AU2018267583A1

AU2018267583A1 - Connection System

Info

Publication number: AU2018267583A1
Application number: AU2018267583A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Joel DREW; James MURRAY-PARKES; Angela Wang
Original assignee: Engineering Innovations Group Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Engineering Innovations Group Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2017-07-17
Filing date: 2018-11-20
Publication date: 2019-01-31

Abstract

Embodiments generally relate to connection systems, connection elements and associated structural elements, structures and methods of construction. Some embodiments relate to a connection element comprising: a rigid body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a first connecting portion at or near the first end, the first connecting portion comprising a plurality of splayable portions configured to receive a threaded end of a tendon between the splayable portions, such that a wedge element can be threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon and the tendon can be rotated to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon; and a second connecting portion at or near the second end held apart from the first connecting portion in a fixed spatial relationship by the body and configured to engage the first connecting portion of another adjacent one of the connection element to connect the connection element to the another connection element, the second connecting portion comprising one or more inner sidewalls defining a tapered inner recess narrowing towards the second end of the body to an opening of the inner recess, the inner recess being configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions of the first connecting portion of the adjacent connection element through the opening, such that the splayable portions can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls; wherein the body defines a tendon head bearing surface configured to provide a reaction force against the tendon head and support the tendon in tension between the wedge element and the tendon head bearing surface. 134 128 132 130 121 126-- 124 Fig.1A

Description

Connection system

Technical Field [0001] Embodiments generally relate to connection systems, connection elements and associated structural elements, structures and methods of construction.

Background [0002] There are a number of existing construction methods and connection systems. However, some conventional construction methods and connection systems can be time consuming or difficult to implement.

[0003] It is desired to address or ameliorate one or more shortcomings or disadvantages associated with existing connection systems and methods of construction, or to at least provide a useful alternative.

[0004] Throughout this specification the word comprise, or variations such as comprises or comprising, will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

[0005] Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.

Summary [0006] According to a first aspect, a connection element comprises: a rigid body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a first connecting portion at or near the first end, the first connecting portion comprising a plurality of splayable

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 portions configured to receive a threaded end of a tendon between the splayable portions, such that a wedge element can be threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon and the tendon can be rotated to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon; and a second connecting portion at or near the second end held apart from the first connecting portion in a fixed spatial relationship by the body and configured to engage the first connecting portion of another adjacent one of the connection element to connect the connection element to the another connection element, the second connecting portion comprising one or more inner sidewalls defining a tapered inner recess narrowing towards the second end of the body to an opening of the inner recess, the inner recess being configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions of the first connecting portion of the adjacent connection element through the opening, such that the splayable portions can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls; wherein the body defines a tendon head bearing surface configured to provide a reaction force against the tendon head and support the tendon in tension between the wedge element and the tendon head bearing surface.

[0007] According to a second aspect, a connection system for connecting a first structural element to a second structural element comprises: an elongate tendon having a tendon head at a first end and a threaded second end opposite the first end; a wedge element configured for threaded engagement with the threaded end of the tendon; a first connecting portion connected to the first structural element, the first connecting portion comprising a plurality of splayable portions configured to receive the threaded end of the tendon between the splayable portions, such that the wedge element can be threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon and the tendon can be rotated to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon; a rigid body maintaining the first connecting portion in a fixed spatial relationship to a tendon head bearing surface defined by the body, wherein the tendon head bearing surface is configured to provide a reaction force against the tendon head and support the tendon in tension between the wedge element and the tendon head bearing surface; and a

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 second connecting portion connected to the second structural element, the second connecting portion being configured to engage the first connecting portion to form a connection and comprising one or more internal sidewalls defining a tapered inner recess narrowing towards an opening of the inner recess, the inner recess being configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions of the first connecting portion through the opening, such that the splayable portions can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls.

[0008] According to a third aspect, a structural element comprises one or more selected from the group including: the connection element of the first aspect; the first connecting portion of the first aspect; and the second connecting portion of the first aspect.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect, a construction method including use of a connection system according to the second aspect comprises: passing the threaded end of the tendon between the splayable portions of the first connecting portion with the tendon head disposed on an opposite side of the tendon head bearing surface to the threaded end of the tendon; threadedly engaging the wedge element with the threaded end of the tendon; inserting at least part of the splayable portions into the inner recess of the second connecting portion; and rotating the tendon to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls of the second connecting portion.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect, a construction method including use of first and second ones of the connection element of the first aspect, the tendon located between the splayable portions of the first connecting portion with the tendon head disposed on an opposite side of the tendon head bearing surface to the threaded end of the tendon; and the wedge element threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon, comprises: inserting at least part of the splayable portions of the first connecting portion of the first connection element into the inner recess of the second connecting portion of the second connection element; and

