Tendon with end connectors

Abstract

A tendon (1) with end connectors at each end of the tendon comprises: a) A first end connector (10) arranged at a first end of the tendon (1) and having a at least 1 thimble (11.1, 11.2, 11.3); b) A second end connector (10') arranged at a second end of the tendon and having at 5 least 1 thimble (11.1', 11.2', 11.3'); c) A first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M1), wound around the first thimbles and connecting the two end connectors (10, 10'); d) Optionally, a second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M2), wound around the second thimbles and connecting the two end connectors (10, 10'); 10 such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the strength member(s) located in between the two end connectors.

Description

[0001] Tendon with end connectors

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The invention relates to a tendon with end connectors at each end of the tendon as well as a method for producing such tendons. A further aspect of the invention is related to the use of a tendon for tensioning a structure and / or transmitting tensile forces between structural elements.

[0004] Background art

[0005] In engineering and construction, a "tendon" usually refers to a high-strength cable or bar that provides tension in a structure and / or transmits tensile forces. Tendons are essential in construction work and modern engineering, enabling the construction of lighter and more efficient structures.

[0006] For example, in post-tensioned concrete construction, tendons are placed within ducts in concrete elements. Once the concrete has cured, the tendons are tensioned and anchored, allowing the concrete to bear higher loads and resist cracking.

[0007] Also, tendons are used in the construction of bridges and high-rise buildings to enhance structural integrity and load distribution. They help manage forces in the structure, improving its stability and durability.

[0008] In tension-based constructions, tendons play a critical role in maintaining shape and stability by holding various components under tension and / or by holding two or more parts of a structure together.

[0009] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0010] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG In order to ensure secure anchoring and efficient load transfer between structural elements, in various construction and engineering applications tendons usually are equipped with so called end connectors. End connectors may be designed differently, depending of the intended purpose.

[0011] US 6,684,585 B2 (Campbell) describes for example an anchorage for a post-tension system including an anchor body having an interior cavity and a generally flat end surface, a tendon extending through the interior cavity of the anchor body, a plurality of wedges in interference-fit relationship between a wall of the interior cavity and a surface of the tendon, a cap member positioned outwardly of the flat end surface, and a ring juxtaposed against the inner surface of the cap member. Thereby, the tendon is made from steel.

[0012] However, tendons made from steel and designed to withstand significant tensile forces require large diameters resulting in an overall heavy weight significantly limiting the application of these tendons.

[0013] Thus, there is still a need to develop improved solutions that do not have the disadvantages mentioned above or have them to a lesser extent.

[0014] Summary of the invention

[0015] It is the object of the invention to provide improved tendons with end connectors. Especially, the tendons should be as light as possible and at the same time have the highest possible tensile strength and ensure a secure anchoring and efficient load transfer between structural elements.

[0016] The solution of the invention is specified by the features of claim 1. Accordingly, the core of the invention relates to a tendon with end connectors at each end of the tendon, the tendon comprising:

[0017] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0018] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG a) A first end connector (10) arranged at a first end of the tendon (1) and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (1 1.1, 11.2, 11.3); and a first fixation element (15a) for connecting the tendon (1) to a first further element (SEI ); b) A second end connector (10') arranged at a second end of the tendon and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'); and a second fixation element (15a') for connecting the tendon (1) to a second further element (SE2); c) A first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M1) of finite length, which is connected at its first end (M1.1) to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), the first strength member (M1) extending at least once from the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) to the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the first thimble (1 1.1 ') of the second end connector (10') to the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10), whereby the first strength member (M1) at least once is guided around the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector and / or the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector; and which is connected at its second end (M1.2) to the first (10) or the second end connector (10'); such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the first strength member located in between the two end connectors; and whereby the first strength member (M1) comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0019] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0020] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG The tendon according to the invention turned out to be highly beneficial. When compared with steel-wire based tendons, the weight of the tendons can be reduced significantly thanks to the load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength members while the breaking force can be kept at a high level. Furthermore, tendons according to the invention can be produced with rather small width and / or diameters while still having a high breaking force.

[0021] Also, the inventive tendon design is highly flexible since it can easily be embodied with different types of strength members, e.g. having different structures and / or consisting of different fibers materials. Likewise, by adjusting the number of sections of the strength members running from the first to the second end connector and vice versa, the breaking strength can be adapted. This can e.g. be achieved by increasing the number of strength members and thimbles with constant width of the tendon and / or by increasing the width of the tendon while keeping the number strength members and thimbles constant.

[0022] In particular, it is possible to produce tendons based on strength members without any metallic components. This in particular results in reduced problems associated with metal or steel based constructions, such as e.g. a reduced risk of corrosion.

[0023] Overall, highly advantageous tendons with end connectors are provided.

[0024] Further aspects and advantageous embodiments of the invention are subject of the further claims and / or outlined throughout the description.

[0025] Further preferred, the tendon with end connectors at each end of the tendon comprises: a) A first end connector arranged at a first end of the tendon and having: at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles; and a first fixation element for connecting the tendon to a first further element; b) A second end connector arranged at a second end of the tendon and having:

[0026] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0027] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles; and a second fixation element for connecting the tendon to a second further element; c) A first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member of finite length, which is connected at its first end to the first end connector or the second end connector, the first strength member extending at least once from the first thimble of the first end connector to the first thimble of the second end connector and at least once from the first thimble of the second end connector the first thimble of the first end connector, whereby the first strength member at least once is guided around the first thimble of the first end connector and / or the first thimble of the second end connector; and which is connected at its second end to the first or the second end connector); d) A second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member of finite length, which is connected at its first end to the first end connector or the second end connector, the second strength member extending at least once from the second thimble of the first end connector to the second thimble of the second end connector and at least once from the second thimble of the second end connector to the second thimble of the first end connector, whereby the second strength member at least once is guided around the second thimble of the first end connector and / or the second thimble of the second end connector; and which is connected at its second end to the first or the second end connector; such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors; whereby the first strength member and the second strength member each comprise a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0028] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0029] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG Thereby, the use of at least two separate synthetic fiber-based strength members that are guided around individual thimbles of the end connectors allows for obtaining a highly uniform load distribution between the strength members when the tendon is subjected to a tensile load. This can be achieved in a relatively easy and reliable manner, e.g. by individually laying the strength members on the associated thimbles with an essentially constant tensile force.

[0030] Since the synthetic fiber-based strength members are guided around individual thimbles, the strength members can be arranged in a few layers or even as a single layer on each thimble. In contrast to strength members that are arranged in a large number of layers on a thimble, this allows for particularly even load distribution across the strength members without need of special stress distributions between the strength members.

[0031] Furthermore, the use of thimbles generates a defined and uniform friction force between the thimbles and the strength members when the tendon is subjected to a tensile load. This greatly simplifies production of the tendon, as each section of the strength members running from the first to the second end connector and vice versa does not have to be connected separately to the respective end connector. Nevertheless, a secure and reliable connection is achieved.

[0032] According to a further preferred embodiment, the tendon comprises at least one further thimble; and the tendon comprises at least one further load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member, whereby: Each of the at least one further synthetic strength member is connected at its first end to the first end connector or the second end connector, each of the at least one further strength member extending at least once from an associated further thimble of the first end connector to an associated further thimble of the second end connector and at least once from the associated further thimble of the second end connector to the associated further thimble of the first end connector, whereby each of the at least one further synthetic strength member at least once is guided around the associated further thimble of the first end connector and / or the associated further

[0033] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0034] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG thimble of the second end connector; and each of the at least one further synthetic strength member is connected at its second end to the first or the second end connector; whereby each of the at least one further strength member comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers. These fibers may be twisted or untwisted.

[0035] Especially, each of the thimbles of the first end connector has a different size, in particular a different diameter. In particular, in a longitudinal direction facing away from the sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors, the size, in particular the diameter, of the thimbles of the first end connector increases gradually.

[0036] In particular, each of the thimbles of the second end connector has a different size, in particular a different diameter. Especially in a longitudinal direction facing away from the sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors, the size, in particular the diameter, of the thimbles increases gradually.

[0037] According to a highly preferred embodiment, both, the first and the second end connector have the above-described thimble(s), in particular with different sizes.

[0038] Especially preferred, the thimbles are arranged and / or configured such that the strength members do not touch each other within the end connectors. This may be achieved by the above-described thimbles having different sizes.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the thimble(s) of the first and / or the second end connector is / are cylindrical, specifically circular cylindrical in shape. Especially, a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical thimble(s) runs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon, and / or the support surfaces for the strength members of the thimbles are oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon.

[0040] Especially, all of the thimbles of the first end connector are arranged in a longitudinal direction of the tendon behind one another and spaced apart from one another. Likewise,

[0041] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0042] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG preferably, all of the thimbles of the second end connector are arranged in a longitudinal direction of the tendon behind one another and spaced apart from one another.

[0043] According to a further preferred embodiment, at least one of the thimbles, in particular all except one of the thimbles, especially all of the thimbles, of the first end connector is / are releasably mounted in the first end connector; and / or at least one of the thimbles, in particular all except one of the thimbles, especially all of the thimbles, of the second end connector is / are releasably mounted in the second end connector. This allows for a efficient

[0044] The tendon comprises one, two or more strength member(s). In particular, the tendon comprises in total at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine or at least ten individual strength members. For example, the tendon comprises 2 - 50, in particular 3 - 40 or 4 - 30, individual strength members. Thereby, preferably, each of the strength member is guided around an individual and associated thimble of the first and / or an individual and associated thimble of the second thimble.

