Angled Washer Coupling for Insulated Foundation Edges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling methods for vertical structures to horizontal structures, such as building foundations, are compromised by new building codes requiring insulated foundation sides, leading to weakened coupling strength and resilience under horizontal loading.
Innovation Solution
A coupling system using a fastener and washer that directs the fastener at an angle relative to both vertical and horizontal planes, avoiding insulated areas and enhancing structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional vertical fasteners are used to couple vertical structures to horizontal structures, then the coupling is simple to install, but the coupling strength is reduced when subjected to horizontal loading and when insulation is placed at the foundation edge
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from vertical fastening (single dimension) to angled fastening at approximately 45 degrees (multiple dimensions). The fastener is inserted at an angle rather than vertically, creating a diagonal coupling path that engages both the vertical structure and horizontal foundation in a way that resists both vertical and horizontal loads simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system combines the fastener, washer, and angled insertion method to create a composite coupling solution. The washer with its specific geometry (including the angled bore and bearing surface) works in conjunction with the fastener to distribute loads across multiple structural elements, enhancing overall coupling strength beyond what a simple vertical bolt could achieve.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bolts or screws are driven into insulated foundation edges to meet new building codes, then the foundation insulation requirement is met, but the coupling strength is significantly reduced because insulation is non-structural
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the insertion angle from vertical to approximately 45 degrees, the fastener creates a coupling path that extends diagonally across the foundation edge. This angled path allows the fastener to engage structural concrete portions of the foundation that are located away from the insulated edge, maintaining coupling strength while complying with insulation requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The washer acts as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the vertical structure and the horizontal foundation. Its angled bore and bearing surface distribute the coupling forces across multiple points, allowing the system to achieve strong coupling without directly embedding fasteners into the non-structural insulation material.
3Strength
If outwardly extending members (threads or splayed legs) are used on fasteners to achieve strong coupling, then coupling strength in tension is improved, but resilience under horizontal loading is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The angled insertion at approximately 45 degrees creates a diagonal load path that naturally distributes both vertical tension forces and horizontal shear forces across the fastener and washer assembly. This multi-dimensional coupling approach enhances resilience under horizontal loading compared to purely vertical fastening.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination of the fastener with outwardly extending members and the angled washer creates a composite coupling system. The fastener provides tension strength through its threads, while the angled configuration and washer bearing surface provide horizontal load resistance, creating a system that is resilient under both vertical and horizontal loading conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a coupling system, washer and method of coupling. The coupling system described couples vertical structures such as wall framing to a horizontal structure such as a building foundation. The coupling system may couple in a manner that is structural and which avoids a weakened area immediately beneath the vertical structure such as an insulated outer edge of a foundation platform.