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 rotating the tendon of the first connection element to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions of the first connection element, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions of the first connection element away from the tendon to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls of the second connecting portion of the second connection element.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect, a construction method comprises: providing: a first connecting portion comprising a plurality of splayable portions; a rigid body connected to the first connecting portion in a fixed spatial relationship, the body defining a tendon head bearing surface; a tendon at least partially disposed within the rigid body and first connecting portion, the tendon comprising a tendon head disposed on one side of the tendon head bearing surface and a threaded end disposed on another side of the tendon head bearing surface between the splayable portions; a wedge element threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon, such that the tendon can be rotated to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon; and a second connecting portion configured to engage the first connecting portion to form a connection, the second connection portion comprising one or more inner sidewalls defining a tapered inner recess narrowing towards an opening of the inner recess, the inner recess being configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions of the first connecting portion through the opening, such that the splayable portions can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls; inserting at least part of the splayable portions of the first connecting portion into the inner recess of the second connecting portion; and rotating the tendon to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls of the second connecting portion such that the tendon is supported in tension between the wedge element and the tendon head bearing surface.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 [0012] According to a seventh aspect, a structure is formed according to the construction method of any one of the fourth, fifth or sixth aspects.

[0013] According to an eighth aspect, a structure comprises any one or more selected from the group including a connection element according to the first aspect; a connection system according to the second aspect; and a structural element according to the third aspect.

Brief Description of Drawings [0014] Embodiments will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Figure 1A is a cross-sectional view of a connection system according to some embodiments in a disconnected configuration;

[0016] Figure IB is a cross-sectional view of the connection system of Figure 1A with first and second connecting portions partially engaging each other;

[0017] Figure IC is a cross-sectional view of the connection system of Figure 1A with first and second bearing surfaces of the first and second connecting portions partially contacting each other;

[0018] Figure ID is a cross-sectional view of the connection system of Figure 1A with first and second connecting portions engaging each other and forming a connection;

[0019] Figure IE is a perspective view of part of the connection system of Figure 1A further illustrating certain features of some of the components, according to some embodiments;

[0020] Figures 2 A to 2C show a series of perspective views of part of the connection system illustrating part of the connection process;

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 [0021] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a connection element according to some embodiments; and [0022] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a structure comprising structural elements, which each comprise one or more of the connection elements of Figure 3.

Description of Embodiments [0023] Embodiments generally relate to connection systems, connection elements and associated structural elements, structures and methods of construction. The described embodiments may be suitable for application in the field of building and construction. For example, the connection systems and/or connection elements may be used for connecting prefabricated structural elements, such as wall panels or frame modules, to form a building structure.

[0024] Referring to Figures 1A to ID, a connection system 100 for connecting a first structural element 101 to a second structural element 121 is shown according to some embodiments. The connection system 100 comprises a first connecting portion 102 connected to the first structural element 101 and a second connecting portion 122 connected to the second structural element 121. The first and second connecting portions 102, 122 are configured to engage with each other and form a connection, as described below in relation to Figure ID.

[0025] The first connecting portion 102 may be connected to or formed as part of the first structural element 101. The second connecting portion 122 may be connected to or formed as part of the second structural element 121. The connection system 100 can be used to connect the first structural element 101 to the second structural element 121 by connecting the first connecting portion 102 to the second connecting portion 122. In various embodiments, the connecting portions 102, 122 may be connected to the respective structural elements 101, 121 by any one or more of: welding, adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, or may be integrally formed with the structural

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 elements 101, 121. For example, the connecting portions 102, 122 may be cast into respective structural elements 101, 121 in the form of precast panels.

[0026] The connection system 100 may comprise an elongate tendon 140 having a tendon head 142 at a first end and a threaded second end 144 opposite the first end. The tendon 140 may be located in the first connecting portion 102 to assist in forming a connection between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122.

[0027] The connection system 100 may comprise a wedge element 150 configured for threaded engagement with the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140. For example, the wedge element 150 may comprise a tapered nut. The wedge element 150 may define a threaded bore configured for threaded engagement with the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140.

[0028] The first connecting portion 102 comprises a plurality of splayable portions 104 configured to receive the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140 between the splayable portions 104. The wedge element 150 can be threadedly engaged with the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140, and the tendon 140 can be rotated to progress the wedge element 150 along the tendon 140 between the splayable portions 104, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions 104 away from the tendon 140.

