Rotatable connector for joining structural elements

Abstract

A connector (1) for attaching a first elongated structural element (2) to a second elongated structural element (3), the connector (1) comprising a first clamp unit (4) comprising a first opening (5) for receiving the first elongated structural element (2) and a second clamp unit (6) comprising a second opening (7) for receiving the second elongated structural element (3) A connection assembly (8) interconnects the first clamp unit (4) and the second clamp unit (6) such that the second clamp unit (6) is rotatable around a rotation axis (A1) and lockable in a rotary position, relative to the first clamp unit (4). The second clamp unit (6) comprises a tapered protrusion (9), and the connection assembly (8) comprises a tapered recess (10) configured to receive the tapered protrusion (9), center axes (A2) of the tapered protrusion (9) and the tapered recess (10) extending coaxially with the rotation axis (A1).

Description

[0001] ROTATABLE CONNECTOR FOR JOINING STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to connectors for joining elongated structural elements, and more particularly to rotatable connectors for clamping and attaching pipes or tubes used in screw piles or scaffolding.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Connectors for joining elongated structural elements, such as pipes or tubes, are widely used in various industries including construction, scaffolding, and foundation work. These connectors typically comprise clamping mechanisms that secure the structural elements in fixed positions relative to one another. Common applications include assembling temporary structures, creating support frameworks, and constructing screw pile foundations.

[0006] Traditional connectors often utilize rigid clamping designs that fix structural elements at predetermined angles. While effective for certain applications, these fixed-angle connectors limit flexibility in assembly and can be cumbersome when adjustments are needed. Additionally, many existing connectors require multiple fastening points or complex tightening mechanisms, which can increase assembly time and introduce potential failure points.

[0007] Another challenge with conventional connectors is achieving a secure connection while allowing for controlled rotational adjustment. Connectors that permit rotation may sacrifice stability, while those prioritizing a rigid connection often lack the ability to make fine angular adjustments. This trade-off between adjustability and structural integrity has been a persistent issue in the field.

[0008] Furthermore, connectors used in demanding environments, such as marine applications or construction sites, must withstand significant forces and environmental stresses. Many existing designs struggle to maintain a secure connection under such conditions, potentially compromising the safety and integrity of the assembled structure.

[0009] It has been appreciated that a rotatable connector is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.

[0010] Document US4817897A discloses a connector according to the preamble of claim 1. SUMMARY

[0011] It is an object to provide an improved connector for attaching elongated structural elements.

[0012] In a first aspect, there is provided a connector according to claim 1.

[0013] This configuration allows for secure attachment of two elongated structural elements while providing adjustable rotational positioning, enhancing versatility in various applications such as scaffolding or pipe joining.

[0014] In a possible implementation form of the first aspect, the connector comprises at least one further tapered protrusion and at least one further tapered recess extending coaxially, or parallel, with the rotation axis, each further tapered protrusion and further tapered recess being arranged on the first clamp unit, the second clamp unit, or the connection assembly. The inclusion of additional tapered protrusions and recesses enhances the stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector.

[0015] The tapered protrusion and / or the tapered recess taper by an angle of 0.1-20° along the rotation axis. This specific taper angle range provides an optimal balance between ease of assembly and secure locking of the rotational position.

[0016] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the connection assembly comprises a connection plate, the connection plate being a single-piece unit arranged between the first clamp unit and the second clamp unit, or the connection plate being part of the first clamp unit and / or the second clamp unit. The use of a connection plate simplifies the assembly process and provides a robust interface between the clamp units.

[0017] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the connection assembly comprises a plurality of fasteners interconnecting the first clamp unit, the second clamp unit, and / or the connection plate, and the connection plate comprises at least one arched slot extending in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, the arched slot being configured to receive a first fastener. This configuration allows for smooth rotational adjustment while maintaining a secure connection between components.

[0018] A wall of the tapered protrusion is pressed against a wall of the tapered recess when the fastener(s) are tightened in directions parallel with the rotation axis. This feature ensures a tight, secure fit between the tapered protrusion and recess, enhancing the overall stability of the connector. In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the connection plate comprises two arched slots extending with identical arc radii as measured from the rotation axis, the second clamp unit being connected to the connection plate by means of two first fasteners, each first fastener engaging one of the arched slots. The use of two arched slots with identical arc radii provides balanced support and smooth rotation of the second clamp unit.

