Tapered Recess Coupling for Fast Construction Element Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connecting prefabricated construction elements is a time-consuming process due to the need for accurate positioning and curing of fasteners, and existing connecting elements require precise alignment, which is laborious and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A device using a coupling element with a funnel-shaped or conical recess and connecting piece that allows for quick and secure connection without liquid fasteners, enabling form-fitted accommodation and allowing for a degree of play in positioning, facilitating easy assembly and disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If connecting elements are fitted in construction elements beforehand to enable connection without shuttering, then the connection process becomes simpler and material costs are reduced, but the construction elements must be accurately positioned with respect to each other which is time-consuming and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The recess geometry is changed from a standard cylindrical shape to a tapered configuration where the transverse dimension decreases along the insertion direction. This parameter change allows the coupling element to be inserted with play (loose fit) rather than requiring precise alignment, thereby reducing positioning time while maintaining connection simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
A coupling element is introduced as an intermediary component between the connecting piece and the recess. The coupling element features a cavity that accommodates the connecting piece and is inserted into the tapered recess, providing form-fitted accommodation that compensates for positioning tolerances and enables easy assembly without requiring precise alignment of the construction elements
2Strength
If liquid fasteners such as concrete are used to form connections between construction elements, then strong and permanent connections are achieved, but significant time is required for the fastener to cure to a sufficient degree
Solution Approach 1:
The chemical curing process of liquid fasteners is replaced with a mechanical connection system. The coupling element is inserted into the tapered recess and accommodates the connecting piece through form-fitted accommodation, creating a mechanical connection that achieves full strength immediately without requiring curing time
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid fastener material (concrete or cement) is completely removed from the connection system. The connection is formed solely through the mechanical interaction between the coupling element, connecting piece, and recess, eliminating the time-consuming curing step while maintaining connection strength
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A device (1) for connecting a first construction element (2) and a second construction element (4), comprising: a first connecting element (3) which is connected to the first construction element (2) and which comprises a connecting piece (10), a second connecting element (5) which is connected to the second construction element (4) and comprises a recess (7) characterized in that a transverse dimension of the recess (7) decreases along at least a portion of the length thereof in a insertion direction (A), in that the device furthermore comprises a coupling element (6) with a cavity (8) which is configured to accommodate at least a portion of the connecting piece (10), and in that the coupling element (6) is configured to be inserted into the recess (7) in the insertion direction (A) up to a secure limit position in which it adjoins the walls of the recess (7).