[0045] Especially, the first strength member, the second strength member and / or the at least one further strength member is guided at least once, especially at least twice, in particular at least three times, around the associated thimble of the first end connector and at least once, especially at least twice, in particular at least three times around the associated thimble of the second end connector.

[0046] Especially, the first strength member, the second strength member and / or the at least one further strength member is guided around the associated thimble of the first end connector and the associated thimble of the second end connector the same number of times.

[0047] According to a special embodiment, the first end of the first strength member and the second end of the first strength member are connected to different end connectors. In

[0048] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0049] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG another embodiment, the first end of the first strength member and the second end of the first strength member are connected the same end connector.

[0050] Likewise, in particular, the first end of the second strength member and the second end of the second strength member are connected to different end connectors or to the same end connector. Furthermore, in particular, the first end of the at least one further strength member and the second end of the at least one further strength member are connected to different end connectors or to the same end connector. The first and / or second ends of the at least one further strength member may be fixed at the first and / or the second end connector in the same manner.

[0051] The plurality of synthetic fibers of the first strength member, the second strength member and / or the at least one further strength member may be twisted or untwisted.

[0052] Especially, the strength member(s) consist(s) of synthetic fiber cords, synthetic fiber strands and / or a synthetic fiber ropes. The synthetic fiber cords, synthetic fiber strands and / or a synthetic fiber ropes in particular may be wrapped in a film and / or extruded with covering material, especially the film and / or the covering material are made of synthetic material, in particular polymeric material.

[0053] The individual strength member(s) in particular comprise(s) or consist(s) of carbon fibers, aramid fibers, high-density polyethylene fibers, high-modulus polyethylene (HMPE) fibers, or ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fibers, nylon fibers, glass fibers, basalt fibers, polyester fibers, and / or LCP fibers. LCP fibers are liquid crystal polymer fibers. Especially, the LCP fibers comprise aromatic rings with ester and / or amide linkages, in particular arranged in a highly ordered, semi-crystalline state.

[0054] Preferably, the individual strength member(s) is / are based on or consist(s) of fibers with a tensile strength of at least 600 MPa, preferably at least 1 '000 MPa, in particular at least 1 '800 MPa, more preferred at least 2'500 MPa or at least 3'000 MPa.

[0055] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0056] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG Especially, the sections of the strength member(s) in between the first and the second end connector are aligned in parallel.

[0057] In particular, the sections of the strength member(s) in between the first and the second end connector are arranged such that they together from a body with a circular, elliptical or rectangular cross-section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0058] Especially the strength member(s) are not twisted with each other or any other element. However, for special applications this is an option.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment, a total width of the sections of the strength member(s) in between the first and the second end connector, measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tendon is from 30 - 600 mm, especially 40 - 400 mm, in particular 50 - 300 mm. Such kind of tendons can be configured to feature a high breaking force suitable for many heavy-duty applications. However, other widths are possible, if desired.

[0060] According to a further preferred embodiment, on the at least one thimble of the first end connector and / or on the at least one thimble of the second end connector, a fabric is arranged in between the at least one thimble and the first strength member in order to support the first strength member on the at least one thimble.

[0061] If a second thimble is present on the first end connector and / or the second end connector, preferably, on the second thimble of the first end connector and / or on the second thimble of the second end connector, a second fabric is arranged in between the second thimble and the second strength member in order to support the second strength member on the second thimble.

[0062] Likewise, if at least one further thimble is present on the first end connector and / or the second end connector, preferably, on each of the at least one further thimble of the first end connector and / or on each of the at least one further thimble of the second end

[0063] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0064] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG connector, at least one further fabric is arranged in between the at least one further thimble and each of the at least one further synthetic strength member(s) in order to support the each of the at least one further synthetic strength member associated thimble.

[0065] Surprisingly it was found that the compression resistance of the strength members can be increased by arranging a fabric underneath the strength member(s). Thereby, braking of individual fibers in the strength members can be reduced. This is in particular true if the associated thimble is made of metallic material, especially steel, titanium, or alloy.

[0066] A fabric in particular is meant to be a sheet of material made from fibers and / or yarn. The fabric may be woven, knitted and / or non-woven. A woven fabric is for example made by interlacing two sets of fibers at right angles (warp and weft). A knitted fabric for example is made by interlooping fibers. A nonwoven fabric for example is made by bonding fibers together without weaving or knitting, e.g. by material bonding.

[0067] The fabric at least partly surrounds the at least one thimble, such that in a region of the associated thimble where the strength member presses on the thimble under load, the strength member is fully separated from the thimble by the fabric.

[0068] Especially, a width of the fabric(s) is essentially identical to a width of the associated thimble(s) of the first and / or the second end connectors, measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tendon. Especially a width of the fabric(s) is from 30 - 600 mm, especially 40 - 400 mm, in particular 50 - 300 mm.

[0069] When viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon, the fabric(s) forms a circular arc-shaped structure, with the angle of the circular arc preferably being at least 180 degrees, especially more than 180 degrees, e.g. at least 190 degrees.

[0070] Especially, the tendon is configured as follows:

[0071] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0072] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG a) The sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) all are arranged side by side to form a single layer on the associated thimble, or b) sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged as a stack on the associated thimble in which a first part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side to form a first single layer that is covered with an outer fabric, and on top of the outer fabric a second part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side on the associated thimble to form a second single layer, and, optionally, on top, at least one alternating layer of further outer fabric and a further single layer made from further parts of sections of the strength member(s) are arranged on the associated thimble.

[0073] In a single layer, the sections of the strength member that are guided around the associated thimble may be laterally in direct physical contact and / or they may be arranged in a laterally spaced configuration.

[0074] In a stack, the number of fabric layers is at least 2, especially at least 3, in particular at least 5, and the number of single layers of sections of the first strength member is at least 2, especially at least 3, in particular at least 5. Especially, the number of single layers of sections of the first strength member equals the number of fabric layers.

[0075] According to a further preferred embodiment, sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble are connected to the fabric underneath. Optionally and if an outer fabric is present, sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble are also connected to the overlying fabric, by material bond, especially by adhesively bonding.

[0076] Material bonding of the sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are connected to the fabric(s) helps to reduce lateral friction under load.

[0077] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0078] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG Sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble may be fully embedded in the adhesive or they may be adhesively bonded in selected areas only.

[0079] The adhesive for adhesive bonding may for example be an epoxy-based adhesive, a polyurethane based adhesive and / or an acrylate based adhesive.

[0080] The fabric(s) in particular is / are made of a material with an elastic tensile modulus that is higher than the tensile elastic modulus (Young modulus) of a material of the associated strength member, especially the elastic tensile modulus of the material of the fabric equals at least 1.5, in particular at least 2, especially 2.5, the tensile elastic modulus of a material of the associated strength member.

[0081] This further improves compression resistance of the strength members and reduces the risk of braking of individual fibers in the strength members.

[0082] The tensile elastic modulus of the material of the fabric in particular is at least 250 GPa, in particular at least 300 GPa or at least 350 GPa.

[0083] The tensile elastic modulus of a material of the strength member(s) in particular is from 50 - 220 GPa, especially 90 - 200 GPa, in particular 100 - 150 GPa.

[0084] The fabric(s) is / are may for example be made of carbon fibers boron nitride nanotube fibers, alumina fibers, and / or silicon carbide fiber fabrics.

[0085] Especially preferred the fabric(s) is / are made of carbon fibers, especially the fabric is a woven carbon fiber fabric.

[0086] In particular, a length of the tendon, especially measured form the first fixation element of the first end connector to the second fixation element of the second end connector is from 0.5 - 750 m, especially, 2 - 500 m, for example 5 - 100 m.

[0087] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0088] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG Especially the two end connectors of the tendon are spatially separated from each other, e.g. a closest distance between the two end connectors is from 0.4 - 750 m, especially 1.5 - 500 m, for example 4.5 - 100 m. Put differently, a length of the sections of the strength members in between the two end connectors preferably is from 0.4 - 750 m, especially 1.5 - 500 m, for example 4.5 - 100 m.

[0089] In particular, in between the first and the second end connector the strength members are kept together by an enveloping layer.

[0090] In particular, the enveloping layer is in direct contact with an outermost layer of the strength members.

[0091] According to a preferred embodiment, the enveloping layer comprises or consists of a wrapping foil. Such an enveloping layer can be produced by simply wrapping a foil of synthetic material around the tendon with one or more turns. A free longitudinal end of the foil then can be connected to the other longitudinal end of the foil and / or an underlying section of the foil.

[0092] Preferably, the enveloping layer comprises or consists of a synthetic material. The synthetic material of the enveloping layer preferably is selected from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and / or polyethylene (PE). However, other materials are possible as well.

[0093] In particular, in between the first and the second end connector the strength members are surrounded and / or kept together by a multi-layer sheath, the sheath comprising at least an inner sheath layer and an outer sheath layer. Optionally, further sheath layers may be present. Especially, the inner sheath layer is in direct physical contact with the outer sheath layer. The outer sheath layer in particular forms an outermost layer around the strength members in between the first and the second end connector.

