HK1237009B - Connector for use in forming joints - Google Patents

Description

Connectors for forming seams

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a connector for forming a joint. The invention is particularly suitable for connecting parts of a post-tensioned concrete structure, such as floor slabs, in a manner that allows the parts to move relative to each other during settlement of the parts.

Background Art

The following discussion of the background to the invention is intended to facilitate an understanding of the invention. However, it should be understood that the discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction as at the priority date of the invention.

Post-tensioning (PT) is a technique used in building construction, particularly in buildings designed to have long spans without being interrupted by vertical supports. PT involves reinforcing (reinforcing) concrete or other materials with high-strength steel strands or rods. These strands and rods are commonly called rebar.

The problem with this approach is that grouting the entire floor as a single floor is often not possible due to size limitations, continuity requirements, and/or constraints. Therefore, the floor is typically formed from segments or individual slabs. These segments and slabs are often grouted at different times relative to one another. To ensure a more or less continuous floor, each segment or slab contains suitable reinforcement, such as PT steel cables or strands.

As each segment or slab solidifies and settles, the segments or slabs may move relative to each other. This means that the joints connecting the segments or slabs must be able to accommodate this relative movement. At the same time, the joints serve to temporarily release the restraining effect of the segments relative to each other, thereby ensuring that the maximum amount of pre-compression force is transferred to the floor. If insufficient PT pre-compression force is transferred to the floor, there is a possibility of cracks within the segments or slabs, thereby reducing the lifespan and integrity of the resulting floor.

One approach used to be to place temporary expansion joints at strategic locations within the building to allow for this movement and to transfer pre-compression forces. Each temporary expansion joint allowed the structural unit it connected to move during the curing and settling period. Once the connected structural units had cured and settled, the temporary expansion joints were permanently locked to provide a more or less continuous floor or other element of the building.

While this approach works, nearly all prior art temporary expansion joints suffer from one or more of the following problems:

If the surfaces that the temporary expansion joint is attempting to connect move relative to each other during settlement, an air gap will form away from the temporary expansion joint and at least a portion of the reinforcement will be exposed to the atmosphere and subject to corrosion, etc. until sealed.

Sealing temporary expansion joints is very difficult, especially the bottom of the temporary expansion joints.

As a result of the first problem, prior art temporary expansion joints must be made from corrosion-resistant materials, such as stainless steel. When combined with the fact that the material must also be fire-resistant or have other properties to meet building regulations, the cost of manufacturing a temporary expansion joint can be ten times higher than if it were made from less exotic materials.

The second issue presents a situation where the temporary expansion joints are not adequately reinforced or the sealant has dislodged from the joints. In both cases, workers are required to caulk the temporary expansion joints at a later date to ensure they are properly sealed and locked in place. The required remedial action is time-consuming and, in addition to delaying the building's completion, expensive.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a connector for forming a joint, which can at least partially improve one or more of the above problems.

Summary of the Invention

In this application, unless otherwise indicated to the contrary, the terms "including", "consisting of", etc. should be interpreted as non-exhaustive, or in other words, meaning "including, but not limited to".

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface, comprising:

a hollow male member embedded in the first surface, the male member having an open-ended protrusion extending therefrom;

a hollow female component embedded in the second surface, the female component having a mating opening for receiving the protrusion; and

a flexible sealing device for forming a fluid tight seal between the male and female components;

Wherein, during installation, a reinforcement forming part of the first surface can extend through the protrusion into the female part, the male part and the female part facilitating movement of the reinforcement during settling of the first surface before grouting without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed by the flexible sealing means.

Preferably, the male component has a positioning component provided therein, the positioning component having a size slightly larger than the steel bar, so that the steel bar can be installed into the paired male and female components through the positioning component.

In this manner, it will be appreciated that the connector need not be made of a corrosion-resistant or fire-resistant material since no portion thereof remains exposed after the surface is formed. Furthermore, when properly fitted into such a connector, no portion of the rebar, hereinafter also referred to as the pin, remains exposed.

In an alternative configuration of this aspect of the invention, a connector for forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface comprises:

a hollow male member embedded in the first surface, the male member having an open-ended protrusion extending therefrom;

a hollow female component embedded in the second surface, the female component having a mating opening for receiving the protrusion; and

a flexible sealing device for forming a fluid tight seal between the male and female components;

Wherein, during installation, the reinforcement forming part of the first surface is able to extend through the female component and thereafter into the protrusion, the male component and the female component facilitating movement of the reinforcement during settling of the second surface prior to grouting without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed by the flexible sealing means.

For such a structure, the female component may have a positioning component provided thereon, the positioning component having a size slightly larger than the rebar, so that the rebar can be installed into the mating male and female components via the positioning component.

The flexible sealing device may form part of the hollow female component. Ideally, the flexible sealing device comprises a first sealing ring and a second sealing ring connected by a rubber extrusion, wherein the first sealing ring is connected to the female component and the second sealing ring is connected to the male component. The use of a flexible sealing device allows the pin to move without breaking the seal.

The first sealing ring can be received within a channel in the female component to form a mechanical seal between the first sealing ring and the channel. Preferably, the first sealing ring has a circular cross-section that is larger than the channel, such that when received within the channel, the first sealing ring deforms to form the mechanical seal. The channel can be formed when the fastening plate is coupled to the cavity.

The open-ended protrusion may have an inwardly tapered surface that may be used to facilitate connection of the second sealing ring to the open-ended protrusion and to prevent the second sealing ring from detaching from the open-ended protrusion when subjected to telescopic movement during settling.

The female component may have a first socket and a second socket, each configured to receive a grouting pipe, so that the pumped grout flows into the connector through the grouting pipe connected to the first socket and flows out of the connector through the grouting pipe connected to the second socket. Alternatively, the female component may have a first socket and a second socket, each configured to receive a grouting pipe, so that the pumped grout flows into the connector through the grouting pipe connected to the first socket and flows out of the connector through the grouting pipe connected to the second socket. In yet another alternative configuration, the male component has a first socket and a second socket, each configured to receive a grouting pipe, so that the pumped grout flows into the connector through the grouting pipe connected to the first socket and flows out of the connector through the grouting pipe connected to the second socket. The socket, regardless of structure, may have an enlarged head to enable the grouting pipe to be connected to the socket by a forced fit.

The use of an arrangement in which the first and second spigots form part of the same component is advantageous as this allows visual confirmation that the grout conduit is properly deployed to the intended single continuous elbow.

The mating opening may take the form of a cavity of larger dimensions than the remainder of the female component, with the protrusion and the sealing component being housed within the cavity.