[0019] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the connection plate comprises two arched slots, the arched slots being offset relative each other such that a first arched slot extends with a first arc radius as measured from the rotation axis, and a second arched slot extends with a second arc radius as measured from the rotation axis. This offset configuration of arched slots allows overlap in the rotational positioning of the clamp units.

[0020] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the first clamp unit is connected to the connection plate by means of first fasteners engaging the first arched slot, and the second clamp unit is connected to the connection plate by means of first fasteners engaging the second arched slot. This arrangement provides a secure connection between both clamp units and the connection plate while allowing for independent adjustment of each clamp unit.

[0021] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the connection plate comprises at least one throughgoing hole, the throughgoing hole being configured to receive a second fastener. The inclusion of a throughgoing hole provides additional fastening options, enhancing the versatility and adaptability of the connector.

[0022] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, a perimeter of the first opening extends in a second plane, a perimeter of the second opening extends in a third plane, and the second plane intersects the third plane along the rotation axis. This geometric configuration allows for precise alignment of the elongated structural elements while maintaining rotational adjustability.

[0023] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the second clamp unit is rotatable relative to the first clamp unit such that an angle between the second plane and the third plane is between 1-179°. This wide range of rotational adjustment allows the connector to accommodate various angular configurations between the elongated structural elements.

[0024] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fastener is configured to slide within the arched slot when the second clamp unit is rotated relative to the first clamp unit around the rotation axis. This sliding capability of the fastener within the arched slot enables smooth rotational adjustment of the clamp units. In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fastener is configured to lock the first clamp unit or the second clamp unit to the connection plate. The locking capability of the fastener ensures that the chosen rotational position is securely maintained during use.

[0025] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the second clamp unit is locked to the connection plate by means of first fasteners extending through corresponding threaded openings in the second clamp unit. This provides a simple and effective means of securing the components.

[0026] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fastener comprises a bolt and a corresponding nut, and the first clamp unit and / or the second clamp unit is locked to the connection plate by tightening the bolt and / or the nut. The use of a bolt and nut fastener provides a simple and effective means of securing the components while allowing for easy adjustment when needed.

[0027] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the fastener comprises a sleeve, the sleeve being configured to extend into the arched slot or into the throughgoing hole. The sleeve configuration of the fastener provides additional stability and reduces wear on the arched slot or throughgoing hole during rotational adjustments.

[0028] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the first clamp unit is fixed to the connection plate by means of second fasteners in the form of threaded screws extending through corresponding threaded openings in the first clamp unit, such that the first clamp unit cannot be rotated relative the connection plate. This fixed connection of the first clamp unit to the connection plate provides a stable reference point for the rotational adjustment of the second clamp unit.

[0029] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the arched slot, the threaded opening, the throughgoing hole, and / or the opening, and optionally the corresponding fasteners, has a tapered shape. The tapered shape of any one of these components enhances the secure fit and stability of the fastener connections.

[0030] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the first clamp unit and the second clamp unit each comprise a pair of clamp arms configured to enclose the first elongated structural element or the second elongated structural element, each pair of clamp arms being interconnected by means of fasteners, the fasteners optionally simultaneously locking the first clamp unit or the second clamp unit to the connection plate. This clamp arm configuration provides a secure grip on the elongated structural elements while simplifying the overall assembly of the connector.

[0031] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the clamp arm is substantially rectangular with a semicircular recess, the semicircular recesses of two interconnected clamp arms forming a circular first or second opening. This specific shape of the clamp arms allows for a secure and even distribution of clamping force around the circumference of the elongated structural elements.

[0032] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, at least one of the clamp arms comprises a surface having increased friction, the surface being configured to engage an exterior of the first elongated structural element or the second elongated structural element. The increased friction surface enhances the grip on the elongated structural elements, reducing the likelihood of slippage during use.

[0033] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the increased friction surface is provided by means of a surface treatment or a supplementary material arranged between the clamp arm and the first or second elongated structural element. This feature allows for customization of the friction surface to suit different types of elongated structural elements and application requirements.

[0034] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the surface treatment comprises increasing a roughness of the surface or applying a coating onto the surface. These surface treatment options provide effective and durable means of increasing friction between the clamp arms and the elongated structural elements.

