Female coupler and assembly

Abstract

A female coupler adapted to receive a male coupler having at least one lateral pin, the female coupler having a cavity having an opening for receiving the male coupler, and at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, the cavity having at least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral hole, the surface being when the male coupler is in the receiving position A female coupler further comprising: at least one first alignment portion fitted to bias one corresponding of at least one lateral pin toward one corresponding of at least one hole as it moves toward a position; and at least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry fitted to bias one corresponding at least one lateral pin toward one corresponding of at least one first alignment portion as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a female coupler adapted to receive, align, and orient a male coupler. The present invention has specific but non-exclusive applications for joining and / or applying tension to precast concrete structural elements. This patent specification describes this use, which is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to this use.

Background Art

[0002] In the construction industry, the construction of structures typically involves the assembly of a plurality of individual components that are fixed together to form a combined whole. For example, the walls of a building are often constructed from concrete parts that need to be joined together, which requires processes such as pretensioning or post-tensioning to ensure stability and strength. Couplers are commonly used to facilitate the joining and reinforcement of these structural elements. These couplers play an important role when mechanically connecting various components using advanced joining or reinforcement construction techniques.

[0003] Despite their extensive use, connection points for structural elements frequently pose challenges due to their tendency to be located in areas that are difficult to visualize or access. This low visibility complicates the process of achieving proper alignment between structural elements. In such scenarios, it has been found to be particularly difficult to identify, evaluate, and correct defects resulting from misalignment. The difficulties associated with correcting these problems often lead to increased costs, extended timeframes, and significant resource expenditures. Furthermore, the inability to properly connect and secure structural elements can have a profound impact on the integrity and safety of the entire construction project.

[0004] A notable example of a known structural coupling means is detailed in International Publication No. 2021243414, “A coupler assembly.” This document describes a coupler assembly comprising a male coupler with a lateral pin and a female coupler designed to receive the male coupler, the female coupler having a lateral bore specifically adapted to accommodate the lateral pin. When the coupler assembly is engaged, it provides a secure connection between structural elements, even in situations where the connection point is difficult to see. However, despite the secure connection provided by this assembly, significant challenges still exist in connecting and aligning the male and female couplers, particularly when they are in areas that are difficult to see or access. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2021243414 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] The object of the present invention is to overcome or at least mitigate one or more of the above-mentioned problems relating to bonding structures, and / or to provide consumers with useful or commercial alternatives. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the present invention is widely present in a female coupler adapted to accept a male coupler having at least one transverse pin, and the female coupler is A cavity having an opening for receiving a male coupler, A male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of at least one lateral holes, the surface being adapted to bias one of at least one corresponding lateral pin toward one of at least one corresponding lateral hole as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position. It also possesses.

[0008] Preferably, the radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion on the cross-section is smaller than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first alignment portion on the cross-section. Preferably, the smaller the radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion, the more pronounced the lateral bias of at least one transverse pin becomes, which allows at least one transverse pin to enter the first alignment portion.

[0009] Preferably, the curved portion of at least one first alignment portion is curved around an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler.

[0010] Preferably, the curved portion of at least one second alignment portion is curved around an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler.

[0011] Preferably, the opening has a fillet or chamfer around at least a portion of its periphery. In one embodiment, when the male coupler has a curved surface on the bottom leading edge of one of the at least one transverse pins and the female coupler has a fillet or chamfer around at least a portion of the periphery of the opening, when the male coupler is inserted into the female coupler, the curved edge of one of the at least one transverse pins contacts the filleted or chamfered opening. Preferably, when the male coupler is inserted into the female coupler, the curved edge of one of the at least one transverse pins contacts the filleted or chamfered opening to align the male coupler with the female coupler.

[0012] Preferably, the coupler assembly is used in work to join structural components and / or tension them. Preferably, the female coupler may be used in work to join concrete structural components and / or tension them.

[0013] Preferably, the female coupler is used to connect structural components such as wires, bars, and frames made of metal, polymer, plastic, or composite material. Preferably, the structural components are of a size, shape, and configuration suitable for use in the construction of reinforced concrete structures.

[0014] Preferably, the female coupler is manufactured from any suitable material. Preferably, the female coupler is manufactured from metal, either partially or entirely. Preferably, the female coupler is manufactured from high-tensile steel, either partially or entirely. More preferably, the female coupler is manufactured from 4140T high-tensile steel, either partially or entirely. Alternatively, the female coupler is manufactured from stainless steel, either partially or entirely. Alternatively, the female coupler is manufactured from polymer, plastic, or composite material, either partially or entirely.