The female component may have a fastening plate for facilitating the attachment of the female component to a template installed to facilitate the formation of the second surface. Preferably, the fastening plate has at least one fastening hole for receiving a fastener, thereby facilitating the attachment of the female component to the template. Furthermore, the fastening plate has at least one frangible portion, with the at least one fastening hole being disposed in at least one of the at least one frangible portion.

The use of the frangible portion allows the female component to remain on the template even when a release force is applied to one of the fasteners (the frangible portion containing the fastener is only capable of release).

The male component may have a face plate having the same profile as the fastening plate, such that alignment of the face plate with the fastening plate corresponds to alignment of the male component with the female component. Additionally, during installation, a compressible material may be positioned between the face plate and the fastening plate. The compressible material may incorporate an adhesive for forming a bond with the face plate, the fastening plate, or both. The fastening plate may have a gasket positioned adjacent to the fastening holes.

The spacers serve to compensate for the increase in overall size caused by the inclusion of compressible material.

The male and/or female component preferably has at least one longitudinally extending slot disposed in its upper surface. When included, optimal performance is achieved when the first and second sockets are located at a position appropriately higher than the longitudinally extending slot relative to the upper surface of the male and/or female component.

The male and/or female components may have retaining means provided on their outer surfaces to assist in securely retaining the male and/or female components on their respective surfaces. Such retaining means may take one or more of the following forms: outer surface irregularities; outer surface discontinuities; ribs; corrugations; grooves; or peaks.

Preferably, the inner surface of the male and/or female parts is smooth.

The male and/or female components may include retaining means for releasably retaining a bracket during installation.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a female component forming a portion of a connector for forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface, as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a male component forming a portion of a connector for forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface, as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface includes the following steps:

securing the female component of the connector described in the first aspect of the present invention to a template for the second surface;

forming a second surface having the female component embedded therein such that the opening of the female component remains accessible after the template is removed;

The protrusion of the open end of the male component of the connector mates with the opening of the female component so that the flexible sealing device forms a fluid tight seal between the female component and the male component;

installing a steel bar forming a portion of the first surface into the female component through the protrusion;

forming a first surface having a male component embedded therein; and

The grout connector, male part and female part facilitate movement of the reinforcement during settlement of the first surface without breaking the fluid tight seal formed by the flexible sealing means.

In an alternative configuration of this aspect of the invention, a method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface comprises the steps of:

securing the female component of the connector described in the first aspect of the present invention to a template for the second surface;

forming a second surface having the female component embedded therein such that the opening of the female component remains accessible after the template is removed;

The protrusion of the open end of the male component of the connector mates with the opening of the female component so that the flexible sealing device forms a fluid tight seal between the female component and the male component;

installing a steel bar forming a portion of the first surface through the protrusion and into the male member;

forming a first surface having a male component embedded therein; and

The grout connector, male part and female part facilitate movement of the reinforcement during settlement of the first surface without breaking the fluid tight seal formed by the flexible sealing means.

The method may further comprise the step of forming a mechanical seal between the first sealing ring and the channel of the female component. In association with this step, the method may further comprise the step of forming the channel by attaching a fastening plate to a cavity forming part of the female component.

The method may further comprise the step of inserting the open-ended protrusion through the second sealing ring, wherein the inwardly tapered surface of the open-ended protrusion facilitates the insertion and acts to prevent the second sealing ring from being disengaged from the open-ended protrusion when the male and female parts undergo telescopic movement during settling.

The method may further include the step of connecting a grouting pipe to each of a pair of sockets fixed to the male and/or female components, such that the pumped grout flows into the connector through the first socket and flows out of the connector via the grouting pipe connected to the second socket. Preferably, the method may further include connecting the free end of the grouting pipe connected to the second socket of the first connector to the first socket of the second connector.

In this way, the desired continuous curved conduit between the connectors is formed.

The method may further include the step of aligning the fastening plate of the female component with the faceplate of the male component. In conjunction with this step, the method may further include the step of installing a compressible material between the faceplate and the fastening plate. Ideally, the compressible material forms a bond with the faceplate or the fastening plate, or both.

The method may further comprise the step of releasably retaining a bracket to maintain a horizontal position of the male and/or female components during installation.

The method may further comprise the step of removing the protective cover from the opening of the female component after forming the second surface. The use of the protective cover helps prevent contaminants that might otherwise enter the female component and disrupt the seal during the process of forming the first or second surface.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a connecting device for forming a joint between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface, the connecting device includes:

An anchor head having a threaded portion for embedding into a vertical surface;

a pin having a mating threaded portion;

a hollow male member received in the vertical surface, the male member having an open-ended protrusion extending therefrom and an open-ended body;

a hollow female component embedded in the horizontal surface, the female component having a mating opening for receiving the protrusion; and

a flexible sealing device for forming a fluid tight seal between the female and male components;

wherein, during installation, the rebar is matingly connected to the anchor head by the threaded portion, with the unmated end of the rebar extending through the protrusion into the female component, such that prior to grouting, the male and female components facilitate movement of the rebar during settlement of the horizontal surface without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed by the flexible sealing means.

The connection means may comprise a wall plate having a barrel with a threaded portion, the barrel being operable to matingly connect to the anchor head via the threaded portion and thereby retain the anchor head in position during formation of the vertical surface.

The open-ended body may include a locating rim having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the cylinder.

By utilizing a locating edge having a smaller diameter than the diameter of the cylinder, a sealing tight fit to the vertical surface is formed by the male part when the wall plate is removed and the male part is mounted in its place.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a method for forming a joint between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface comprises the following steps:

Fasten the siding panels to the formwork used to form the vertical surfaces;

Connect the anchor head to the cylindrical portion of the wall panel;

forming a vertical surface having an anchor head and a wall plate formed therein;

Removal of siding from vertical surfaces;

Attach the pin to the anchor head embedded in the vertical surface;

installing a male component into the area formed by the removal of the wall panel from the vertical surface, the male component having an open-ended projection through which a pin extends;

engaging the open-ended protrusion of the male component with the opening of the female component so that the flexible sealing device forms a fluid-tight seal between the female component and the male component;

forming a horizontal surface having the female component embedded therein; and

Grout connectors.

The method may further comprise the step of forming a mechanical seal between the first sealing ring and the channel of the female component.As a related step, the method may further comprise the step of forming the channel by attaching a fastening plate to a cavity forming part of the female component.

The method may further comprise the step of inserting the open-ended protrusion through the second sealing ring, wherein the inwardly tapered surface of the open-ended protrusion facilitates the insertion and serves to prevent the second sealing ring from being disengaged from the open-ended protrusion when the male and female parts undergo telescopic movement during settling.

