding undercut portion of the second structural element of the mixed structure is intended to be arranged after the latter has been cast. In this way, said retaining housing 64 ensures a more stable fixing between the connecting element 1 and the second structural element 101 of the mixed structure.

[0111] Advantageously, the engagement section 61 of the wing 6 is provided with at least one engagement hole 62 having an insertion axis orthogonal to the same engagement section 61 and capable of being passed through by the retaining screw 102 along the same insertion axis.

[0112] Preferably, said through hole 4 of the base plate 3 comprises at least one passage opening 41 which intercepts the insertion axis of the corresponding engagement hole 62 to be crossed by the retaining screw 102 inserted in the engagement hole 62.

[0113] In this way, when the connecting element 1 is fixed to the first structural element 101, the retaining screw 102, and in particular its threaded rod, is designed to pass through the engagement hole 62 and the corresponding passage opening 41 made on the base plate 3, and is screwed to the first structural element 101 of the mixed structure. Preferably, in such a situation, the head of the retaining screw 102 is arranged in abutment on the engagement section 61 (in particular on its external face 612) in order to retain the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101 (as illustrated in the examples of FIGS. 6 and 10).

[0114] According to a first embodiment of the connecting element 1 shown in Figures 1 to 7, the engagement section 61 of the wing 6 comprises only one engagement hole 62 and the base plate 3 comprises only one corresponding passage opening 41, in order to allow the application of a single retaining screw 102.

[0115] Advantageously, the engagement hole 62 and the corresponding passage opening 41 are arranged in an intermediate position between the lateral edges 33, 34. In this way, the stress exerted by the head of the retaining screw 102 during the fixing of the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101 is distributed symmetrically over the engagement section 61 of the wing 6, thus avoiding any undesirable deformation of the latter.

[0116] According to a second embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11, the engagement section 61 of the wing 6 comprises several engagement holes 62 (advantageously two) and the base plate 3 comprises several corresponding passage openings 41 (advantageously two), each being aligned with respect to the insertion axis of the corresponding engagement hole 62.

[0117] Preferably, each engagement hole 62 and the passage opening 41 are intended to be traversed by a corresponding retaining screw 102. In this way, several retaining screws 102 can be applied to the connecting element 1.

[0118] Advantageously, the engagement holes 62 are aligned transversely to the direction of development X (and in the same way the passage openings 41). Preferably, the engagement holes 62 are mirror-image relative to the direction of development X (as are the passage openings 41). In this way, the stress exerted by the head of each retaining screw 102 when fixing the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101 is distributed symmetrically over the engagement section 61 of the wing 6, thus avoiding any undesirable deformation of the latter.

[0119] Preferably, the passage opening 41 is closer to the second edge 3” of the base plate 3 than to the first edge 3” of the latter.

[0120] Advantageously, the passage opening 41 develops, preferably with an essentially rectangular shape, along the direction of development X, between a front edge 411, closer to the first edge 3' of the base plate 3, and a rear edge 412, closer to the second edge 3” of the base plate 3.

[0121] Preferably, the main body 2 comprises at least one tab 7 which develops, advantageously with an essentially flattened shape, from the front edge 411 of the passage opening 41, projecting on the upper face 32 of the base plate 3, towards the wing 6, with a direction of extension W essentially parallel to the insertion axis of the engagement hole 62.

[0122] Preferably, when several passage openings 41 are provided, the main body 2 comprises a tab 7 for each passage opening 41.

[0123] Thus, when fixing the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101 of the mixed structure, the tab 7 acts as a “guide” for screwing the corresponding retaining screw 102, so that the latter is correctly aligned with respect to the insertion axis of the corresponding engagement hole 62.

[0124] Advantageously, the tab 7 is intended to receive in abutment a section of the threaded rod of the retaining screw 102.