[0029] The connection system 100 may comprise a rigid body 160 maintaining the first connecting portion 102 in a fixed spatial relationship to a tendon head bearing surface 162 defined by the body 160. The tendon head bearing surface 162 may be configured to provide a reaction force against the tendon head 142 and support the tendon 140 in tension between the wedge element 150 and the tendon head bearing surface 162.

[0030] In some embodiments, the body 160 may comprise a bearing plate 164 which defines the tendon head bearing surface 162. The bearing plate 164 may also define a tendon aperture 168 configured to allow passage of the threaded end 144 of the tendon

2018267583 20 Nov 2018

140. In some embodiments, the tendon aperture 168 may be configured to restrict passage of the tendon head 142.

[0031] The second connecting portion 122 comprises one or more inner sidewalls 124 defining a tapered inner recess 126 narrowing towards an opening 128 of the inner recess 126. The inner recess 126 is configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions 104 of the first connecting portion 102 through the opening 128, such that the splayable portions 104 can be urged apart by the wedge element 150 to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls 124.

[0032] A taper angle of the one or more sidewalls 124 relative to an axis of rotation of the tendon 140 may be similar to a taper angle of the splayable portions 104 relative to the axis of rotation of the tendon 140 when the splayable portions 104 are in a splayed state, after being urged apart by the wedge element 150. In some embodiments, the tendon 140 and wedge element 150 may be configured to spread the splayable portions 104 into a splayed state with a taper angle that is substantially the same as the taper angle of the one or more sidewalls 124. In some embodiments, the wedge element 150 may tend to spread the splayable portions 104 beyond the taper angle of the one or more sidewalls 124. However, in such embodiments, the spreading of at least part of the splayable portions 104 (such as the ends, for example) may be restricted by the one or more sidewalls 124, as shown in Figure ID. A suitable taper angle of the one or more sidewalls 124 may be in the range of between 0° and 90° while a more preferred taper angle may be in the range of 40° to 85°.

[0033] The tendon 140 and wedge element 150 may be assembled with the first connecting portion 102 and body 160 by passing the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140 between the splayable portions 104 of the first connecting portion 102 with the tendon head 142 disposed on an opposite side of the tendon head bearing surface 162 to the threaded end 144 of the tendon 144, and threadedly engaging the wedge element 150 with the threaded end 144 of the tendon 144.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 [0034] The first connecting portion 102 may then be connected to the second connecting portion 122 by inserting at least part of the splayable portions 104 into the inner recess 126 of the second connecting portion 122 and rotating the tendon 140 to progress the wedge element 150 along the tendon 140 between the splayable portions 104. The progression of the wedge element 150 is driven by rotation of the tendon 140 with the direction of progression depending on the direction of rotation and the direction of the screw thread of the wedge element 150 and tendon 140. The progress of the wedge element 150 along the tendon urges at least part of each of the splayable portions 104 away from the tendon 140 to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls 124 of the second connecting portion 122.

[0035] Rotation of the tendon 140 relative to the first connecting portion 102 will result in a torque being applied to the wedge element 150, but rotation of the wedge element 150 relative to the first connecting portion 102 must be resisted in order to progress the wedge element 150 axially along the tendon 140. In some embodiments, rotation of the wedge element 150 relative to the first connecting portion 102 may be resisted or restricted by friction between an outer surface 156 of the wedge element 150 and an inner surface 106 of the splayable portions 104. In some embodiments, the wedge element 150 may define a keyed surface configured to engage the splayed portions 104 to restrict rotation of the wedge element 150 relative to the splayed portions 104. For example, the outer surface 156 of the wedge element 150 may define one or more protrusions (not shown) configured to engage the splayed portions 104 to restrict rotation of the wedge element 150.

[0036] In some embodiments, the tendon head 142 may define a keyed surface 146 configured to engage a complimentary keyed surface of a tool (not shown) to assist in rotating the tendon. For example, the keyed surface 146 may define a hexagonal prism, and may define a concave or convex surface. The keyed surface 146 may define a recess in the tendon head 142, or in some embodiments, may define an outer surface of the tendon head 142.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 ίο [0037] In some embodiments, the connection system 100 may comprise a washer 170 configured to be disposed between the tendon head 142 and the tendon head bearing 162 surface to transfer forces between the tendon head 142 and the tendon head bearing surface 162. In some embodiments, the washer 170 may restrict further rotation of the tendon 140 relative to the first connecting portion 102 once the splayed portions 104 have been urged apart to bear against the one or more inner sidewalls 124 of the inner recess 126 of the second connecting portion 122. For example, the washer 170 may comprise a cam washer, or a locking washer.

