Rotating Rod Concrete Panel Connection for Alignment Tolerance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting precast concrete panels lack sufficient tolerance, requiring precise alignment of metal rods and bores, which complicates the assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a connection member with a rotating rod and channel segments, along with fasteners and a coupling plate, allowing for increased tolerance and easier alignment of adjacent panels by rotating the rod between positions and filling recesses with adhesive, enabling more flexible and efficient panel coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal rod sections are cast into edge surfaces with corresponding bores for connecting panels, then the connection strength is improved, but the alignment precision requirement increases and assembly complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the connection interface by replacing precise cylindrical bores with tapered recesses and corresponding tapered rods. This parameter change allows for greater tolerance in alignment while maintaining connection strength, as the tapered geometry self-aligns during assembly and distributes loads more effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is segmented into modular components: panels with recesses, separate connection rods, and coupling members. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with standard tolerances and assembled flexibly, reducing the need for high-precision field alignment while maintaining structural integrity.
2Reliability
If precise alignment of bores and rods is required for panel connection, then connection reliability is improved, but assembly time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system incorporates dynamic adjustment capability through the tapered geometry and coupling mechanism, allowing workers to accommodate minor misalignments and panel variations during assembly. The system transitions from a rigid fixed-position connection to a flexible adjustable connection that maintains reliability while simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member acts as an intermediary component between the tapered rod and the panel bore, providing a interface that tolerates misalignment. This intermediary element absorbs positioning errors and ensures reliable connection without requiring precise initial alignment, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining connection reliability.
3Strength
If traditional rod-and-bore connection methods are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but assembly productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection features (tapered recesses and rod geometry) are pre-formed during panel manufacturing, and the connection system is designed to self-align during assembly. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming field alignment operations, significantly improving assembly productivity while maintaining structural integrity through the robust tapered connection geometry.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for coupling adjacent concrete panels increase the tolerance for setting. Connections members are placed in at least one of the adjacent concrete panels. In one embodiment a first connection member is placed in a first panel and a second connection member is placed in a second panel. A plate is placed over the first and second connection member. Fasteners are inserted through the plate and into each connection member to secure the adjacent panels together. In a second embodiment a rotatable connection member is placed in a first panel. The rotatable connection member includes a first rod rotatably coupled to a second rod. The second panel is placed on the first panel. The connection member is rotated from its first position to its second position and is secured to the second panel. The connection members may be cast in the panels during production.