[0015] Preferably, the female coupler is manufactured by any suitable means, including, but not limited to, casting, forming, cutting, molding, joining, forging, friction welding, 3D printing, or any suitable combination thereof. In one embodiment, the female coupler or a part thereof may undergo one or more finishing processes during manufacturing, including, but not limited to, machining, threading, boring, drilling, chamfering, knurling, grinding, heat treatment, electroplating, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0016] Preferably, one of at least one lateral pin is received in a corresponding hole of at least one such hole, so that the lateral pin restricts the lateral and / or transverse movement of the male and female couplers relative to each other.

[0017] Preferably, the cavity restricts the lateral movement of the male coupler during insertion into the female coupler and / or while it is being accepted by the female coupler.

[0018] In one embodiment, the inclination of the first alignment portion assists the lateral movement of at least one lateral pin.

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

[0020] Preferably, the inclination of the first alignment portion assists in positioning the male coupler within the female coupler.

[0021] Preferably, the coupler has at least one proper alignment between the male coupler and the female coupler, and one of the at least one lateral pin is received in a corresponding one of the at least one lateral hole. Preferably, the first alignment portion and the second alignment portion enable the coupler to correct misalignment. More preferably, the first alignment portion and the second alignment portion enable the coupler to correct misalignment by biasing at least one lateral pin towards a corresponding one of the at least one lateral holes.

[0022] Preferably, when the lateral pin is in the first alignment portion, the surface of the first alignment portion biases one of the at least one lateral pins towards a corresponding one of the at least one lateral holes.

[0023] Preferably, when the lateral pin is in the second alignment portion and thus the misalignment is more severe, the surface of the second alignment portion biases the lateral pin towards the first alignment portion.

[0024] In one embodiment, the female coupler and / or the male coupler are lubricated to facilitate the movement of the contacting parts.

[0025] In one embodiment, the female coupler and / or the male coupler are treated with a roughening substance to limit the movement of the contacting parts.

[0026] Preferably, at least one lateral pin has a retracted position and an extended position, and at least one lateral pin is biased to the extended position. Preferably, at least one lateral pin is biased to the extended position by a biasing member. Preferably, the biasing member is a spring. Preferably, the spring is made from a 1 mm to 2 mm thick stainless steel 304 wire. More preferably, the spring is made from a 1.2 mm thick stainless steel 304 wire. Preferably, at least one lateral pin is biased to the extended position by a force of 10 to 100 Newtons. More preferably, at least one lateral pin is biased to the extended position by a force of 20 to 50 Newtons. In another embodiment, at least one lateral pin is biased to the extended position by a force of 60 to 180 Newtons. In another embodiment, at least one lateral pin is biased to the extended position by a force of 100 to 900 Newtons.

[0027] In one embodiment, the male coupler has retraction means adapted to move at least one lateral pin to a retracted position, thereby enabling controlled removal of the male coupler from the female coupler.

[0028] Preferably, when the male coupler is in the receiving position, each of the at least one lateral pins is in the extended position, and each of the at least one lateral pins is received and held in one of the corresponding lateral holes of the at least one lateral hole.

[0029] In one embodiment, the male coupler includes a locking mechanism to prevent at least one lateral pin from moving to the retracted position. Preferably, the locking mechanism is a lock nut. Preferably, when in use, the lock nut is fitted to bias the male and female couplers separately and engage at least one lateral pin with at least one lateral hole. Preferably, the engagement of at least one lateral pin with at least one lateral hole prevents at least one lateral pin from moving to the retracted position.

[0030] Preferably, the female coupler is adapted to move at least one lateral pin to a retracted position as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position.

[0031] Preferably, at least one second alignment portion has a curved and inclined surface geometry. Preferably, the curve of at least one second alignment portion assists the rotational movement of at least one lateral pin. Preferably, the inclination of at least one second alignment portion assists the lateral movement of at least one lateral pin. Preferably, the inclination of at least one second alignment portion assists the positioning of the male coupler within the female coupler.