The method may further include the step of connecting a grout conduit to each of a pair of sockets secured to the female component, such that pumped grout through a first socket flows into the connector and out of the connector via the grout conduit connected to the second socket. As a related matter, the method may further include the step of connecting a free end of the grout conduit connected to the second socket of the first female component to the first socket of the second female component.

The method may further comprise the step of aligning the fastening plate of the female component with the face plate of the male component.

The method may further comprise the step of installing a compressible material between the panel and the fastening plate. The compressible material may be used to form a bond with the panel or the fastening plate or both.

The method may further include releasably retaining a bracket to maintain a horizontal position of the female component during installation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments, in which:

FIG1 is a perspective view of one form of a connector according to a first embodiment of the present invention, in an assembled form and shown in a separated state;

FIG2 is an exploded perspective view of the connector shown in FIG1 ;

FIG3 is a partial perspective view of a sleeve constituting a portion of the connector shown in FIG1 ;

FIG4 is a perspective view of a sealing device constituting a portion of the connector shown in FIG1;

FIG5 is a perspective view of a fastening plate constituting a portion of the connector shown in FIG1;

FIG6 is a perspective view of a cover constituting a portion of the connector shown in FIG1;

FIG7 is a first partial cross-sectional view in perspective of the connector shown in FIG1 ;

FIG8 is a second partial cross-sectional view of the connector shown in FIG1 ;

Figures 9-1 to 9-8 are single diagrammatic views of various stages in connecting two floor panels using the connector shown in Figure 1;

FIG10 is an exploded perspective view of a connector according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG11 is a partial perspective view of a sleeve constituting a portion of the connector shown in FIG10;

FIG12 is a perspective view of a fastening plate constituting a portion of the connector shown in FIG10;

FIG13 is a rear view of the fastening plate shown in FIG12;

FIG14 is a perspective view of a cover constituting a portion of the connector shown in FIG10;

FIG15 is a partial cross-sectional view in perspective of the partially assembled connector shown in FIG10;

FIG16 is an exploded perspective view of a connector according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG17 is a side perspective view of a cover forming part of the connector shown in FIG16;

FIG18 is a side view of the cover shown in FIG17 received in a vertical surface;

FIG19 is a flow chart of a process for installing the connector shown in FIG16 to connect a wall panel to a floor panel;

20 is a perspective view of a variation of the connector shown in FIG. 1 including means for retaining the bracket.

FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram showing a compressible material disposed between the panel and the fastening plate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a connector 10 for forming a joint is provided. The connector 10 includes a sleeve 12, a fastening plate 14, a sealing member 16, and a cover 18.

Essentially, the present invention contemplates a sleeve 12 for securely securing to a first section or floor 20. A cover 18 for securely securing to a second section or floor 22. In combination, the sleeve 12 and cover 18 cooperatively connect to form a sealed connection at the interface 24 between the two sections or floors 20, 22.

The sleeve 12 has a front end 26, a rear end 28, and a sidewall 30. A majority of the sleeve 12 is in the form of an extension forming a housing 32 for receiving and protecting a first portion of a reinforcing pin 34 forming part of the first section or slab 20. The length (L) of the housing 32 corresponds to the length of the first portion of the reinforcing pin 34.

The interior lower surface (not shown) of the housing 32 is substantially smooth to facilitate passage of grout (not shown) through the sleeve 12. The use of a substantially smooth interior lower surface also reduces the formation of air bubbles, air pockets, air pockets, and the like that could weaken the attachment of the sleeve 12 to the reinforcing pin 34 when sealing with grout.

At least one of the side walls 30 has surface irregularities or discontinuities in the form of ribs 38. The ribs 38 help to securely hold the submerged sleeve 12 in the first section or slab 20 in the uncured state.

Located at the front end 26 of the sleeve 12 is a cavity 40. The cavity 40 is in the form of a generally rectilinear three-dimensional cuboid having open faces 42a, 42b. The function of the open face 42a will be described in more detail below.

The open face 42 b enables fluid communication between the cavity 40 and the housing 32 .

Extending along the upper surface 44 of the sleeve 12 are a pair of longitudinally extending grooves 46. Each groove 46 acts as a flow channel for the grout when introduced into the sleeve 12. The grooves 46 also act to reduce the formation of air bubbles and the like.

A first port 48 is located on the upper surface 44 at the rear end 28 of the sleeve 12. In this embodiment, the first port 48 is a hollow right-angle elbow 50 with an enlarged head 52. The hollow nature of the first port 48 allows for fluid communication between the first port 48 and the interior of the sleeve 12.

The enlarged head 52 has a tapered collar or rim 54 for receiving and retaining a hose (not shown).

It is important to note that the enlarged head 52 must be located at a higher level than the extended slot 46 to ensure that the entire connector 10 can be properly grouted when necessary.

The fastening plate 14 is substantially planar and rectangular in shape. The fastening plate 14 is welded to the opening surface 42a of the cavity 40. As shown in FIG5 , the fastening plate 14 is larger than the opening surface 42a.

Located in the center of the fastening plate 14 is a hole 58. The size and shape of the hole 58 are slightly smaller than the opening surface 42a. Surrounding the periphery of the hole 58 is a flange 60. The purpose of the flange 60 will be described in more detail below.

Each corner of the fastening plate 14 has a frangible portion 62 that can be broken when needed. Each frangible portion 62 has a fixing hole 64. In this way, when a fastener (not shown) holds the sleeve 12 on the template and attempts to pull the fastening plate 14 away from the sleeve 12, the frangible portion 62 can break away from the fastening plate 14.

The sealing member 16 includes a first sealing ring 68 and a second sealing ring 70. As shown in Figure 4, a hollow rubber extrusion 72 extends between the first sealing ring 68 and the second sealing ring 70. The first and second sealing rings 68, 70 are both circular in cross-section.

The first opening 74 is located at the junction of the rubber extrusion portion 72 and the first sealing ring 68 . The second opening 76 is located at the junction of the rubber extrusion portion 72 and the second sealing ring 70 .

The first sealing ring 68 surrounds the periphery of the first opening 74. In this embodiment, the first sealing ring 68 is rectangular so as to match the inner contour of the cavity 40, that is, the opening surface 42a.

The second sealing ring 70 surrounds the periphery of the second opening 76. In this embodiment, the second sealing ring 70 is circular so as to match the inner contour of the sleeve 12.