[0094] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0095] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG In particular, the inner heart layer and the outer sheath layer have a different color and / or the inner sheath layer and the outer sheath layer have different light absorption properties in the visible wavelength range. The visible wavelength range is meant to be the range from 380 nm to 780 nm. In particular, the inner sheath layer and / or the outer sheath layer have a homogeneous color.

[0096] Especially, the inner sheath layer has a brighter color and than the color of the outer sheath. In particular, a luminance of the color of the inner sheath is higher than the luminance of the color of the outer sheath. Thereby, luminance of the sheaths is determined under identical conditions. Especially a relative luminance Y of the inner sheath is > 0.2 and / or a relative luminance Y of the outer sheath is < 0.1.

[0097] The relative luminance Y follows the photometric definition of luminance L including spectral weighting for human vision, but while luminance L is a measure of light in units such cd / m2, relative luminance Y values are normalized as 0.0 to 1.0, with 1.0 being a theoretical perfect reflector of 100% reference white and 0.0 being a perfect absorber of 100% reference black.

[0098] Especially the inner sheath has a color selected from orange, yellow and red and / or the outer sheath has a color selected from black and grey.

[0099] Preferably, the sheath layer comprises or consists of a synthetic material. The synthetic material of the shear layer preferably is selected from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyester, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and / or polyethylene (PE). However, other materials are possible as well. Especially, both, the inner sheath layer and the outer sheath layer comprise or consist of these materials, especially polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyester. Coloring of the sheath layer(s) and / or of the synthetic material can be achieve by adding dyes and / or pigments.

[0100] In particular, a color and / or thickness of the outer sheath layer is chosen such that the inner sheath layer is not visible from the outside, especially as long as the outer sheath

[0101] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0102] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG layer is intact. Usually this is given if the thickness of the outer sheath layer is > 1 mm, especially > 2 mm, in particular > 3 mm.

[0103] In particular, the sheath layer forms a visual damage indicator.

[0104] Thereby, especially, the inner sheath layer is a high visibility layer, whereby the color is chosen to for maximum visibility and immediate recognition by humans, especially field operators. The outer sheath layer, which in particular is a low visibility layer, serves as concealment of the inner sheath layer. Furthermore, the outer sheath layer may serve as environmental protection, protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation and / or mechanical wear protection.

[0105] As long as the load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength members of the tendon are fully intact, only the outer sheath layer, especially having a low visibility and / or dark color, is visible.

[0106] In case any of the load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength members of the tendon breaks or gets damaged, the broken or damaged section creates an internal pressure that acts in a radial direction outwardly against the inner sheath layer, especially the high visibility layer. If the pressure is high enough, i.e. if there is a serious damage, the outer sheath layer, which in particular is a low visibility layer, is damaged locally and tears open thereby exposing the inner shear layer. Due to the better visibility of the inner sheath layer, the exposed section immediately is recognizable by humans, e.g. a field operator.

[0107] Put differently, the bright warning color of the inner sheath layer becomes visible through the damaged section of the outer sheath layer. The appearance of the bright color represents a visual signal indicating that immediate tendon replacement is required.

[0108] The above described visual damage indicator is highly beneficial because it is a purely passive and thus fail-safe indicator system. In particular, the visual damage indicator allows for proactive maintenance. Damage detection is possible before complete system

[0109] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0110] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG failure. This enhances safety and prevents potential cascading failures in the load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member. Also, no special tools are required for damage assessment. Therefore, damage detection is easily possible in the field of application and during regular operation. Also, quick visual inspection enables preventive replacement, which reduces downtime of machinery or systems.

[0111] The sheath layer forming a visual damage indicator may be combined with the below described conductive fiber, that in particular is configured for monitoring a structural condition of the tendon and / or to signal wear of the tendon. In this manner combined monitoring, i.e. active and passive, is possible. Overall, this will further increase safety.

[0112] In another preferred embodiment, a total number of sections of the strength members running from the first to the second end connector and sections of the strength members running from the second to the first end connector is from 10 - 2'000, especially 50 - 1 '500 or 100 - 1 '000.

[0113] Preferably, a wrap angle of the first strength member, the second strength member and / or the at least one further strength member on the first thimble and / or the second thimble, especially in each turn, is within a range of 180 - 360°, especially 180 - 270°. This means that the respective strength member(s) are not wrapped several times around the thimbles of the first end connector and / or the thimbles of the second end connector in a single turn.

[0114] In particular, the strength members form a single layered structure on each thimble.

[0115] However, according to another embodiment, the strength members may form a layered structure with 2 - 30, especially 5 - 20 layers of strength members on each thimble.

[0116] Especially, the first strength member, the second strength member and / or the at least one further strength member has / have a diameter of 1 - 20 mm, especially 2 - 15 mm, in particular 3 - 10 mm.

[0117] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0118] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG A breaking force or ultimate tensile strength of the individual strength members preferably is from 5 - 500 kN, especially 10 - 250 kN, in particular 20 - 50 kN.

[0119] Especially, the breaking force is meant to be the maximum stress that a material can withstand while being stretched or pulled before breaking.

[0120] In particular, a linear density of the individual strength members is from 5 - 200 g / m, especially 10 - 150 g / m, in particular 20 - 80 g / m.

[0121] Especially, a breaking force of the tendon is from 1 '000 - 50'000 kN, especially 2'000 - 40'000 kN, in particular 5'000 - 30'000 kN.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment, a linear density of all strength members together in the tendon is from 1 - 50 kg / m, especially 2 - 40 kg / m, in particular 5 - 30 kg / m.

[0123] According to a further preferred embodiment, the strength members are essentially identical with respect to their structure and / or with respect to a property selected from tensile strength, length and / or diameter. This allows inter alia for obtaining a highly homogeneous load distribution across the whole cross-section of the tendon. This in turn is beneficial with respect to the breaking force and / or the lifetime of the tendon.

[0124] With respect to the selected property, each individual strength member preferably does not deviate by more than 2%, especially not more than 1%, in particular not more than 0.5%, from an arithmetic average of the property of all individual strength members.

[0125] In a special embodiment, the tendon does not comprise any metallic strength members and / or metallic reinforcement layers, and / or the tendon, apart from the end connectors, is free of metallic elements. This allows for reducing the weight of the tendon and / or to avoid problems associated with metallic elements. Nevertheless, for special applications, metallic components, such as e.g. metallic strength members and / or metallic reinforcement layers, are possible as well.

[0126] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0127] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG Preferably, the strength members are arranged such that a tension of the strength member is essentially identical when the tendon is subjected to a tensile load.

[0128] In a special embodiment, the tendon described herein incorporates a conductive fiber, particularly a conductive carbon fiber, whereby the conductive fiber runs inside through at least one of the individual synthetic fiber-based strength members.

[0129] The conductive fiber in particular runs inside through the outermost synthetic fiberbased strength member of the tendon and / or through the synthetic fiber-based strength member that is guided around the largest thimbles and / or through the synthetic fiberbased strength member that is guided around the thimble that are positioned furthest away from the sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors.

[0130] It turned out that monitoring of the individual synthetic fiber-based strength member(s) located in the outermost layer is usually sufficient to reliably estimate the structural condition of the tendon. Presumably this is because strength members located in the outermost layer usually are subject to the largest forces and therefore wear out more quickly than those further inside the load-bearing core. Passing the conductive fiber through these strength member(s) is highly beneficial with respect to a reliable monitoring of the tendon.

[0131] The conductive fiber may be made of any metallic and / or non-metallic fibers capable of conducting electricity. For example, the conductive fiber is a carbon fiber.

[0132] The conductive fiber in particular is configured for monitoring a structural condition of the tendon and / or to signal wear of the tendon. Specifically, once individual strength members show signs of wear and tear and typically become stretched and / or deformed, the electrical properties of the conductive fiber in the individual strength member will change. The electrical properties may for example be an electrical resistance, an impedance, an electrical conductivity, and / or a temporal evolution of one or more of

[0133] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0134] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG these properties. If the one or more of the electrical properties is evaluated, the structural condition of the individual strength members and thus the tendon can be monitored.

[0135] In a preferred embodiment, the conductive fiber is embedded in the respective individual synthetic fiber-based strength members, especially in a central part of the respective strength members, through which it runs.

[0136] In particular, the conductive fiber comprises a protective layer, especially layer of a non- conductive fiber material, e.g. an aramid layer, surrounding the conductive fiber. This results in protection against mechanical impacts, and optionally in an electrical isolation with respect to the other elements of the strength members. Overall, the protective layer allows for improving reliability of the monitoring.

[0137] In particular, the tendon, especially at the first end connector and / or the second end connector, comprises two electrical connectors and each of the two free ends of the conductive fiber is electrically connected to one of the electrical connectors. This allows e.g. for contacting the conductive fiber with standard plugs.

[0138] According to special embodiment, the tendon further comprises an evaluation unit as described below in connection with the kit of parts. Thereby, in particular, the evaluation unit is integrated in the tendon, especially at one of the end connectors of the tendon.

[0139] A further aspect of the invention is related to a kit of parts comprising a tendon as described above and an evaluation unit that is configured for evaluating an electrical property of the conductive fiber, e.g. an electrical resistance, an impedance, an electrical conductivity, and / or a temporal evolution of one or more of these properties.

