Universal Connecting Element for Sheet Pile Interlocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connecting elements for sheet pile wall components are limited in their compatibility with various types of locks, requiring the use of sheet piles from the same manufacturer and restricting the choice of locks for interconnection, especially when connecting components at different angles.
Innovation Solution
A universal connecting element with a reverse 'S' profile, featuring linear and arcuate hook strips, claw strips, and profile attachments that can engage multiple types of locks, including Larssen, thumb and finger, knob and claw, and cold-formed hooks, allowing for connection over a wide range of angles and with different interlock types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If connecting elements are designed for specific lock types (Larssen, thumb and finger, knob and claw), then connection reliability for that specific lock type is improved, but adaptability to different lock types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting element is designed with a universal profile that can accommodate multiple lock types (Larssen, thumb and finger, knob and claw, cold-formed hooks) through a single standardized interface. The reverse 'S' profile with linear and arcuate hook strips creates a generic engagement geometry that works with various lock configurations, eliminating the need for different connecting elements for different manufacturers' locks.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element utilizes variable geometric parameters in its reverse 'S' profile, including arc angles between 180° and 270°, and adjustable hook strip configurations, to adapt its engagement characteristics to different lock types while maintaining structural integrity and connection reliability across all applications.
2Strength
If connecting elements require shape mating with specific lock profiles, then connection strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to restricted manufacturer choice
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized reverse 'S' profile serves as a universal interface that maintains strong connections across different lock types without requiring custom-shaped connecting elements for each manufacturer, thereby improving ease of operation and manufacturer interchangeability while preserving connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is segmented into functional zones: linear hook strips for engagement, arcuate hook strips for flexibility, and profile attachments for additional lock type compatibility. This segmentation allows each zone to optimize its function while the overall structure maintains universal compatibility.
3Manufacturing precision
If connecting elements use fixed angular configurations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to different connection angles deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The arcuate hook strips with angles between 180° and 270° provide dynamic flexibility, allowing the connecting element to accommodate various connection angles (90° to 135° and beyond) while maintaining precise geometric relationships. The curved geometry enables angular adjustment without compromising manufacturing precision or structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The reverse 'S' profile introduces dimensional flexibility through its three-dimensional configuration, allowing the connecting element to engage at multiple angles by utilizing the spatial arrangement of its linear and arcuate hook strips, thereby transitioning from fixed-angle to multi-angle capability while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal connecting element which is capable of connecting sheet pile wall components, such as sheet piles, beam piles and other sheet pile connectors, that have various types of interlocks such as Larssen locks, cold formed hooks and knob and claw locks. The connecting element includes a reverse “S” shaped profile to which has been added either a neck and head strip, for connection with a claw strip, or a claw strip, for connection with a head strip, or both.