[0035] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the first and second elongated structural elements are pipes. This implementation specifically addresses the common application of joining pipes, enhancing the utility of the connector in various industries.

[0036] In a further possible implementation form of the first aspect, the connector is used for joining pipes or tubes used in screw piles or scaffolding. This specific application highlights the versatility and robustness of the connector in construction and engineering contexts.

[0037] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Embodiments will be described, by way of example, with reference to the following drawings, in which: Figs, la-c illustrate various views of a connector for clamping elongated structural elements, in accordance with an example of the embodiments of the disclosure;

[0039] Fig. 2 depicts a perspective view of a clamp unit of the connector, in accordance with an example of the embodiments of the disclosure;

[0040] Fig. 3a depicts a perspective view of a further clamp unit of the connector, in accordance with an example of the embodiments of the disclosure;

[0041] Fig. 3b shows a side view of the clamp arm of Fig. 3a which is provided with a tapering projection;

[0042] Fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a connection plate with arched slots, in accordance with an example of the embodiments of the disclosure;

[0043] Fig. 5 shows a side view of a part of a fastener for interconnecting clamp units, in accordance with an example of the embodiments of the disclosure;

[0044] Fig. 6 presents a perspective view of the connector in use, clamping two elongated structural elements, in accordance with an example of the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0045] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures to indicate similar features.

[0046] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The present disclosure provides a connector designed for attaching elongated structural elements, such as pipes or tubes. The connector is particularly suited for applications where rotational adjustment between the structural elements is desired, such as in the assembly of scaffolding or the joining of pipes in screw piles. The connector comprises a first clamp unit and a second clamp unit, each configured to receive an elongated structural element. The first and second clamp units are interconnected by a connection assembly, which allows the second clamp unit to rotate relative to the first clamp unit around a rotation axis. The connection assembly also enables the second clamp unit to be locked in a chosen rotary position relative to the first clamp unit, providing a secure and adjustable connection between the structural elements. The first clamp unit includes a tapered protrusion, and the connection assembly includes a tapered recess configured to receive the tapered protrusion. The center axes of the tapered protrusion and the tapered recess extend coaxially with the rotation axis, contributing to the stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector. Referring to Fig. 6, the connector 1 is shown in use, demonstrating how it clamps two elongated structural elements together. The connector 1 comprises a first clamp unit 4 and a second clamp unit 6, each configured to receive an elongated structural element. The first clamp unit 4 includes a first opening 5 configured to receive the first elongated structural element 2. Similarly, the second clamp unit 6 includes a second opening 7 configured to receive the second elongated structural element 3.

[0048] The connector 1 further includes a connection assembly 8 that interconnects the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6. The connection assembly 8 allows the second clamp unit 6 to rotate relative to the first clamp unit 4 around a rotation axis Al. This rotation capability provides flexibility in positioning the elongated structural elements 2, 3, as illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0049] In addition to rotation, the second clamp unit 6 may be locked in a chosen rotary position relative to the first clamp unit 4. This feature ensures a secure and adjustable connection between the elongated structural elements 2, 3. The locking mechanism may be implemented through various means, such as through the use of fasteners 12, as will be described in more detail later.

[0050] The second clamp unit 6 includes a tapered protrusion 9, and the connection assembly 8 includes a tapered recess 10 configured to receive the tapered protrusion 9. The center axes A2 of the tapered protrusion 9 and the tapered recess 10 extend coaxially with the rotation axis Al . This arrangement contributes to the stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector 1.

[0051] In some aspects, the tapered protrusion 9 may be shaped as a cone or a pyramid, or any other shape that narrows towards a point. The tapered protrusion 9 may be formed integrally with the second clamp unit 6 or may be a separate component that is attached to the second clamp unit 6.

[0052] The tapered recess 10 is formed in the connection assembly 8 and may have a shape that corresponds to the shape of the tapered protrusion 9. The tapered recess 10 and the tapered protrusion 9 are designed to fit together, providing a secure and stable connection between the first clamp unit 4 and the connection assembly 8.

[0053] The center axes A2 of the tapered protrusion 9 and the tapered recess 10 extend coaxially with the rotation axis Al. This arrangement ensures that the rotation of the second clamp unit 6 relative to the first clamp unit 4 occurs smoothly and consistently around the rotation axis Al. The coaxial alignment of the center axes A2 of the tapered protrusion 9 and the tapered recess 10 with the rotation axis Al also contributes to the stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector 1.