[0125] In this way, in the case where the mixed structure undergoes a tangential stress (in particular along an axis parallel to the development axis X of the base plate 3), the tongue 7 is capable of deforming elastically by coming into abutment with the threaded rod of the retaining screw 102, thus increasing the resistance of the connecting element 1 and, consequently, of the mixed structure with respect to said tangential stress.

[0126] According to the embodiments shown in the attached figures, the tongue 7 and the base plate 3 are manufactured in a single body. Preferably, the tongue 7 is produced by folding.

[0127] Advantageously, the tongue 7 develops along the direction of extension W between a constrained end 72, at which it is connected to the base plate 3, and an opposite free end 71.

[0128] With reference to [Fig.5], the free end 71 of the tongue 7 is preferably arranged under the wing 6 (in particular under its engagement section 61), between the wing 6 and the upper face 32 of the base plate 3.

[0129] Advantageously, the free end 71 of the tongue 7 is arranged at a distance (measured along the direction of extension W) from the internal face 611 of the engagement section 61 of the wing 6 which is less than the length of the tongue 7 (measured along the axis of extension W), so that the free end 71 of the tongue 7 is located “near” the engagement section 61 of the wing 6.

[0130] In this way, the tab 7 is provided to guide the retaining screw 102 as soon as it passes through the engagement hole 62 of the wing 6, so as to prevent the retaining screw 102, during its initial engagement in the first structural element 101, from slipping into an incorrect position and consequently causing the connecting element 1 to be incorrectly positioned relative to its desired position.

[0131] Advantageously, as illustrated, for example, in [Fig. 5], the wing 6 comprises a lower section 63 which develops, essentially orthogonally to the upper face 32 of the base plate 3, between a first end 631, fixed to the base plate 3, and a second opposite end 632 from which the engagement section 61 develops. This configuration allows in particular the free end 71 of the tongue 7 to be arranged particularly close to the section engagement section 61 of the wing 6, while maintaining the desired inclination of said engagement section 102 and, consequently, of the retaining screw 102.

[0132] Preferably, the lower section 63 of the wing 6 is connected to the base plate 3, in particular at its first end 631, by a fourth fold.

[0133] Advantageously, the engagement section 61 of the wing 6 is connected to the lower section 63 of the wing 6, in particular at the level of the second end 632 of the latter, by a fifth fold.

[0134] Preferably, the wing 6 and the base plate 3 are manufactured in a single body, for example by folding.

[0135] Advantageously, the main body 2 of the connecting element 1 consists of a part, for example obtained by cutting and / or folding from a single metal plate.

[0136] Advantageously, the through hole 4 of the base plate 3 comprises at least one retaining hole 42 having an axis orthogonal to the base plate 3 for inserting said retaining screw 102 into the retaining hole 42, orthogonally to the base plate 3, as illustrated, for example, in the examples of Figures 7 and 11.

[0137] Preferably, the threaded rod of the retaining screw 102 is intended to pass through the retaining hole 42 and to be screwed into the first structural element 101, and the head of the retaining screw 102 is capable of resting on the base plate 3 (preferably on its upper face 32) to retain the connecting element 1 to the first structural element 101 of the mixed structure.

[0138] According to the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7, the base plate 3 is provided with a single retaining hole 42 aligned with the engagement hole 62 of the engagement section 61 of the wing 6 and with the passage opening 41 of the base plate 3.

[0139] According to the second embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11, the base plate 3 is provided with several retaining holes 42 (advantageously two), each being aligned with a corresponding engagement hole 62 of the engagement section 61 of the wing 6 and with a corresponding passage opening 41 of the base plate 3.

[0140] The invention thus conceived therefore achieves the intended objectives.