[0140] The evaluation unit in particular comprises a power source, a voltage source, a current meter, a voltage meter, and / or a processing unit. The processing unit, for example, comprises an integrator. The evaluation unit in particular is configured for a discrete or

[0141] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0142] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG continuous measurement of the electrical property of the conductive fiber, especially in real time.

[0143] The evaluation unit may further comprise a communication interface, especially a wired and / or wireless communication interface, for transmitting the electrical property of the conductive fiber, e.g. to a surveillance station. This allows for remote surveillance of tendons, even over large distances and / or with tendons that are installed in hard-to- reach places.

[0144] The wireless communication interface is for example selected Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Lora, Sigfox, NB-loT, GSM, LTE, and / or satellite-based communication.

[0145] In particular, the thimbles of the first end connector and / or the thimbles of the second end connector comprise a support surface for the strength members, which at least in parts has the form of a cylinder sector surface.

[0146] Preferably, the cylinder sector surface spans an angular range of 180 - 360° around a central geometrical axis of the cylinder sector.

[0147] However, thimbles with other structures are possible as well.

[0148] A width of the thimbles of the first and / or the second end connectors, measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tendon especially is from 30 - 600 mm, especially 40 - 400 mm, in particular 50 - 300 mm.

[0149] According a further preferred embodiment, the first end connector and / or the second end connector comprise(s) a guide bushing for the strength members, whereby the guide bushing is located at an end of the end connector(s) facing the other end connector, especially at a face end of prongs and / or plane-planar plate-shaped elements, and the guide bushing surrounds the strength members and holds them positively in position in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon.

[0150] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0151] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG Especially, the guide bushing has a cylindrical, elliptical or rectangular opening for receiving the strength members.

[0152] Further preferred, the guide bushing comprises or consists of two halves, especially symmetrical halves, which are mechanically attachable, e.g. with screws, to the tendon, especially after the strength members have been arranged and connected with the end connectors.

[0153] According to a further preferred embodiment, the first and / or the second end connector each comprise one or more eyelets, e.g. through holes in the end connectors, in which the first and / or second ends of the strength members are received and fixed, e.g. adhesively fixed, fixed in a form-fit manner and / or fixed in a force-fit manner. This allows for a reliable and defined fixation of the ends of the strength member at the end connectors.

[0154] The first end connector and / or the second end connector in a special embodiment are configured as a fork connector, especially featuring two or more, preferably two, parallel prongs with a gap between them, the prongs preferably having a through hole, allowing the end connector to interface with a mating component, such as e.g. a clevis pin, bolt and / or hinge. Preferably, the through holes of the prongs are arranged coaxially.

[0155] In a fork connector, the prongs may be configured as plane-planar plate-shaped elements.

[0156] Especially, the first end connector comprises two plane-planar plate-shaped elements which are connected by the at least two thimbles and extend from it in a direction opposite to the second end connector, and optionally also in a direction towards the second end connector; and / or the second end connector comprises two plane-planar plate-shaped elements which are connected by the at least two thimbles and extend from it in a direction opposite to the first end connector, and optionally also in a direction towards the first end connector.

[0157] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0158] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG The plane-planar plate-shaped elements of the first end connector, especially in a section opposite to the second end connector, each comprise a through hole forming the first fixation element for connecting the tendon to a first further element; and / or the plane- planar plate-shaped elements of the second end connector, especially in a section opposite to the first end connector, each comprise a through hole forming the second fixation element for connecting the tendon to a second further element.

[0159] Thereby, in particular, the plane-planar plate-shaped elements of the first end connector, especially in a section adjacent the first thimble, each comprise at least one, preferably two of the eyelets and / or the plane-planar plate-shaped elements of the second end connector, especially in a section adjacent the second thimble, each comprise at least one, preferably two, of the eyelets.

[0160] Especially, each of the prongs and / or plane-planar plate-shaped elements comprises at least one eyelet, especially a plurality of eyelets, on opposing sides of the thimble, especially in a section of the prongs and / or plane-planar plate-shaped elements protruding laterally beyond the thimbles.

[0161] The prongs and / or the plane-planar plate-shaped elements preferably protrude laterally beyond the thimbles of the end connector, especially for securing the strength members in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon.

[0162] Especially, the end connectors are made of steel, titanium, alloy, synthetic material and / or a composite material. However, other materials may be suitable as well.

[0163] A further aspect of the present invention is related to a method for producing a tendon with end connectors at each end of the tendon, especially a tendon as described above, comprising the steps of:

[0164] (i) Providing a first end connector to be arranged at a first end of the tendon and having

[0165] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0166] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimble(s); and a first fixation element for connecting the tendon to a first further element;

[0167] (ii) Providing a second end connector to be arranged at a second end of the tendon and having at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimble(s); and a second fixation element for connecting the tendon to a second further element;

[0168] (iii) Connecting a first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member of finite length with its first end to the first end connector or to the second end connector, guiding the first strength member at least once from the first thimble of the first end connector to the first thimble of the second end connector and at least once from the first thimble of the second end connector to the first thimble of the first end connector, whereby the first strength member at least once is guided around the first thimble of the first end connector and / or the first thimble of the second end connector; and connecting the strength member at its second end to the first or the second end connector;

[0169] (iv) Optionally, connecting a second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member of finite length with its first end to the first end connector or the second end connector, guiding the second strength member at least once from the second thimble of the first end connector to the second thimble of the second end connector and at least once from the second thimble of the of the second end connector to the second thimble of the first end connector, whereby the second strength member at least once is guided around the second thimble of the first end connector and / or the second thimble of the second end connector; and connecting the strength member at its second end to the first or the second end connector;

[0170] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0171] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors; whereby the first strength member and the optional second strength member each comprise a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0172] Especially preferred is a method for producing a tendon with end connectors at each end of the tendon, especially a tendon as described above, comprising the steps of:

[0173] (i) Providing a first end connector to be arranged at a first end of the tendon and having at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles; and a first fixation element for connecting the tendon to a first further element;

[0174] (ii) Providing a second end connector to be arranged at a second end of the tendon and having at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles; and a second fixation element for connecting the tendon to a second further element;

[0175] (iii) Connecting a first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member of finite length with its first end to the first end connector or to the second end connector, guiding the first strength member at least once from the first thimble of the first end connector to the first thimble of the second end connector and at least once from the first thimble of the second end connector to the first thimble of the first end connector, whereby the first strength member at least once is guided around the first thimble of the first end connector and / or the first thimble of the second end connector; and connecting the strength member at its second end to the first or the second end connector;

[0176] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0177] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG (iv) Connecting a second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member of finite length with its first end to the first end connector or the second end connector, guiding the second strength member at least once from the second thimble of the first end connector to the second thimble of the second end connector and at least once from the second thimble of the of the second end connector to the second thimble of the first end connector, whereby the second strength member at least once is guided around the second thimble of the first end connector and / or the second thimble of the second end connector; and connecting the strength member at its second end to the first or the second end connector; such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors; whereby the first strength member and the second strength member each comprise a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0178] In particular, the inventive method is performed such that one or more of the abovedescribed optional features of the tendons are obtained as well.

[0179] Especially, the first and / or second ends of the strength member(s) are received and fixed in eyelets of the first and / or the second end connector, e.g. adhesively fixed, fixed in a form-fit manner and / or fixed in a force-fit manner.

[0180] In particular, the strength member(s) is / are laid around the associated thimble(s) with an essentially constant tensile force. This allows for obtaining a highly uniform load distribution between the strength members when the tendon is subjected to a tensile load.

[0181] Especially, before or during step (iii) the second thimble and optionally present further thimbles of the first end connector and / or the second thimble and optionally present further thimbles of the second end connector, is / are at least partly, especially fully, removed from the end connectors. This allows for an easier guiding of the first strength

[0182] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0183] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG member around the first thimbles of the first and / or the second end connector because the first strength member does not need to be moved through between the first and the second thimbles.

[0184] Further preferred, after step (iii), the second thimble of the first end connector and / or the second thimble of the second end connector, is / are mounted in the end connector(s) in the final position; and, optionally, after step (iv) at least one further thimble of the first end connector and / or at least one thimble of the second end connector is / are mounted in the end connector(s) in the final position.

[0185] The final position is meant to be the position in the ready-to-use configuration of the tendon.

[0186] Especially, at least one of the load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member, in particular the last load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member installed, comprises a conductive fiber, especially a conductive carbon fiber, running through the load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member.

[0187] Further preferred, the method comprises a step of mounting a guide bushing for the strength members on the first end connector and / or the second end connector, whereby the guide bushing preferably is mounted at an end of the end connector(s) facing the other end connector and the guide bushing surrounds the strength members and holds them positively in position in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon.

[0188] Especially, the guide bushing comprises or consists of two halves, especially symmetrical halves, that are attached to the tendon after the strength members have been arranged and connected with the end connectors.

[0189] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0190] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG According to a further preferred implementation of the method, sections of the strength members in between the first and the second end connector are enveloped with an enveloping layer keeping together the strength members.

