Shape Memory Connecting Element for Tool-Free Reinforcement Joining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting reinforcing elements require significant effort and costly equipment, often involving threading or pressing, which can be difficult under constrained conditions and prone to user errors.
Innovation Solution
A connecting element using a shape memory material, particularly an iron-based alloy, that can be activated thermally or magnetically to form a secure connection without the need for heavy tools, allowing tool-free or largely tool-free fitting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional threading or pressing methods are used to connect reinforcing elements, then secure connections can be achieved, but significant effort and costly heavy equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pressing tools with a shape memory alloy-based connecting element that uses thermal activation to generate expansion forces. The connecting element is inserted in a compressed state and then thermally activated to expand and grip the reinforcing elements, eliminating the need for heavy pressing equipment while maintaining secure connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes temperature as a control parameter to change the physical state of the shape memory alloy. By heating the connecting element above its transformation temperature, the material transitions from an austenite phase (expanded state) to a martensite phase (compressed state), enabling easy insertion and subsequent secure gripping without heavy equipment.
2Force
If pressing tools are used to connect components, then force-fitting connections can be established, but the tools are very heavy and difficult to use under constrained conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces external mechanical pressing tools with an internally generated expansion mechanism using shape memory alloy. The connecting element itself generates the necessary expansion force through thermal activation, eliminating the need for external pressing tools and enabling easy operation in constrained locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element performs the expansion and gripping action itself through thermal activation of the shape memory alloy, without requiring external pressing tools. The material's intrinsic shape memory properties enable it to self-expand and generate clamping forces autonomously when heated.
3Reliability
If threading or upsetting operations are performed on reinforcing elements, then connections can be made, but significant effort and heavy equipment are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional threading or upsetting operations with a thermal expansion-based connection method. The shape memory alloy connecting element is inserted in a compressed state and then thermally activated to expand and grip the reinforcing elements, eliminating the need for complex manufacturing operations like threading or upsetting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses temperature as a control parameter to enable the connecting element to transition between compressed and expanded states. This thermal parameter change simplifies the manufacturing process by replacing complex mechanical operations with a simple heating step that activates the shape memory effect.
4Reliability
If reinforcing elements are rotated during fitting, then threaded connections can be made, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rotational threading operations with a linear insertion followed by thermal expansion. The connecting element is simply inserted into the reinforcing elements and then heated to expand and grip, eliminating the need for rotation and significantly speeding up the fitting process.
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 reliable, efficient, and secure connections with high clamping forces, reducing operational effort and minimizing user errors, suitable for various construction applications.
Implementation Method 1
a connecting portion (12) having a shape memory material. A shape memory material can be a material which, starting from a starting geometry, as a result of an activation process, has a tendency to reshape itself automatically into a target geometry
Implementation Method 2
it can be designed to be activated by brief heating, for example in the region of a few seconds, for example in the range from 5 seconds to 50 seconds, in particular starting from a normal temperature
Implementation Method 3
the connecting portion, in particular an inner side of the connecting portion, has a structured surface portion
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting element for the force- and/or form-fitting connection of a first component to a second component is provided, having a connecting portion having a shape memory material. Furthermore, a reinforcement and the use of the connecting element is provided.