As shown in FIG6 , the cover 18 includes a hollow body 78 having an upper or top surface 80, a front end 82, and a rear end 84. Extending from the rear end 84 is a retaining member 86. In this embodiment, the retaining member 86 is in the form of a circular ring. The retaining member 86 serves to receive and secure the first portion of the reinforcing pin 34, which is part of the second section of the floor or floor 22. Therefore, the retaining member 86 is slightly larger than the reinforcing pin 34.

Extending along the upper surface 80 of the cover 18 are a pair of longitudinally extending grooves 88. Each groove 88 serves as a flow path for the grout when introduced into the cover 18. The grooves 88 also serve to reduce the formation of air bubbles and the like.

An upwardly directed second port 90 extends from the upper surface 80 at or toward the rearward end 84. In this embodiment, the second port 90 again takes the form of a hollow right-angle elbow 92 having an enlarged head 94. The hollow nature of the second port 90 allows for fluid communication between the second port 90 and the hollow body (not shown) of the lid 18.

The enlarged head 94 has a tapered collar or rim 96 for receiving and retaining a grout pipe or tube.

Again, it is important to note that the enlarged head 94 must be located at a higher level than the extended slot 88 to ensure that the entire connector 10 can be properly grouted when desired.

The panel 100 is positioned toward the front end 82. The panel 100 is generally sized and shaped to conform to the fastening plate 14.

Extending forward from the face plate 100 is a hollow cylindrical male member 102. In this embodiment, the cylindrical male member 102 is in the form of an extension tube. Surrounding the open end 104 of the cylindrical male member 102 is a rim 106. The rim 106 has an inwardly tapered surface 108.

The hollow nature of the cylindrical male component 102 means that the interior of the cylindrical male component 102 is in fluid communication with the hollow body 78 .

Located above the cylindrical male component 102 is a retaining clip 110. The retaining clip 110 projects from the panel 100 in a direction generally parallel to the cylindrical male component 102. A lip 112 extends from a free end 114 of the retaining clip 110. The lip 112 projects away from the cylindrical male component 102. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG8 , the lip 112 has a triangular cross-section.

The retaining clip 110 has a width (W ₁ ) that is smaller than the width (W ₂ ) of the cylindrical male component 102 .

Since the connector 10 is ultimately provided as a combination of a male component (the cover 18) and a female component (the sleeve 12, the fastening plate 14, and the sealing component 16), it is important to describe the method of assembling the female component.

To assemble the female component, the sealing member 16 is inserted into the open face 42b of the cavity 40. The insertion of the sealing member 16 continues until the first sealing ring 68 contacts the seat 116. This arrangement ensures that the second opening 76 is centered relative to the open face 42a, but spaced therefrom. These requirements are illustrated in Figures 7 and 8.

With the sealing member 16 properly inserted, the fastening plate 14 is then installed. The installation of the fastening plate 14 ensures that the flange 60 is received within the open face 42a. More importantly, the installation of the fastening plate 14 defines a square channel 118. For illustrative purposes, the square channel 118 is defined by the fastening plate 14, the flange 60, the cavity 40, and the support 116. It should be noted that the flange 60 and the support 116 do not contact each other, resulting in the square channel 118 having an opening 120.

The formation of the square channel 118 also serves to retain the first sealing ring 68. It should be noted that the size (S) of the square channel 118 is smaller than the diameter (D) of the first sealing ring 68. Therefore, the retention of the first sealing ring 68 within the square cavity 118 causes it to deform and mechanically seal the square cavity 118. The rubber extrusion portion 72 extends from the square channel 118 through the opening 120.

To ensure that the square cavity 118 remains mechanically sealed when subjected to the varying forces that occur during settling of the floor segments 20 , 22 , the retaining plate 14 is friction welded to the sleeve 12 .

This embodiment will be described in the context of its intended use. Note that for the remainder of the description:

The various portions of the reinforcing pin 34 will be referred to by the term "pin," as is commonly used in the industry; and

The term sleeve 12 will be used as a reference to the sleeve 12 assembled with the fastening plate 14 and the sealing component 16 (the female component as described above).

When it is necessary to connect two concrete floor slabs 20, 22 through a common connection, a formwork 122 is prepared according to the location, size, and shape of the floor to be formed. The formwork 122 includes a main horizontal plate 124 for forming the floor. A generally vertical formwork strip 126 is securely connected to the horizontal plate 124 at the location where the connecting edge of the floor is to be formed.

Nailed to at least one vertical form strip 126 is a sleeve 12. Ideally, the sleeve 12 is nailed to the vertical form strip 126 at locations regularly spaced along the length of the form 122 as shown in Figures 9-1 to 9-8.

The grout pipe 128 is then forcibly mounted onto the enlarged head 52 of the first end 48 of the sleeve 12 nailed to the perimeter of the vertical form strip 126. The grout pipe 128 is then securely forcibly mounted onto the enlarged head 52 of the first end 48 of each second sleeve 12 nailed to the vertical form strip 126. If the number of sleeves 12 nailed to the vertical form strip 126 is not an even number, the last grout pipe 128 is securely connected to the enlarged head 52 of the first end 48 of the last sleeve 12 nailed to the vertical form strip 126.

The grout pipes 128 are securely connected to the perimeter of the vertical form strips 126, with the last grout pipe 128, if any, remaining free and being manipulated to extend primarily upward to a position above the intended working surface of the first section 20 of the floor. However, the unconnected end of each intermediate grout pipe 128 is manipulated to securely connect the nail to the enlarged head 52 of the first interface 48 of the next sleeve 12 on the vertical form strip 126. This arrangement is shown in FIG9-2.

A grid 130 of concrete reinforcement is then placed on the horizontal plate 124 and positioned appropriately to embed into the first section 20 of the floor during pouring. Once all of the grids 130 are in place, uncured concrete is poured to create the first section 20 of the floor. Once the first section 20 has cured, the vertical formwork strips 126 are removed, and the joint surfaces 132 of the poured section 20 are cleaned to remove debris. The open face 42a of each sleeve 12 is similarly cleaned.

Once cleaned, a cover 18 is attached to each sleeve 12 .

The cap 18 is connected to the sleeve 12 by first inserting the cylindrical male component 102 into the open face 42a. At some point during the insertion process, the edge 106 will contact the rubber extrusion 72. At this point, further insertion of the cap 18 will encounter resistance, but due to the inwardly tapered surface 108 of the edge 106, the rubber extrusion 72 and the second sealing ring 70 will be forced to stretch until the edge 106 passes through the second sealing ring 70.