[0032] Preferably, at least one first alignment portion and / or at least one second alignment portion are adjacent to the opening. In one embodiment, at least one first alignment portion and / or at least one second alignment portion are adjacent to the opening. In an alternative embodiment, at least one first alignment portion and / or at least one second alignment portion are positioned outward from the opening and further enter into the female coupler.

[0033] Preferably, the cavity further has at least one third alignment portion for biasing a corresponding first or second lateral pin toward the nearest of at least one second alignment portion. Preferably, the at least one third alignment portion has an angled surface. In one embodiment, the at least one third alignment portion has a curved surface.

[0034] Preferably, the female coupler has a substantially cylindrical body.

[0035] Preferably, the male coupler has a substantially cylindrical body.

[0036] Preferably, the female coupler has two first alignment portions. Preferably, each first alignment portion is adjacent to an opening. Preferably, the female coupler has two first alignment portions facing each other. Preferably, the female coupler has four second alignment portions. Preferably, each second alignment portion is adjacent to an opening. Preferably, each second alignment portion is adjacent to one first alignment portion. Preferably, the female coupler has two third alignment portions. Preferably, each third alignment portion is adjacent to an opening. Preferably, the female coupler has two third alignment portions facing each other. Preferably, the female coupler has two third alignment portions, each third alignment portion is adjacent to two second alignment portions.

[0037] In an alternative embodiment, the female coupler has four third alignment portions, each of which is adjacent to one second alignment portion.

[0038] Preferably, the female coupler has two lateral holes extending laterally from the cavity and facing each other. More preferably, both lateral holes share a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler.

[0039] Preferably, at least one of the first, second, and / or third alignment portions is angled substantially between 5 and 50 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler. More preferably, at least one of the first, second, and / or third alignment portions is angled substantially between 15 and 35 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler. More preferably, at least one of the first, second, and / or third alignment portions is angled substantially between 25 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler.

[0040] Preferably, the opening has a substantially circular cross-sectional area. In one embodiment, the opening has a substantially stadium-shaped cross-sectional area. A stadium, also known as an obround, is a rectangle with two semicircular ends.

[0041] Preferably, one surface of at least one first alignment portion and one adjacent surface of at least one second alignment portion are such that at least one lateral pin can smoothly move between the portions. Preferably, one surface of at least one second alignment portion and one adjacent surface of at least one third alignment portion are such that at least one lateral pin can smoothly move between the portions.

[0042] Preferably, the female coupler has a connector for connecting the female coupler to a joining component, tensioning component, or structural component. Preferably, the joining component or tensioning component is a rod, frame, wire, or anchor of a system for joining and / or tensioning a structural component. More preferably, the female coupler has a connector having a threaded portion adapted for fastening to a joining component, tensioning component, or structural component. In one embodiment, the female coupler is attachable to a stranded wire. In one embodiment, the male coupler is attachable to a stranded wire.

[0043] Preferably, the female coupler has a rim defined by a cavity and one of at least one first alignment portion. Preferably, the rim has an adjacent channel. Preferably, the channel is curved. The channel can assist in receiving a lateral pin so as to align longitudinally with one of at least one lateral hole.

[0044] Preferably, at least one second alignment portion and an adjacent first alignment portion define a transition boundary where the surface of at least one second alignment portion transitions to the surface of the adjacent first alignment portion. Preferably, the coupler has a channel extending along the transition boundary. Preferably, the channel is angled substantially between 5 and 50 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler. Preferably, the channel has a smaller angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler than either the at least one second alignment portion or the adjacent first alignment portion.

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

[0046] Preferably, the cavity further includes a body portion for housing at least a portion of the male coupler. Preferably, at least one first alignment portion and at least one second alignment portion extend outward from the body portion. Preferably, the body portion is substantially cylindrical. Preferably, the body portion is cylindrical. Preferably, two lateral holes extend laterally from the body portion. Preferably, a rim is defined between the body portion and one of the at least one first alignment portion. More preferably, the rim is defined between the body portion and one of the at least one first alignment portion and one of the at least one second alignment portion.

[0047] In another embodiment, the present invention is A male coupler having at least one lateral pin, Female coupler and Widely present in coupler assemblies, including female couplers, A cavity having an opening for receiving a male coupler, A male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of at least one lateral holes, the surface being adapted to bias one of at least one corresponding lateral pin toward one of at least one corresponding hole as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position. It also possesses.

