Splice connectors for hollow structural segments and methods of making the same

Abstract

A connector for coupling first and second hollow structural section (HSS) column segments includes a plurality of splice plates including first and second splice plate pairs. Each splice plate pair includes an interior splice plate configured to couple against an interior surface of a respective HSS column wall and an exterior splice plate configured to couple against an exterior surface of the wall. A plurality of plate fastener openings is defined in each of the splice plates of the first and second pairs. A plurality of fasteners is each configured to be received in a respective aligned series of openings such that the column segments are securely coupled together. Each respective aligned series of openings includes a plate fastener opening defined in one of the exterior splice plates, an opening defined in one of the column walls, and a plate fastener opening defined in one of the interior splice plates.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]The field of the disclosure relates generally to connectors for column segments, and more particularly, to splice connectors for joining HSS column segments in a building frame.[0002]Many known building structures have a frame that includes a plurality of beams and a plurality of columns. When erecting a taller (e.g., multistory) building, it can be difficult to transport full-length columns to the building site, and it is common to instead transport each column in segments that are ultimately welded together at the building site. However, it can be time consuming and costly to weld column segments together at a building site. Additionally, columns assembled on-site with mechanical connectors must maintain a required level of structural performance, including in implementations in which the column segments are statically loaded in tension. In at least some known structures, a use of mechanical connectors rather than, or in addition to, welding reduces a net cross sec...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a connector for joining two hollow structural section (HSS) column segments together. The connector includes splice plates and fasteners that securely couple the column segments together. The splice plates have openings that align with the wall fastener openings in the HSS column segments. The aligned openings allow for the secure and immobile coupling of the column segments. The technical effect of this invention is to provide a reliable and secure connection between HSS column segments that can withstand moment-resisting frames.

Problems solved by technology

When erecting a taller (e.g., multistory) building, it can be difficult to transport full-length columns to the building site, and it is common to instead transport each column in segments that are ultimately welded together at the building site.

However, it can be time consuming and costly to weld column segments together at a building site.

In at least some known structures, a use of mechanical connectors rather than, or in addition to, welding reduces a net cross sectional area of the HSS column segments due the presence of holes to receive fasteners, thereby affecting structural performance.

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