[0038] In some embodiments, the tendon 140 may be located within the first connecting portion 102 by passing the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140 through the rigid body 160 and first connecting portion 102, and between the splayable portions 104. In some embodiments, the first connecting portion 102 may define an internal tapered surface 108 narrowing towards the splayable portions 104 to assist in locating the tendon 140 between the splayable portions 104.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first connecting portion 102 defines a first bearing surface 110 surrounding the splayable portions 104 and configured to bear against a second bearing surface 130 surrounding the opening 128 of the inner recess 126 of the second connecting portion 122. The first and second bearing surfaces 110, 130 may abut each other when the connection has been formed between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122, and transfer lateral friction and normal reaction forces between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122.

[0040] In some embodiments, the connection between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122, may comprise two friction connections to restrict relative movement between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122. A first friction connection is formed between the splayable portions 104 of the first connecting portion 102 and the one or more inner sidewalls 124 of the second connecting portion 102. A second friction connection is formed between the first and second bearing surfaces 110, 130. The first friction connection restricts the splayable portions 104 against rotation, axial movement and lateral movement relative to the second connecting portion. The second

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 friction connection restricts relative lateral movement between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122.

[0041] As the tendon 140 is rotated, tightened and tensioned, the wedge element 150 is progressed along the tendon 140, thereby deforming the splayable portions 104 and urging or splaying the splayable portions 104 apart, away from each other and the tendon 140, to bear against the one or more inner sidewalls 124.

[0042] As the one or more inner sidewalls 124 taper and narrow towards the opening 128, the normal reaction forces between the splayable portions 104 and the one or more inner sidewalls 124 comprise lateral and axial components relative to the tendon 140, which respectively restrict relative lateral and axial movement between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122.

[0043] The axial component of the reaction forces between the splayable portions 104 and the one or more inner sidewalls 124 also supports the tendon 140 in tension between the wedge element 150 and the tendon head bearing surface 162, thereby forcing the first and second bearing surfaces 110, 130 against each other. The wedge element 150 and tendon head bearing surface 162 are held apart by the cooperation of the tendon head bearing surface 162, rigid body 160, first connecting portion 102, first bearing surface 110, second bearing surface 130, second connecting portion 122, one or more inner sidewalls 124, and splayable portions 104.

[0044] The axial component of the reaction forces between the splayable portions 104 and the one or more inner sidewalls 124 (corresponding to the tension in the tendon 140) also contributes to the normal reaction forces, and therefore also the level of friction, between the first and second bearing surfaces 110, 130, as well as between the splayable portions 104 and the one or more inner sidewalls 124, thereby contributing to the strength of the first and second friction connections and the overall connection between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 [0045] In some embodiments, the second connecting portion 122 may comprise one or more peripheral or outer sidewalls 132. The second connecting portion 122 may further define an outer recess 134. The outer recess 134 may be defined by the one or more peripheral sidewalls 132. The first connecting portion 102 may define a peripheral tapered or chamfered surface 112 configured to be at least partially received in the outer recess 134 and/or within the one or more peripheral sidewalls 132. This arrangement may assist in locating the first connecting portion 102 relative to the second connecting portion 122 and locating the splayable portions 104 within the inner recess 126 defined by the one or more inner sidewalls 124. Contact between the peripheral sidewalls 132 and peripheral tapered surface 112 may also assist in restricting relative lateral movement between the first and second connecting portions 102, 122.

[0046] In some embodiments, locating the first connecting portion 102 relative to the second connecting portion 122 for engagement may be achieved with other means. For example, in some embodiments, the first and/or second connecting portion 102, 122 may comprise one or more tapered protrusions extending away from the first or second bearing surface 110, 130 and configured to be received in complimentary recesses in the opposing bearing surface 110, 130.

[0047] Referring to Figure 1A, the connection system 100 is shown in an unconnected configuration with the tendon 140 located in the rigid body 160 and first connecting portion 102, and the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140 partially located between the splayable portions 104.

