Rebar Coupling Sleeve With Local Deformation Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices face challenges in efficiently joining reinforcing steel bars in reinforced concrete applications due to dimensional constraints, axial stress resistance, and material deformation issues, which affect the structural integrity and efficiency of the concrete element.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device utilizing a deformation means, such as a pin, that causes local deformation between the sleeve and the elongated element, providing a self-energizing action to enhance interference and interlocking under external loading, while maintaining the material properties of the uncoupled steel, thereby resisting axial stresses and strains.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a coupling device is used to join reinforcing steel bars, then the joining strength and efficiency are improved, but the dimensional size of the coupling device must be constrained to fit within the transverse reinforcing bar spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into a sleeve portion and a deformation means (pin). The pin is inserted through the sleeve and causes local deformation between the sleeve inner surface and the elongated element outer surface, creating a segmented coupling mechanism that achieves strong joining within limited space
Solution Approach 2:
The deformation means creates localized deformation zones at specific positions where the pin contacts the sleeve and elongated element. This local deformation provides high-strength coupling at critical points while keeping the overall device length constrained to fit within transverse bar spacing
2Strength
If the coupling device length is increased to improve joining capacity, then the axial stress resistance is improved, but the device may interfere with transverse steel bar placement
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing coupling device length in the axial direction, the invention uses radial deformation through the pin insertion mechanism. The pin causes local deformation in the radial direction between the sleeve and elongated element, achieving high axial stress resistance without increasing the axial length that would interfere with transverse bar placement
3Productivity
If material deformation is used to achieve coupling, then the joining efficiency is improved, but the material properties may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation means causes localized deformation only at specific contact points between the sleeve and elongated element, rather than deforming the entire material. This local deformation achieves efficient coupling while preserving the overall material properties and structural integrity of the reinforcing steel bars
Solution Approach 2:
The pin creates sufficient local deformation to achieve reliable coupling, but does not excessively deform the material beyond what is needed for joining. The deformation is controlled to be just enough to create the interference fit and mechanical interlocking required for efficient joining while maintaining material 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 coupling device effectively joins reinforcing steel bars with improved strength, ductility, and resistance to axial stresses, ensuring the structural integrity and efficiency of the reinforced concrete element by simulating the properties of the uncoupled material and distributing loads effectively.
Implementation Method 1
A coupling device utilizing a deformation means, such as a pin, that causes local deformation between the sleeve and the elongated element, providing a self-energizing action to enhance interference and interlocking under external loading
Implementation Method 2
The coupling device utilises material deformation on assembly in order to achieve coupling
Data Source
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AI summary
Described herein is a coupling device, associated parts and a method of use thereof. In one aspect, a coupling device is described comprising a sleeve with an inner surface that encloses at least part of at least one elongated element to be coupled; and at least one deformation means fitted with interference between, and causing local deformation about, at least part of the inner surface of the sleeve and/or an adjacent outer surface of the at least one elongated element. A deformation means insertion tool, a coupling sleeve, a deformation means, and a method of coupling at least one element are also described. The described coupling device, associated parts and a method of use offer the ability to couple together different elements in a strong and/or ductile manner, coupling being tuneable as needed to suit the preferred application. The coupling described may overcome art issues associated with bulky size of coupling, in particular, radial protrusion. The coupling may also increase the coupling force therefore increase the load that may be managed across the coupling device. Further, the way the parts are assembled may minimise generation of localised points of stress therefore also increasing the load that may be managed across the coupling device.