Nihon Kasetsu Secures Patent for New Retaining Structure of Architectural KB Joint AR Type, Achieving Boltless One-Touch Fixing

Nihon Kasetsu Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Sapporo City, Representative Director: Ayumu Kikuhara) has obtained a patent (Patent No. 7795816) for its 'Architectural KB Joint AR Type,' which employs a unique retaining technology that enables one-touch fixing using a spring mechanism without the use of bolts.

This technology simultaneously achieves a reduction in work time through the simplification of the construction process and the equalization of construction quality, thereby contributing to addressing the increasingly severe labor shortage at construction sites.

Currently, the construction industry faces challenges such as declining construction efficiency and inconsistent quality due to the decrease in skilled workers. In particular, the installation of components that require detailed work, such as tightening binding wires, is a cause of increased work time and construction errors.

In response to these challenges, our company has advanced the development of this technology with the goal of balancing the reduction of the on-site burden with reliable construction.

[Technology Overview]

The crack-inducing joint utilizing the newly patented 'one-touch fixing structure' eliminates the traditionally required binding wire fixing and bolt tightening work. It features a unique retaining mechanism that allows it to be fixed simply by insertion via a spring mechanism. This enables even inexperienced workers to achieve stable installation in a short amount of time.

Furthermore, by systematizing the placement of waterproofing material using special butyl rubber within the concrete cover and ensuring an appropriate cross-section defect rate, it reliably performs its function as an inducing joint.

[Main Features]

- Boltless one-touch fixing: Firmly fixed just by inserting with a spring mechanism. Significantly shortens construction time. - Addressing labor shortages: Enables construction that does not depend on the worker's skill level. - Improving quality and contributing to maintenance: Suppresses variations in construction, contributing to ensuring the quality of structures and reducing future maintenance costs. - Integrated structure establishing the inducing joint function: In addition to the fixing method, the placement of the waterproofing material and the securing of the cross-section defect rate are integrated, ensuring its performance as an inducing joint.

Taking this patent acquisition as an opportunity, we will accelerate its introduction into domestic architectural projects and aim to expand its adoption. Moving forward, we will continue to contribute to the efficiency of construction and the extended lifespan of structures through product development originating from the 'voice of the site.'