When the edge 106 passes through the second sealing ring 70, the rubber extrusion 72 and the second sealing ring 70 attempt to retract into their original shape. The presence of the cylindrical male component 102 prevents this from happening, but acts as a clamping force for the second sealing ring 70. The second sealing ring 70 is under the influence of this clamping force, thereby sealing the connection between the sealing component 16 and the cylindrical male component 102.

As the edge 106 passes through the second sealing ring 70, the retaining clip 110 is positioned adjacent to the square channel 118. As shown in FIG8 , this positioning allows the lip 112 to protrude into the opening 120. When positioned in this manner, an audible sound is produced as an indication to the installer that the cover 18 has been attached to the sleeve 12. However, it should be noted that this connection is not permanent or secure, and the lip 112 can be easily removed from the opening 120 by applying a low level of force.

With the cap 18 now properly mounted on the sleeve 12, the pin 34 is inserted into the connector 10. The pin 34 is inserted with the aid of the positioning member 18. The pin 34 is preferably pushed into the connector 10 until it abuts against the inner wall (not shown) of the rear end 28.

Beginning with the caps 18 connected to the sleeves 12 which are nailed to the perimeter of the vertical form strips 126 , a grout conduit 128 is securely connected to the enlarged head 94 of the second interface 90 of each second cap 18 .

The unconnected end of each grout conduit 128 is then connected to the enlarged head 94 of the second port 90 of the next cap 18. If there is not an even number of caps 18 connected to the sleeve 12, the grout conduit 128 connected to the last cap 18 is operated to extend primarily upward to a position above the intended working surface of the second section of floor 22.

In this manner, the grout conduit 128 connects to the connector 10 in a manner that forms a single curved conduit for grout to flow through.

Reinforced concrete in the form of a grid 130 is then placed on the horizontal plate 124 and positioned to embed the second section of the floor while pouring along the portion of the pins 34 not received in the connector 10. With all of the grids 130 correctly positioned, the uncured concrete is grouted to form the second section of the floor 22.

As the second section of floor 22 settles, connector 10 allows the two floor sections 20, 22 to move relative to each other in two horizontal planes, but restricts all movement of the two floor sections 20, 22 relative to each other in the vertical plane.

In more detail, the movement that may occur during the second stage of floor 22 settling may be substantial but very minimal (the maximum allowable value in the direction perpendicular to reinforcing pin 34 is 10 mm, and the maximum allowable value in the direction parallel to reinforcing pin 34 is 20 mm). Because retaining clip 110 has a width (W ₁ ) that is smaller than the width (W ₂ ) of cylindrical male component 102, the left-right movement of cover 18 relative to sleeve 12 is facilitated by the movement of lip 112 relative to flange 60. The telescopic movement of cover 18 relative to sleeve 12 is facilitated by the separation of lip 112 from flange 60, as previously described.

In both cases, the integrity of the first and second seals 68, 70 is maintained throughout the movement because the rubber extrusion 72 deforms to accommodate the movement. For telescoping movement, the compressive force of the second seal 70, in addition to the inwardly tapered surface 108 or edge 106, ensures that the second seal 70 moves with the cylindrical male member 102 and thereby maintains the seal.

Once the designated curing time has elapsed, or a suitably qualified professional deems the second section of floor 22 to have settled, one or both exposed grout lines 128 are connected to a pump. Grout is pumped through the exposed grout lines 128. Due to the interconnection of the grout lines 128 and connectors 10 as described above, grout enters each connector 10, filling the empty space and thereby filling the sealed connector 10 (i.e., the grouted connector). Because the first and second sealing rings 68, 70 remain stationary, grout does not enter the area defined by the rubber extrusion 72, the panel 100, and the cylindrical male component 102. If grout enters this area, the second sealing ring 70 may break.

Once all connectors 10 are grouted and the grout has transitioned from a liquid state to a solid state, the exposed grout pipes 128 are terminated according to the architectural requirements of the finished floor slab (i.e., the first and second sections of connected floor panels 20, 22). When the grout inside the connectors 10 cures to the required strength, the first and second surfaces 20, 22 are then locked together to form a permanent, structurally complete, continuous floor slab.

According to a second embodiment of the present invention, in which like reference numerals denote like parts, there is provided a connector 200 for forming a joint. The connector 200 includes a sleeve 202, a fastening plate 204, a sealing member 16, and a cover 206. The sleeve 202 and the fastening plate 204 are slight variations of the sleeve 12 and the fastening plate 14, and the sealing member 16 is the same as that described in the first embodiment.

For sleeve 202, first interface 48 is replaced by a mounting platform 208 and a first socket 210. Mounting platform 208 replaces extension slot 46 at end 28. Mounting platform 208 is raised to a height significantly higher than that of extension slot 46 above upper surface 44.

The first socket 210 extends from a rear side 212 of the mounting platform 208. The first socket 210 has an enlarged head 214.

Extending from the rear side 214 of the cavity 40 is a second socket 216 . The structure of the second socket 216 is the same as that of the first socket 210 .

In all other respects, sleeve 202 is of the same construction as sleeve 12.

The fastening plate 204 has a first frangible portion 218 and a second frangible portion 220. The first frangible portion 218 occupies each corner 222 of the fastening plate 204. The first frangible portion 218 includes a portion of the perimeter of the fixing hole 64. The second frangible portion 220 includes the first frangible portion 218.

Surrounding the fixing holes 64 on one side of the fastening plate 204 are two spacers 224 as shown in Figure 13. The purpose of the spacers 224 will be described later.

The cover 206 includes a panel 100 having a mating side 226 and a fixing side 228. Extending from the mating side 226 is the cylindrical male member 102. Extending from the fixing side 228 is the locating member 86.

Surrounding the open end 104 of the cylindrical male component 102 is a rim 106. The rim 106 has an inwardly tapering surface 108.

Positioned above and below the cylindrical male component 102 are retaining clips 110. Each retaining clip 110 projects from the faceplate 100 in a direction generally parallel to the cylindrical male component 102. Extending from the free end 114 of the retaining clip 110 is an angled lip 112. One end 230 of the angled lip 112 faces toward the cylindrical male component 102, while the other end 232 of the angled lip 112 faces away from the cylindrical male component 102 and toward the mating side 224.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in use, the only difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment essentially relates to the second socket 216 and its connection via the grout conduit 128. The provision of first and second sockets 214, 216 on the sleeve 12 means that the installer can easily determine which of the sockets 214, 216 serves as the outlet for grout and which serves as the inlet for grout. It also facilitates visual assessment of the grout path through all connectors 200 to ensure that grout flows through the tortuous conduit and thereby achieves all connectors 200 as described above. This is not possible with the first embodiment, which relied on a memory or contemporaneous record to determine the location of the grout conduit 128 once the first floor slab 20 has been poured.