[0191] According to a further preferred implementation:

[0192] - on the at least one thimble of the first end connector and / or on the at least one thimble of the second end connector, a fabric is arranged on the at least one thimble, especially before step (iii), such that in the final tendon, the fabric is located in between the at least one thimble and the first strength member;

[0193] - optionally, on the second thimble of the first end connector and / or on the second thimble of the second end connector, a second fabric is arranged on the second thimble, especially before step iv, such that in the final tendon, the second fabric is located in between the at second thimble and the second strength member;

[0194] - optionally, on the at least one further thimble of the first end connector and / or on the at least one further thimble of the second end connector, at least one further fabric is arranged, especially before step (iv), such that in the final tendon, the least one further fabric is located in between the least one further thimble and the least one further strength member.

[0195] Thereby, preferably: a) sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) all are arranged side by side to form a single layer on the associated thimble, or b) sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged as a stack on the associated thimble in which a first part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side to form a first single layer that is covered with an outer fabric, and on top of the outer

[0196] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0197] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG fabric a second part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side on the associated thimble to form a second single layer, and, optionally, on top, at least one alternating layer of further outer fabric and a further single layer made from further parts of sections of the strength member(s) are arranged on the associated thimble.

[0198] Thereby, preferably, sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble are connected to the fabric underneath and, optionally also to the overlying fabric, by material bond, especially by adhesively bonding.

[0199] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to the use of a tendon as described above for tensioning a structure and / or transmitting tensile forces between structural elements, e.g. in post-tensioned concrete constructions, infrastructure constructions, buildings, in crane and / or hoisting applications, including but not limited, in construction, in surface mining equipment, such as e.g. in filter press machines and / or dragline applications, etc.

[0200] Especially, the tendons are used for fixing underwater installations, e.g. containers, cages, nets and / or racks used in aquaculture. Aquaculture is meant to be aquafarming, i.e. the controlled cultivation of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, algae and / or other organisms of value such as aquatic plants.

[0201] The following aspects and combinations of aspects of the invention are in particular beneficial:

[0202] 1. A tendon (1, 100) with end connectors at each end of the tendon, the tendon comprising: a) A first end connector (10) arranged at a first end of the tendon (1) and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (11.1, 11.2,

[0203] 11.3); and

[0204] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0205] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG a first fixation element (15a) for connecting the tendon (1) to a first further element (SEI); b) A second end connector (1 O') arranged at a second end of the tendon and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (1 1.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'); and a second fixation element (15a') for connecting the tendon (1) to a second further element (SE2); c) A first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M1) of finite length, which is connected at its first end (M1.1) to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (1 O'), the first strength member (M 1) extending at least once from the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) to the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10') to the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10), whereby the first strength member (M1) at least once is guided around the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector and / or the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector; and which is connected at its second end (M1.2) to the first (10) or the second end connector (10'); such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the first strength member located in between the two end connectors; and whereby the first strength member (M1) comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0206] 2. Tendon according to aspect 1, wherein: the first end connector (10) has at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3); and

[0207] The second end connector (10') has at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles

[0208] (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'); and

[0209] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0210] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG The tendon comprises a second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M2) of finite length, which is connected at its first end (M2.1) to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), the second strength member (M2) extending at least once from the second thimble (11.2) of the first end connector (10) to the second thimble (1 1.2') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10') to the second thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10), whereby the second strength member (M2) at least once is guided around the second thimble (11.2) of the first end connector and / or the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10); and which is connected at its second end (M2.2) to the first (10) or the second end connector (10'); such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the second strength member located in between the two end connectors; and whereby the second strength member (M2) comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0211] 3. Tendon according to aspect 2, whereby the first and the second end connectors each comprise at least one further thimble (11.3, 11.3'); and whereby the tendon comprises at least one further load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M3), whereby: each of the at least one further synthetic strength member (M3) is connected at its first end to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), each of the at least one further strength member (M3) extending at least once from an associated further thimble (1 1.3) of the first end connector (10) to an associated further thimble (11.3') of the second end connector (10) and at least once from the associated further thimble (11.3') of the second end connector (10') to the associated thimble (11.3) of the first end connector (10), whereby each of the at least one further synthetic strength member (M3) at least once is guided around the associated further thimble (11.3) of the first end connector (10) and / or the associated thimble (11.3') of the second end connector (10'); and each of the at least one further synthetic strength member (M3) is

[0212] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0213] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG connected at its second end to the first (10) or the second end connector (10'); whereby each of the at least one further strength member (M3) comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0214] 4. Tendon according to any of aspects 2 - 3, whereby each of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3) of the first end connector (10) has a different size, in particular a different diameter; especially, in a direction facing away from the sections (S) of the strength members located in between the two end connectors (10, 10'), the size, in particular the diameter, of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3) increases gradually; and / or whereby each of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3') of the second end connector (10') has a different size, in particular a different diameter; especially, in a direction facing away from the sections (S) of the strength members located in between the two end connectors (10, 10'), the size, in particular the diameter, of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 1 1.3') increases gradually.

[0215] 5. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby at least one of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3), in particular all except one of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3), especially all of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3), of the first end connector (10) is / are releasably mounted in the first end connector (10); and / or at least one of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'), in particular all except one of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'), especially all of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'), of the second end connector (10') is / are releasably mounted in the second end connector (10').

[0216] 6. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3) consist(s) of synthetic fiber cords, synthetic fiber strands and / or a synthetic fiber ropes, which, in particular, are wrapped in a film and / or extruded with covering material.

[0217] 7. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, wherein, on the at least one thimble (110) of the first end connector (101) and / or on the at least one thimble of the second end connector, a fabric (111.1, 111.2) is arranged in between the at least one

[0218] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0219] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG thimble (110) and the first strength member (M 1) in order to support the first strength member (M1) on the at least one thimble (110).

[0220] 8. Tendon according to any of aspects 2 - 7, wherein, on the second thimble of the first end connector and / or on the second thimble of the second end connector, a second fabric is arranged in between the second thimble and the second strength member in order to support the second strength member on the second thimble.

[0221] 9. Tendon according to any of aspects 3 - 8, wherein, on each of the at least one further thimble of the first end connector and / or on each of the at least one further thimble of the second end connector, at least one further fabric is arranged in between the at least one further thimble and each of the at least one further synthetic strength member(s) in order to support each of the at least one further synthetic strength member on the associated thimble.

[0222] 10. Tendon according to any of aspects 7 - 9, wherein: a) The sections (M1.a, M1.b) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble(s) (110) all are arranged side by side to form a single layer on the associated thimble, or b) The sections (M1.a, M1.b) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble(s) (110) are arranged as a stack on the associated thimble (110) in which a first part of sections (M1.a) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side to form a first single layer that is covered with an outer fabric (111.1) , and on top of the outer fabric (111.1) a second part of sections (M1.b) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side on the associated thimble (110) to form a second single layer, and, optionally, on top, at least one alternating layer of further outer fabric and a further single layer made from further parts of sections of the strength member(s) are arranged on the associated thimble.

[0223] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0224] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG 11. Tendon according to any of aspects 7 - 10, wherein sections (M1.a) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble (110) are connected to the fabric underneath (1 11.1), and optionally also to the overlying fabric (111.1), by a material bond, especially by an adhesive (AH).

[0225] 12. Tendon according to any of aspects 7 - 11, wherein the fabric(s) (111.1, 111.2) is / are made of a material with an elastic tensile modulus that is higher than the tensile elastic modulus (Young modulus) of a material of the associated strength member (M1), especially the elastic tensile modulus of the material of the fabric equals at least 1.5, in particular at least 2, especially 2.5, the tensile elastic modulus of a material of the associated strength member (M1).

[0226] 13. Tendon according to any of aspects 7 - 12, wherein the fabric(s) (111.1, 111.2) is / are made of carbon fibers boron nitride nanotube fibers, alumina fibers, and / or silicon carbide fiber fabrics.

[0227] 14. Tendon according to any of aspects 7 - 13, wherein the fabric(s) (111.1, 111.2) is / are made of carbon fibers, especially the fabric is a woven carbon fiber fabric.

[0228] 15. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby the sections of the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3) in between the first (10) and the second end connector (10') are aligned in parallel.

[0229] 16. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects whereby a total width of all sections of the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3) in between the first (10) and the second end connector (10'), measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tendon is from 30 - 600 mm, especially 40 - 400 mm, in particular 50 - 300 mm.

[0230] 17. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects whereby the sections of the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3) in between the first (10) and the second end connector (10') are kept together by an enveloping layer (20).

[0231] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0232] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG 18. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby a total number of sections of the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3) running from the first (10) to the second end connector (10') and sections of the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3) running from the second (10') to the first end connector (10) is from 10 - 2'000, especially 50 - 1 '500 or 100 - 1 '000.

[0233] 19. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby a wrap angle of the first strength member (M1), the second strength member (M2) and / or the at least one further strength member (M3) on the respective thimble (11.1, 11.2, 11.3) of the first end connector (10) and / or the respective thimble (11.1 ', 11.2', 1 1.3') of the second end connector (10') is within a range of 180 360°, especially 180 - 270°.

[0234] 20. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby the first strength member (M1), the second strength member (M2) and / or the at least one further strength member (M3) has / have a diameter of 1 - 20 mm, especially 2 - 15 mm, in particular 3 - 10 mm.

