Tendon Detensioning Clamp for Controlled Force Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detensioning structural elements or tensioning elements in civil engineering, such as those used in bridges, are either complex to set up or result in uncontrolled force release, leading to potential structural impacts and uncertainty.
Innovation Solution
A detensioning system and method involving clamping devices with a gradually declining annular cavity and stressbars, allowing controlled transfer and release of tendon force using hydraulic cylinders, with optional filler hardening material to enhance gripping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the window cutting method is used to detension structural elements, then the tendon can be cut and force released, but the force release cannot be fully controlled and may cause impact to surrounding structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by installing clamping devices on the tendon before cutting occurs. These clamping devices grip the tendon and allow controlled transfer of tension forces, enabling the tendon to be cut safely while maintaining force control through the clamping system rather than experiencing uncontrolled rupture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile temporary hangers are used to replace tensioning elements, then the cable can be removed from anchors, but the setup process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of force transfer from the complex mobile hanger system and implements it through simpler clamping devices that can be directly applied to the tendon. This eliminates the need for complex temporary support structures while maintaining the ability to transfer and control forces during the replacement process.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If additional damping is provided to reduce impact from sudden force release, then the impact to surrounding structure is reduced, but the force release is still not fully controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces clamping devices as an intermediary between the tendon and the surrounding structure. These clamping devices provide a controlled interface for force transfer, allowing the tendon force to be gradually transferred to the clamping system and released in a controlled manner, eliminating the need for additional damping while achieving full force control.
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 controlled and safe detensioning of high-tension tendons, reducing the risk of structural impact and ensuring complete force release without sudden ruptures.
Implementation Method 1
stressbar hydraulic cylinders, wherein each of the stressbar hydraulic cylinder is either mounted directly on the clamping device, or on a stressing chair which in turn is bearing against the clamping device
Implementation Method 2
the clamping device having an internal surface profile, arranged to form a substantially elongated, annular cavity surrounding the structural element or the tensioning element to be detensioned... comprising a gradually declining diameter along the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a detensioning system and a method thereof for detensioning a structural element or a tensioning element, which includes;At least one clamping device arranged on at least one side of the portion of the structural element or the tensioning element to be detensioned, wherein the clamping device having an internal surface profile, arranged to form a substantially elongated, annular cavity surrounding the structural element or the tensioning element to be detensioned, including an empty space for receiving one or more inner elements to be introduced therein, wherein the substantially elongated, annular cavity includes a gradually declining diameter along the longitudinal axis of the elongated annular cavity shaped by at least one peak and one groove of the internal surface profile of the clamping device;Two or more stressbars arranged to connect between an anchored structure and the clamping device which is arranged on one side of the portion of the structural element or the tensioning element to be detensioned, or arranged to connect between the clamping devices arranged on both sides of the portion of the structural element or tensioning element to be detensioned;Two or more stressbar hydraulic cylinders, wherein each of the stressbar hydraulic cylinder is either mounted directly on the clamping device, or on a stressing chair which in turn is bearing against the clamping device located on at least one side of the portion structural element or the tensioning element to be detensioned.