Adjustable Tension Tie for Easier Deck-to-Joist Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sheet metal connectors for anchoring decks to building structures are cumbersome to install, especially when accessing internal structural members like floor joists, and do not adequately distribute tension loads, which is a challenge given stringent code requirements.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a seat member and a back member disposed at an angle, with self-drilling wood screws and anchors that can be easily attached to 2″ wide structural members, allowing for versatile installation options and enhanced load distribution using self-drilling, self-tapping anchors and embossments for increased stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional holdown designs with multiple connected members are used, then connection strength is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the seat member and back member into a single integrated connector piece, eliminating the need for separate components and complex connections between them. This unified design maintains structural strength while significantly reducing device complexity and installation difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed with distinct functional zones - a seat portion for receiving anchors and a back portion for attachment to structural members. This segmentation of function within a unified structure allows each zone to be optimized for its specific purpose while maintaining overall simplicity.
2Strength
If traditional tension tie designs are used, then load distribution is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates when accessing internal structural members
Solution Approach 1:
The back member incorporates an adjustable portion that can be bent to different angles, allowing the connector to adapt to various installation scenarios and structural member configurations. This dynamic adjustability maintains proper load distribution while significantly improving ease of installation in tight or difficult-to-access spaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector allows variation in the angle between the seat member and back member through bending adjustment. This parameter change enables the same connector design to be installed in different spatial configurations while maintaining structural integrity and load distribution capabilities.
3Strength
If heavier duty connector designs are used to meet code requirements, then tension load capacity is improved, but weight and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector uses localized reinforcement through embossments (raised patterns) in specific areas where strength is needed, rather than uniformly thickening the entire component. This allows the connector to meet tension load requirements while maintaining lightweight construction in non-critical areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector utilizes the composite action of the sheet metal material combined with strategic embossment patterns to achieve high strength-to-weight ratio. The embossed patterns create structural reinforcement without adding significant weight, enabling the connector to meet code requirements for tension load capacity while remaining lightweight.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection is provided where a connector can act as a holdown or tension tie and transfer tension, uplift, or lateral load between an anchored member and an anchoring member. The connector is used in combination with separate anchor and fasteners. The anchor may be tied to a concrete foundation, another connector of the same type, a wood framing member, or structural member of a similar type, or other supporting or anchoring members.