[0235] 21. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby the first end connector (10) and / or the second end connector (10') comprise(s) a guide bushing (16, 16') for the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3), whereby the guide bushing (16, 16') is located at an end of the end connectors facing the other end connector and the guide bushing (16, 16') surrounds the strength members (M1, M2, M3) and holds them positively in position in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon; and whereby the guide bushing (16, 16') comprises or consist of two symmetrical halves that are mechanically attachable to the tendon after the strength members (M1, M2, M3) have been arranged and connected with the end connectors (10, 10').

[0236] 22. Tendon according to any of preceding aspects, whereby the first end connector (10) and / or the second end connector (10') are configured as a fork connector especially featuring two or more, preferably two, parallel prongs (12a, 12b, 12a', 12b') with a gap

[0237] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0238] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG (13) between them, the prongs (12a, 12b, 12a', 12b') preferably having a through hole (15a, 15b, 15a', 15b'), allowing the end connector to interface with a mating component, such as e.g. a clevis pin, bolt and / or hinge.

[0239] 23. Method for producing a tendon (1, 100) with end connectors at each end of the tendon, especially a tendon according to any of preceding aspects comprising the steps of:

[0240] (i) Providing a first end connector (10) to be arranged at a first end of the tendon and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimble(s) (11.1, 11.2, 11.3); and a first fixation element (15a) for connecting the tendon (1) to a first further element (SEI);

[0241] (ii) Providing a second end connector (10') to be arranged at a second end of the tendon and having at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimble(s) (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'); and a second fixation element (15a') for connecting the tendon (1) to a second further element (SE2);

[0242] (iii) Connecting a first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M 1) of finite length with its first end (M1.1) to the first end connector (10) or to the second end connector (10'), guiding the first strength member (M1) at least once from the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) to the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10') to the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10), whereby the first

[0243] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0244] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG strength member (M1) at least once is guided around the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) and / or the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10'); and connecting the first strength member (M1) at its second end (M1.2) to the first or the second end connector;

[0245] (iv) Optionally, connecting a second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M2) of finite length with its first end (M2.1) to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), guiding the second strength member (M2) at least once from the second thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) to the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10') to the second thimble (11.2) of the fist end connector (10), whereby the second strength member (M2) at least once is guided around the second thimble (11.2) of the first end connector (10) and / or the second thimble (1 1.2') of the second end connector (10'); and connecting the second strength member (M2) at its second end (M2.2) to the first or the second end connector; such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors; whereby the first strength member (M1) and the optional second strength member (M2) each comprise a plurality of synthetic fibers.

[0246] 24. Method according to aspect 23 whereby during step (iii) the second thimble (11.2) and optionally present further thimbles (11.3) of the first end connector (10) and / or the second thimble (11.2') and optionally present further thimbles (11.3') of the second end connector (10'), is / are at least partly, especially fully, removed from the end connectors (10, 10'); and, optionally, whereby after step (iii), the second thimble (11.2) of the first end connector (10) and / or the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10'), is / are mounted in the end connector(s) (10, 10') in the final position; and, optionally, after step (iv) at least one further thimble (11.3) of the first end connector (10) and / or at least one

[0247] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0248] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG thimble (1 1.3') of the second end connector (10') is / are mounted in the end connector(s) (10, 10') in the final position.

[0249] 25. Method according to any of aspects 23 - 24, whereby, on the at least one thimble of the first end connector and / or on the at least one thimble of the second end connector, a fabric is arranged on the at least one thimble, especially before step (iii), such that in the final tendon, the fabric is located in between the at least one thimble and the first strength member; optionally, on the second thimble of the first end connector and / or on the second thimble of the second end connector, a second fabric is arranged on the second thimble, especially before step (iv), such that in the final tendon, the second fabric is located in between the at second thimble and the second strength member; optionally, on the at least one further thimble of the first end connector and / or on the at least one further thimble of the second end connector, at least one further fabric is arranged, especially before step (iv), such that in the final tendon, the least one further fabric is located in between the least one further thimble and the least one further strength member.

[0250] 26. Method according to aspect 25, whereby: a) sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) all are arranged side by side to form a single layer on the associated thimble, or b) sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged as a stack on the associated thimble in which a first part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side to form a first single layer that is covered with an outer fabric, and on top of the outer fabric a second part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side on the associated thimble to form a second single

[0251] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0252] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG layer, and, optionally, on top, at least one alternating layer of further outer fabric and a further single layer made from further parts of sections of the strength member(s) are arranged on the associated thimble.

[0253] 27. Method according to any of aspects 25 - 26, whereby sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble are connected to the fabric underneath and, optionally also to the overlying fabric, by material bond, especially by adhesively bonding.

[0254] 28. Use of a tendon (1) according to any of aspects 1 - 22 for tensioning a structure and / or transmitting tensile forces between structural elements (SE1, SE2), e.g. in posttensioned concrete constructions, infrastructure constructions, underwater installations and / or buildings.

[0255] Other advantageous embodiments and combinations of features result from the detailed description below and the entirety of the claims.

[0256] Brief description of drawings

[0257] The drawings used to explain the embodiments show:

[0258] Fig. 1 a perspective view of an end connector for a tendon;

[0259] Fig. 2 a top view of the end connector of Fig. 1;

[0260] Fig. 3 a schematic view of a cross-section along a longitudinal axis of a tendon comprising a first end connector and a second end connector after a first strength member has been connected to the two end connectors;

[0261] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0262] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG Fig. 4 a schematic view of the cross-section along a longitudinal axis of the tendon of Fig. 3 after a second strength member has been connected to the two end connectors;

[0263] Fig. 5 a schematic view of the first connector of Fig. 4 from the left side along a longitudinal axis;

[0264] Fig. 6 a cross-section along line A-A of Fig. 4 in a configuration where the strength members are longer and thus guided further times around the thimbles before fixing the ends on the end connectors; and whereby the sections of the strength members in between the first and the second end connector are surrounded and kept together by an enveloping layer;

[0265] Fig. 7 an arrangement in which a tendon is used to connect a first structural element with a second structural element;

[0266] Fig. 8 A schematic view of a kit of parts comprising the tendon of Fig. 6 as well as an evaluation unit connected with free ends of the conductive fiber running through one of the individual strength member;

[0267] Fig. 9 A cross-section through a central section in between the two end connectors of another tendon in intact state. In this configuration the strength members are surrounded and kept together by a multi-layer sheath forming a visual damage indicator;

[0268] Fig. 10 A cross-section through the tendon of Fig. 9 in damaged state;

[0269] Fig. 11 A schematic view of a cross-section of a first end connector of a further tendon wherein sections of the strength member that are wound around the thimble are supported by fabrics;

[0270] Fig. 12 A schematic view of a cross-section along line A-A of Fig. 11.

[0271] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0272] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG In the figures, the same components are given the same reference symbols.

[0273] Exemplary embodiments

[0274] Fig.1 shows a perspective view of an end connector 10 for a tendon while Fig. 2 shows a top view of the end connector 10 of Fig. 1.

[0275] The end connector 10 is configured as a fork connector having two parallel prongs in the form of two plane-planar plate-shaped elements 12a, 12b with a gap 13 between them. Each of the elements 12a, 12b has a through hole 15a, 15b as a fixation element allowing the end connector 10 to interface with a mating component of a further element. The two elements 12a, 12b are connected by three thimbles 11.1, 11.2, 11.3 in the form of circular cylindrical elements having cylindrical support surfaces. The first thimble 11.1, facing away from the through holes 15a, 15b has the smallest diameter, whereas the diameter of the second thimble 11.2 and the further thimble 11.3 gradually increase. The elements 12a, 12b elements protrude laterally beyond the thimbles 11.1, 11.2, 11.3.

[0276] Additionally, the end connector 10 comprises a guide bushing 16 with a cylindrical opening for guiding strength members. The guide bushing 16 is located at the end of the end connector 10 opposite the through holes 15a, 15b. The guide bushing 16 consists of two symmetrical halves that are mechanically attachable to the elements 12a, 12b, with screws.

[0277] Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a cross-section along a longitudinal axis of a tendon 1 comprising a first end connector 10 (left side) and a second end connector 10' (right side) after a first strength member M1 has been connected to the two end connectors 10, 10'. In this case, the first end connector 10 and the second end connector 10' are similar in design as the end connector 10 shown in Fig. 1 and 2 with the difference that there are only two thimbles 11.1, 11.2 in the first end connector 10 and only two thimbles 11.1 ', 11.2' in the second end connector. Elements of the second end connector 10' that are

[0278] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0279] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG identical with the elements of the first connector 10 have the same reference number followed by an additional apostrophe ('),

[0280] The strength member M1 for example is a strand with a diameter of 6 mm based on a plurality of aramid fibers. It is connected at its first end M1.1 a lower eyelet 14a of the first end connector 10, is guided around the first thimble 11.1, extends from the first thimble 11.1 to the first thimble 11.1 ' of the second end connector 10', is guided around the first thimble 11.1 ' of the second end connector 10', extends from the first thimble 11.11of the second end connector 10' to the first thimble 11.1 of the first end connector 10 and is connected at its second end M 1.2 to an upper eyelet 14a of the first end connector 10.

[0281] In the region S between the first end connector 10 and the second end connector 10', the sections of the strength member M1 run in parallel.

[0282] Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of the cross-section along a longitudinal axis of the tendon 1 shown in Fig. 3 after a second strength member M2 has been connected to the two end connectors 10, 10'.