[0048] Preferably, the radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion on the cross-section is smaller than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first alignment portion on the cross-section. Preferably, the smaller the radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion, the more pronounced the lateral bias of at least one transverse pin becomes, which allows at least one transverse pin to enter the first alignment portion.

[0049] Preferably, the curved portion of the surface of at least one first alignment portion has a larger radius of curvature than the curved portion of the surface of at least one second alignment portion.

[0050] Preferably, at least one lateral pin has a pin end.

[0051] Preferably, the pin ends have a first side and a second side, each side of which is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the male coupler and coaxial with the longitudinal axis of at least one transverse pin.

[0052] Preferably, at least one pin end is curved. More preferably, the curved end has a first curved surface and a second curved surface.

[0053] Preferably, the first curved surface is convex.

[0054] Preferably, the curved portion of the first curved surface is curved around an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the male coupler.

[0055] Preferably, the first curved surface curves inward toward the body of the male coupler on both the first and second sides, from the outermost point of the pin end on a plane coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the male coupler and the longitudinal axis of the transverse pin. Preferably, the curved portion of the first curved surface on the first side is in a mirror image relationship with the curved portion of the first curved surface on the second side, which lies along a plane coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the male coupler and the longitudinal axis of the transverse pin.

[0056] Preferably, the curved portion of the first curved surface has a smaller radius of curvature than the curved portion of the surface of at least one first alignment portion. Preferably, the curved portion of the first curved surface has a larger radius of curvature than the curved portion of the surface of at least one second alignment portion.

[0057] Preferably, the curved portion of the first curved surface is such that, when at least one of the lateral pins is in contact with the second alignment portion, less than half the length of the curved surface is in contact with the second alignment portion. Preferably, the curved portion of the first curved surface is such that, when at least one of the lateral pins is in contact with the second alignment portion, only one of the first or second sides of the lateral pin is in contact with the second alignment portion.

[0058] Preferably, the curved portion of the first curved surface is such that when at least one of the lateral pins is in contact with the first alignment portion, both the first and second sides of the lateral pin are in contact with the first alignment portion.

[0059] Preferably, the second curved surface is convex.

[0060] Preferably, the curved portion of the second curved surface curves around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the male coupler. Preferably, the curved portion of the second curved surface curves around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of at least one transverse pin.

[0061] Preferably, the second curved surface curves inward from the outermost point of the pin end toward the body of the male coupler. Preferably, the point of the second curved surface closest to the central longitudinal axis of the male coupler is on the side of the male coupler that is shown on the female coupler. More preferably, the point of the second curved surface closest to the central longitudinal axis of the male coupler is on the side of the male coupler that is shown on the female coupler, and therefore, when the male coupler is to be inserted into the female coupler, the male coupler exhibits a smaller cross-section toward the female coupler.

[0062] Preferably, when the male coupler is inserted into the female coupler, the second curved surface helps to position the male coupler within the female coupler.

[0063] Preferably, when the male coupler is inserted into the female coupler, the second curved surface contacts the wall of the cavity of the female coupler.

[0064] Preferably, at least one lateral pin has a retracted position and an extended position, and at least one lateral pin is biased to the extended position. Preferably, the second curved surface helps to push at least one lateral pin to the retracted position.

[0065] Preferably, the side of the pin end of at least one lateral pin opposite the second curved surface is not curved and therefore resists removal of the male coupler from the female coupler. In a preferred embodiment, since the side of the pin end of at least one lateral pin opposite the second curved surface is not curved, when at least one lateral pin is received in at least one lateral hole, attempting to pull the male coupler out of the female coupler does not push the at least one lateral pin into a retracted position.

[0066] Preferably, the pin end on the opposite side of the second curved surface is not curved, and therefore, when the male coupler is pulled out of the female coupler, the lateral pin needs to be retracted more.

[0067] In another aspect, the present invention is widely present in systems for joining structural components and / or applying tension thereto, and the system is at least one coupler assembly Each coupler assembly includes, A male coupler having at least one lateral pin, Female coupler and The female coupler includes, A cavity having an opening for receiving a male coupler, A male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of at least one lateral holes, the surface being adapted to bias one of at least one corresponding lateral pin toward one of at least one corresponding lateral hole as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position, Fixed to the first structural component, and the first anchor to the male coupler, It is fixed to the second structural component and the second anchor to the female coupler and The coupler assembly further comprises at least one coupler assembly that joins a first structural component and a second structural component and / or applies tension to them.

