Adjustable Structural Connection for Variable Angle Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting structural members in architecture and construction are inefficient due to the need for individually designed joints in each structure, leading to significant inefficiencies in design, fabrication, and erection, as each connection can be different and structures are typically one-of-a-kind.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable connection system using a combination of cold bent plates and a universal gusset plate that allows structural members to be joined at various angles, facilitating the formation of different geometric structures with a small number of unique components, enabling the use of prefabricated and mass-produced connections for multiple joints in a structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individually designed joints are used for each connection in structures, then the connection can be customized for specific structural requirements, but significant inefficiency occurs in design, fabrication, and erection processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a standardized joint connection that can be used across multiple different structural configurations and locations. The joint incorporates adjustable features that allow it to adapt to various angles and member orientations, enabling a single connection type to replace numerous custom-designed joints while maintaining structural integrity and meeting specific engineering requirements.
2Reliability
If custom connections are designed for each joint in one-of-a-kind structures, then structural requirements are met, but fabrication and erection time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-designing and standardizing the joint connection before actual structure assembly. The standardized joint is developed in advance with built-in adjustability features, allowing rapid deployment during fabrication and erection without requiring custom design work for each connection point, thus reducing overall project timeline while ensuring structural compliance.
3Productivity
If a standardized connection is used for multiple joints, then design and construction are simplified and construction is accelerated, but the connection must accommodate various angles and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating adjustable and adaptable features into the standardized joint connection. The joint includes mechanisms such as adjustable plates, bolt patterns, or geometric features that allow it to be configured for different angles and member orientations. This dynamic adaptability enables a single connection type to serve multiple joints with varying requirements without requiring complex custom designs for each configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable structural connection—a connection which can be adjusted to alter the location and angle of member attachment—transforms the traditional notion of connections as a static means of connecting members at specific angles to a dynamic means of assembling a variety of structurally efficient forms. The adjustable connection connects a diagonal member to a vertical or horizontal member using either curved plate mounted to both of the structural members or a temporarily rotatable link. The adjustable connection can be used in a kit-of-parts type system, using multiple versions of the adjustable connection, which can join members at a wide variety of angles using a small number of unique components.