[0283] The strength member M2 for example is identical in design with the first strength member M1. The second strength member M2 It is connected at its first end M2.1 to a lower eyelets 14a of the first end connector 10, is guided around the second thimble 11.2 of the first end connector 10, extends from the second thimble 11.2 to the second thimble 11.2' of the second end connector 10', is guided around the second thimble 11.2', extends from the second thimble 11.2' of the second end connector 10' to the second thimble 11.2 of the first end connector 10 and is connected at its second end M2.2 to an upper eyelet 14a of the first end connector 10.

[0284] In the region S between the first end connector 10 and the second end connector 10', all of the four sections of the strength members M1, M2 run in parallel.

[0285] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0286] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG In practice, the strength members M1, M2 can be longer and thus guided further times around the first 11.1, 11.1 ' and the second thimbles 11.2, 11.2' before fixing the ends M1.2, M2.2 in the respective eyelets 14a. In this manner, a total number of sections of the strength members M 1, M2 running from the first 10 to the second end connector 10' and sections of the strength members running from the second to the first end connector can for example be in the range of 10 - 1 '000.

[0287] Fig. 5 shows a schematic view of the first connector 10 of Fig. 4 from the left side along a longitudinal axis. The strength member M2 is uniformly distributed over the thimble 11.2.

[0288] Fig. 6 shows a cross-section along line A-A of Fig. 4 in a configuration where the strength members M 1, M2 are longer and thus guided further times around the first 11.1, 11.1 ' and the second thimble 11.2, 11.2' before fixing the ends M 1.2, M2.2 in the respective eyelets 14a; and whereby the sections of the strength members M1, M2 in between the first 10 and the second end connector 10' are surrounded and kept together by an enveloping layer 20, e.g. made of synthetic material. In an alternative embodiment, an electrically conductive carbon fiber CW configured for monitoring a structural condition of the tendon and / or to signal wear of the tendon may be present in the center of strength member M2 of the tendon 1.

[0289] The sections of the strength members M1, M2 in region S in between the first 10 and the second 10' end connector are arranged such that they together from a body with a circular cross-section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tendon.

[0290] Fig. 7 shows an arrangement in which tendon 1 is used to connect a first structural element SE1 with a second structural element SE2. Thereby, the end connectors 10, 10' are fixed on the structural elements SE1, SE2 with pins PI, P2, which are arranged in the through holes 15, 15a and matching holes of the structural elements SE1, SE2.

[0291] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0292] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG For example, the structural element SE1 may by an underwater anchor element and the structural element SE2 may be an underwater installations such as e.g. a container, cage, net and / or rack for aquaculture.

[0293] Fig. 8 shows a schematic view of a kit of parts comprising a tendon as shown in Fig. 6 with a conductive wire CW as well as an evaluation unit 60. The tendon of Fig. 8.

[0294] The tendon of Fig.8 comprises two electrical connectors 50.1, 50.2 and each of the two free ends CW.1, CW.2 of the conductive fiber is electrically connected to one of the electrical connectors 50.1, 50.2. Furthermore, the electrical connectors 50.1, 50.2 are connected via electrical lines with the evaluation unit 60.

[0295] The evaluation unit 60 is configured for evaluating an electrical property of the conductive fiber CW, such as e.g. an electrical resistance, an impedance, an electrical conductivity, and / or a temporal evolution of one or more of these properties.

[0296] The evaluation unit 60 for example comprises a power source 60.1, a current meter 60.2, a voltage meter 60.3, and a processing unit 60.4. For example, the evaluation unit 60 is configured for a continuous measurement of the electrical property of the conductive fiber CW, especially in real time.

[0297] Furthermore, the evaluation unit may comprise a communication interface 60.5, e.g. a wireless Lora communication interface, for transmitting the electrical property of the conductive fiber CW to a surveillance station.

[0298] Fig. 9 shows a cross-section through a central section in between the two end connectors of another tendon in intact state. Similar to Fig. 6, in this configuration the strength members M1, M2 are guided further times around the first 11.1, 11.1 ' and the second thimble 11.2, 11.2' before fixing the ends M1.2, M2.2 in the respective eyelets 14a. In contrast to the tendon shown in Fig. 6, the sections of the strength members M 1, M2 in

[0299] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0300] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG between the first 10 and the second end connector 10' are surrounded and kept together by a multi-layer sheath 30 forming a visual damage indicator.

[0301] The multi-layer sheath 30 comprises an inner sheath layer 31 and an outer sheath layer 32 being in direct contact. The inner sheath layer 31 for example is made from a yellow colored polyethylene terephthalate (PET) while the outer sheath layer 32 for example is made from a black colored polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The thickness of the outer sheath layer is chosen such that the inner sheath layer is not visible from the outside.

[0302] Fig. 10 shows the situation after the second strength members M2 as damaged. The damaged second strength members M2' created an internal pressure that deformed the inner sheath layer 31 outwardly resulting in a local rupture of the outer sheath layer 31. At the ruptured section B, the bright warning color of the inner sheath layer 31 becomes visible through the damaged section B of the outer sheath layer 32. Due to the better visibility of the inner sheath layer 31, the exposed section immediately is recognizable by humans, e.g. a field operator. The exemplary embodiments are not to be understood as restrictive and can be modified within the scope of the invention.

[0303] Fig. 11 shows a schematic view of a cross-section of a first end connector 101 of a further tendon 100 along a longitudinal axis. Fig. 12 shows a schematic view of a cross-section along line A-A of Fig. 11. The second end connector of tendon 100 may be essentially identical in design to end connector 101 but feature eyelets for connecting the end sections of the strength member M1.

[0304] The end connector 101 is configured as a fork connector having two parallel prongs in the form of two plane-planar plate-shaped elements 120a, 120b with a gap 130 between them (cf. Fig. 12). The first end connector 101 is similar in design to the end connector 10 shown in Fig. 1 and 2 with the difference that there is only one thimble 110 and one strength member M1.

[0305] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0306] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG On top of the left side of the thimble 110, a first fabric 111.1 with a circular arc-shaped structure, e.g. made of a woven carbon fiber fabric is arranged in between the thimble 110 and the strength member M1 in order to support the first strength member on thimble 110. Thereby, first sections M 1.a, of the strength member M1 that are guided around the thimble 110 are arranged side by side to form a first single layer that is covered with an outer fabric 111.2, and on top of the outer fabric 111.2 a second part of sections M1.b of the strength member M 1 are guided around thimble 110 and arranged side by side to form a second single layer. Put differently, the sections M1.a, M1.b of the strength member M1 each forming a single layer are arranged as a stack, whereby the single layers of sections M1.a, M1.b are separated by the fabrics 111.1, 111.2.

[0307] A width of the fabrics 1 11.1, 111.2 is essentially identical to a width of the associated thimble 110, measured in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the tendon 100.

[0308] For example the elastic tensile modulus of the material of the fabrics 111.1, 1 11.2, e.g. carbon fibers, equals at least 2 the tensile elastic modulus of a material of the associated strength member M1, e.g. aramid.

[0309] The sections M1.a of the strength member M1 that are guided around thimble 1 10 are connected to the fabric 111.1 underneath, and also to the overlying fabric 111.2 by adhesively bonding, e.g. with an epoxy-based adhesive. Likewise, the sections M1.b of the strength member M1 that are guided around thimble 110 are connected to the fabric 111.2 underneath by adhesively bonding, e.g. with an epoxy-based adhesive.

[0310] Although in Fig. 11 and 12 the concept of using fabrics between the thimble and the strength member has been shown only fur an end connector with one thimble, it is possible to add fabrics also in the other embodiments shown in Fig. 1 - 5. For example, with the tendon shown in Fig. 4, some or all the thimbles 1 1.1, 11.2, 11.1', 11.2' may have

[0311] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0312] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG at least one fabric attached in between the thimble and the strength members M 1 and / or M2. Likewise, this is possible with the end connector 10 shown in Fig. 1 and 2.

[0313] Furthermore, e.g. for tendons with lower strength and / or larger width, it is possible to avoid a stack as shown in Fig. 11 and 12 and to arrange all of the sections M1.a, M1.b in one single layer.

[0314] 512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-

[0315] 11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG

Claims

48Claims1. A tendon (1, 100) with end connectors at each end of the tendon, the tendon comprising: a) A first end connector (10) arranged at a first end of the tendon (1) and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3); and a first fixation element (15a) for connecting the tendon (1) to a first further element (SEI); b) A second end connector (10') arranged at a second end of the tendon and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (11 .1 ', 11.2', 11.3'); and a second fixation element (15a1) for connecting the tendon (1) to a second further element (SE2); c) A first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M 1) of finite length, which is connected at its first end (M1.1) to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), the first strength member (M1) extending at least once from the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) to the first thimble (1 1.1 ') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10') to the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10), whereby the first strength member (M 1) at least once is guided around the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector and / or the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector; and which is connected at its second end (M1.2) to the first (10) or the second end connector (10');512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG49 such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the first strength member located in between the two end connectors; and whereby the first strength member (M1) comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers.