[0068] Preferably, at least one coupler assembly is connected to a first anchor and / or a second anchor by at least one rod.

[0069] Preferably, the structural components are made primarily of concrete.

[0070] Preferably, at least one coupler assembly is used to pre-tension at least one reinforced concrete structural component.

[0071] Preferably, at least one coupler assembly is used to introduce tension to at least one reinforced concrete structural component afterwards.

[0072] In one embodiment, the first anchor is formed integrally with the male coupler, and the second anchor is formed integrally with the female coupler.

[0073] In another aspect, the present invention is widely available as a method for joining structural components and / or applying tension thereto, and this method The steps include fixing the first anchor to the first structural component, The steps include fixing the second anchor to the second structural component, The first step is to connect the anchor to the male coupler, The steps include connecting a second anchor to a female coupler having a cavity adapted to receive a male coupler, The steps include: receiving the male coupler into the female coupler such that the male coupler is guided into a receiving position where at least one lateral pin of the male coupler is received in a corresponding one of at least one lateral holes in the female coupler; The device includes a first alignment portion of the cavity, which has a curved and inclined surface that converges toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral pins as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, and the first alignment portion has a curved and inclined surface that converges toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral hole.

[0074] Preferably, when at least one lateral pin is in the first alignment portion, the surface of the first alignment portion biases the at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one lateral holes.

[0075] Preferably, as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, one of the corresponding lateral pins is biased toward one of the corresponding lateral pins by one of the corresponding lateral pins of at least one lateral pin of the cavity, which has a curved and inclined surface. Preferably, when the lateral pin reaches the lateral pin of the first lateral pin, the lateral pin is biased toward one of the corresponding lateral pins of at least one hole.

[0076] Preferably, when one of the at least one lateral pins is located on one of the at least one second alignment portion, the surface of the second alignment portion biases the at least one lateral pin toward the first alignment portion, and then further biases the at least one lateral pin toward the corresponding lateral hole.

[0077] Preferably, a method for joining structural components and / or applying tension to them is used to pre-tension at least one reinforced concrete structural component.

[0078] Preferably, the method for joining structural components and / or applying tension to them is used to introduce tension to at least one reinforced concrete structural component after the fact.

[0079] In a further embodiment, the present invention is widely present in female couplers adapted to accept male couplers having at least one transverse pin, and the female coupler is A cavity having an opening for receiving a male coupler, A male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of at least one lateral holes, the surface being adapted to bias one of at least one corresponding lateral pin toward one of at least one corresponding lateral hole as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position. The cavity further includes a cylindrical portion for housing at least a portion of a male coupler, with at least one first alignment portion and at least one second alignment portion extending outward from the cylindrical portion. Preferably, the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion forms a channel adjacent to the boundary between at least one second alignment portion and the cylindrical portion and extending toward at least one first alignment portion.

[0080] In another embodiment, the present invention is widely present in female couplers adapted to accept male couplers having at least one transverse pin, and the female coupler is A cavity having an opening for receiving a male coupler, A male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of at least one lateral holes, the surface being adapted to bias one of at least one corresponding lateral pin toward one of at least one corresponding lateral hole as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to bias a corresponding at least one lateral pin toward a corresponding one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward a receiving position. The cavity further includes a body portion for housing at least a portion of a male coupler, with at least one first alignment portion and at least one second alignment portion extending outward from the body portion.

[0081] Features described in relation to one aspect of the invention also apply to all other aspects of the invention, where applicable. Furthermore, different combinations of the described features are described herein and claimed, even if not explicitly stated otherwise.

[0082] To make the present invention more easily understandable, references are made here to the accompanying drawings illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0083] [Figure 1] This is a detailed perspective view of a female coupler according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a top view of the female coupler. [Figure 3] This is a top view of the female coupler in Figure 1, which has grid lines. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a side view of the female coupler. [Figure 5] This is a cross-section in AA. [Figure 6] This is a cross-section at BB. [Figure 7] Figure 1 is an exploded assembly diagram of the female and male couplers. [Figure 8] This is a side view of the female and male coupler assembly shown in Figure 1, with anchors at each end. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view taken using CC. [Figure 10] This is a partial perspective view of a female coupler according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0084] Referring to Figures 1 to 6, a female coupler 10 according to a preferred embodiment of one aspect of the present invention is shown.