Claims

Claims

1. Connection element (1) for mixed structures, which comprises a main body (2) intended to be fixed to a first structural element (101) of a mixed structure, this main body (2) comprising: • a base plate (3), which: • extends, along a direction of development (X), between a first edge (3') and a second edge (3”); • is provided with a lower face (31), intended to rest against said first structural element (101), and an upper face (32) oriented in the direction opposite to said lower face (31); • is provided with at least one through-hole (4) intended to be crossed by a corresponding retaining screw (102) for the purpose of fixing said connection element (1) to said first structural element (101);• a first retaining tooth (51) and a second retaining tooth (52), which project from the lower face (31) of said base plate (3), extend respectively, with a flattened shape, on a first seating plane (PI) and on a second seating plane (P2), and are capable of penetrating into said first structural element (101) in order to retain said connecting element (1) to said first structural element (101); • a wing (6), which is placed transversely to said direction of development (X), projects from the upper face (32) of said base plate (3) and is intended to be integrated into a second structural element of said mixed structure made of a casting material to retain said first structural element (101) and said second structural element between them;said connecting element (1) being characterized in that said first seating plane (PI) and said second seating plane (P2) are not coplanar with each other.;

2. A connecting element according to claim 1, characterized in that said first retaining tooth (51) and said second tooth retaining elements (52) are positioned at the first edge (3') of said base plate (3).

3. A connecting element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said base plate (3) extends, transversely to said direction of development (X), between two opposite lateral edges (33, 34) connecting said first edge (3') and said second edge (3”); wherein said first retaining tooth (51) and said second retaining tooth (52) are positioned, respectively, at said first lateral edge (33) and said second lateral edge (34).

4. Connecting element according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first seating plane (PI) of said first retaining tooth (51) and the second seating plane (P2) of said second retaining tooth (52) are inclined relative to each other.

5. Connection element according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that said first seating plane (PI) and said second seating plane (P2) are inclined relative to the direction of development (X) of said base plate (3).

6. Connection element according to claim 5, characterized in that said first seating plane (PI) and said second seating plane (P2) respectively define, with said direction of development (X), a first angle (al) and a second angle (a2), oriented towards the second edge (3”) of said base plate (3) and each having an amplitude less than 90°.

7. Connecting element according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first seating plane (PI) of said first retaining tooth (51) and the second seating plane (P2) of said second retaining tooth (52) respectively define, with the lower face (31) of said base plate (3), a first angle of inclination ([31) and a second angle of inclination ([32) of an amplitude less than or equal to 90°.

8. A connecting element according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it comprises a third retaining tooth (53), which projects from the lower face (31) of said base plate (3) and which is intended to penetrate into said first structural element (101) in order to retain said connecting element (1) to said first structural element (101); wherein said third retaining tooth (53) extends, with a plate shape, on a third seating plane (P3) inclined relative to said first seating plane (PI) and said second seating plane (P2).

9. A connecting element according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that said wing (6) is provided with at least one engagement section (61) which defines, with the upper face (32) of said base plate (3), an orientation angle (y) directed towards the first edge (3') of said base plate (3) and having a lower inclination of 90°, and is provided with at least one engagement hole (62) having an insertion axis orthogonal to said engagement section (61) and capable of being traversed by said retaining screw (102) along said insertion axis; wherein said at least one through hole (4) of said base plate (3) comprises at least one passage opening (41) which intercepts the insertion axis of said engagement hole (62) to be traversed by said retaining screw (102) inserted in said engagement hole (62).

10. A connecting element according to claim 9, characterized in that said passage opening (41) is closer to the second edge (3”) of said base plate (3) than to said first edge (3').

11. A connecting element according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that said passage opening (41) develops, along said direction of development (X), between a front edge (411), closer to the first edge (3') of said base plate (3), and a rear edge (412), closer to the second edge (3”) of said base plate (3); wherein said main body (2) comprises at least one tab (7) which projects, from the front edge (411) of said passage opening (41), on the upper face (32) of said base plate (3), towards said wing (6), with a direction of extension (W) parallel to the insertion axis of said engagement hole (62), and which is intended to receive in abutment a section of a threaded rod of said retaining screw (102).

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