[0048] Referring to Figure IB, the connection system 100 is shown with the wedge element 150 threadedly engaged with the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140; the splayable portions 104 partially located within the inner recess 126 defined by the one or more inner sidewalls 124; and the peripheral tapered surface 112 of the first connecting portion 102 partially located within the peripheral walls 132 and outer recess 134 of the second connecting portion 122.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 [0049] Referring to Figure 1C, the connection system 100 is shown with the splayable portions 104 substantially entirely located within the inner recess 126 defined by the one or more inner sidewalls 124; the peripheral tapered surface 112 of the first connecting portion 102 substantially entirely located within the peripheral walls 132 and outer recess 134 of the second connecting portion 122; and the first bearing surface 110 of the first connecting portion 102 bearing against the second bearing surface 130 of the second connecting portion 122. The first connecting portion 102 may provide resistance against shear forces acting parallel to the first and second bearing surfaces 110, 130 when the peripheral tapered surface 112 of the first connecting portion 102 is substantially entirely located within the peripheral walls 132 and outer recess 134 of the second connecting portion 122 as shown in Figure 1C and when the first connecting portion 102 is fully mated with the second connecting portion 122 as shown in Figure ID.

[0050] Referring to Figure ID, the connection system 100 is shown in a connected configuration after the tendon 140 has been rotated relative to the first connecting portion to progress the wedge element 150 along the tendon 140, thereby deforming and urging or splaying the splayable portions 104 until the splayable portions 104 bear against the one or more inner sidewalls 124 of the second connecting portion 122 to connect the first and second connecting portions 102, 122.

[0051] Referring to Figure IE, the first and second connecting portions 102, 122 are shown in a perspective view with the wedge element 150, but without the rigid body 160 or tendon 140.

[0052] In some embodiments, the one or more inner sidewalls 124 of the second connecting portion 122 may define a concave conical (or frustoconical) surface, as shown in Figure IE. The external geometry of the first and second connecting portions 102, 122 may define any suitable shape, for example, a square or rectangular prism, as shown in Figure IE. In some embodiments, the first and/or second connecting portions 102, 122 may be configured to be at least partially received in a column or beam of standardised dimensions, such as square hollow section or rectangular hollow section.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018

For example, the body 160 may comprise a section of square or rectangular hollow section structural steel.

[0053] The splayable portions 104 may define any suitable geometry. In some embodiments, in the unsplayed state, the splayable portions 104 may together define a generally cylindrical form, such as a slotted cylindrical sheath or sleeve, for example. Each of the plurality of splayable portions 104 may define a part of a cylinder, such as an extruded arc segment of an annulus, for example. The splayable portions 104 may extend away from an annular sleeve which may be integrally formed with the splayable portions 104, such that when the wedge element 150 begins to engage ends of the splayable portions 104 (distal from the annular sleeve) the splayable portions 104 bend and are deformed at or near the annular sleeve (i.e. near an inner end or base of the slot between two adjacent splayable portions).

[0054] In some embodiments, an outer surface 107 of each of the splayable portions 104 may define a complimentary convex surface configured to engage a concave surface of the one or more inner sidewalls 124 of the inner recess 126. A contact area between each outer surface 107 of the splayable portions 104 and the inner sidewalls 124 may define a large portion of the total surface area of the outer surface 107 of each splayable portion 104. For example, the contact area between each outer surface 107 of the splayable portions 104 and the inner sidewalls 124 may be greater than 50%, greater than 60%, greater than 70%, greater than 80% or greater than 90% of the total surface area of the outer surface 107 of each splayable portion 104.

[0055] The splayable portions 104 may define a slot between each adjacent pair of the splayable portions 104 in the unsplayed state. For example, the splayable portions 104 may be configured in a similar manner to the splayable portions of a box bolt. In various embodiments, the first connecting portion 102 may comprise two, three, four, five, six or more splayable portions 104.

[0056] The outer surface 156 of the wedge element 150 may define a convex frustoconical surface configured to engage the inner surface 106 of each of the

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 splayable portions 104, as discussed above, to deform and deflect or splay the splayable portions 104 away from each other and from the tendon 140 as the wedge 150 is progressed axially along the tendon 140 when the tendon 140 is rotated. Friction between the outer surface 156 of the wedge element 150 and the inner surfaces 106 of the splayable portions 104 resists rotation of the wedge element 150 relative to the splayable portions 104 to allow the wedge element 150 to progress along the thread of the tendon 140 due to the threaded engagement between the wedge element 150 and the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140. This process is illustrated by a sequence of diagrams in Figures 2A to 2C showing the splayable portions 104, wedge element 150 and part of the first and second connecting portions 102, 122 and tendon 140.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first and second connecting portions 102, 122 and rigid body 160 may be combined into a single connection element configured to be connected to other similar connection elements to form a structure. For example, the connection elements may be connected to or formed as part of a larger structural element such as a wall panel or frame module, to connect adjacent structural elements.