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

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

[0087] The cavity 22 has two first alignment portions 30A, 30B adjacent to the opening 24 and positioned opposite each other. The cavity 22 has two third alignment portions 50, 52 adjacent to the opening 24 and positioned opposite each other. The cavity 22 has four second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B adjacent to the opening 24, each second alignment portion adjacent to one first alignment portion and one third alignment portion.

[0088] Figures 1 and 3 show alignment portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B, 50, and 52 marked with grid lines 90 to clarify the depiction of the surface of cavity 22. Figure 3 shows a magnified projection of grid lines 90 representing the inclined portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, and 42B shown in Figure 1 to clarify the depiction of the surface of cavity 22.

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

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

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

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

[0093] The lateral pin is preferably pressed sufficiently to maintain contact with the alignment portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B, 50, 52, and thus facilitates the rotation of the male coupler toward the receiving position. The force on the lateral pin may be sufficient to provide the driving force necessary to move the lateral pin along the curved and / or inclined surfaces of the alignment portions 30A, 30B, 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B, 50, 52.

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

[0095] Viewed from above, the lateral pin in the second alignment portion 40A is biased clockwise toward the first alignment portion 30A. Viewed from above, the lateral pin in the second alignment portion 42A is biased counterclockwise toward the first alignment portion 30A. Viewed from above, the lateral pin in the second alignment portion 40B is biased counterclockwise toward the first alignment portion 30B. Viewed from above, the lateral pin in the second alignment portion 42B is biased clockwise toward the first alignment portion 30B.

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

[0097] Each of the first alignment portions 30A, 30B and the second alignment portions 40A, 42A, 40B, 42B has a separate axis (not shown) parallel to the angled longitudinal axis 80, with respect to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80. The first alignment portion 30A has a substantially angle with respect to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80, ranging from 29 degrees adjacent to the second alignment portions 40A, 42A to 25 degrees at the center of the first alignment portion 30A. The first alignment portion 30B has a substantially angle with respect to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80, ranging from 29 degrees adjacent to the second alignment portions 40B, 42B to 25 degrees at the center of the first alignment portion 30B. The second alignment portion 40A has a substantially angle with respect to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80, ranging from 29 degrees adjacent to the first alignment portion 30A to 33 degrees adjacent to the third alignment portion 50. The second alignment portion 42A has a substantially angle with respect to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80, ranging from 29 degrees adjacent to the first alignment portion 30A to 33 degrees adjacent to the third alignment portion 52. The second alignment portion 40B has a substantially angle with respect to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80, ranging from 29 degrees adjacent to the first alignment portion 30B to 33 degrees adjacent to the third alignment portion 50. The second alignment portion 42B has a substantially angle with respect to the axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 80, ranging from 29 degrees adjacent to the first alignment portion 30B to 33 degrees adjacent to the third alignment portion 52. Each of the third alignment portions 50, 52 has a substantially 33-degree angle with respect to the plane formed by the longitudinal axis 80 and the longitudinal axis 82.

[0098] Referring to Figures 7 to 9, a female coupler 110 and a male coupler 210 according to a preferred embodiment of one aspect of the present invention are shown. Figure 7 shows the female coupler 110 and the male coupler 210 separately in an orientation that allows for coupling. Figures 8 and 9 show the connected female coupler 110 and male coupler 210, with the male coupler 210 in the receiving position. Figures 8 and 9 further show a first anchor 310 and a first nut 410 connected to the male coupler 210, and a second anchor 510 and a second nut 610 connected to the female coupler 110. The first nut 410 is a lock nut for securing the first anchor 310 to the male coupler 210. The second nut 610 is a lock nut for securing the second anchor to the female coupler 110.

[0099] The female coupler 110 has a substantially cylindrical body 120 with a cavity having an opening for receiving the male coupler 210, a connector 170, a longitudinal axis 180, a first lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, and a second lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity. The opening has a fillet around its periphery. The cavity of the female coupler 110 has a pair of first alignment portions 130A, 130B that are positioned opposite each other. The first and second lateral holes are positioned opposite each other and share a longitudinal axis 182. The longitudinal axis 182 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 180.

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

[0101] A first lateral pin 260A and a second lateral pin 260B, each having a retracted position and an extended position. The retracted position is such that each lateral pin 260A, 260B is substantially retracted into the respective recess of the body 220 so that the body 220 can enter the cavity of the female coupler 110.

