Multi-layer wedge anchorage for FRP plates and tendons
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an effective anchorage mechanism to securely fasten fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) plates and tendons when used to reinforce concrete structures, as existing solutions fail to adequately address the tensile strength requirements of concrete materials.
Innovation Solution
A wedge anchorage system comprising an outer barrel, inner barrels, outer wedges, inner wedges, and a middle wedge is designed to securely position two FRP plates and six FRP tendons, utilizing grooves and through holes to evenly distribute and secure the tendons, with the plates positioned between the inner and middle wedges, and the wedges affixed to the barrel using welding or other suitable methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional steel rebar is used to reinforce concrete, then tensile strength is improved, but weight and corrosion resistance are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from steel to FRP (fiber-reinforced polymer), which has different density and strength-to-weight characteristics. This allows achieving the required tensile strength while significantly reducing the weight of the reinforcement system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs FRP tendons and plates as composite materials to replace conventional steel rebar. These composite materials provide the necessary tensile strength while being lightweight and corrosion-resistant, directly addressing the technical contradiction between strength and weight.
2Strength
If conventional steel rebar is used to reinforce concrete, then tensile strength is improved, but corrosion resistance is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition from metallic steel to polymer-based FRP, which fundamentally alters the corrosion resistance parameter. FRP materials are inherently resistant to corrosion from water, chemicals, and environmental exposure, thereby improving reliability while maintaining tensile strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of FRP composite materials (fiber-reinforced polymers) replaces steel rebar, providing both the required tensile strength and superior corrosion resistance. The composite structure consists of high-strength fibers embedded in a corrosion-resistant polymer matrix.
3Device complexity
If a simple anchorage mechanism is used for FRP tendons, then device complexity is reduced, but anchorage reliability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The anchorage mechanism is divided into multiple functional segments: wedge components for mechanical interlocking, barrel components for structural support, and FRP plates for load distribution. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchorage system employs a nested structure where FRP tendons are positioned within grooves of wedge components, which are in turn contained within barrel components. This nested arrangement ensures proper positioning, secure anchorage, and reliable load transfer while managing the complexity through hierarchical organization.
4Weight of moving object
If FRP materials are used to reinforce concrete, then weight is reduced and corrosion resistance is improved, but anchorage reliability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different material properties and anchorage mechanisms at different locations within the system. FRP materials are used where weight reduction and corrosion resistance are critical, while metal components (wedges, barrels) are used in the anchorage zones where high strength and reliable mechanical interlocking are required. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction between material advantages and anchorage reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The wedge anchorage system effectively secures FRP plates and tendons, enhancing the tensile strength of concrete structures by providing a robust and durable anchorage mechanism that maintains the high strength and lightweight properties of FRP materials.
Implementation Method 1
Two sets of three FRP tendons are secured in through holes formed between the respective upper and lower outer wedges and upper and lower inner wedges
Implementation Method 2
the wedges affixed to the barrel using welding or other suitable methods
Data Source
AI summary
A wedge anchorage includes the components needed to secure two fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) plates and six FRP tendons. The components include an outer barrel, two inner barrels, two outer wedges, two inner wedges, and a middle wedge. Two sets of three FRP tendons are secured in through holes formed between the respective upper and lower outer wedges and upper and lower inner wedges. A first FRP plate is secured between the upper inner wedge and the middle wedge, while a second FRP plate is secured between the lower inner wedge and the middle wedge.