2. Tendon according to claim 1, wherein: the first end connector (10) has at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3); andThe second end connector (10') has at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimbles (11.1 ', 1 1.2', 11.3'); andThe tendon comprises a second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M2) of finite length, which is connected at its first end (M2.1) to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), the second strength member (M2) extending at least once from the second thimble (11 .2) of the first end connector (10) to the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10') to the second thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10), whereby the second strength member (M2) at least once is guided around the second thimble (11.2) of the first end connector and / or the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10); and which is connected at its second end (M2.2) to the first (10) or the second end connector (10'); such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the second strength member located in between the two end connectors; and whereby the second strength member (M2) comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers.

3. Tendon according to claim 2, whereby the first and the second end connectors each comprise at least one further thimble (11 .3, 11 .3'); and whereby the tendon comprises512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG50 at least one further load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M3), whereby: each of the at least one further synthetic strength member (M3) is connected at its first end to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), each of the at least one further strength member (M3) extending at least once from an associated further thimble (11.3) of the first end connector (10) to an associated further thimble (11.3') of the second end connector (10) and at least once from the associated further thimble (11.3') of the second end connector (10') to the associated thimble (11.3) of the first end connector (10), whereby each of the at least one further synthetic strength member (M3) at least once is guided around the associated further thimble (11.3) of the first end connector (10) and / or the associated thimble (11.3') of the second end connector (10'); and each of the at least one further synthetic strength member (M3) is connected at its second end to the first (10) or the second end connector (10'); whereby each of the at least one further strength member (M3) comprises a plurality of synthetic fibers.

4. Tendon according to any of claims 2 - 3, whereby each of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3) of the first end connector (10) has a different size, in particular a different diameter; especially, in a direction facing away from the sections (S) of the strength members located in between the two end connectors (10, 10'), the size, in particular the diameter, of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 1 1.3) increases gradually; and / or whereby each of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3') of the second end connector (10') has a different size, in particular a different diameter; especially, in a direction facing away from the sections (S) of the strength members located in between the two end connectors (10, 10'), the size, in particular the diameter, of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3') increases gradually.512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG515. Tendon according to any of preceding claims, whereby at least one of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3), in particular all except one of the thimbles (11.1, 1 1.2, 11.3), especially all of the thimbles (11.1, 11.2, 11.3), of the first end connector (10) is / are releasably mounted in the first end connector (10); and / or at least one of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11 .2', 11.3'), in particular all except one of the thimbles (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'), especially all of the thimbles (11.1', 11.2', 11.3'), of the second end connector (10') is / are releasably mounted in the second end connector (10').

6. Tendon according to any of preceding claims, whereby the strength member(s) (M1, M2, M3) consist(s) of synthetic fiber cords, synthetic fiber strands and / or a synthetic fiber ropes, which, in particular, are wrapped in a film and / or extruded with covering material.

7. Tendon according to any of preceding claims, wherein, on the at least one thimble (110) of the first end connector (101) and / or on the at least one thimble of the second end connector, a fabric (111.1, 111.2) is arranged in between the at least one thimble (110) and the first strength member (M1) in order to support the first strength member (M 1) on the at least one thimble (110); and optionally, wherein, on the second thimble of the first end connector and / or on the second thimble of the second end connector, a second fabric is arranged in between the second thimble and the second strength member in order to support the second strength member on the second thimble; and optionally, on each of the at least one further thimble of the first end connector and / or on each of the at least one further thimble of the second end connector, at least one further fabric is arranged in between the at least one further thimble and each of the at least one further synthetic strength member(s) in order to support each of the at least one further synthetic strength member on the associated thimble.

8. Tendon according to claim 7, wherein:512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AGa) The sections (M1.a, M1.b) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble(s) (110) all are arranged side by side to form a single layer on the associated thimble, or b) The sections (M1.a, M1.b) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble(s) (110) are arranged as a stack on the associated thimble (1 10) in which a first part of sections (M1.a) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side to form a first single layer that is covered with an outer fabric (111.1) , and on top of the outer fabric (111.1) a second part of sections (M1.b) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side on the associated thimble (110) to form a second single layer, and, optionally, on top, at least one alternating layer of further outer fabric and a further single layer made from further parts of sections of the strength member(s) are arranged on the associated thimble.

9. Tendon according to any of claims 7 - 8, wherein sections (M1.a) of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble (110) are connected to the fabric underneath (111.1), and optionally also to the overlying fabric (111.1), by a material bond, especially by an adhesive (AH).

10. Tendon according to any of claims 7 - 9, wherein the fabric(s) (11 1.1, 111.2) is / are made of a material with an elastic tensile modulus that is higher than the tensile elastic modulus (Young modulus) of a material of the associated strength member (M1), especially the elastic tensile modulus of the material of the fabric equals at least 1.5, in particular at least 2, especially 2.5, the tensile elastic modulus of a material of the associated strength member (M 1).512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG11. Tendon according to any of claims 7 - 10, wherein the fabric(s) (111.1, 111.2) is / are made of carbon fibers boron nitride nanotube fibers, alumina fibers, and / or silicon carbide fiber fabrics.

12. Tendon according to any of claims 7 - 11, wherein the fabric(s) (111.1, 111.2) is / are made of carbon fibers, especially the fabric is a woven carbon fiber fabric.

13. Method for producing a tendon (1, 100) with end connectors at each end of the tendon, especially a tendon according to any of preceding claims comprising the steps of:(i) Providing a first end connector (10) to be arranged at a first end of the tendon and having: at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimble(s) (11.1, 11.2, 11.3); and a first fixation element (15a) for connecting the tendon (1) to a first further element (SEI);(ii) Providing a second end connector (10') to be arranged at a second end of the tendon and having at least 1, in particular at least 2, especially 3 - 10, individual thimble(s) (11.1 ', 11.2', 11.3'); and a second fixation element (15a1) for connecting the tendon (1) to a second further element (SE2);(iii) Connecting a first load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M1) of finite length with its first end (M1.1) to the first end connector (10) or to the second end connector (10'), guiding the first strength member (M1) at least once from the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) to the first512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG54 thimble (1 1.1 ') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10') to the first thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10), whereby the first strength member (M 1) at least once is guided around the first thimble (1 1.1) of the first end connector (10) and / or the first thimble (11.1 ') of the second end connector (10'); and connecting the first strength member (M1) at its second end (M1.2) to the first or the second end connector;(iv) Optionally, connecting a second load bearing synthetic fiber-based strength member (M2) of finite length with its first end (M2.1) to the first end connector (10) or the second end connector (10'), guiding the second strength member (M2) at least once from the second thimble (11.1) of the first end connector (10) to the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10') and at least once from the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10') to the second thimble (11.2) of the fist end connector (10), whereby the second strength member (M2) at least once is guided around the second thimble (11.2) of the first end connector (10) and / or the second thimble (11.2') of the second end connector (10'); and connecting the second strength member (M2) at its second end (M2.2) to the first or the second end connector; such that the two end connectors are connected to each other via sections of the strength members located in between the two end connectors; whereby the first strength member (M 1) and the optional second strength member (M2) each comprise a plurality of synthetic fibers.

14. Method according to claim 13 whereby during step (iii) the second thimble (11.2) and optionally present further thimbles (11.3) of the first end connector (10) and / or the second thimble (11.2') and optionally present further thimbles (11.3') of the second end connector (10'), is / are at least partly, especially fully, removed from the end connectors (10, 10'); and, optionally, whereby after step (iii), the second thimble (11.2)512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG55 of the first end connector (10) and / or the second thimble (11 .2') of the second end connector (10'), is / are mounted in the end connector(s) (10, 10') in the final position; and, optionally, after step (iv) at least one further thimble (11.3) of the first end connector (10) and / or at least one thimble (11.3') of the second end connector (10') is / are mounted in the end connector(s) (10, 10') in the final position.

15. Method according to any of claims 13 - 14, whereby,- on the at least one thimble of the first end connector and / or on the at least one thimble of the second end connector, a fabric is arranged on the at least one thimble, especially before step (iii), such that in the final tendon, the fabric is located in between the at least one thimble and the first strength member;- optionally, on the second thimble of the first end connector and / or on the second thimble of the second end connector, a second fabric is arranged on the second thimble, especially before step (iv), such that in the final tendon, the second fabric is located in between the at second thimble and the second strength member;- optionally, on the at least one further thimble of the first end connector and / or on the at least one further thimble of the second end connector, at least one further fabric is arranged, especially before step (iv), such that in the final tendon, the least one further fabric is located in between the least one further thimble and the least one further strength member.

16. Method according to claim 15, whereby: a) sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) all are arranged side by side to form a single layer on the associated thimble, or b) sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged as a stack on the associated thimble in which a first part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AGby side to form a first single layer that is covered with an outer fabric, and on top of the outer fabric a second part of sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the thimble(s) are arranged side by side on the associated thimble to form a second single layer, and, optionally, on top, at least one alternating layer of further outer fabric and a further single layer made from further parts of sections of the strength member(s) are arranged on the associated thimble.

17. Method according to any of claims 15 - 16, whereby sections of the strength member(s) that are guided around the associated thimble are connected to the fabric underneath and, optionally also to the overlying fabric, by material bond, especially by adhesively bonding.

18. Use of a tendon (1) according to any of claims 1 - 12 for tensioning a structure and / or transmitting tensile forces between structural elements (SE1, SE2), e.g. in posttensioned concrete constructions, infrastructure constructions, underwater installations and / or buildings.512497-WO1 HS / HS Keller Schneider Patent-11 Dezember 2025 und Markenanwalte AG

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