[0054] In some cases, the connector 1 may comprise at least one further tapered protrusion 9 and at least one further tapered recess 10. These additional tapered protrusions 9 and tapered recesses 10 may extend coaxially or parallel with the rotation axis Al. The presence of multiple tapered protrusions 9 and tapered recesses 10 can enhance the stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector 1, especially when the connector 1 is used to attach large or heavy elongated structural elements 2, 3.

[0055] The tapered protrusion 9 and / or the tapered recess 10 may taper by an angle a of 0. 1-20° along the rotation axis Al. This tapering angle a can be adjusted to suit the specific requirements of the application. For example, a smaller tapering angle a may be used when a tighter fit between the tapered protrusion 9 and the tapered recess 10 is desired, while a larger tapering angle a may be used when a looser fit is acceptable. The tapering angle a can also affect the ease of rotation of the second clamp unit 6 relative to the first clamp unit 4, with a smaller tapering angle a generally resulting in smoother rotation.

[0056] Referring to Fig. 4, the connection assembly 8 of the connector 1 comprises a connection plate 11. In some aspects, the connection plate 11 is a single-piece unit arranged between the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6. In other cases, the connection plate 11 may be part of the first clamp unit 4 and / or the second clamp unit 6. The connection plate 11 serves as a structural link between the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6, facilitating their relative rotation and secure locking.

[0057] The connection assembly 8 also comprises a plurality of fasteners 12. These fasteners 12 serve to interconnect the first clamp unit 4, the second clamp unit 6, and / or the connection plate 11. The fasteners 12 may be of various types, such as screws, bolts, or pins, and may be used in combination with other components, such as nuts or washers, to provide a secure connection.

[0058] The connection plate 11 comprises at least one arched slot 13. This arched slot 13 extends in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis Al and is configured to receive a first fastener 12a, as illustrated in Fig. 1. The arched slot 13 allows for the adjustment of the relative position of the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6 by sliding the first fastener 12a within the arched slot 13. This feature contributes to the rotational functionality of the connector 1, allowing the second clamp unit 6 to be rotated relative to the first clamp unit 4 around the rotation axis Al and locked in a chosen rotary position. When the fasteners 12 are tightened, or locked, a wall of the tapered protrusion 9 is pressed against a wall of the tapered recess 10. This interaction occurs in directions parallel with the rotation axis Al . The pressing of the tapered protrusion 9 against the tapered recess 10 provides a secure and stable connection between the first clamp unit 4 and the connection assembly 8, contributing to the overall stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector 1.

[0059] Referring to Fig. 4 the connection plate 11 of the connection assembly 8 may comprise two arched slots 13. These arched slots 13 may extend with identical arc radii as measured from the rotation axis Al. In some aspects, the second clamp unit 6 is connected to the connection plate 11 by means of two first fasteners 12a, each engaging one of the arched slots 13. This arrangement allows for the adjustment of the relative position of the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6 by sliding the first fasteners 12a within the arched slots 13. This feature contributes to the rotational functionality of the connector 1, allowing the second clamp unit 6 to be rotated relative to the first clamp unit 4 around the rotation axis Al and locked in a chosen rotary position.

[0060] In some cases, the connection plate 11 comprises two arched slots 13 that are offset relative to each other (not shown). This means that a first arched slot 13 extends with a first arc radius as measured from the rotation axis Al, and a second arched slot 13 extends with a second arc radius as measured from the rotation axis Al. This offset arrangement of the arched slots 13 can provide additional flexibility in adjusting the relative position of the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6.

[0061] In some aspects, the first clamp unit 4 is connected to the connection plate 11 by means of first fasteners 12a engaging the first arched slot 13, and the second clamp unit 6 is connected to the connection plate 11 by means of first fasteners 12a engaging the second arched slot 13. This configuration allows for the independent adjustment of the position of the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6 relative to the connection plate 11, providing additional flexibility in aligning the elongated structural elements 2, 3.

[0062] In addition to the arched slots 13, the connection plate 11 may also comprise at least one throughgoing hole 18. This throughgoing hole 18 is configured to receive a second fastener 12b. The throughgoing hole 18 provides an additional means for securing the first clamp unit 4 and / or the second clamp unit 6 to the connection plate 11. The use of a second fastener 12b in the throughgoing hole 18 can enhance the stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector 1, especially when the connector 1 is used to attach large or heavy elongated structural elements 2, 3.

