Hydraulic Tendon Coupler for Efficient Post-Tension Splicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Concrete structures face challenges in withstanding tensile loads due to the material's inherent susceptibility, necessitating reinforcement with steel bars or cables, but existing connection methods are inefficient for post-tensioning applications.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising tendons, anchors, a coupler with wedges and pistons, and a hydraulic pressure mechanism that securely connects tendons by urging the wedges apart, allowing for efficient post-tensioning of concrete structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If steel bars or cables are used to reinforce concrete, then the structure's ability to withstand tensile forces is enhanced, but the complexity of connection methods increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a hydraulic coupling device that uses fluid pressure to connect tendon ends. The coupling mechanism utilizes hydraulic pistons that move in response to fluid pressure, enabling the joining of tendon segments without complex mechanical assembly. This hydraulic approach simplifies the connection process while maintaining high tensile strength capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical connection methods (such as threaded couplings or welded joints) with a hydraulic coupling system. The hydraulic mechanism uses fluid pressure to actuate pistons that secure tendon ends, substituting complex mechanical fastening systems with a more streamlined hydraulic actuation system that reduces connection complexity.
2Productivity
If traditional connection methods are used for tendons, then the structure can be assembled, but the efficiency of post-tensioning applications is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic coupling device uses fluid pressure to rapidly actuate the connection between tendon ends. By introducing hydraulic fluid into the coupling chamber, pistons are automatically actuated to secure the tendon ends together, enabling quick and efficient post-tensioning operations without manual assembly steps, thereby significantly improving productivity and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic coupling mechanism is designed to self-actuate upon introduction of hydraulic fluid. The system automatically positions and secures the tendon ends through hydraulic piston movement without requiring external mechanical intervention or complex alignment procedures, enabling efficient post-tensioning with minimal operator involvement.
3Reliability
If hydraulic pressure is applied to urge wedges apart, then tendons are securely connected, but the force required for tensioning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses hydraulic pressure applied to a small area within the coupling device to generate large forces through hydraulic pistons. By utilizing the hydraulic principle where small fluid pressure applied to a small piston area generates sufficient force to actuate the wedges and secure tendon ends, the system achieves reliable connections without requiring large external tensioning forces, thereby reducing the overall force requirement while maintaining connection 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 system effectively enhances the tensile strength of concrete structures by securely connecting tendons, reducing the need for external reinforcement and minimizing the force required for tensioning, while allowing for easier repair and splicing of tendons within set concrete.
Implementation Method 1
wherein the pressure chamber (228) is in fluid communication with the access port (239); and wherein hydraulic pressure is applied to the pressure chamber (228) by pumping a fluid into the passageway (212) through the access port (239) so as to cause the first and second pistons (248) to urge the first and second wedges (276) apart
Data Source
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AI summary
A coupler for connecting first and second tendons may comprise a body including first and second ends, a passageway therethrough and an access port; first and second wedges each configured to receive an end of the first and second tendons, respectively, each of the wedges being positioned in the passageway and oriented so as to resist withdrawal from the coupler of a tendon received therein; and first and second pistons positioned within the passageway proximate the first and second wedges, respectively; wherein the first and second pistons define a pressure chamber therebetween; wherein the pressure chamber is in fluid communication with the access port; and wherein the first and second pistons are configured to bear on the first and second wedges, respectively, and urge the first and second wedges apart in response to pressure in the pressure chamber.