[0058] Referring to Figure 3, a connection element 300 is shown, according to some embodiments, having similar features to the connecting portions 102, 122 described above and with like features indicated by like reference numerals. The tendon 140, wedge element 150, body 160, and first and second connecting portions 102, 122 described in relation to the connection element 300 and Figure 3 may comprise any one or more of the features described above in relation to Figures 1A to IE and 2A to 2C.

[0059] The connection element 300 comprises a rigid body 160 having a first end 302 and a second end 322 opposite the first end 302.The rigid body 160 may comprise any suitable form and material. For example, in some embodiments, the rigid body 160 may comprise an elongate member, such as a column or beam, and may be formed of structural steel with a square or rectangular hollow section profile. For example, the body 160 may comprise a section of square or rectangular hollow section structural steel with the bearing plate 164 and first and second connecting portions 102, 122 welded into position within the body 160.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 [0060] The connection element 300 may comprise a first connecting portion 102 at or near the first end 302 and a second connecting portion 122 at or near the second end

322 held apart from the first connecting portion 102 in a fixed spatial relationship by the body 160.

[0061] The first connecting portion 102 comprises a plurality of splayable portions 104 configured to receive a threaded end 144 of a tendon 140 between the splayable portions 104, such that a wedge element 150 can be threadedly engaged with the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140 and the tendon 140 can be rotated to progress the wedge element 150 along the tendon 140 between the splayable portions 140, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions 104 away from the tendon 140.

[0062] The second connecting portion 122 may be configured to engage the first connecting portion 104 of another adjacent one of the connection element 300 to connect the connection element 300 to the another connection element 300. The second connecting portion 122 may comprise one or more inner sidewalls 124 defining a tapered inner recess 126 narrowing towards the second end 302 of the body 160 to an opening 128 of the inner recess 126. The inner recess 126 may be configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions 104 of the first connecting portion 102 of the adjacent connection element 300 through the opening 128, such that the splayable portions 104 can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls 124.

[0063] The body 160 may define a tendon head bearing surface 162 configured to provide a reaction force against the tendon head 142 and support the tendon 140 in tension between the wedge element 150 and the tendon head bearing surface 162.

[0064] In some embodiments, the body 160 may comprise a bearing plate 164 which defines the tendon head bearing surface 162. The bearing plate 164 may also define a tendon aperture 168 configured or sized to allow passage of the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140. In some embodiments, the tendon aperture 168 may be configured to restrict passage of the tendon head 142. In some embodiments, the second connecting

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 portion 122 and a part of the body 160 defining the tendon head bearing surface 162 (such as the bearing plate, for example) may be formed together as a separate component which can be fixed at or near the second end of the body 160.

[0065] In some embodiments, the connection element 300 may be supplied separately from the tendon 140 and wedge element 150, which may be assembled with the connection element 300 at a later stage, such as at a construction site. In some embodiments, the connection element 300 may be supplied with the tendon 140 and wedge element 150, and may be in an assembled or disassembled configuration.

[0066] In some embodiments, the connection element 300 may comprise the tendon 140 located between the splayable portions 104 of the first connecting portion 102 with the tendon head 142 disposed on an opposite side of the tendon head bearing surface 162 to the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140, and the wedge element 150 threadedly engaged with the threaded end 144 of the tendon 140. In some applications, it may be preferable to assemble the connection element 300 including the tendon 140 and wedge element 150, which may then be transported, sold, supplied or otherwise provided for use at another site, such as a construction site or factory for manufacturing prefabricated structural elements, for example.

[0067] Multiple connection elements 300 may be connected to each other to form a structure, or part of a structure. For example, a first connection element 300 may be connected to a second connection element 300 by inserting at least part of the splayable portions 104 of the first connecting portion 102 of the first connection element 300 into the inner recess 126 of the second connecting portion 122 of the second connection element 300 and rotating the tendon 140 of the first connection element 300 to progress the wedge element 150 along the tendon 140 between the splayable portions 104 of the first connection element 300, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions 104 of the first connection element 102 away from the tendon 140 to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls 124 of the second connecting portion 122 of the second connection element 300.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 [0068] In some embodiments, the connection elements 300 may comprise structural elements themselves, and may cooperate to form a column, for example. In some embodiments, the connection elements 300 may be connected to or form part of other structural elements, such as a column, a beam, a frame module, a wall panel, or a floor panel, for example.