[0063] Referring to Fig. 6, the geometric relationships between the clamp units 4, 6 and the openings

[0064] 5, 7 are of particular importance. In some aspects, the perimeter of the first opening 5 extends in a second plane P2, while the perimeter of the second opening 7 extends in a third plane P3. These planes intersect along the rotation axis Al. This arrangement allows for the first elongated structural element 2 and the second elongated structural element 3 to be oriented at various angles relative to each other, providing flexibility in the assembly of structures using the connector 1.

[0065] In some cases, the second clamp unit 6 is rotatable relative to the first clamp unit 4 such that an angle P between the second plane P2 and the third plane P3 is between 1-179°. This wide range of rotational adjustment allows for the precise alignment of the elongated structural elements 2, 3, which can be particularly beneficial in applications where precise alignment is required, such as in the assembly of scaffolding or the joining of pipes in screw piles.

[0066] The fasteners 12 play a crucial role in enabling the rotation and locking of the clamp units 4,

[0067] 6. In some aspects, the fastener 12 is configured to slide within the arched slot 13 when the second clamp unit 6 is rotated relative to the first clamp unit 4 around the rotation axis Al. This sliding movement allows for the smooth and controlled rotation of the second clamp unit 6 relative to the first clamp unit 4.

[0068] In addition to enabling rotation, the fastener 12 is also configured to lock the first clamp unit 4 or the second clamp unit 6 to the connection plate 11. This locking function is achieved by tightening the fastener 12, which causes the fastener 12 to press against the sides of the connector components, thereby securing the clamp unit 4, 6 in a chosen rotary position. This feature ensures a secure and stable connection between the elongated structural elements 2, 3, even under heavy loads or in challenging operating conditions.

[0069] The locking mechanism of the connector 1 ensures the secure attachment of the first elongated structural element 2 and the second elongated structural element 3. In some aspects, the first clamp unit 4 and / or the second clamp unit 6 are locked to the connection plate 11 by tightening the fasteners 12. This tightening action can be performed manually or using a tool.

[0070] When the fasteners 12 are tightened, a wall of the tapered protrusion 9 is pressed against a wall of the tapered recess 10. This interaction occurs in directions parallel with the rotation axis Al. The pressing of the tapered protrusion 9 against the tapered recess 10 provides a secure and stable connection between the first clamp unit 4 and the connection assembly 8, contributing to the overall stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector 1.

[0071] In some cases, the fastener 12 comprises a bolt 19 and a corresponding nut 14. The bolt 19 is inserted through the arched slot 13 or the throughgoing hole 18, and the nut 14 is threaded onto the bolt 19. The first clamp unit 4 and / or the second clamp unit 6 are locked to the connection plate 11 by tightening the bolt 19 and / or the nut 14. This tightening action causes the bolt 19 and the nut 14 to press against the walls of the arched slot 13 or the throughgoing hole 18, thereby securing the clamp unit 4, 6 in a chosen rotary position.

[0072] In other aspects, the fastener 12 comprises a sleeve 15, shown in Fig. 5. The sleeve 15 is configured to extend into the arched slot 13, into the throughgoing hole 18, or into any other suitable hole or opening. The sleeve 15 provides additional support to the fastener 12, enhancing the stability and load-bearing capacity of the connector 1. The sleeve 15 can be made of a durable material, such as metal or plastic, and can be designed to withstand the loads and stresses encountered in the application of the connector 1.

[0073] The second clamp unit 6 may be locked to the connection plate 11 by means of first fasteners 12a extending through corresponding threaded openings 20, illustrated in Fig. 3, in the second clamp unit 6.

[0074] The first clamp unit 4 may be fixed to the connection plate 11 by means of fasteners in the form of threaded screws extending through corresponding threaded openings 16, shown in Fig. 2, in the connection plate 11. This arrangement ensures that the first clamp unit 4 cannot be rotated relative to the connection plate 11. This fixed connection between the first clamp unit 4 and the connection plate 11 provides stability and rigidity to the connector 1, enhancing its load-bearing capacity and resistance to torsional forces.