[0102] The first lateral pin 260A and the second lateral pin 260B each have a pin end. Each pin end has a first side and a second side, and sides in planes coaxial with the longitudinal axis 280 and coaxial with the longitudinal axis 282, respectively. Each pin end is curved with a first curved surface and a second curved surface.

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

[0104] The second curved surface is convex. The curved portion of the second curved surface curves around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 280 and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 282. The second curved surface curves inward from the outermost point of the pin end toward the body 220. The point of the second curved surface closest to the longitudinal axis 280 is on the side of the male coupler 210 shown on the female coupler 110, and therefore, when the male coupler 210 is to be inserted into the female coupler 110, the male coupler 210 shows a smaller cross-section toward the female coupler 110. The second curved surface helps to push at least one of the lateral pins 260A, 260B into the retracted position.

[0105] The pin ends of the lateral pins 260A and 260B on the opposite side of the second curved surface are not curved, and therefore resist the removal of the male coupler 210 from the female coupler 110.

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

[0107] The male coupler also includes a lock nut 420. The lock nut 420 is adapted to secure the male coupler 210 to the female coupler 110 by separately biasing the male coupler 210 and the female coupler 110, which engages lateral pins 260A and 260b with a first lateral hole 60A and a second lateral hole 60B, respectively. By engaging the lateral pins 260A and 260b in this manner, they are prevented from moving toward the retracted position.

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

[0109] When the male coupler 210 is inserted into the female coupler 110, the second curved surface helps to position the male coupler 210 within the female coupler 110. Once the male coupler 210 is inserted into the female coupler 110, the second curved surface contacts the wall of the cavity of the female coupler 110.

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

[0111] When the longitudinal axis 182 and the longitudinal axis 282 are aligned coaxially and the lateral pins 260A and 260B are no longer restricted by the cavity walls, the lateral pins 260A and 260B move to their respective extended positions within the first and second lateral holes.

[0112] Next, the male coupler 210 is in the receiving position, with the lateral pins 260A and 260B in the first and second lateral holes restricting longitudinal and rotational lateral movement, and the cavity restricting lateral movement.

[0113] Referring to Figure 10, a female coupler 300 according to one embodiment of one aspect of the present invention is shown.

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

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

[0116] Figure 10 shows alignment portions 330A, 340A, 342A, 350, and 352 marked with grid lines 390 to clarify the depiction of the surface of the cavity 322. Figure 10 also shows the edge portion 370 between the body portion 372 and the alignment portions 330A, 340A, 342A, 350, and 352. The lowest point of the edge portion 370 coincides with the first transverse hole 360A. When the male coupler (not shown) enters the female coupler 300 during use, if the first transverse pin (not shown) of the male coupler aligns with the first transverse hole 360A, the first transverse pin is biased substantially equally on the left and right sides in order to remain aligned with the first transverse hole 360A. If the first lateral pin moves to the left when the male coupler enters the female coupler, there is a greater biasing force on the left side of the first lateral pin, which biases the first lateral pin to the right and aligns it with the first lateral hole 360A. Similarly, if the first lateral pin moves to the right when the male coupler enters the female coupler, there is a greater biasing force on the right side of the first lateral pin, which biases the first lateral pin to the left and aligns it with the first lateral hole 360A. When the first lateral pin is aligned with the first lateral hole 360A, there is little to no biasing force in the middle portion of the pin.

[0117] advantage An advantage of a preferred embodiment of the female coupler is that it provides coupling means for performing simple positioning and alignment of the male and female parts, which can be performed in areas that are difficult to see or reach. An advantage of a preferred embodiment of the coupler assembly is that the coupler assembly automatically aligns when connected. An advantage of a preferred embodiment of the coupler assembly is the ease of use of the coupler assembly for ensuring a properly aligned connection from the outset.

[0118] Variation While the above are given as illustrative examples of the present invention, all such and other modifications and variations, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, are considered to fall within the broad scope and limitations of the present invention as described herein.

[0119] Throughout this description and claims, the word “comprise,” and variations thereof such as “comprises” and “comprising,” are not intended to exclude other additions, components, elements, or steps.

