Method and apparatus for preloading a joint by remotely operable means

摘要: Method and apparatus for joining structures, an active structure (10) a passive (12), imposing tensile pre-load on the joint by remotely operable mechanism comprising heat contractible element (15). The method include mounting probe shaft (15) of material which is transformable from expanded length to contracted when heated specific temperature range. provided with head (21) receivable in receptacle opening (41) formed (12) moved into engagement therewith appropriate manipulator mechanism. A latching system (45) mounted adjacent captures inserted predetermined amount. heating coil (26) energizable remote control range transforms its whereby shoulder (24) thereof engages elements (47) imposes preload structural joint. Provision also made manually adjusting allow manual detachment structures (10,12) or preloading