[0075] In some aspects, the arched slot 13, the threaded opening 16, the throughgoing hole 18, or opening 20, and optionally the corresponding fastener 12, has a tapered shape. This tapered shape can enhance the fit between the fastener 12 and the arched slot 13, the threaded opening 16, the throughgoing hole 18, or the opening 20, providing a secure and stable connection. The tapering can also facilitate the insertion and removal of the fastener 12, making the assembly and disassembly of the connector 1 more convenient.

[0076] The first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6 each comprise a pair of clamp arms 4a, 6a configured to enclose the first elongated structural element 2 or the second elongated structural element 3. These clamp arms 4a, 6a can be shaped to closely match the shape of the elongated structural elements 2, 3, ensuring a secure grip. The clamp arms 4a, 6a can be formed integrally with the clamp units 4, 6 or can be separate components that are attached to the clamp units 4, 6.

[0077] Each pair of clamp arms 4a, 6a is interconnected by means of fasteners 12. These fasteners 12 serve to secure the clamp arms 4a, 6a around the elongated structural element 2 or 3, providing a firm grip. In some cases, the fasteners 12 also simultaneously lock the first clamp unit 4 or the second clamp unit 6 to the connection plate 11. This dual functionality of the fastener 12 simplifies the assembly of the connector 1 and reduces the number of components required.

[0078] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, the clamp arms 4a, 6a of the first clamp unit 4 and the second clamp unit 6 are substantially rectangular with a semicircular recess. When two interconnected clamp arms 4a, 6a are brought together, the semicircular recesses form a circular first opening 5 or second opening 7. This circular opening is configured to receive the first elongated structural element 2 or the second elongated structural element 3. In some aspects, the first and second elongated structural elements 2, 3 are pipes or tubes, hollow or solid, although other elongated structural elements with any suitable cross-sectional shape or dimensions, may also be used.

[0079] In some cases, at least one of the clamp arms 4a, 6a comprises a surface 17 having increased friction. This surface 17 is configured to engage an exterior of the first elongated structural element 2 or the second elongated structural element 3. The increased friction between the surface 17 and the elongated structural element 2, 3 enhances the grip of the clamp arms 4a, 6a on the elongated structural element 2, 3, thereby improving the stability of the connection.

[0080] The increased friction surface 17 may be provided by means of a surface treatment or a supplementary material arranged between the clamp arm 4a, 6a and the first or second elongated structural element 2, 3. For example, the surface treatment may involve increasing the roughness of the surface 17 or applying a coating onto the surface 17. The supplementary material may be a separate layer of material with a high coefficient of friction, such as rubber or a textured metal, that is attached to the surface 17 of the clamp arm 4a, 6a. The supplementary material may also have shock-absorbing properties.

[0081] The above-mentioned tapered protrusion(s) 9 and / or the tapered recess(es) 10 may comprise a corresponding surface treatment for increasing friction, the surface treatment comprising e.g. increasing the roughness of the surface(s) or applying a coating onto the surface(s).

[0082] The connector 1 may be used for joining pipes or tubes used in various applications. In some aspects, the connector 1 is used for joining pipes or tubes used in screw piles. Screw piles are a type of deep foundation that can be installed quickly with minimal noise and vibration. The connector 1 allows for the easy and secure attachment of the pipes or tubes used in the screw piles, facilitating the installation process.

[0083] In other cases, the connector 1 is used for j oining pipes or tubes used in scaffolding. Scaffolding is a temporary structure used to support a work crew and materials to aid in the construction, maintenance, and repair of buildings, bridges, and other large structures. The connector 1 allows for the easy and secure attachment of the pipes or tubes used in the scaffolding, providing a stable and adjustable structure for the work crew.