Claims

1. A female coupler adapted to accept a male coupler having at least one lateral pin, wherein the female coupler is A cavity having an opening for receiving the male coupler, The male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral holes, wherein the surface is adapted to bias one of the at least one lateral pin toward the corresponding one of the at least one holes as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to laterally bias one of the at least one lateral pins corresponding to it toward one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position; A female coupler that further possesses the following features.

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

3. The female coupler according to claim 2, wherein the at least one lateral pin moves to the extended position when it is received in and held in one of the corresponding holes of the at least one.

4. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the female coupler has a surface geometry adapted to move the at least one lateral pin to the retracted position as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position.

5. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one second alignment portion has a curved and inclined surface geometry.

6. The female coupler according to claim 5, wherein the radius of curvature of the curved surface of at least one second alignment portion on the cross-section is smaller than the radius of curvature of the curved surface of the first alignment portion on the cross-section.

7. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one first alignment portion and / or the at least one second alignment portion is adjacent to the opening.

8. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cavity further comprises at least one third alignment portion for biasing a corresponding first lateral pin or a second lateral pin toward the nearest of at least one second alignment portion.

9. The female coupler according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the third alignment portions has an angled surface.

10. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one portion of the at least one first alignment portion, the at least one second alignment portion, and / or the at least one third alignment portion is angled substantially between 5 and 50 degrees.

11. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one portion of the at least one first alignment portion, the at least one second alignment portion, and / or the at least one third alignment portion is angled substantially between 15 and 35 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler.

12. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one portion of the at least one first alignment portion, the at least one second alignment portion, and / or the at least one third alignment portion is angled substantially 25 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the female coupler.

13. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the opening has a cross-sectional area substantially shaped like a stadium.

14. The female coupler according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cavity further includes a body portion for housing at least a portion of the male coupler, and the at least one first alignment portion and the at least one second alignment portion extend outward from the body portion.

15. A male coupler having at least one lateral pin, Female coupler and A coupler assembly including, the female coupler is A cavity having an opening for receiving the male coupler, The male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral holes, wherein the surface is adapted to bias one of the at least one lateral pin toward the corresponding one of the at least one holes as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to laterally bias one of the at least one lateral pins corresponding to it toward one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position; A coupler assembly further comprising [the following].

16. A system for joining structural components and / or applying tension thereto, wherein the system at least one coupler assembly Each coupler assembly includes, A male coupler having at least one lateral pin, Female coupler and The female coupler includes, A cavity having an opening for receiving the male coupler, The male coupler has at least one lateral hole extending laterally from the cavity, which is adapted to receive at least one lateral pin when the male coupler is in the receiving position, and The cavity has, At least one first alignment portion, each first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral holes, wherein the surface is adapted to bias one of the at least one lateral pin toward the corresponding one of the at least one holes as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, At least one second alignment portion, each second alignment portion having a surface geometry adapted to laterally bias one of the at least one lateral pins toward one of the at least one first alignment portions as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, A first anchor is fixed to the first structural component and connected to the male coupler, A second anchor is fixed to the second structural component and connected to the female coupler. A system further comprising, wherein at least one coupler assembly joins the first structural component and the second structural component and / or applies tension to them.

17. A system for joining and / or tensioning structural components according to claim 16, wherein the at least one coupler assembly is connected to the first anchor and / or the second anchor by at least one rod.

18. A system for joining structural components and / or applying tension thereto, according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the first anchor is integrally formed with the male coupler and / or the second anchor is integrally formed with the female coupler.

19. A method for joining structural components and / or applying tension thereto, the method is The steps include fixing the first anchor to the first structural component, The steps include fixing the second anchor to the second structural component, The steps include connecting the first anchor to the male coupler, The steps include connecting the second anchor to a female coupler having a cavity adapted to receive the male coupler, The steps include: receiving the male coupler into the female coupler such that the male coupler is guided to a receiving position in which at least one lateral pin of the male coupler is received in a corresponding hole in the female coupler; This includes, so that as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, a corresponding one of the at least one lateral pins is biased toward a corresponding one of the at least one hole by a first alignment portion of the cavity, the first alignment portion having a curved and inclined surface converging toward the longitudinal axis of one of the at least one lateral hole, A method wherein one of the at least one lateral pins is laterally biased toward one of the first aligning portions by a second aligning portion of the cavity as the male coupler moves toward the receiving position, the second aligning portion having a curved and inclined surface.

20. A method for joining and / or applying tension to structural components according to claim 19, wherein the second alignment portion has a curved and inclined surface.

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