Adjustable Bracket System for Building Leveling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building leveling methods are inefficient and lack precision, particularly in pier and beam foundations, where adjusting the elevation of beams to achieve a level condition is challenging without causing structural instability or requiring extensive excavation.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system comprising a base plate with upstanding plates forming a U-channel and gusset plates, integrated with anchor bolts and leveling nuts, allows for adjustable beam elevation by using blocks to support the beams, enabling precise leveling without extensive excavation or structural disruption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional building leveling methods are used, then structural stability may be maintained, but leveling precision and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system incorporates adjustable components including leveling nuts that can be rotated to raise or lower beams dynamically. The structure transitions from a fixed support system to an adjustable one, allowing precise elevation changes while maintaining structural integrity during the leveling process
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket is divided into multiple functional segments: a base plate for foundation attachment, upstanding plates forming the U-channel, and gusset plates for reinforcement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while enabling modular assembly and adjustment
2Measurement precision
If beam elevation is adjusted to achieve leveling, then leveling precision improves, but structural stability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Gusset plates are pre-installed between the base plate and upstanding plates to reinforce the bracket structure before beam adjustment begins. This preemptive reinforcement prevents structural instability during the elevation adjustment process
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows controlled changes in the vertical position parameter of the beam by rotating leveling nuts on anchor bolts. This parameter adjustment is achieved through a structured mechanism that maintains overall structural stability while enabling precise elevation modification
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive excavation is performed to level the building, then leveling capability improves, but construction complexity and disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket system serves as an intermediary mechanism between the existing foundation and the beam. Instead of directly modifying the foundation through excavation, the bracket provides an adjustable interface that achieves leveling while preserving the original foundation structure
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket system is pre-assembled with all adjustment mechanisms in place before installation. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex on-site excavation and allows for straightforward installation and adjustment, reducing construction disruption
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket forms one or more U-channel for receiving a beam that supports a portion of a building. An adjustable structure for supporting a beam includes the bracket and a concrete footer or pier having an anchor bolt, wherein the anchor bolt has one end securely embedded within the concrete and threaded end extending upward from the concrete. A leveling nut is threaded onto the anchor bolt below a base plate of the bracket, a top nut is threaded onto the second end of the anchor bolt above the base plate, and a block is disposed between the concrete footer or pier and the base plate to support the weight of the beam. The adjustable structure enables a person to adjust the elevation of an identified portion of a building that is not level.