[0084] It will be understood that the above description of a preferred embodiment is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. What has been described above includes examples of one or more embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable modification and alteration of the above devices or methods for purposes of describing the aforementioned aspects, but one of ordinary skill in the art can recognize that many further modifications and permutations of various aspects are possible. Accordingly, the described aspects are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A connector (1) for attaching a first elongated structural element (2) to a second elongated structural element (3), said connector (1) comprising-a first clamp unit (4) comprising a first opening (5) configured to receive said first elongated structural element (2),-a second clamp unit (6) comprising a second opening (7) configured to receive said second elongated structural element (3),-a connection assembly (8) for interconnecting said first clamp unit (4) and said second clamp unit (6) such that said second clamp unit (6) is rotatable relative to said first clamp unit (4) around a rotation axis (Al) and such that said second clamp unit (6) is lockable in a rotary position relative to said first clamp unit (4), said second clamp unit (6) comprising a tapered protrusion (9), said connection assembly (8) comprising a tapered recess (10) configured to receive said tapered protrusion (9), center axes (A2) of said tapered protrusion (9) and said tapered recess (10) extending coaxially with said rotation axis (Al), characterized in that said tapered protrusion (9) and / or said tapered recess (10) taper by an angle (a) of 0. 1-20° along said rotation axis (Al), and in that said connection assembly (8) comprises a or a plurality of fastener(s) (12) interconnecting said first clamp unit (4), said second clamp unit (6), and / or said connection plate (11), and in that a wall of said tapered protrusion (9) is pressed against a wall of said tapered recess (10) when said fastener(s) (12) is / are tightened in a direction or directions parallel with said rotation axis (Al).

2. A connector (1) according to claim 1, comprising at least one further tapered protrusion (9) and at least one further tapered recess (10) extending coaxially, or parallel, with said rotation axis (Al), each further tapered protrusion (9) and further tapered recess (10) being arranged on said first clamp unit (4), said second clamp unit (6), or said connection assembly (8).

3. A connector (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said connection assembly (8) comprises a connection plate (11), said connection plate (11) being a singlepiece unit arranged between said first clamp unit (4) and said second clamp unit (6), or said connection plate (11) being part of said first clamp unit (4) and / or said second clamp unit (6).

4. A connector (1) according to claim 3, wherein said connection plate (11) comprises at least one arched slot (13) extending in a plane (P) perpendicular to said rotation axis (Al), said arched slot (13) being configured to receive a first fastener (12a).

5. A connector (1) according to claim 4, wherein said connection plate (11) comprises two arched slots (13) extending with identical arc radii as measured from said rotation axis (Al), said second clamp unit (6) being connected to said connection plate (11) by means of two first fasteners (12a), each first fastener (12a) engaging one of said arched slots (13).

6. A connector (1) according to any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein said connection plate (11) comprises at least one throughgoing hole (18), said throughgoing hole (18) being configured to receive a second fastener (12b).

7. A connector (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein said fastener (12, 12a) is configured to slide within said arched slot (13) when said second clamp unit (6) is rotated relative to said first clamp unit (4) around said rotation axis (Al).

8. A connector (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein said fastener (12, 12a, 12b) is configured to lock said first clamp unit (4) or said second clamp unit (6) to said connection plate (11).

9. A connector (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein said second clamp unit (6) is locked to said connection plate (11) by means of first fasteners (12a) extending through corresponding threaded openings (20) in said second clamp unit (6).

10. A connector (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein said fastener (12, 12a) comprises a bolt (19) and a corresponding nut (14), and wherein said first clamp unit (4)and / or said second clamp unit (6) is locked to said connection plate (11) by tightening said bolt (19) and / or said nut (14).

11. A connector (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 10 wherein said fastener (12) comprises a sleeve (15), said sleeve (15) being configured to extend into said arched slot (13) or into said throughgoing hole (18).

12. A connector (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said first clamp unit (4) is fixed to said connection plate (11) by means of second fasteners (12b) in the form of threaded screws extending through corresponding threaded openings (16) in said first clamp unit (4), such that said first clamp unit (4) cannot be rotated relative said connection plate (H).

13. A connector (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 12, wherein said arched slot (13), said threaded opening (16), said throughgoing hole (18), and / or said opening (20), and optionally said corresponding fasteners (12), has a tapered shape.

14. A connector (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein said first clamp unit (4) and said second clamp unit (6) each comprise a pair of clamp arms (4a, 6a) configured to enclose said first elongated structural element (2) or said second elongated structural element (3), each pair of clamp arms (4a, 6a) being interconnected by means of fasteners (12), said fasteners (12) optionally simultaneously locking said first clamp unit (4) or said second clamp unit (6) to said connection plate (11).

15. A connector (1) according to claim 14, wherein at least one of said clamp arms comprises a surface (17) having increased friction, said surface (17) being configured to engage an exterior of said first elongated structural element (2) or said second elongated structural element (3).

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