[0069] Referring to Figure 4, a structure 400 is shown comprising a plurality of structural elements 401, in the form of wall panels, each structural element 401 comprising one or more connection elements 300. A first structural element 401a is shown being lowered onto a second structural element 401b to connect the first connecting portions 102a of the first connection elements 300a of the first structural element 401a to the second connecting portions 122b of the second connection elements 300b of the second structural element 401b. The tendons 140a of the first structural element 401a may then be rotated to connect the first connecting portions 102a to the second connecting portions 122b, as described above.

[0070] A further structural element (not shown) comprising connection elements 300 may then be connected to the second connecting portions 122a of the first structural element 401a. This process may be repeated to connect multiple structural elements 401 together to form a building structure 400, or part of a building structure, for example.

[0071] In some embodiments, one of the structural elements 401 may comprise a base element of the structure 400 connected directly to a foundation such as a concrete slab or pile. The base element may comprise one or more connection elements 300, or in some embodiments, the base element may comprise one or more second connecting portions 122 configured to connect to one or more corresponding first connecting portions 102 of a connection system 100 or connection element 300 as described above.

[0072] In various embodiments, a structure 400 or the structural elements 401 thereof may comprise one or more of any of the components described herein, including one or

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 more connection elements 300, connection systems 100, first connecting portions 102, second connecting portions 122, rigid bodies 160, tendons 140 or wedge elements 150.

[0073] The structures and components described herein may comprise any suitable materials. For example, the rigid body 160 and connecting portions 102, 122 may be formed of structural steel, and the tendon 140 and wedge element 150 may be formed of high tensile steel. The splayable portions 104 may be formed of any suitable material with sufficient malleability, strength and stiffness, such that the splayable portions 104 can be deformed and provide a connection as described above with sufficient strength for a given application. Examples of materials that may be suitable include, but are not limited to, mild steel, high tensile steel, or any ferrous and nonferrous materials, including polymers, that fulfil the functional and load carrying requirements of the particular connection.

[0074] In some embodiments, the splayable portions 104 may be formed together with the rest of the first connecting portion 102. In some embodiments, the splayable portions 104 may be formed separately and then fixed to the rest of the first connecting portion 102. In some embodiments, the splayable portions 104 may be formed of a different material to the rest of the first connecting portion 102.

[0075] The described embodiments may allow for more efficient construction than conventional construction methods and systems, as the connecting portions 102, 122, connection systems 100 or connection elements 300 can be connected to or formed as part of prefabricated structural elements off site and then quickly erected on site at a construction project and connected to each other to form a structure 400. The connection systems 100 and connection elements 300 may also provide a strong and efficient friction connection, which may be preferable to conventional connection systems in a number of different applications.

[0076] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018

CLAIMS:

Claims

1. A connection element comprising:

a rigid body having a first end and a second end opposite the first end;

a first connecting portion at or near the first end, the first connecting portion comprising a plurality of splayable portions configured to receive a threaded end of a tendon between the splayable portions, such that a wedge element can be threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon and the tendon can be rotated to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon; and a second connecting portion at or near the second end held apart from the first connecting portion in a fixed spatial relationship by the body and configured to engage the first connecting portion of another adjacent one of the connection element to connect the connection element to the another connection element, the second connecting portion comprising one or more inner sidewalls defining a tapered inner recess narrowing towards the second end of the body to an opening of the inner recess, the inner recess being configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions of the first connecting portion of the adjacent connection element through the opening, such that the splayable portions can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls;

wherein the body defines a tendon head bearing surface configured to provide a reaction force against the tendon head and support the tendon in tension between the wedge element and the tendon head bearing surface.

2. A connection element according to claim 1, further comprising:

the tendon located between the splayable portions of the first connecting portion with the tendon head disposed on an opposite side of the tendon head bearing surface to the threaded end of the tendon; and the wedge element threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon.

3. A connection system for connecting a first structural element to a second structural element, the connection system comprising:

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 an elongate tendon having a tendon head at a first end and a threaded second end opposite the first end;

a wedge element configured for threaded engagement with the threaded end of the tendon;

a first connecting portion connected to the first structural element, the first connecting portion comprising a plurality of splayable portions configured to receive the threaded end of the tendon between the splayable portions, such that the wedge element can be threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon and the tendon can be rotated to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon;

a rigid body maintaining the first connecting portion in a fixed spatial relationship to a tendon head bearing surface defined by the body, wherein the tendon head bearing surface is configured to provide a reaction force against the tendon head and support the tendon in tension between the wedge element and the tendon head bearing surface; and a second connecting portion connected to the second structural element, the second connecting portion being configured to engage the first connecting portion to form a connection and comprising one or more internal sidewalls defining a tapered inner recess narrowing towards an opening of the inner recess, the inner recess being configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions of the first connecting portion through the opening, such that the splayable portions can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls.

