Adjustable Post-to-Beam Connector Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional post-to-beam connectors are not well-suited to handle the dimensional variability of structural members, as the actual sizes of wood beams can differ significantly from their labeled dimensions due to geographic and mill variations, leading to inconsistent connections.
Innovation Solution
A size-adjustable connector assembly featuring a support plate with extendable tab portions and stirrup plates that can accommodate various lumber sizes, allowing for secure attachment of cross beams to vertical support members despite size discrepancies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional post-to-beam connectors are manufactured with fixed sizes for commonly used dimensional structural members, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to various actual lumber sizes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates adjustable components including extendable tabs with multiple positions and stirrup plates that can be repositioned along the beam, allowing the fixed-size connector to adapt to varying lumber dimensions through dynamic reconfiguration rather than manufacturing multiple sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is divided into separate functional components (support plate, tabs, stirrup plates) that can be independently adjusted and repositioned, enabling the system to accommodate different lumber sizes while maintaining a simple overall structure
2Reliability
If conventional connectors are designed for specific dimensional sizes, then manufacturing precision for that size is optimized, but reliability across varying actual lumber dimensions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design allows a single connector unit to serve multiple functions by accommodating various lumber thicknesses and widths through its adjustable features, ensuring reliable connections across different lumber sizes without requiring size-specific connectors
Solution Approach 2:
The connector enables parameter changes in its configuration (tab extension distance, stirrup plate position) to match the actual dimensions of the lumber being connected, maintaining connection reliability despite variations in lumber size from the labeled dimensions
Data Source
AI summary
A connector assembly for structural members includes a support plate that has a primary portion and a first tab portion extending from the primary portion. A second tab portion also extends from the primary portion, and the primary portion defines at least one through hole that is configured to receive a fastener. A first stirrup plate defines a first slot that is configured to receive the first tab portion such that the first stirrup plate extends from the support plate in a first direction. The first stirrup plate further defines at least one through hole that is configured to receive a fastener. A second stirrup plate defines a second slot that is configured to receive the second tab portion such that the second stirrup plate extends from the support plate in a second direction opposite the first direction.