According to a third embodiment of the present invention, in which like reference numerals denote like parts, there is provided a connector 300 for forming a joint between a wall section and a floor section. In addition to the sleeve 202, the fastening plate 204, and the sealing member 16, the connector 300 of this embodiment further includes an anchor head 302, a threaded fixing member 304, and an improved cover 306.

The anchor head 302 includes a base 308 extending from a cylindrical tube 310. The cylindrical tube 310 has an internally threaded portion 312.

The threaded fixing member 304 includes a wall plate 314 and a removable cover 316. The wall plate 314 has a fastening hole 318 at each corner. The center of the wall plate 314 is provided with a hole 320 to receive the removable cover 316. The shape and size of the wall plate 314 are the same as those of the panel 100.

The removable cap 316 has a body portion 322, a head portion 324, and a threaded portion 326. The body portion 322 is shaped and sized to be received in the hole 320. The head portion 324 is larger than the body portion 322 so that the head portion 324 prevents the removable cap 316 from passing through the hole 320.

The threaded portion 326 is sized and dimensioned to threadably mate with the internally threaded portion 312 of the cylindrical pipe 310 .

The modified cover 306 is identical to the cover 206 by extending an additional locating edge 328. The locating edge 328 extends around the locating member 86 at its free end 330.

This embodiment will be described in the context of its intended use in forming a joint between a wall section (not shown) and a floor segment (not shown).

The threaded fastener 304 is connected to the anchor head 302 by threaded portion 326, which is threadedly engaged with the internal threaded portion 312. Once connected, the wall plate 314 is fixedly connected to the first formwork piece (not shown) in order to utilize the structure of the wall section. This fixed connection is formed by installing a suitable fastener (not shown) through the fastening hole 318. This process is repeated for each desired connector 300 to be installed on the wall section.

Once all required mating anchor heads 302 and threaded fasteners 304 are securely connected, a reinforcement grid (also not shown) is then installed into the cavity in which the intended wall section is to be formed. Preparations are completed by installing a second sheet of formwork which effectively defines the cavity.

Concrete is then poured into the defined inter-wall cavity to form the wall section and allowed to cure. Once cured, the first and second formwork sheets are removed.

As known to those skilled in the art, then install the third sheet of template to assist the formation of floor section.As be easy to understand, the third sheet of template is positioned at the below of the anchor head 302 and the threaded fastener 304 that cooperates.

The threaded fastener 304 is then removed from the wall section, leaving the anchor head 302 in place. The removable cover 316 is then withdrawn from the anchor head 302, and the wall plate 314 is pried loose. This leaves a hole in the wall section that provides access to the anchor head 302 and a recess in the wall section that has the same contour as the wall plate section. It should be noted that the outer edge diameter of the locating edge 328 is slightly larger than the gap created by the main body 322 to ensure a tight, sealed fit.

The modified cover 306 is then installed into the hole until the locating edge 328 contacts the internal threaded portion 312 of the cylindrical pipe 310. It should also be seen that the panel 100 is neatly received in the recess left after the wall plate 314 is removed.

16 , a pin having a threaded end is then inserted through the cylindrical male member 102 and the locating member 86. Once inserted, the pin is manipulated as needed to threadably engage the threaded end with the internally threaded portion 312 of the cylindrical pipe 310. Once threadedly engaged, the remainder of the pin extends from the modified cap 306 in a direction parallel to the third template sheet.

The sleeve 202 is then installed as already described in the second embodiment, the grouting pipe 128 being connected as required. The grouting of the floor section and the sealing of the sleeve 202 are then carried out as described in the first embodiment.

Although the above embodiments are described in conjunction with the general combination of connectors 10, 200, 300, those skilled in the art will recognize that other combinations may be used. The only limitation to these combinations is that the cover and sleeve must form a fluid-tight connection when assembled.

While the above embodiments have been described in the context of post-tensioned concrete floors, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to this application. Rather, the present invention may be used in connection with any structure, or portion(s) thereof, in the construction of which PT technology is employed. For example, the present invention may be used to connect a wall or floor section to a ramp, or a wall or floor section to a staircase, or a floor to a slab at ground level.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the above invention is not limited to the described embodiments. In particular, the following modifications and improvements may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Ideally, the connector 10, 200, 300 should be of sufficient size to ensure that the reinforcement pin 34 is surrounded by at least 20mm of grout along its length.

The sleeve 12, 202 may be modified so that a bracket 352, as known to those skilled in the art, may be releasably connected thereto to provide support for the portion not secured to the template 66. An example of such a modification is shown in FIG.

To prevent cement fines from entering the gap between the panel 100 and the fastening plate 14, 204, a compressible material 350 can be applied to either panel 14, 100, as shown in FIG21. Ideally, the compressible material is applied adhesively to both sides. This helps to temporarily hold the panel 100 to the fastening plate 14, 204 until the connector 10, 200 is sealed.

In the first embodiment, the ports 48, 90 can be configured in either manner for the connector 10, provided that one serves as the inlet port for grouting while the other serves as the outlet port. The same considerations apply to the sockets 210, 216 with respect to the second and third embodiments.

The shims 224 may be used to compensate for the width of the compressed material, as it has been found that without the shims 224, the securing of the fastening plates 14, 204 to the formwork leaves the frangible portion 210 susceptible to failure.

Other forms of coupling the panel 100 to the housing 22 are also possible. For example, the panel 100 may be bonded to the housing 22 using an adhesive or other bonding medium.

To eliminate the need for cleaning of the opening face 42a, a protective cover can be used to protect the aperture 58 and the opening face from dust or other contaminants. An example of a protective cover is a removable label as shown in FIG9-5.

The first and second interfaces 48, 90 or the first and second sockets 210, 216 can be modified as needed. Ideally, these components are modified to facilitate quick mating of the connector.

The fastening holes 64 may be modified as desired to facilitate retaining any suitable fasteners, such as nails or screws.

The housing 12 may be of any suitable shape. However, it can be seen that the preferred form is that the cross section of the housing 12 is a rounded rectangular or generally circular shape.

The connectors 10, 200, 300 may be made of plastic or other low cost materials, provided they are strong enough to accommodate the grout and are not easily damaged by the installer.

The ribs 38 may be replaced by corrugations, grooves, crests, bosses or recesses.

The ribs 38 may have any suitable form, shape, size, or profile that increases the contact area between the exterior of the housing 22 and the unset concrete floor, thereby assisting in securing the sleeve 12 in place.