4. A connection element according to claim 2 or connection system according to claim 3, wherein the wedge element defines a keyed surface configured to engage the splayed portions to restrict rotation of the wedge element relative to the splayed portions.

5. A connection element according to claim 2 or 4, or a connection system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the tendon head defines a keyed surface configured to engage a complimentary keyed surface of a tool to assist in rotating the tendon.

2018267583 20 Nov 2018

6. A connection element according to any one of claims 1 to 5, or a connection system according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the one or more inner sidewalls of the inner recess define a concave conic surface.

7. A connection element according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or a connection system according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein, before being urged apart, the splayed portions cooperate to define a generally cylindrical sheath.

8. A connection element according to any one of claims 1 to 7, or a connection system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the first connecting portion defines a first bearing surface surrounding the splayable portions and configured to bear against a second bearing surface surrounding the opening of the inner recess of the second connecting portion.

9. A connection element according to any one of claims 1 to 8, or a connection system according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the second connecting portion further defines an outer recess, and the first connecting portion defines a peripheral tapered surface configured to be at least partially received in the outer recess.

10. A connection system according to any one of claims 3 to 9, further comprising a washer configured to be disposed between the tendon head and the tendon head bearing surface to transfer forces between the tendon head and the tendon head bearing surface and to restrict further rotation of the tendon relative to the first connecting portion once the splayed portions have been urged apart to bear against the one or more inner sidewalls of the inner recess of the second connecting portion.

11. A structural element comprising one or more selected from the group including:

the connection element of any one of claims 1 to 9;

the first connecting portion of any one of claims 1 to 9; and the second connecting portion of any one of claims 1 to 9.

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12. A structural element according to claim 11, wherein the structural element comprises one or more selected from the group including: a column, a beam, a frame module, a wall panel, and a floor panel.

13. A construction method including use of a connection system according to any one of claims 3 to 10, the method comprising:

passing the threaded end of the tendon between the splayable portions of the first connecting portion with the tendon head disposed on an opposite side of the tendon head bearing surface to the threaded end of the tendon;

threadedly engaging the wedge element with the threaded end of the tendon;

inserting at least part of the splayable portions into the inner recess of the second connecting portion; and rotating the tendon to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls of the second connecting portion.

14. A construction method including use of first and second ones of the connection element of claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 9 when directly or indirectly dependent on claim 2, the method comprising:

inserting at least part of the splayable portions of the first connecting portion of the first connection element into the inner recess of the second connecting portion of the second connection element; and rotating the tendon of the first connection element to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions of the first connection element, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions of the first connection element away from the tendon to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls of the second connecting portion of the second connection element.

15. A construction method comprising:

providing:

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 a first connecting portion comprising a plurality of splayable portions;

a rigid body connected to the first connecting portion in a fixed spatial relationship, the body defining a tendon head bearing surface;

a tendon at least partially disposed within the rigid body and first connecting portion, the tendon comprising a tendon head disposed on one side of the tendon head bearing surface and a threaded end disposed on another side of the tendon head bearing surface between the splayable portions;

a wedge element threadedly engaged with the threaded end of the tendon, such that the tendon can be rotated to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon; and a second connecting portion configured to engage the first connecting portion to form a connection, the second connection portion comprising one or more inner sidewalls defining a tapered inner recess narrowing towards an opening of the inner recess, the inner recess being configured to at least partially receive the splayable portions of the first connecting portion through the opening, such that the splayable portions can be urged apart to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls;

inserting at least part of the splayable portions of the first connecting portion into the inner recess of the second connecting portion; and rotating the tendon to progress the wedge element along the tendon between the splayable portions, thereby urging at least part of each of the splayable portions away from the tendon to bear against at least part of the one or more inner sidewalls of the second connecting portion such that the tendon is supported in tension between the wedge element and the tendon head bearing surface.

16. A structure formed according to the construction method of any one of claims 13 to 15.

17. A structure comprising any one or more selected from the group including:

a connection element according to any one of claims 1 to 9;

2018267583 20 Nov 2018 a connection system according to any one of claims 3 to 10; and a structural element according to claim 11 or 12.

18. The structures, elements, systems, methods, steps, components, features, and integers disclosed herein or indicated in the specification of this application individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of two or more of said structures, elements, systems, methods, steps, components, features, and integers.