Shape-Memory Connecting Element for Tool-Free Reinforcement Clamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting reinforcement elements in construction and engineering require significant effort and heavy equipment, often involving machining or using heavy pressing tools, which are cumbersome and inefficient, especially in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element utilizing shape memory materials that can transform from an initial geometry to a target geometry through activation, such as heating or magnetization, allowing for tool-free assembly and secure connections without the need for extensive preparatory work or heavy equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If machining operations (threading or upturning) are performed on reinforcement elements, then a secure connection can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires heavy and expensive equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical machining operations (threading, upturning) with a shape memory alloy-based connecting element that uses thermal activation to achieve connection. The SMA material transforms from austenite to martensite phase through heating, enabling the connecting element to expand and lock onto reinforcement bars without any machining, thus eliminating time-consuming mechanical operations while maintaining connection security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transformation of shape memory alloy by changing temperature parameters. The SMA connecting element is activated by heating to austenite phase temperature, causing it to expand and create secure connection. This parameter change (temperature-induced phase transformation) replaces mechanical machining and enables quick assembly without heavy equipment
2Reliability
If threaded connections are used on reinforcement elements, then a secure connection can be achieved, but the reinforcement element has to be rotated during installation which complicates the process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces threaded mechanical connections with a shape memory alloy-based expanding connector. The SMA connecting element achieves secure connection through radial expansion induced by thermal activation, eliminating the need for rotational installation of threaded elements. This substitution maintains connection security while dramatically simplifying the installation process
3Reliability
If crimping tools are used to join components, then a secure connection can be achieved, but the tools are very heavy and extremely cumbersome or impossible to use in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical crimping tools with a thermally-activated shape memory alloy connecting element. The SMA connector achieves secure connection through controlled thermal expansion and phase transformation, eliminating the need for heavy crimping equipment. This allows installation in confined spaces where heavy tools cannot reach
Solution Approach 2:
The SMA connecting element performs the connection function autonomously through thermal activation. When heated to austenite phase temperature, the material self-expands and locks onto the reinforcement bars without requiring external mechanical force from heavy tools. The material essentially connects itself through its inherent shape memory properties
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
Enables quick, reliable, and efficient connections with high productivity, as the shape memory effect ensures secure clamping forces without user error, suitable for various applications in construction and engineering, including reinforcement of concrete components.
Implementation Method 1
a connecting section having a shape memory material. A shape memory material can be a material that, starting from an initial geometry, develops a tendency to self-transform into a target geometry through an activation process. This tendency is referred to as the shape memory effect.
Implementation Method 2
The shape memory material can be thermally activated. In particular, it can be designed to be activated by brief heating, for example, for several seconds, such as 5 to 50 seconds, especially from a normal temperature.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a connecting element (10) for force-fit and/or form-fit connection of a first component (16) to a second component (18). According to the invention, it comprises a connecting section having a shape-memory material. Furthermore, the invention relates to reinforcement (28) and a use of the connecting element (10). The invention enables a simple yet secure connection of the two components (16, 18) to one another.