Other forms of concrete reinforcement may also be used, such as steel grids.

The rubber extrusion part can be made of other materials as long as it is flexible.

The first sealing ring 68 may be made of a solid material having a 5 mm circular rubber profile that deforms into a shape having a 4 mm x 4 mm square profile when received within the square channel 118. In such a configuration, the front ring provides a solid pre-compression seal for securing the sealing component 16 between the mounting plate 14 and the housing 32.

Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and that the additions or modifications described above, if not mutually exclusive, may be combined to form further embodiments that are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (40)

1. A connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a recessed second surface, characterized in that it comprises: A hollow male component having a body entirely embedded in a first surface, the male component having a protrusion with an end opening extending from the body; A hollow female component entirely embedded in the second surface, the female component having a mating opening for receiving the protrusion; and A flexible sealing device is used to form a fluid tight seal between the female and male components. During installation, the reinforcing bars forming part of the first surface extend through the entire male component into the female component. Prior to grouting, any subsequent movement of the male component in any direction caused by the reinforcing bars during the settling of the first surface is facilitated by the flexibility of the sealing device without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed between the female and male components. 2. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a settled second surface according to claim 1, characterized in that the flexible sealing device comprises a first sealing ring and a second sealing ring connected by a rubber extrusion portion, wherein the first sealing ring is connected only to the female component and the second sealing ring is connected only to the male component. 3. The connector for forming a joint between a first surface and a settled second surface according to claim 2, characterized in that the first sealing ring is received within a channel of the mother component such that a mechanical seal is formed between the first sealing ring and the channel. 4. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a settled second surface according to claim 2, characterized in that the protrusion of the end opening has an inwardly tapering surface, the inwardly tapering surface serving to facilitate the connection between the second sealing ring and the protrusion of the end opening, and serving to prevent the second sealing ring from detaching from the protrusion of the end opening when subjected to expansion and contraction during settlement. 5. The connector for forming a joint between a first surface and a settled second surface according to claim 1, characterized in that the male or female component has a first socket and a second socket, each configured to receive a grouting conduit such that pumped cement grout flows into the connector through the grouting conduit connected to the first socket and flows out of the connector via the grouting conduit connected to the second socket. 6. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a recessed second surface according to claim 5, characterized in that the male and/or female components have at least one longitudinally extending groove disposed on their upper surface, and the first and second sockets are located at a position higher than the longitudinally extending groove relative to the upper surface of the male and/or female components. 7. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a recessed second surface according to claim 1, characterized in that the mating opening takes the form of a cavity with a greater width and height than the rest of the female component, the protrusion and sealing member being accommodated within the cavity. 8. The connector for forming a joint between a first surface and a settled second surface according to claim 1, characterized in that the female component has a fastening plate for facilitating the connection of the female component to a template for mounting to facilitate the formation of the second surface. 9. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a settled second surface according to claim 8, characterized in that the fastening plate has at least one fixing hole for receiving a fastener, thereby facilitating the connection of the mother component to the template; the fastening plate has at least one fragile portion, and the at least one fixing hole is disposed on at least one of the at least one fragile portion. 10. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a recessed second surface according to claim 8, characterized in that the male component has a faceplate having the same profile as the fastening plate, such that the alignment of the faceplate and the fastening plate corresponds to the alignment of the male component and the female component; further comprising a compressible material disposed between the faceplate and the fastening plate during installation. 11. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a recessed second surface according to claim 1, characterized in that the male component and/or female component has at least one longitudinally extending groove disposed on its upper surface. 12. A connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface in a settlement process, characterized in that it comprises: A hollow male component having a body entirely embedded in a first surface, the male component having a protrusion with an end opening extending from the body; A hollow female component entirely embedded in the second surface, the female component having a mating opening for receiving the protrusion; and A flexible sealing device is used to form a fluid tight seal between the female and male components. During installation, the reinforcing bars forming part of the second surface extend through the entire female component and then into the protrusion. Prior to grouting, any subsequent movement of the female component in any direction caused by the reinforcing bars during the settlement of the second surface is facilitated by the flexibility of the sealing device without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed between the female and male components. 13. The connector for forming a seam between a first and a second settled surface according to claim 12, characterized in that the flexible sealing device comprises a first sealing ring and a second sealing ring connected by a rubber extrusion portion, wherein the first sealing ring is connected only to the female component and the second sealing ring is connected only to the male component. 14. The connector for forming a joint between a first and a second surface of settlement according to claim 13, characterized in that the first sealing ring is received within a channel of the mother component such that a mechanical seal is formed between the first sealing ring and the channel. 15. The connector for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface during settling, as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that the protrusion of the end opening has an inwardly tapering surface, the inwardly tapering surface serving to facilitate the connection between the second sealing ring and the protrusion of the end opening, and serving to prevent the second sealing ring from disengaging from the protrusion of the end opening when subjected to expansion and contraction during settling. 16. The connector for forming a joint between a first and a second settled surface according to claim 12, characterized in that the male or female component has a first socket and a second socket, each configured to receive a grouting conduit such that pumped cement grout flows into the connector through the grouting conduit connected to the first socket and flows out of the connector via the grouting conduit connected to the second socket. 17. The connector for forming a seam between a first and a second surface of settlement according to claim 16, characterized in that the male and/or female components have at least one longitudinally extending groove disposed on their upper surfaces, and the first and second sockets are located at positions higher than the longitudinally extending groove relative to the upper surfaces of the male and/or female components. 18. The connector for forming a seam between a first and second surface of settlement according to claim 12, characterized in that the mating opening takes the form of a cavity with a greater width and height than the rest of the female component, the protrusion and sealing member being accommodated within the cavity. 19. The connector for forming a joint between a first and a second surface of settlement according to claim 12, characterized in that the female component has a fastening plate for facilitating the connection of the female component to a template for mounting to facilitate the formation of the second surface. 20. The connector for forming a seam between a first and a second surface of settlement according to claim 19, characterized in that the fastening plate has at least one fixing hole for receiving a fastener, thereby facilitating the connection of the mother component to the template; the fastening plate has at least one fragile portion, and the at least one fixing hole is disposed on at least one of the at least one fragile portion. 21. The connector for forming a seam between a first and a second settled surface according to claim 19, characterized in that the male component has a faceplate having the same profile as the fastening plate, such that the alignment of the faceplate and the fastening plate corresponds to the alignment of the male component and the female component; further comprising a compressible material disposed between the faceplate and the fastening plate during installation. 22. The connector for forming a seam between a first and a second surface of settlement according to claim 12, characterized in that the male and/or female components have at least one longitudinally extending groove disposed on their upper surfaces. 23. A method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface, characterized by comprising the following steps: Secure the female component of the connector to the template for the second surface; A second surface is formed in which the entire mother component is embedded, such that the opening of the mother component remains accessible after the template is removed; The protrusion of the end opening extending from the body of the male component of the connector engages with the opening of the female component that follows the sinking of the second surface, such that the flexible sealing device forms a fluid tight seal between the female component and the male component; The reinforcing bar is inserted into the mother component by passing it through the protrusion; The first surface is formed with the male component fully embedded therein; Grouting the connector, During the settling of the male component's body on the first surface, any movement in any direction caused by the reinforcing steel is facilitated by the flexibility of the sealing device without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed between the female and male components. 24. The method of forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 23, characterized in that it further comprises the step of forming a mechanical seal between a first sealing ring and a channel of the mother component, the channel being formed by connecting a fastening plate to a cavity forming part of the mother component. 25. The method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 23, characterized in that it further comprises the step of inserting the protrusion of the end opening through the second sealing ring, such that the inwardly tapering surface of the protrusion of the end opening facilitates the insertion, and simultaneously, when the male and female components undergo expansion and contraction during settlement, it prevents the second sealing ring from detaching from the protrusion of the end opening. 26. The method of forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 23, characterized in that it further comprises the step of connecting a grouting conduit to each of a pair of sockets fixed to the male and/or female components, such that pumped cement grout flows into the connector through the first socket and flows out of the connector via the grouting conduit connected to the second socket. 27. The method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 23, characterized in that it further comprises the step of aligning the fastening plate of the female component with the panel of the male component. 28. The method of forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 27, characterized in that it further comprises the step of installing a compressible material between the panel and the fastening plate; and the step of bonding the compressible material to the panel or the fastening plate or both the panel and the fastening plate. 29. A method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface, characterized by comprising the following steps: Secure the female component of the connector to the template for the second surface; A second surface is formed in which the entire mother component is embedded, such that the opening of the mother component remains accessible after the template is removed; Install reinforcing bars so that the entire reinforcing bars extend through the mother component; The protrusion of the end opening extending from the body of the male component of the connector engages with the opening of the female component that follows the sinking of the second surface, such that the flexible sealing device forms a fluid tight seal between the female component and the male component; The first surface, in which the main body with the male component is entirely embedded, is formed; Grouting the connector, In this context, the movement in any direction caused by the reinforcing steel during the settlement of the male component's body on the first surface is facilitated by the flexibility of the sealing device without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed between the female and male components. 30. The method of forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 29, characterized in that it further comprises the step of forming a mechanical seal between a first sealing ring and a channel of the mother component; the channel is formed by connecting a fastening plate to a cavity forming part of the mother component. 31. The method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 29, characterized in that it further includes the step of inserting the protrusion of the end opening through the second sealing ring, such that the inwardly tapering surface of the protrusion of the end opening facilitates the insertion, and at the same time, when the male and female components are subjected to expansion and contraction during settlement, it serves to prevent the second sealing ring from detaching from the protrusion of the end opening. 32. The method of forming a joint between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 29, characterized in that it further comprises the step of connecting a grouting conduit to each of a pair of sockets fixed to the male and/or female components, such that pumped cement grout flows into the connector through the first socket and flows out of the connector via a grouting conduit connected to the second socket. 33. The method for forming a seam between a first surface and a second surface according to claim 29, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of aligning the fastening plate of the female component with the panel of the male component; installing a compressible material between the panel and the fastening plate; and bonding the compressible material to the panel or the fastening plate or both the panel and the fastening plate. 34. A connecting device for forming a joint between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface, characterized in that it comprises: An anchor head with a threaded portion for embedding into the vertical surface; A pin with a threaded portion; A hollow male component is received in the vertical surface, the male component having a protrusion with an end opening extending therefrom and a body with the end opening; A hollow female component embedded in the horizontal plane, the female component having a mating opening for receiving the protrusion; and A flexible sealing device for forming a fluid tight seal between the female component and the male component; During installation, the reinforcing bars are connected to the anchor head in a mating manner via threaded portions, and the unmated end of the pin extends through the protrusion into the female component, so that any movement of the female component in any direction caused by the pin during settlement on the horizontal surface prior to grouting is facilitated by the flexibility of the sealing device without disrupting the fluid tight seal formed between the female and male components. 35. The connecting device for forming a joint between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface according to claim 34, characterized in that it further comprises a wall panel having a cylinder with a threaded portion, the cylinder serving to be mated to the anchor head by the threaded portion, and thereby keeping the anchor head in the proper position during the formation of the vertical plane. 36. A method for forming a seam between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface, characterized by comprising the following steps: The wall panel is fixed to the template used for forming the vertical surface; Attach the anchor head to the cylindrical part of the wall panel; Forming a vertical surface with an anchor head and wall panel formed therein; Remove the wall panel from the vertical surface; Connect the pin to the anchor head embedded in the vertical surface; The male component of the connector is mounted to the area formed by removing the wall panel from the vertical surface, the male component having a protrusion with an end opening through which the pin extends; The protrusion of the end opening of the male component mates with the opening of the first female component of the connector, so that the flexible sealing device forms a fluid tight seal between the first female component and the male component; Forming a vertical surface in which the first mother component is embedded; and Grouting the connector. 37. The method of forming a joint between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface according to claim 36, characterized in that it further comprises the step of forming a mechanical seal between a first sealing ring and a channel of the first female component, and the step of forming the channel by attaching a fastening plate to a cavity forming part of the first female component. 38. The method for forming a seam between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface according to claim 37, characterized in that it further comprises the step of inserting the protrusion of the end opening through the second sealing ring, such that the inwardly tapering surface of the protrusion of the end opening facilitates the insertion, while preventing the second sealing ring from detaching from the protrusion of the end opening when the male component and the first female component undergo expansion and contraction during settlement. 39. The method of forming a joint between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface according to claim 37, characterized in that the method further comprises the step of connecting a grouting pipe to each of a pair of sockets fixed to the first female component, such that pumped cement grout flows into the connector through the first socket and flows out of the connector via the grouting pipe connected to the second socket. 40. The method for forming a seam between a vertical surface and a horizontal surface according to claim 37, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of aligning the fastening plate of the first female component with the panel of the male component, the steps of installing a compressible material between the panel and the fastening plate, and the steps of bonding with the panel or the fastening plate or the panel and the fastening plate.